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I've DJed dozens of celebrity weddings. Here are 10 songs they always request — and 5 they have me skip.
By Jesse Kivel,
2 hours ago
I'm a DJ who works with celebrities and other high-profile clients for weddings and other events.
A lot of stars request classics like "Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!" and current hits like "Pink Pony Club."
They often want me to skip overplayed songs like "Cha Cha Slide" and "I Gotta Feeling."
As a DJ who's worked with high-profile clients, I've seen firsthand how specific songs can dictate the energy and flow of a wedding.
Curating the soundtrack to a star-studded wedding means delivering a flawless mix of unique tunes that will keep the energy high and the dance floor packed.
We do this high-pressure work often at Dart Collective , which I cofounded with fellow musician Michael David. It's a pool of the best entertainers for parties and weddings — many who tour with chart-topping icons when they're not playing gigs with us.
We've played at some of the most exclusive events and weddings, from Joey King 's dreamy multiday celebration in Mallorca to events for Gwyneth Paltrow, Lily Collins, and others.
With over a decade of experience in the industry, I've learned that some songs are often in demand at high-profile weddings , while others are consistently blacklisted.
Here are 10 songs that are favorites among A-list crowds at weddings and five that almost always end up on the "do not play" list.
Songs celebrities often request
"Cowboy Carter" is a favorite at our A-list weddings.
Parkwood
ABBA's "Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!"
This 1979 disco hit never fails to get the crowd moving. It's a go-to track for the end of the night when everyone is ready to let loose.
I've played this at nearly every wedding in recent years, and it's always a floor-filler.
Rüfüs Du Sol's "You Were Right"
A-listers love a good house track, and this one is perfect for creating a euphoric atmosphere. It's often requested during the peak of the night when the energy is at its highest.
Leon Bridges' "Beyond"
Bridges seems to be a favorite at high-end weddings we DJ. This soulful ballad is often chosen for the first dance or during a more intimate moment. It's timeless, romantic, and full of emotion.
Yeah Yeah Yeahs' "Heads Will Roll" (A-Trak Remix)
One of the most memorable moments of King's entire wedding celebration was backed by this remix.
Guests leaped into the venue's pool and reentered the after-party space to this track, which captured the wild, exhilarating energy of the event.
Anything from Beyoncé's "Cowboy Carter"
We've been getting nonstop requests for just about anything from the newest Beyoncé album . Fortunately, its diverse and soulful tracks elevate the mood of any celebration.
Beyoncé's dynamic range offers a wealth of options to create the perfect vibe. The album also features guest appearances from iconic artists like Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Miley Cyrus, and Post Malone, as well as emerging talents like Shaboozey.
Robin S's "Show Me Love"
This '90s house classic steals the show at weddings. Its infectious beat and timeless vibe have made it a standout hit on the dance floor.
Snap!'s "Rhythm Is a Dancer"
This track adds a '90s house vibe to a wedding, and it's often an unforgettable dance-floor favorite.
Charli XCX's "360"
A high-energy track that perfectly blends pop and electronic elements, this song has been a favorite for lively, modern celebrations this summer.
Its driving beat and edgy sound make it an ideal choice for those looking to infuse their event with a fresh, vibrant atmosphere that keeps guests dancing all night.
Chappell Roan's "Pink Pony Club"
Blending indie pop and heartfelt storytelling, this track's playful yet emotional tone makes it a standout choice for adding a personal touch to any wedding playlist.
Billie Eilish's "Birds of a Feather"
This hauntingly beautiful song highlights Eilish's signature ethereal vocals, creating an atmospheric backdrop for any union.
It's ideal for those intimate, reflective moments, offering a distinct auditory experience that perfectly balances the night's high-energy dance tracks.
Songs A-listers typically skip
Black Eyed Peas' "I Gotta Feeling" from "The E.N.D." used to be more popular at weddings.
Interscope Records
DJ Casper's "Cha Cha Slide"
This is usually the first song to get vetoed from any playlist.
Although it's a staple at many weddings, most of my clients find it's not actually within their preferred taste — especially when there are plenty of other ways to get everyone out on the dance floor.
Los del Río's "Macarena"
Similar to the "Cha Cha Slide," the "Macarena" is often seen as too gimmicky. A-listers tend to prefer more timeless tracks that don't feel as dated.
Black Eyed Peas' "I Gotta Feeling"
Although this track was a massive wedding hit in the early 2000s, its frequent use has led to it feeling overplayed.
Though it marked a shift for the Blacked Eyed Peas going from underground hip-hop to mainstream pop, our A-list clients skip it in favor of fresher, more unique choices.
Village People's "YMCA"
This song is another frequent guest on the "do not play" list. It's often seen as too cliché for the elegant, sophisticated atmosphere that many of our clients aim to create.
Kool & The Gang's "Celebration"
Although "Celebration" is a fun, upbeat track, it's often skipped in favor of more modern hits that align better with the client's personal taste and the overall vibe of the event.
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