Debbie Jackson Productions, LLC

50s, 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, Acoustic, Big Band, Classic Rock, Classical, Country, Dance, Folk, Funk, Gospel, Hip Hop, Jazz, Motown, Oldies, Orchestra, Pop, Punk Rock, R&B, Rock, Soul, Strings, Swing, World

Yes

Whether you decide to book with me or not, I want you to have a good experience when it comes to hiring a DJ. Here’s a list of questions to ask to help you find a quality DJ (by the way, I can answer “yes” to all of these questions!).

1. Do You Provide a Written Contract? It is very important to confirm your booking in writing. Terms should be clearly defined to avoid future problems.
2. Are you insured? The DJ should have liability insurance to protect you and your guests in case of an injury or fire caused by the DJ’s equipment. Such accidents rarely ever happen, but you wouldn’t drive your car without insurance so why take chances when it comes to hiring a DJ?
3. Is Your Equipment of Professional Quality? There is a difference between home audio and professional road-worthy equipment. The equipment a DJ uses should be built to go on the road each and every day!
4. Will You Listen To My Music Suggestions? Many DJ's are of the opinion that they know what music is best for their audience and won't take requests. The DJ should listen to requests and play them whenever appropriate.
5. Will You Dress Appropriately at My Affair? It is important that your entertainer look the part by dressing formal or semi-formal, according to your preference. Themed events and picnics require different attire.
6. Will You Play The Music At An Appropriate Level? The biggest concern voiced by prospective clients is the volume level of the music. A professional DJ knows to keep the volume at a level appropriate for the guests, especially during cocktails and the dinner hour.
7. Do You Do More Than Just Play Music at the Affair? Most affairs involve more than playing music. It is important to have a DJ who is capable of playing the music, handling all of the announcements and helps to coordinate the affair.
8. Will You Listen to My Concerns and Input? A professional DJ is aware that they can't possibly know every aspect of music and entertainment. Your input and suggestions should be welcome!
9. Are You the DJ Who Will Actually Perform at the Affair? Some companies are multi-system operators and the person you talk with probably isn’t the person who will perform at your event. Be clear about exactly who your DJ will be and their level of experience.
10. Are You a Member of Any Professional Trade Association? Quality DJ’s keep up with trends in the industry and continually educate themselves to be the best that they can be. Belonging to group such as the American Disc Jockey Association demonstrates a commitment to professionalism.




Consider this when shopping for your DJ service:
Your choice of entertainer is an insurance policy against bad memories of a disappointing occasion. Unfortunately, the DJ is often the last service chosen, after much of the budget is spent on a venue, food and clothing. This “backwards planning” often forces Brides and Party Planners to shop for the cheapest possible price. Many people will pay far more for a cake, flowers, or a veggie platter than they will for the most crucial ingredient of a party – the music. The entertainer you select will be taking on the responsibility of over 80% of the success of your party and often gets paid less than 3% of the total budget, yet if the DJ is a poor performer or a no-show you just wasted your entire investment, not just that 3%. A good rule of thumb in budgeting for a DJ is about 8% of your total budget. Expect to pay between $200 to $400 an hour for a quality DJ.