Song requests can be one of the best parts of a wedding when they’re handled well.
They can also become the reason a dance floor clears out, especially when the DJ plays every request without filtering or when family members pressure the couple into songs they don’t want.
This guide will help you set boundaries that feel respectful, keep guests happy, and still protect your vibe.
Start with your two non-negotiables
Before you even talk requests, answer:
- What do we absolutely NOT want played? (artists, genres, specific songs, “no line dances,” etc.)
- What is the vibe we do want? (elegant, high-energy, nostalgic, clubby, family-friendly, etc.)
Once those are clear, request policies become easy.
Quick “listen” helpers (so you can identify the exact songs you mean):
- Spotify search: wedding line dance songs
- Spotify search: wedding clean edits
- YouTube search: wedding line dances
The “do-not-play” list: how to do it right
Keep it focused
A do-not-play list works best when it’s specific:
- songs tied to bad memories
- songs you hate
- artists you don’t want
- “no explicit content” (if that’s your preference)
Make it a hard boundary
A professional DJ will treat do-not-play as absolute. If you’re worried about one particular family member requesting something, tell your DJ in advance.
Consider categories too
Examples:
- no country (or no modern country)
- no EDM
- no line dances
- no “wedding cliché” songs
None of these are “wrong.” It’s your wedding.
Requests: what most couples want (but don’t say)
Most couples want this:
- requests are welcomed
- requests don’t override the couple’s boundaries
- requests don’t kill momentum
That means the DJ needs a filter.
The best request policy (for most weddings)
We recommend a three-tier approach:
Tier 1: Must-plays (couple list)
These are played. No debate.
Tier 2: Approved requests (guest + couple-friendly)
Played when it fits the moment and energy.
Tier 3: “Not tonight” requests
Not played, because of do-not-play, explicit content, or vibe mismatch.
A great DJ can decline politely without making a scene.
How to handle “pressure requests” from family
This is extremely common:
- parent wants a specific song
- aunt requests something awkward
- someone wants a “surprise” moment
Your options:
- pre-approve a small list of family-friendly requests
- tell your DJ: “If it’s not on our list, check with us first.”
- create a “yes list” for family and a hard do-not-play for everything else
You don’t need drama. You need a plan.
Explicit music: a simple way to decide
Couples typically choose one of these:
- All clean edits only
- Clean edits early, more flexible later
- No restrictions
Tell your DJ which you prefer and when. A professional DJ can keep things fun without awkward lyrics.
Why the dance floor collapses (and how requests contribute)
Dance floors usually collapse when:
- the tempo drops too hard
- an obscure song plays at peak time
- too many genre shifts happen too quickly
- there’s dead air between songs
Unfiltered requests are a common cause, especially if guests request niche songs.
The fix is simple: requests get played when they fit.
The bottom line
Requests and do-not-play lists don’t need to be stressful. When your boundaries are clear and your DJ has a professional policy, guests feel heard, and your dance floor stays alive.
If you want help creating a must-play/do-not-play plan based on your crowd, we’re happy to talk.
Next step: Contact us.
FAQs
How many do-not-play songs is too many?
There’s no strict limit, but if you have dozens and dozens, it may help to clarify the “why” so the DJ can still create a good flow.
Should we allow guest requests?
Most couples do. The key is having a DJ who filters requests and respects boundaries.
Can we block certain family members from requesting songs?
Yes. You can tell your DJ to route certain requests to you first, or to politely decline.