Wedding playlist guide
The wedding song request list your DJ actually wants
A wedding DJ needs three things from you: a clean CSV or shared link with song + artist + requested-by, a short must-play list (3–8 songs), and a do-not-play list. Send the draft 2 weeks out and the final list 3–5 days before the wedding.
Last updated May 17, 2026
The format DJs actually use
Three columns, in this order:
- Song title — exact spelling, no abbreviations
- Artist — primary artist only ('Beyoncé', not 'Beyoncé feat. Jay-Z')
- Requested by — guest name (lets the DJ give a shout-out)
Optional fourth column: a tag like 'must-play', 'maybe', or 'cocktail hour' so the DJ can filter quickly. Export from a tool like AisleClub and this is the default; if you're using a spreadsheet, set it up this way from day one.
What NOT to send
- PDF lists — can't be searched or re-sorted
- Screenshots of group chats — DJs won't transcribe them
- YouTube links — they want the master track from their library
- Apple Music / Spotify playlists for guest requests — fine for your couple picks, but DJs need a flat list with attribution
How to handle last-minute requests on the night
Print a QR code, display it at the bar, and route requests into the same list. A live shared link means your DJ refreshes their screen and sees the new submission within seconds. This is the moment a guest-collection tool earns its keep — a Google Form can't do this without you babysitting the spreadsheet.
The must-play / do-not-play split
Couples often hand their DJ 40 "must-play" songs. Don't. A real must-play list is 3–8 songs — the ones you'd be heartbroken to miss. Everything else is a suggestion. Pair it with a tight do-not-play list and you've given your DJ a clear creative brief instead of a constraint trap.
Timing
- 2 weeks before: Send a draft. DJ flags anything unfamiliar or unavailable.
- 5 days before: Send the final list. Lock the form for late edits.
- On the night: Open a QR code for live requests, sharing the same live link with your DJ.
Frequently asked
What format do DJs want the song request list in?
Most wedding DJs prefer a CSV or a live shared link with three columns: song title, artist, and requested-by. Avoid PDFs, screenshots, and long email threads — DJs need to search and re-order quickly during the set.
When should we send the song list to the DJ?
Send a draft 2 weeks before the wedding so your DJ can flag anything unfamiliar, and send the final list 3–5 days before. If you're collecting last-minute requests via QR code at the venue, share a live link the DJ can refresh on the night.
Should we mark must-plays separately?
Yes. Pick 3–8 songs you personally want to hear and flag them as 'must-play.' DJs will work them into the set at the right energy point. Everything else is treated as a suggestion they'll mix as the floor dictates.
Do DJs actually play guest requests?
Most good wedding DJs weave 60–70% of submitted guest requests into the set, prioritizing songs that match the energy of the moment. The remaining 30% are usually skipped because they'd kill the dance floor (wrong tempo, obscure, duplicate, or already-played adjacent song).
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