How to Hire a Karaoke DJ

Check out these tips for hiring a karaoke DJ.

Maddie Sheely

Account Specialist + Contributor

Hiring a karaoke DJ can bring engaging musical entertainment different from a typical DJ to your next event. Everyone can agree how fun it would be to see your friends, coworkers, or family members singing with all their heart. A karaoke DJ can truly liven up your event and add some laughter to your next celebration.

A karaoke DJ may even surprise you with some crazy dance moves and other unique talents they possess. These professionals sure know how to have fun and get the job done, which is why we asked our top karaoke DJs for their advice on finding the perfect vendor for your special event.

Here are some things to consider when you hire a karaoke DJ:

Experience

An important piece of information to know about a potential DJ is how long the Karaoke DJ has been in business. Since the DJ industry has become more and more popular over the years, there are many beginners. You want to make sure you are hiring a professional who has experience with the type of event you are planning so your celebration goes off without a hitch.

References are another vital aspect to look into when booking performers. Knowing the karaoke DJ you hire has loyal customers, is happy to accommodate any requests, and is easy to work with, will make your event more enjoyable. You may also want to see if the vendor can accommodate any special requests that you or your guests may have throughout the night. 

Along with references and reviews, here on The Bash you can also check out videos and photos. Spending time on their profile will give you a better sense of the type of performances they have done and the services they could provide for your event.

Quality of Equipment

Sometimes paying a little more ensures that the equipment is of good quality and generally offers many more songs than a rented machine or beginner equipment. This is especially important if your guests are younger and prefer more recent music or if they can take requests. 

Knowing how many songs the karaoke DJ has and how often they update their music selection is very important to make sure you and your guests are enjoying every minute of your event.

The amount of microphones the DJ can provide is another factor that should be considered when looking into Karaoke services. Often guests will not sing alone, but they will give it a try if they’re with a group. 

The DJ should be able to provide at least four microphones, advises one of our DJ’s. Our karaoke DJs also agreed that the Karaoke monitor should be no smaller than 24" and that a large monitor will make the event more fun for all guests!

Another thing you may want to ask is whether the karaoke DJ can provide special effects such as lights and fog. John Alden from Alden Entertainment (New York, NY) provides video and photo display screens, a dance floor and "up" lighting. So make sure to check with your vendor regarding what types of special effects they offer to give your party that extra special something! 

Pricing

The lowest price doesn't guarantee the best. "Of course the number one thing clients look at is the price. You get what you pay for and some customers are simply looking for the cheapest rate. Unfortunately, in this business, you are going to pay a little more for a quality karaoke service,” shared Leah Blakely, Totally Twisted Karaoke, (Dallas, TX).

“Purchasing quality equipment, hiring competent employees, and purchasing the karaoke songs is expensive, and the price we charge is fair for the service you will receive. Ask what you will be receiving for the money you are going to spend when you hire a Karaoke DJ." 

Ask Questions

Once you’re ready to hire a karaoke DJ for your special event, there are some things you need to discuss with your vendor:

  • What time will they be arriving to set up?
  • Inform the performer about any unique attributes about the guests (e.g. are they shy? Will the DJ be willing to encourage them to sing?)
  • What is the dress code? Is there anything specific you’d like them to wear?
  • Can the DJ accommodate special requests if requested?
  • Are there any venue or power requirements?
  • What should NOT be played?
  • Do they accommodate overtime and what do they charge?
  • Does the karaoke DJ have insurance? (Note: please check with your venue if this is a requirement. Some venues may require insurance and it’s important to inform the vendor of this so they can make sure they already have the insurance or enough time to receive it if necessary.)

Pro Tip: Make sure to discuss contract terms and make sure to get everything in writing for both parties.

When it comes to asking questions, you can never ask too many to feel secure in your booking. Check out this article for 7 Topics to Discuss Before Paying a Nonrefundable Deposit that can help you with the process of hiring a karaoke DJ.

Hire a Karaoke DJ