What to Ask When Hiring a Live Band for Your Event
There’s nothing quite like live music to elevate the atmosphere of an event. Whether you're planning a wedding, corporate function, private party, or community celebration, the right live band can set the tone, energize your guests, and create a memorable experience.
But how do you choose the right band when there are so many options out there? Ask the right questions! Here’s a quick guide of questions to ask us to determine if we’re the right fit for your event:
What kind of music can you play?
Start by asking yourself: What kind of music do I want at this event? Whether that’s Top 40 hits, classic rock, Motown, country, jazz, or a little bit of everything, we can cater to your preferences. We offer a wide repertoire and have the flexibility to adjust the songlist based on the vibe of your crowd. We can even learn new songs at your request!
Can I see a live video or demo performance?
Photos can be polished, but video doesn't lie. You can check out our Facebook or Instagram pages or our demo video to get a true sense of our sound, energy, and stage presence. Pay attention to how we engage with the crowd, how we sound, and how well our style fits your vision.
How much time is included in the band set?
Tell us about your timeline and how you want the event to flow! We typically offer one cohesive set or two separate sets. A popular option is to start the evening with a live set, switch to recorded music during dinner (nobody wants to compete with their steak for attention), and then ramp things back up post-meal for dancing and celebration. That said, we’re all about reading the room and going with the vibe. We like to say, “Receptions are like snowflakes: no two are exactly alike.” We are pros at adapting to timelines that shift a bit or stretch as the night goes on.
Do you offer different band size options?
We offer several band package sizes—10-piece, 12-piece, and our full 14+ piece big band—so you can choose the right fit for your vision and budget. Every event is different, which is why we keep things flexible: you’re welcome to start with one size and upgrade later if you decide to turn things up a notch. No matter which package you choose, all include full production (sound system, lighting, and a dedicated technician) as well as emcee services to keep your event flowing smoothly. And don’t worry about hidden costs—we cover all of our own expenses, so what you see is what you get. We’re happy to provide pricing for all options to help you make the best decision for your celebration.
Who will I be communicating with throughout the event planning process?
From the moment you reach out to us, you’ll notice how seriously we take communication and organization. We believe your event deserves top-tier professionalism, which is why you’ll have one dedicated contact—our band manager—guiding you through every step of the planning process and on the day-of to make sure everything runs smoothly. We’re quick to respond, transparent about pricing, and always happy to answer questions. Your event is a big deal to you, and it’s a big deal to us too.
Do you offer emcee services?
Some bands offer emcee (MC) services to help guide the flow of your event—introducing the wedding party, announcing dinner, or cueing special dances. If this is something you’d like, we’re happy to make any and all announcements to make sure the event flows smoothly!
What equipment do you bring?
We bring all the essentials to deliver a high-quality, professional sound experience—without compromising the look and feel of your event. Our sound equipment is sleek and intentionally selected to align with your event design, so you won’t see big, boxy speakers distracting from your carefully curated aesthetic. We provide our own sound system, microphones, and basic lighting, along with a dedicated sound tech to make sure everything runs smoothly from start to finish. We’ll also coordinate setup and breakdown timing with your venue to keep everything on schedule and stress-free.
Do you require a stage?
The short answer is: it depends on the venue. While we *do* love a stage for the energy it brings and the way it helps us connect with the crowd, it’s absolutely not a dealbreaker. Some venues are better suited for a more intimate, on-the-floor setup, and we’re totally comfortable working with whatever space you’ve got. We’ll chat with you (and your venue if needed) to figure out the best layout to make the music feel seamless and the vibe just right.
Do you have any special on-site requests?
Fear not—we’re not divas. There’s no green M&M clause in our contract. We’re here to support your night, not complicate it!
Let Nationwide Coverage Music Take the Guesswork Out
At Nationwide Coverage Music, we believe finding the perfect live band should be exciting—not overwhelming. Let’s talk about your event and find the perfect sound for your celebration.