CYNDEO EVENTS

Probably the most popular choice for entertainment and with good reason - they can be a cheap and reliable way to fill a room with human-curated noise. The huge market for DJs however hides a lot of range and diversity, making it crucial with this type more than any other that you first research the DJ and establish communication early. Entry level DJs will simply show up with a playlist of music, hopefully in line with your event and what you’ve asked for! They might even venture onto the mic to announce a happy birthday or congratulations, but that’s about it.

More serious DJs put a lot of effort into both their playlisting and their performance. They might create their own medleys or mixes, with tracks harmonised with each other or with the transition into new tracks carefully timed for maximum audience reaction. More than anything, a good DJ will embody the spirit of the event with their performance. They might be jumping or dancing to the music they play and leading the audience to engage.

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Description text goes hereThe clear winner if you want to provide entertainment that people won’t expect. Not many people think about percussionists as solo entertainers, but they can easily captivate an audience with a whole range of struck instruments and leave guests with a story to tell!

Some percussionists will include melodic instruments, or may play a backing track. Their key tools are displays of skill and the energy of their performance, constructing an eye-openingly wide range of sounds and textures with their gear of choice.

Another advantage of percussionists is that they won’t need much in terms of electrical equipment (although do ask them!) This is especially useful for venues without easy access to mains or without a good PA system already set up, but it also leaves the performer free to move around without being tethered to wires, opening up all sorts of possibilities for audience interaction.

Browse a professional percussionist here

In many ways the classic option for live music entertainment, we’ve included solo and duo performers in this category. Characterised by universal appeal and vocal-dominant performance, they can be split into pure singers and those who play an acoustic instrument alongside. In either case, expect a wide range of songs covered, often customisable by you in advance if you ask, centred around a charismatic individual who will capture an audience. They will make them smile, make them laugh and make them dance.

Those who play instruments can add extra sound textures to their set, often making use of loop pedals to layer up and build rich tapestries. Although pure singers don’t use this, the fact that they don’t have to carry an instrument allows them to give a more expressive physical performance and are often more able to move around the space. In both cases they offer a range of energy levels to suit both your event and different phases of their performance, and are known for their audience interaction and storytelling. This is one of their key advantages - by connecting the entertainment to their individual human story, this type of entertainer is best placed to leave an emotional impression.

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The legendary saxophone already occupies a hallowed place in the psyche of a live music audience, and saxophonists take full advantage. A beautifully expressive instrument able to adopt a full spectrum of moods, they can be smooth and romantic or, at their upper end, an untamed riot of joy and celebration. In all cases, the saxophone is a classy instrument, and those who play them professionally no less so. Choosing this type of entertainer will endow some of this elegance to your event, showing that you know how to put on a polished show.

Being a powerful acoustic instrument, they are matched only by the percussionists in their ability to fill a room with sound without the need of amplification - although some will use it in order to ensure they are heard evenly through the space. Some will offer extra services, like a DJ set they will play along to and playlisting so that the music doesn’t stop between sets.

Browse a professional Saxophonist here

You might think all there is to a drag act is some great makeup and a wig. Nothing could be further from the truth - there is a huge range of entertainment. Often there is an element of stand up comedy, blended with singing, dancing or other talents. Not only this, but you are tapping into an integral part of western entertainment heritage and the ongoing story of LGBTQ+ visibility, in the footsteps of RuPaul, Adore Delano and Danny La Rue. Known for being raucous and irreverent, you are showing not only that your event is culturally aware, but also that you’re putting on a night that doesn’t take itself too seriously.

From a technical point of view, the diversity of drag acts means that prior communication and research is paramount. Many drag acts only need a microphone but some might need (or supply, at cost) more involved equipment to provide their full service.

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Generally counting as three or more musicians, bands use their advantage of numbers in two ways - firstly, it allows them to create a richer and more adaptable sound that a solo musician can generate, even with a loop pedal. Secondly, a good band will draw the audience into their group dynamic, creating a social dynamic that can set the mood for your event. The fullness of their sound and their physically bigger size suggests a bigger event, and shows that you’ve pulled out all the stops.

Although bands can be found in any style or genre, most fall into one of three categories: folk bands who produce a timeless sound on largely acoustic instruments, although most will still need (or supply) at least a PA to support the vocalist. There are also jazz and big bands who require similar technical support to the folk acts. Where the folk acts generate a fun and rustic atmosphere, the jazz or big band brings a smooth, classy element – similar to the saxophone player, but at scale. Finally, there are rock bands who, although covering quite a range of subgenres, will usually require the most in terms of electrical outputs and equipment. Be sure to communicate ahead of time. The upside of this is that rock bands often produce the most noise and energy, which may or may not be what your event needs!

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Finally, there are tribute acts out there to almost any band or artist that has ever graced the charts! Something of a wild card category in that tribute acts can also fall into any of the categories above, with all the technical implications that go with it.

The advantages of hiring a tribute act are plain - you are importing the legacy of a famous performer at a fraction of the cost! It is worth mentioning however that reputable tribute acts of the most famous bands and artists can be among the most high-paid performers in the business, but if you shop around and do your research, you can bring your guests’ favourite obsession to life right there at your event!

Browse a professional Tribute here

Take a look at your average Friday night. Drinks are flowing. Tables are full. Maybe there’s a game of shuffleboard or darts going on in the background. But what’s coming out of the speakers? And more importantly - how does it make people feel?

The right music transforms a venue. It elevates energy, keeps people lingering longer, buying more drinks, and most crucially - wanting to come back. In the most competitive venues today, music is as important as lighting, décor and menu design. If the sound doesn’t match the setting, something feels off. People may not be able to articulate it, but they’ll sense it.

Great venues understand this. They don’t just “put on a playlist.” They curate a sonic atmosphere that keeps guests engaged - and coming back. In some of the most successful concepts, weekly DJ sets or live performances are now core parts of the brand identity.

Streaming platforms like Spotify and Amazon Music have made it easy to slap on a “chill bar vibes” playlist and forget about it. But here’s the catch - everyone is doing that. Generic background playlists don’t make your space memorable. They don’t differentiate you. And they definitely don’t reflect the personality or purpose of your venue.

And when it comes to competitive social venues, this becomes even more critical. These places are built around fun, buzz, movement - and the soundtrack needs to reflect that dynamic energy. A flat playlist kills the mood. A tailored DJ set brings it to life.

Think of it this way: if your guests are spending £100 on games, drinks and food but it sounds like a Tuesday morning in a coffee shop, are they really getting their money’s worth?

Music isn’t just a “nice touch.” It has a measurable impact on customer behaviour. Studies consistently show that the right music can:

• Increase dwell time
  
  

• Raise spend per head
  
  

• Improve mood and perceived service quality
  
  

• Enhance brand recall and loyalty

Meanwhile, major platforms like Spotify use granular genre and sub-genre data to track user behaviour and consumption patterns - because it works. Listeners grouped by vibe or genre stay engaged longer, spend more time on-platform, and are more likely to return. The same logic applies to your venue. The right music keeps people locked in. The wrong music (or no music at all) makes them forget you.

Fair. If you’re managing staff, bookings, suppliers, drinks, licenses, rotas, and still trying to keep customers happy, thinking about music strategy probably feels like a luxury you can’t afford.

But ignoring it comes at a cost - and it's probably higher than you think.

Here’s the good news: you don’t have to handle it yourself, you are at the right place!

Partnering with a music agency like Cyndeo means you can hand off the entire process and still get world-class results. We provide high-quality DJs and live acts who understand branding and know how to read a room. Whether you want energetic Friday nights, laid-back Sunday sessions or a signature weekly event that builds loyalty and buzz, we’ve got you covered.

• Tailored DJ bookings every week
  
  

• Acts that align with your venue’s brand and customer base
  
  

• Let us worry about swap-outs, cancellations, equipment and logistics
  
  

• Data-backed music curation that reflects current trends and local demographics

You handle the drinks. We’ll handle the sound.

Our biggest list, and for good reason. Your wedding is a celebration of the relationship you’ve built and a day for setting the tone of your lives together. Many couples want their choice of music to express the tenderness that forms the core of what makes them special, especially during their first dance. Over the years, these singers and artists have found many ways to turn that feeling into a sound. Your perfect gentle moment is bound to be in here!

Can’t Help Falling In Love (Elivs Presley)(Kina Grannis)

Little Things (One Direction)

Songbird (Eva Cassidy)

A Thousand Years (Christina Perri)

Somewhere Over The Rainbow (Israel Kamakowiwo’ole)

Perfect (Ed Sheeran)

How Long Will I Love You (Ellie Goulding)

Everything I Do (Bryan Adams)

Heartbeats (José González)

The Way You Look Tonight (Frank Sinatra)

Unforgettable (Nat King Cole)

Can’t Take My Eyes Off You (Andy Williams)

The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face (Roberta Flack)

What A Wonderful World (Louis Armstrong)

I Will Always Love You (Whitney Houston)

Perfect Day (Lou Reed)

Annie’s Song (John Denver)

You Are My Sunshine (Johnny Cash)

Bella’s Lullaby (Twilight)

Aníron (Enya)

Thinking Out Loud (Ed Sheeran)

The walk down the aisle - it’s the moment you’ve worked and planned for, the crux and climax of your wedding! Many of the most popular tracks for this are joyous and open, allowing you and your guests to bask in the happiness and sense of achievement of this major life milestone. Even better, most of these double up as great first dance options.

A Moment Like This (Kelly Clarkson)

Here Comes The Sun (The Beatles)

I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing (Aerosmith)

Grow Old With Me (Tom Odell)

Crazy Little Thing Called Love (Queen)

Hoppípolla (Sigur Rós)

Wonderwall (Oasis)

All You Need Is Love (The Beatles)

Brown Eyed Girl (Van Morrison)

You’re My Best Friend (Queen)

Always (Isak Danielson)

While there will be plenty of time for joy and celebration on your wedding day, many couples want the walk down the aisle to be a moment for the distractions of today’s world to fall away. These elegant music choices radiate class and will grant your wedding march an effortless grace.

A Whiter Shade Of Pale (Procol Harum)

Fly Me To The Moon (Frank Sinatra)

Unforgettable (Nat King Cole)

“Air on the G string” Air, Orchestral Suites No. 3 in D Major (Bach)

Ave Maria (Schubert)

The Way You Look Tonight (Frank Sinatra)

Prelude in C Major (Bach)

Canon in D (Pachelbel)

Not every first dance is a delicate waddle! After the ceremony has wrapped up and food has been eaten, many couples are ready to throw down and celebrate. These upbeat song choices will inject the energy you need for an all-in dancing outburst!

I’m A Believer (The Monkees)

You’ve Got The Love (Florence +The Machines)

Feel The Love ft. John Newman (Rudimental)

Ain’t no Mountain High Enough (Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell)

I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Whitney Houston)

She’s So Lovely (Scouting For Girls)

The Middle (Jimmy Eat World)

Breathless (The Corrs)

Dance With Me (Holly Alison, Soda)

Shivers (Ed Sheeran)

So what if all this is a bit pedestrian? Does it all take itself a bit too seriously? For couples for whom humour and defying expectations is the glue that binds them together, these wedding march curveballs should do the trick.

Main Theme - Jaws (John Williams)

Single Ladies (Beyoncé)

Imperial March - Star Wars (John Williams)

Highway To Hell (AC/DC)

The Final Countdown (Europe)

For the early hours of the evening people will be where the refreshments are. The Bar is a familiar environment that provides comfort and opens up conversation, unlike the dance floor before we have all had a couple of drinks! The bar at any venue becomes a gathering place for eager revellers so where possible, have your musicians share a room with the bar - that way people can sit up and enjoy the sound while they warm up to hit the dancefloor. The entertainment is never far from the lubricant.

A large room with music and a bar is a win, yes! Having your musicians blaring out noise right on top of the bar is less ideal. Within the bar room, aim to have your music providers as far from the bar as possible with plenty of space for dancing. That way, people at the bar can watch and enjoy the music without having to shout their order at the top of their lungs, and not to mention the wellbeing of the bar staff.

It sounds obvious when you write it down, but we’ve seen it time and time again: a magnificent DJ or Live Band tucked away around a corner, or obscured by some tall ornament. Performance is as much visual as it is sounds, so try to place your entertainment where you can give a clear view to as many people as possible. You don’t want all that incredible lighting and performance set up to go to waste! 

Similar to thinking about sight lines, if your venue contains pillars or obstacles there will be loud and quiet patches throughout the space as sound is deflected or obstructed. Think about this when placing seating if there is any, and try to position the music so that the sound travels well to everyone.

The perfect position for your musicians or DJs will be somewhere with a power supply nearby. There are some exceptions - small, intimate venues can be catered for with acoustic instruments alone, if that’s the vibe - but in the majority of cases, this will be a central consideration. Experienced suppliers should provide you with a very clean and tidy set up. If power sockets are not where you need them, this will bring in additional cabling that you may want to avoid. Guests tripping over wires is nobody’s idea of fun. 

Music serves different purposes at different times of your day. If it’s a quiet cocktail reception, you may have selected someone to perform elegant background music but this shouldn’t be approached in any different way - make them the focal point of your reception drinks!  Whether you are setting up a rocket-fuelled party or a laid back drinks reception you’re going to want the musicians or DJ right at the centre of attention!