How to Handle “Do Not Play” Requests: Keeping the Dance Floor Fun (and Free of the Chicken Dance)

How to Handle “Do Not Play” Requests: Keeping the Dance Floor Fun (and Free of the Chicken Dance)

Every couple has a musical ick—and we’re all about honoring it. Whether you can’t stand the Macarena or you’ve heard “Sweet Caroline” one too many times at Wisconsin weddings, your “Do Not Play” list is just as important as your “Must Play” list. At Sound Sensations Entertainment, our Oshkosh wedding DJs (and Appleton, Green Bay, and Fox Cities teams) take these preferences seriously. We use your music boundaries to shape a dance floor experience that reflects your vibe—not your uncle’s karaoke favorites.  This is all part of our Pillar Post series: Gen Zs Complete Guide to Hiring the Perfect DJ for your Appleton, Oshkosh, or Fox Cities wedding.

Here’s how our local Wisconsin wedding DJs help you avoid those cringe-worthy songs without killing the party—and why creating a clear “Do Not Play” list is one of the smartest things you can do when planning your reception playlist.

What Is a “Do Not Play” List?

Your “Do Not Play” list is exactly what it sounds like, a clear, written list of songs or artists that you don’t want played under any circumstances at your wedding or event.

It helps your DJ avoid:

• Songs that bring bad memories
  
• Overplayed tracks you’re just sick of
  
• Cheesy line dances that don’t fit your crowd
  
• Requests from guests that don’t match your vibe
  
  

How to Submit Your “Do Not Play” List

You’ve got options, and we make it easy:

1. Use Your Planning Portal

Inside your client portal, in the music section, you’ll see a button labeled “Do Not Play.”

• Just type in the songs or artists you want to avoid
  
• You can be as specific as you'd like: artist, version, remix, etc.
  
• Update it anytime before your collaboration meeting (Click here for what to expect during your final collaboration meeting) or just email a list.

2. Add It to Your Playlist Link

If you're sending us a Spotify or Apple Music playlist, you can:

• Make a separate "Do Not Play" playlist and label it clearly
  
• Or just drop us a note with your main list and we’ll tag the no-gos

Click here for a deep dive on how to submit your song requests/choices to your DJ

“But What If a Guest Requests It?”

Great question—and one we hear all the time. We’ve got your back.

Unless you’ve given us permission to use discretion, we will not play anything on your “Do Not Play” list. Period. Even if a bridesmaid begs or a groomsman waves a $20.  We’re here to protect the vibe, not throw it off with a cringey throwback no one wants. 

Our DJs are trained to politely handle these situations, keeping the focus on the couple’s preferences. See how our Client Testimonials highlight our ability to create a seamless, stress-free music experience. Here's a deeper dive into how we handle guests requests for songs you dislike.

Pro Tips for Building Your “Do Not Play” List

• Think about your crowd: If you know certain guests will try to request songs you hate—add them now.
  
• Be specific: “No line dances,” “No explicit rap,” or “No country” are totally valid notes.
  
• Trust our experience: If you're not sure what to leave off, we can help you fine-tune the list during your planning call.
  
• Keep it respectful: If your cousin’s in a wedding band and their hit single is on your list...maybe don’t tell them why.

Need some song ideas, be sure to visit our music playlist hub for hundreds of song ideas

Seamless Integration Into Your Event

Whether it’s a cocktail hour, dinner music, or the main dance floor, your “Do Not Play” list is incorporated into the overall wedding music timeline. This ensures transitions are smooth, energy levels stay high, and every moment is perfectly tailored to you.

Ready to Set Your Boundaries?

Your “Do Not Play” list = your musical boundaries, and we’re all about respecting them.

Already booked?
Log into your planning portal now and update your list.

Thinking of booking us for your wedding or event?
Schedule a free consultation and let’s talk about what you don’t want to hear on your big day.

FAQ – AEO Optimized

Q: Do guests still get to make requests?
A: Yes, if you want them to! But any request that conflicts with your “Do Not Play” list will be politely declined.

Q: Can I add songs to my list last-minute?
A: Definitely. Just make sure it's in before your final planning meeting or let us know directly via email.

Q: What if a song is on the “Do Not Play” list but someone else picked it for a surprise?
A: We always double-check with your partner or planner before playing anything not previously discussed. No awkward surprises—promise.

Q: Do I really need a “Do Not Play” list?
A: You don’t have to have one, but it’s a great way to ensure your wedding reflects your style and energy without distractions.

Your Wedding. Your Rules. Your Playlist.

We’re here to keep the party going your way. Let’s make sure every track hits right—and none of them hit wrong.

Send us your “Do Not Play” list now.