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The A.D.J.A. is dedicated to the professional development of mobile disc jockeys and educating consumers on how to hire the correct disc jockey for their event.

 

Please find this site to be assistance in finding the perfect DJ for your big day. Take a look around – give us a call with questions, we’d be happy to help!

CUSTOMER REVIEWS

“Jon and his assistant did an amazing job for our wedding! Jon worked with us to plan our wedding reception and get a timeline planned out so that all we wanted to fit into the evening worked out and flowed well. Jon did a great job keeping us on track during the wedding reception and made our wedding night amazing! Our friends and family all commented later on about how great Jon did as our DJ and that our reception was absolutely perfect and that we had great music. We couldn’t say better things about Jon and highly recommend him for future weddings or events!!”

“Jon did a wonderful job at our wedding reception this past weekend! His music selection is first class ranging from music dating to the 1950’s all the way to today’s top 40 hits. This selection gave our guests the opportunity to request any of their favorite songs, and kept them on the dance floor ALL NIGHT! Being the bride of the wedding, I wanted the comfort of having someone who knew what they were doing. Jon definitely did this and played people’s request within minutes of them handing in their requests. He also started the reception off with the perfect get up and dance music to get people out on the floor. Those people didn’t leave the dance floor, and when the night was coming to an end Jon even extended the reception music by a half hour because everyone was having so much fun. People are still talking about our wedding and how much fun they had on the dance floor. I would highly recommend Jon and his business to anyone wanting a DJ that knows what they are doing and leaving people wanting more!”

How To Hire A DJ

The ADJA strongly recommends that you ask the following questions of any DJ:

Q: Have you committed yourself to follow the ADJA Code of Professional Conduct?

Any responsible business owner will be committed to living by the ADJA Code of Professional Conduct.  This is just one of the commitments that legitimate entertainment companies will make to you.

Music Source is one of only two DJ’s in the Greater Springfield Area that cares enough about their clients to be an active member of the Downstate Illinois Chapter of the American Disc Jockey Association, with a commitment to the Code of Professional Conduct.  Buying a membership but never attending a meeting, seminar or national conference is like trying to buy credibility.  Music Source wants to earn it and therefore is an active member and held accountable to that code by the ADJA and it’s members.  Music Source is one of only two DJ’s in the Greater Springfield Area that is member of Springfield Local Favorites.  Music Source is the only DJ service in Central Illinois that is ‘accredited’ by the Better Business Bureau.

Q: Can you show me reviews by past clients?

A DJ saying him or herself that they are good can be expected. But what do their past clients say? Don’t hire a DJ until you have read at least three well written reviews that provides some details as to why they are good. If the DJ doesn’t have good reviews maybe there’s a reason for that.  Remember that ultimately you are hiring the DJ, not the DJ service, so the review should be of the specific DJ who would work your event.

Music Source has LOTS of reviews that can be found not only on Google, Facebook and Wedding Wire but on the Music Source website by actual clients whose names are clearly listed and whose contact information can be provided to confirm. Read our reviews by clients that can be found on our website located on our Client Review Page – Click Here.

Q: Do you provide a written contract?

It is extremely important to have your booking confirmed in writing.  Ask for a written agreement, especially if you are paying an initial retainer.  The standard initial payment for entertainment services is 50%.  If you are expecting a specific DJ, make sure you get it in writing as well.  Failure to provide that specific DJ is a breach of the contract.  Also be certain that the DJ cannot cancel on you just because they came across a better paying event on your date.

Music Source has a contract for each type of event, which can include additional services. Or additional services may be addressed by an addendum to the original contract if added at a later date. It also states that the DJ shall be the owner: Jonathan Michael Roth. As we never send somebody else or some other service entirely. Music Source will never cancel out on you so they can go do another event at a higher payday. Deposit is 1/3 of the original contract amount, including any additional services and/or equipment.

Q: How many events does your service book on one day and how do I know who I get?

You are interviewing the DJ as much if not more so then the company.  A multi-op service will employ more than one DJ and therefore have more than one event scheduled the same day as yours.  Make sure you are meeting with the DJ that is actually going to work your event, prior to hiring them.  Many multi-ops will take your money and then subcontract your event out to another service entirely.  Who are you going to complain to afterwards, if the DJ they send screws up your event?  Make sure you get the DJ that you actually hired, and if a single op, that your event is the only one booked that day.  Don’t fall for the classic bait and switch, get it in writing at the time of booking!  The contract should state specifically who the DJ is and that the DJ company cannot cancel your agreement without your consent.

Music Source is not a multi-op. When you hire Music Source you will always get the owner/DJ/MC Jonathan Michael Roth. And your event will be the one and only event that Music Source will work that day. Should we receive an inquiry for a date we are already booked, we will help you find another DJ who is a member of the ADJA.

Q: Are you or have you been a radio DJ?

Most radio station DJ services are like any other multi operation DJ service where you typically won’t know who you’re really getting.  Meet with the DJ who will actually work your event, read his reviews, look at his pictures and videos, and ask him the hard questions and then decide.  Don’t let the fact that they’re a “radio DJ” make you think that they are the best possible DJ for your mobile dance event.

 J.R. has never been a radio DJ and would probably just be an average ‘on air’ DJ as he thrives off of the interaction with the guests and the excitement of a live crowd.  When on the air, Radio DJ’s are told when to play music and what music to play within their format.  Plus there’s much more focus on talk.  Radio stations are notoriously bad with music flow as they are not looking for a dance response as it’s radio.  Radio is a business, and they play music so that you will listen to their advertising.  As with any profession there are those that are good, those that are average and those that are bad.  This is true with Mobile DJ’s and Radio DJ’s alike.  There can be bad Mobile DJ’s at mobile events, just as there can be good Radio DJ’s at mobile events.  Think about events that you have been to where a DJ was present.  What did you like?  What did you not like?  Ultimately, it’s your decision who you hire so meet with any prospective DJ you are considering hiring and decide for yourself.

Q: Can you show me pictures and/or videos of your setups? Can you show me video examples of you acting as a Master of Ceremonies?

Knowing what you’re getting is important. If there are no pictures or videos on the DJ’s website and/or Facebook business page, there might be a good reason for that. Don’t get short changed as the DJ should take pride in his work and if he or she doesn’t, then why should you hire them?  If you are considering a multi-op DJ service, be sure to see the set up of the DJ that will ultimately be working your event.

Music Source has LOTS of pictures and videos of us in action at venues all over Central IL. We let you choose which physical set up you want at your event and will make recommends to best suit your venue. We’ve got the equipment to get it done since we know that one size does not fit all. Plus we realize that being an MC is also critically important to the success of your event and we’re not ashamed of our performances. See and hear more at: https://www.facebook.com/MusicSourceProDJ/

Q: Do you use Professional Equipment?

Ask whether your prospective Disc Jockey works with professional audio equipment.  If you are not sure, ask for their equipment list and check with a local music dealer or the A.D.J.A. to verify they are using professional-grade sound gear. Remember that professional gear does not guarantee an entertainer’s talent or service level, but is simply a tool for building an exceptional event.  Plus if you are hiring a DJ service that employs numerous DJ’s – Don’t assume they all have the exact same equipment as they probably do not.

Music Source – No home stereo look or sound and no beat up worn out equipment. Looks is as important and the sound and clarity. Check out the professional grade equipment on our website located on our Packages & Extras Page. Check out other services provided for an additional fee, go to: DJ MC Packages & Extras

Q: Do you provide backup equipment at my event?

Equipment failure does happen and do you really want your special occasion ruined because your Disc Jockey did not come prepared?  Back up equipment does no good at home, it needs to be with the DJ at your event!  It is also important to know if your Disc Jockey has a back-up plan in case of illness or an accident.  Members of the A.D.J.A. have many resources available to them in case of an emergency.  You may also reach our Hotline number to get a Disc Jockey when you have an emergency.  The toll-free number is 888-723-5776.

Booking a reliable Disc Jockey is a very important decision for the success of your party.  Selecting a Disc Jockey who is an active member of the American Disc Jockey Association will provide you with the confidence that you have selected a trained professional. A.D.J.A. members are more likely to be involved with other Disc Jockey’s who can help them out with an unexpected situation.

Music Source brings to every event back up mixers, microphones, music controllers, hard drives, speakers, cables, power adapters, etc., etc.  Music Source has never failed to complete an event.

Q: Outside of working events, what do you do to become a better DJ?

As with most professions continuing education and advanced training is important.  Experience in and of itself is not a criteria.  Being an active member of a DJ association, attending meetings, training, conferences and hands on workshops. . . this is how one improves what they do and how they do it.   

J.R. has been an active member of the American Disc Jockey Association for many years.  He attends national conferences and wants to get better.  Success is a journey, not a destination.  He works with other DJ’s to help their performance as well as help his own.

Q: How long have you been a DJ and how many events like the one I'm considering hiring you for, have you successfully worked?

As with any profession, a Disc Jockey should be professionally trained and continue to network with other DJ’s, attend seminars and strive to get better.  While every DJ had to be new at some point, you really don’t want them making mistakes at your expense.  Hiring a seasoned veteran who’s dedicated to the profession is always your best choice.

Music Source began operation in 1982 by the founder Allen Stare.  Jonathan Michael Roth (J.R.) who is the current owner/DJ/MC began working for Music Source in 1993, and liked it so much he actually bought the company from Allen in 2005.  Music Source works approximately 50 events per year, predominately wedding receptions but is well versed in all types of events. Music Source is an active member of the American Disc Jockey Association and Springfield Local Favorites. Music Source is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating.

Q: Are you insured? Can you supply me with proof of liability?

Responsible business owners carry liability insurance to protect their businesses and the consumer.  Most venues require liability insurance by any vendor working on their premises.  Ask your venue about their rules and ask any DJ you are talking to if they are insured.  Disc Jockey’s receive a Certificate of Liability that can be used as proof.  This is not a rider on some homeowners policy that only covers the equipment while in the home.  This is liability insurance of $1,000,000 or more, in the name of the business, designed to protect YOU if a guest gets injured.

Music Source has liability insurance in the name of Music Source through RV Nuccio, the national provider that the ADJA makes available to it’s members. The Certificate of Liability Insurance is available to be emailed to you upon request in a PDF format. Additional parties like your venue or you can be added for a single or multi day event at no charge. Plus a Certificate of Liability can then be printed showing the additional insured parties.

Q: Will you be willing to play requests and discuss music ahead of time?

A versatile Disc Jockey is willing to listen to your suggestions, give you feedback and play from your desired song list.  A professional Disc Jockey will also accept the fact you may not want certain songs played.  A professional Disc Jockey cannot know everything about your musical preferences and entertainment needs without communication.

Music Source prefers to play by request the entire night. Yours and that of your guests, grouped together by genre for good music flow.  If you have a Do Not Play List, that’s okay!  If you’re tired of hearing it, J.R. is probably tired of playing it.

Q: Do you drink and/or take smoke breaks?

Sobriety is a necessity to perform the job and the party never stops until it’s over.  DJ’s are ‘NOT’ a guest and you don’t drink on your job or you wouldn’t have a job.  Music Source doesn’t either nor take smoke breaks. If your DJ is more concerned about smoking and drinking then he should go do that and allow a professional to MC & DJ your event.

Music Source doesn’t drink nor take smoke breaks. If your DJ is more concerned about drinking and smoking instead of working your event, then he/she should go do that somewhere else and allow a true professional to do the job.

Q: How much time do you allow for set-up?

Punctuality is a necessity.  Most Disc Jockey’s arrive at least one hour prior to the start time you’ve given them.  Your entertainer should ideally be setup and in-place before your first guest walks through the door.

Music Source generally arrives at your event 1.5 – 3 hours prior to our scheduled start time. While it may only take us an hour or so to set-up, we would rather be sitting around waiting for the event to officially begin, rather than running around at the last minute, trying to get everything done.  Ideally we are 100% set up, changed into the proper attire, with background music of your choice playing when your first guest walks in the door.

Q: Does the Disc Jockey / Master of Ceremonies know the proper etiquette for your type of party and be suitably dressed for the occasion?

A professional Disc Jockey/Master of Ceremonies will assist you with the planning of your special day.  Most professional entertainers will coordinate, emcee and provide the music that you desire.  Ask if they have experience with your type of event.  Ask if they have a Reception Planner for Weddings.

Specify the type of apparel that your Disc Jockey is expected to wear for your occasion.  Formal attire or coat & tie are the most popular forms of attire.  If you are having a “themed” event, make sure your entertainer is informed.

Music Source employees never want to be over dressed or under dressed for the type of event you are having.  Ideally we want to be dressed like some of your better guests.  But rarely ever in a tux at a wedding, as we feel that should be reserved for the wedding party.

Q: Do you belong to a professional organization or trade group?

Although belonging to an organization or trade group does not guarantee the talent or professionalism of a disc jockey, it may indicate the company’s willingness to network, learn and grow.  Disc jockeys can learn through local chapter meetings, national DJ conventions and seminars geared toward the entertainment professional.  They can also be held accountable for their actions or inactions to those professional organizations after the event.  In this day and age where your auto mechanic is certified, your hair stylist is licensed, and your financial & insurance professional must complete continuing education every year, why shouldn’t your DJ be held to the same standards?

Music Source is an active member of the Downstate Chapter of the American Disc Jockey Association as well as an active member of Springfield Local Favorites.  Music Source is held accountable by the ADJA & SLF.  Being a member in name only and not being active is of no use.  We don’t want to buy credibility, we want to earn it.  Music Source is accredited by the Better Business Bureau with an A+ rating and zero complaints.

Q: How do you obtain your new music that you will play at our event?

Your DJ should only use music acquired legally through legitimate channels.  Not only is this the law, it also assures that your DJ is using only the highest quality music source for superior sound.

Music Source receives their new music from Top Hits USA and has since the beginning of 1996. Downloaded weekly each song is edited for radio friendly play at the highest MP3 quality bit rate of 320kbps.

Q: Will you be working alone or with an assistant for our event?

Depending upon the type of event you are having, it may be to your benefit to hire a DJ that has an assistant that works along side him/her at your event.  This is particularly true with wedding receptions where there are a great many activities.   This way your DJ can focus on the wedding party and the formalities, while the assistant can attend to the minor details and focus operating the light show for example. This can make for a very smooth evening so you can enjoy your event too.

Music Source works every event with one or two assistants, unless it’s a very simple sound support only type of event. One of the jobs of the assistant is to run the light show so the DJ can focus on more important things. Plus the light show is changing and insync with the music.

Q: Wedding Receptions – Does the DJ/MC provide a formal reception planner in advance?

Wedding receptions can be smooth and flowing to rough and choppy, depending upon how well prepared your DJ/MC is for your event.  Preplanning for you as well as your DJ/MC is essential for a smooth and elegant event.

Music Source will provide every bride & groom upon booking our exclusive four page Music Source Wedding Reception Planner, and two page Information & Song Request Sheet. The planner will guide a bride and groom through the entire wedding reception with tips and suggestions along the way.  Here they select songs for all the formalities as well as style of background music during the cocktail and dinner hour.

The information sheet provides valuable information to us about the bride and groom so we can get to know them a little better, and be able to share that information with your guests who may not know both of you.  The song request sheet gives us an idea of your musical taste or dis-taste (Do Not Play List), and acts as our go to list as well.

We don’t expect you to program the music for the entire night, but we have found it very useful to customize the dance portion of the evening around songs you actually like to dance to. These items are mailed back to us one month in advance. That gives Music Source a chance to go over it, write down any questions we have, find any special music we don’t already own and then, schedule a meeting with the two of you to go over it in detail. As we want everything to run nice and smooth that night as we are not just your DJ, but also your MC and On-Site day of coordinator of all of your formalities with all the other vendors working your reception.

Q: If I was to Google your name with DJ in it, along with the city and state in which you live, or Google your 'business' name.... would you appear? In other words: Are you a real business or just a hobbyist?

Many who DJ are not operating a real business.  They might be good at what they do but how can you find out if they are not operating as a legitimate business? How can you hold them accountable if something doesn’t go as planned?  If you’re hiring a professional caterer and a professional photographer, why would you not hire a professional DJ?

If you were to Google Jonathan Michael Roth – DJ Springfield, IL or Music Source Professional Disc Jockey Service, Springfield IL, you’ll find us…. along with our 50 Five Star reviews.

Other Items to Note

 Disc Jockey rates vary greatly based upon talent, years of experience, emcee ability, level of service, coordination, equipment needed, light show, music library and music knowledge, mixing ability and personality.

Rates for the DJ industry vary greatly, ranging from $250.00 to over $5,000.00, with an average of $1,200.00 for a 4 hour booking.  The best price is not always the best deal, especially if you are planning a wedding.  As a matter of fact, surveys conclude that nearly 100% of brides would have spent more money on their entertainment and made it their #1 priority in hindsight.

A full-service disc jockey company will normally invest 12 to 24 hours into your special event, but it may appear that you are only paying for “4 hours”.  Consultations, music purchasing and editing, preparation, set-up and tear-down, education and other business related endeavors all add up to the overall success of your special occasion.

The average cost of a wedding in Sangamon County is $25,031 according to CostOfAWedding.com. They also say expect to spend an extra 50 – 100% more for well experienced professionals, designer labels, popular locations or dates, unique or custom products and services. One should set aside 10% of one’s grand budget for the DJ/MC/Coordinator.

“HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!! With Jon you get the whole package and a very professional one at that! Not only was he great as a DJ and Mcee but did a terrific job with uplighting our entire reception venue! Not to mention all of the help he gave us in selecting some unique song choices. Definitely someone you feel comfortable with giving such an important job to!”

Tips For A Smooth Reception

Given that Jonathan of Music Source has worked hundreds upon hundreds of wedding receptions as a DJ, MC & Reception Director, below are some tips that he has acquired that may serve you well.

If seating is ‘not’ assigned you will most likely have a few tables that are going to be reserved for immediate family, closest to the head table.  Please make sure they are marked reserved and that the guests that you want at the reserved tables know they are to sit at those reserved tables.  It may also be a good idea to let your MC/Reception Director know who those guests are as well, or your greeters if you have them at your reception.

If seating is assigned, do not seat older guests right near the DJ, but instead seat your younger adult guests at that table, as that is the loudest place in the room.  If seating is assigned, it is recommended that you have greeters at the door to direct guests to their tables.

Regardless of assigned or not, please do not place tables in-between the DJ and the dance floor.

It seems like 50% of the time the bride has a hard time getting her dress bustled prior to the formal introduction. There’ll be two bridesmaids and mom working on it for 10-15 minutes before they get it correct. Brides, please practice this as it is cutting into your own reception time and causing your guests to wait even longer.

The formal introduction is basically the start of all the formalities at most wedding receptions.  Please tell everybody who is going to be introduced when and where it is to happen so they are not missing in action when the time comes. Whether you select one song for everybody or one song for each couple, make sure that it’s appropriate and can be spoken over without too much trouble.  So for example, rap songs typically make horrible introduction songs as they are too wordy, there’s too much focus on the beat, and they tend to lack the musical instrumentation and necessary rhythm.

To see the 50 most popular wedding party introduction songs in 2017, go to pages 15-16 here >

https://www.djintelligence.com/charts/DJIntelligenceMostRequestedWedding2018.pdf

Also when setting up the tables and chairs in the venue, please be sure to create a clear path for the wedding party to walk in during the introduction.

The wedding party members doing a toast should be predetermined by the bride and groom, and should be no more then 3-4 total, including the Father of the Bride and/or Groom.  It is never a good idea to allow just anyone to come up and toast for numerous reasons I won’t even go into here.  Those toasting should have their toast written in advance and they should practice their toast many, many times, as most people are not natural born speakers. Toasts should generally be no more then 2-3 minutes each, so they should time themselves while practicing.  While funny stories can be amusing, make sure that they are in good taste and will be found funny by all, especially the bride and groom.

Be sure to stand next to the bride and groom so the photographer can get that shot.

Those toasting should print out on a piece of paper, what they are going to say. They should use a large and easy to read font, with additional spacing between the lines. The people toasting should ‘not’ use their cell phones as they will lose their place and there will be an awkward silence.

At the end of their comments they should write ‘Don’t forget to toast the bride & groom.’ Sure it seems obvious but sometimes they are so glad they got through it without making a mistake, they simply shut up and sit down, forgetting to actually toast the bride and groom.  So don’t forget to have the champagne already poured and ready to go.

Here’s a good video for those giving the toast to watch, that covers some of the do’s and don’ts.

Just because you are using a microphone doesn’t mean you shouldn’t speak up. The DJ can always turn it down if you’re too loud but can only turn you up so much before it will make that awful feedback noise.  So please SPEAK UP. Hold the microphone ‘One Inch From Your Mouth AT ALL TIMES’. Do not ‘cup’ the head of the microphone with your fingers as this will cause all sorts of problems.  Hold the microphone at an angle almost horizontally like you are singing on American Idol. Holding it straight up and down, vertically, is far less effective for the types of microphones that professionals use.  If you turn your head or look down while speaking, please move the microphone so it continues to be ‘One Inch From Your Mouth AT ALL TIMES.’  Otherwise the volume of your voice will drop down considerably, and possibly not heard.  And finally… DO NOT DO THE PIPE BOMB MIC DROP unless you want to pay me for a replacement mic.  We use quality Shure microphones so it won’t be cheap!

Here’s a great short video for those giving the toast to watch, that covers how to hold a microphone.

Cake cutting shouldn’t take long, but it can if the knife, cake server, a plate and a napkin are not already on the cake table.  Position the cake table in the room away from the dance floor if cutting the cake after dinner or plan on moving it immediately afterwards so as to not hold up your other formalities that will take place on the dance floor.  If the cake table is against the wall, make sure there’s room to get behind the table to cut so your backs are not to your guests and photographer while cutting.  If friends are going to be serving the cake to your guests, make sure they know when to do so and how to do so.

First Dance

Generally the first formality after dinner but could also be done immediately following the introduction.  On a few rare occasions I have done the Father/Daughter Dance first, and then Dad hands his daughter off to her new husband.  If the bride and groom are not comfortable dancing the entire song by themselves, we can edit the song down to be shorter or ask the wedding party to join in after a minute or two.

Father/Daughter & Mother/Son Dances

If you are unsure about dancing the entire dance alone with your parents, for whatever reason, we can either edit the song down to only 2-3 minutes.  Or we can ask other fathers who are there with their daughters, and other mothers who are there with their sons, to join you after your photographer has gotten his necessary photos.

Bouquet & Garter Toss

Be respectful and tasteful but have fun too.  Beware of things that hang down from the ceiling.  While bouquets have some weight to them and fly through the air easily, garters not so much.  Wrapping the garter around a small squishy ball of some sort is one way to control it a little bit better.

ALTERNATIVES to the Bouquet and Garter Toss: LONGEST MARRIED COUPLE – No removing or throwing but giving the bouquet and garter to the longest married couple in attendance and/or winner of the Anniversary Dance, should you choose to have one.  FORMAL PRESENTATION – Do a presentation to an engaged couple that are in your wedding party or attending your reception. ROLE REVERSAL – Another fun choice is to throw the bouquet to the married men attempting to catch it for their wife, and the garter to the married ladies attempting to catch it for their husband.

Dollar Dance

In a survey among wedding guests that asked the question: “What is the most boring part of a wedding reception?”  The overwhelming answer was ‘The Dollar Dance’.  Now I’m not saying you should not do it but let’s not allow it to take too much time.  The number of guest you have will have some bearing on how long it may take, but what you don’t want is it lasting 45 minutes to an hour.  Ultimately the bride and groom control the speed of the dollar dance.  Dances should last no longer than 30 seconds with most guests.  I highly recommend that the bride and groom enlist the assistance of their Best Man and Maid/Matron of Honor. They can help form the lines, collect the money and keep an eye on the clock.  If someone is taking too long then they can send the next dancer up, that way they’re the bad guy and not the bride or groom.  Plus they know how much money was given so if Uncle Rich gives the Maid of Honor a $100 bill, well maybe he should get more than 30 seconds of dance time.

ALTERNATIVES to the Dollar Dance: Money Tree, Kiss Bucket, Dash for Cash Challenge, Smash for Cash, Selfie Dance, Auction, Raffle Drawing, Make it Rain & Lip Sync Battle.

 

Anniversary Dance

Another formality that we don’t always do but when the bride and groom want to include it.  Generally two songs so as to not have to rush through it and still give me time at the end to talk to the winning couple with the bride and groom at my side. Ideally as couples are eliminated it’s nice to have them go and stand on the edge of the dance floor with the bride and groom until we finish.  Always nice to have some sort of gift for the winning couple, maybe the garter and bouquet if not doing a formal toss.

ShoelyWed Game

This can be a lot of fun if set up correctly.  It can be done with just the bride and groom or we can also include the bridesmaids to ‘help’ the groom, and the groomsmen to ‘help’ the bride.  While I have a list of questions that I can choose from another option is to take questions from your guests, in advance, and screened for use as well.

Sure it’s a party and you want to have fun, but you don’t want drink too much and not remember it.  Or worse yet embarrass yourself in front of family or get sick or pass out.  Moderation is the key and not starting too early in the day.  And while we are on the subject of drinking, always have non-alcoholic choices available for your guests, and if possible for free.  Water, soda, tea, coffee, lemonade, whatever.  Just because dinner is over doesn’t mean everybody there will be drinking alcohol all night right up to the very end. Be a responsible host.

Top 50 Most Requested Bride & Groom First Dances • Top 50 Most Requested Bride & Father Dances • Top 50 Most Requested Groom & Mother Dances • Top 50 Most Requested Bridal Party Dances • Top 50 Most Requested Bouquet Toss Songs • Top 50 Most Requested Garter Toss Songs • Top 50 Most Requested Cake Cutting Songs • Top 50 Most Requested Wedding Introduction Songs • Top 50 Most Requested Last Dances • Top 50 Most Requested Money Dance Songs • Top 50 Most Requested Ceremony Processional Songs • Top 50 Most Requested Ceremony Recessional Songs • Top 50 Most Requested Ceremony Songs

Download the above wedding charts:

https://www.djintelligence.com/charts/DJIntelligenceMostRequestedWedding2021.pdf

 

Top 200 Most Requested Songs • Top 200 Most Requested Pop Songs • Top 100 Most Requested Songs of the 2010’s • Top 100 Most Requested Songs of the 2000’s • Top 100 Most Requested Songs of the 1990’s • Top 100 Most Requested Songs of the 1980’s • Top 100 Most Requested Songs of the 1970’s • Top 100 Most Requested Songs of the 1960’s • Top 100 Most Requested Songs of the 1950’s

Download the above party charts: 

https://www.djintelligence.com/charts/DJIntelligenceMostRequested2021.pdf

Buffet Lines: If you are having a buffet, for the sake of your guests and the
amount of time it can potentially take, please talk to your caterer about
having at a minimum, 1 TWO-SIDED buffet line. If you are having 200+
guests, please talk to your caterer about having 2, TWO-SIDED buffet lines.
The goal should be to get everyone through the buffet line in 20 minutes.
Unfortunately on too many occasions I’ve seen this process take 90 minutes,
which throws off your time line and effects many aspects of your reception.

“Jon is awesome! We couldn’t have asked for anything better for our wedding day! The planner he gives is a lifesaver and really took away a lot of anxious feelings of wondering how the wedding would go, because the planner literally maps out the whole ceremony to the end of the reception. If you are someone like me who finds it hard to know where to start to organize your wedding, Jon is the best! Thank you Music Source for an amazing day and night! So many of our guests came up to us throughout the reception to tell us how much fun they were having!”

DJ MC Packages and EXTRAS

The Wedding Entertainment Experience

Music Source is the Top Rated Wedding DJ on Google in Central Illinois because we will act not only as your Disc Jockey, but also as your Master of Ceremonies as well as your Reception Director.

With Music Source you get over 29 years of reception planning experience and paid professional training. You’ll receive our exclusive four-page reception planner, complete pre-planning support and on-site day of coordination with you, your wedding party and all other vendors and service personnel working your reception.

The Platinum Package starts at only $1500 for 5 hours of the Ultimate Wedding Entertainment Experience.

It is not the goal of Music Source to be the cheapest DJ out there, as it takes nothing to compete on price.  Our goal is to exceed your expectations and create a memorable experience for you and your guests.

According to https://wedding.report/, in 2021 the average total cost of a wedding in Sangamon County was $26,900. One should set aside 5 – 10% of one’s grand budget for the DJ/MC/Coordinator as 81% of your guests will remember this one aspect of your reception more than anything else. They also say expect to spend more if the DJ is bringing additional equipment, providing additional services or is a seasoned professional who is in-demand.

Questions you should ask any DJ you are considering hiring for any event, especially one as important as your wedding reception, can be HERE

ALMOST EVERYTHING BUT WEDDINGS

Gold Level includes a complete sound system with subwoofers and speakers, a dance floor lighting system, complete legal music library and two operators, DJ Jon Roth & a Lighting Technician. Gold level performances are intended for all dance-oriented events OTHER than weddings such as, class reunions, birthdays, holiday parties, company parties, school dances, anniversaries and more.  We will work with you prior to the event to know exactly what you want your event to be like and then deliver exactly that on your date.

The Gold Package costs $600 for a three-hour event.  Additional hours are $200 per hour.  A dance floor light show is included.

Questions you should ask any DJ you are considering hiring for any event, can be found HERE

BASIC SOUND SUPPORT

Silver Level includes the sound system ONLY, with no dance floor light show. This is typically for a NON-DANCE event such as a company event, picnic, convention, fundraiser, etc.  Announcements handled by the DJ with the background music of your choice playing at an appropriate sound level.

The Silver Level package is $600 for 4 hours. Additional hours are $150/hr. A professional sound system and one operator is provided.  A wireless microphone is included in the price. Additional audio & video equipment is available and listed below.

Questions you should ask any DJ you are considering hiring for any event, can be found HERE 

LIGHTING & EFFECTS:

UPLIGHTING ~ Add a splash of color and excitement to your event with L.E.D. uplighting.  Light up a wall, column, table, you name it.  Use a few or use a lot to transform your room and create the atmosphere and the emotions that set the tone.

Thanks to the latest technology available in ‘hex’  L.E.D. lighting, they use very little power, do not get hot so they are safe for children to be around, yet are powerful enough for high ceilings and bright rooms.  You can choose from thousands of colors to match your decor since our lights are not tri-color that are just red-green-blue, but sixth generation hex color: Red-Green-Blue-Amber-White+UV.  Great to get the pastel colors, the autumn tones or to add pop to your color with the added UV.

WHATEVER YOU WANT, WHEN YOU WANT IT AND WHEREVER YOU WANT IT!

These lights are battery powered with wireless controls so we can put them almost anywhere for maximum effect.  We can do static colors, change colors, do fades, make them strobe or be sound activated to dance to the music… all at No Extra Charge!

While many folks will tell you that they do uplighting, not many are doing it correctly. Many are still using second generation LED lights.  Most are not good about getting the right color or getting them positioned properly.  But here at Music Source we will dial in the perfect color for you and properly position them in your room for maximum effect.  And if you prefer more of a wash effect we’ll add light shaping filters to the lights to spread the beams wide and paint the walls at no additional charge.

Pricing is as follows…

* $100 for just behind the head table only

* $250 for one small to medium size room

* $500 for one large or two small to medium size rooms

 

MONOGRAM LIGHT ~ Your name, date, initials or company logo projected on the dance floor, wall or ceiling the new way, using a video projector and computer with a software specific program. This allows us to add color(s), motion and/or shoot from odd angles and still have it look normal.  Your choice of style and colors.  Static or with motion only $250.

SPOT LIGHT ~ Great for a dramatic theatrical entrance when used as a follow-spot.  Choose from one of eight colors to light your way as you are introduced into the room.  Also great to spotlight the ‘First Dance’ or be used during toasting or to spotlight the cake or any other events that need the extra focus that only a spot light can provide.  $100.  Chauvet Follow Spot 75 Video >

BIG DANCE FLOOR LIGHT SHOW ~ Go BIG and get an extra dance floor lighting in addition to what you get with the our standard set up for a mere $300 more.  The BIG Dance Floor Light Show is valued at over $5,000.  A great bang for your buck as while the light show that comes with our standard set up is above average when compared to most DJ’s, the BIG Dance Floor Light Show looks HUGE compared to their tiny set ups. Operated by the DJ Assistant / Lighting Technician it’s always in sync with the music. Just because we have a lot of dance floor lighting doesn’t mean that we turn them all on and leave them on the whole night. We change it up regularly throughout each song and make sure it’s appropriate for the song.

CONFETTI LAUNCHER ~ Great for either the Introduction or the Grand Finale.  No CO2 nor compressed air. Confetti is 1 x2 inch shiny metallic strips for easy clean up. Have a Funfetti time at your event for only $100.  (Subject to venue approval!)

BUBBLES ~ Enjoy a flowing cascade of bubbles over the dance floor during slow dances for $75 (does ‘not‘ make the dance floor slick).

FOG ~ Fog, Smoke or Haze, call it what you like the bottom line is it really enhances the light show. So long as the room does not have smoke detectors but a sprinkler system, we can use it for just $75.

BLACK LIGHT GLOW PARTY ~ Go for the glow without much dough! $200 gets you 8 L.E.D. black lights mounted on tripods for maximum coverage.  Includes 6 Chauvet Shadow LED black light wash panels & 2 American DJ Par 64 LED UV black light par cans.

 

AUDIO & VIDEO:

SURROUND SOUND / REMOTE POWERED SPEAKERS WITH WIRELESS RECEIVERS ~ Surround Sound Remote Speakers is an enhancement to the main system. Ideal for a large room for even sound through out, so the people in front are not getting blasted while the people in back still can’t hear. Also ideal for second rooms, patios, and other challenging venues. Just $200 more for 2-4 speakers.

SECOND SOUND SETUP ~ Second Set-Up at Same Venue requiring speakers, mixer and microphone(s).  $300  ex: dinner in another room with announcements/formalities ex: cocktail hour with formalities

VIDEO PROJECTOR & SCREEN ~ Add our HD Projector and Six Foot Wide Screen.  Compatible with most any PC, MAC or USB flash drive device. Projector: $125  Screen: $50

Packaged Price: $150.

Need ‘real’ speakers so your video can also be heard by a large group?  Add one or more 1,000 watt powered speaker for an extra $50 each.  Speakers come with speaker tripod stands and all necessary cables at no additional charge. (Note: Additional external speakers ‘may not’ be necessary when used in conjunction with our DJ service, or when the video projector is used in a small room with 25 or fewer people in attendance).

WIRELESS MICROPHONES & MORE FOR YOUR MEETING ~ Lapel, headset and/or hand held microphones only $50 per microphone.  Any necessary cables and microphone stands is included at no additional charge.

Add a multi channel mixer with effects for multiple microphones and/or music for $100. Mixer comes with all necessary cables at no additional charge.

Add one or more 1,000 watt powered speaker for $50 each.  Speakers come with speaker tripod stands and all necessary cables at no additional charge.

SERVICES:

CEREMONY ~ You can add complete professional sound support for your ceremony for just a $300 flat fee for same location. $350 for an offsite location.  Additional $50 if power is not provided and generator is needed. Reception hours are not used until the reception begins.  This includes our exclusive three page Music Source Wedding Ceremony Planner, and up to four wireless devices.  Meaning wireless lapel microphones typically on the officiant and the groom.  A wireless handheld microphone in microphone stand for anybody doing any special reading or singing.  Or a wireless transmitter and cable for an instrument such as a guitar.  We provide the background music ‘of your choice’ before and after the ceremony, and of course music for the ceremony itself.

AUDIO PRODUCTION ~ Need a special music mix created?  Need a verbal presentation recorded, edited and produced for use in a meeting or at a reception that you can’t attend?  Maybe some voice over work done?  We can do that at a rate of $25 per hour.

ROCK STAR PHOTO BOOTH by Music Source ~ The Top Rated photo booth company on Google in Central Illinois. I have personally seen numerous photo booths and can honestly say that this booth looks good and works good because it features…

  • FREE TRULY CUSTOMIZED GRAPHICS ON YOUR PRINTS AND THE BOOTHS COMPUTER TOUCH SCREEN TO COMMEMORATE YOUR EVENT
    (See examples here > https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.205059969690425.1073741831.165070733689349&type=3)

    • FREE UNLIMITED 2″x 6″ or 4″x 6″ PHOTO PRINTS REGARDLESS OF HOW MANY ARE IN THE SHOT
    • FREE INSTANT EMAILING FOR SHARING AND/OR UPLOADING TO YOUR FAVORITE SOCIAL MEDIA SITES
    • FREE USE OF OUR ‘NUMEROUS’ FUN PROPS
    • FREE FLASH DRIVE OF ALL OF YOUR PHOTOS FROM YOUR EVENT, THE PRINTS AS JPEGs + THE INDIVIDUAL PHOTOS TOO
    • PLUS 2 ATTENDANTS TO WORK WITH YOUR GUESTS
    • BACK UP CAMERA AND PHOTO PRINTER AT YOUR EVENT. YES A REAL CAMERA AND A REAL PHOTO PRINTER.
    • WE NEVER WATER MARK YOUR PHOTOS WITH OUR ADVERTISING Pricing is based upon hours and what additional features you want at your event.

> GOLD RECORD PACKAGE: 2 HOURS ~ $500

> PLATINUM RECORD PACKAGE: 3 HOURS ~ $650

> DOUBLE PLATINUM RECORD PACKAGE: 4 HOURS ~ $850

  • Memory Scrap Book ~ $150 includes a very nice memory scrap book and all of the necessary accessories such as card stock paper, two sided tape, correct colored pens and plastic sleeves. Plus an attendant to keep it organized as guests write their well wishes next to their prints.
  • Get your own Custom 8’ X 8’ Step & Repeat banner as your background for $150 and you get to keep the banner!
  • Idle Time is $25 per hour if necessary
  • Extra Hours are $150 per hour

SPECIAL OFFER: ONE HOUR FREE IF RENTED IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE DJ SERVICE FOR THE SAME EVENT AT THE SAME LOCATION. MINIMUM 2 HOUR BOOKING.

“Extremely professional, kind, and easy to work with. Took all of our requests and played them, even Harry Potter background music for our Harry Potter wedding. Would definitely recommend and would work with again!”

About

Music Source is a mobile DJ service based in Springfield, IL specializing in wedding receptions and ceremonies, however is well versed in all sorts of events. Corporate parties, school dances, class reunions, anniversaries, birthday and graduation parties and more. Music Source is the Top-Rated DJ service on Google in Central Illinois.

Music Source also owns Rock Star Photo Booth which is the Top-Rated photo booth service on Google in Central Illinois.

Music Source Professional Disc Jockey Service Time Line History:

 

  • 1982 > Founder Allen Stare starts Music Source Professional Disc Jockey Service in Taylorville, IL after experiencing too many bad DJ’s. Allen experiences immediate success and Music Source eventually grows into a 4 show multi operation.
  • 1983 > Current Owner/DJ/MC/ Reception Director Jonathan Michael Roth (AKA: Jon, J.R. or DJ Jonny T) hires Allen for his college graduation party. What a party it was!!!
  • 1993 > J.R. began working alongside Allen Stare as a Light Jockey whenever not booked as a Music Source Disc Jockey. Allen teaches J.R. every little thing he knows about working a crowd, music flow, light show flow and so much more. Lots of miles and late nights.
  • 2005 > J.R. takes over ownership of Music Source and turns it back into a single show operation dedicated to personalized service with even more focus on wedding receptions. He immediately gets rid of all the albums and cassettes going all CD’s and adds subwoofers. More thump for the bump!
  • 2006 > Music Source hires Daniel Ewing as its first primary light jockey since changing to a solo operation, and switches to a Peavey sound system with the SP 3 speakers, SP118 subwoofers and two CS4080 power amps for 2,500 watts of power. Coupled with a 31 band EQ and a BBE Sonic Maximizer/Exciter with Crossover this system sounded amazing!
  • 2007 > We put the show on the road as Music Source does 50 events for the year for the first time as a solo show operation. Lots of happy clients that year!
  • 2008 > Just three years after going the all CD route, Music Source begins the conversion ripping its CD library to hard drives and eventually gets rid of CD’s all together. We buy one of the first digital controllers in the Cortex HDC 1000’s. This coincides with switching from receiving CD’s in the mail to digital downloads, through our long relationship and subscription with Top Hits USA. Music Source hires Justin Linder as its second primary light jockey and does its first Quinceañera.
  • 2009 > Music Source becomes a Member of the American Disc Jockey Association. The ADJA is dedicated to the professional development of the mobile DJ, as well as educating the consumer on how to hire the correct disc jockey for their event. Professional has always been in our name, so joining the national association naturally made sense.
  • 2010 > Music Source becomes a Member of Springfield Local Favorites. One of only two DJ’s in the area that is a member. SLF is a non-profit group of professional wedding vendors, as determined by their peers at providing exceptional service in their field of expertise. Be the best and work with the best.
  • 2011 > Sound system converted to powered QSC speakers and subwoofers while the entire light show is upgraded to all L.E.D.’s June: 17th & 18th that year was Music Source Founders Weekend… Allen Stare makes two back to back guest DJ appearances at two weddings per the brides requests.
  • 2012 > Music Source adds uplighting and gobo image lighting to its list of services that it provides and hires Tyler Fuchs as its third primary light jockey. Music Source becomes accredited with the Better Business Bureau.
  • 2013 > Rock Star Photo Booth by Music Source begins operation and hires a photo booth assistant. Jon attends his first of many Mobile Beat DJ conferences in Las Vegas and is hooked on education and training on a yearly basis. Music Source performs for its largest crowd ever at the Color Blaze 5K with over 3,000 participants. We rocked all of Southwind Park from the top of the treehouse with 12,000 watts of power!
  • 2014 > > Music Source opens a business office as a hub of operations and a location to meet with clients in a comfortable but controlled environment. Rock Star Photo Booth buys out Ball Photo Booth.
  • 2015 > Music Source upgrades to battery powered and wirelessly controlled uplights expanding what we can do with them to make your event look even more amazing. Music Source switches from traditional projected monograms to video projected monograms after attending the Lighting Symposium in Minneapolis.
  • 2016 > Music Source teams up with Dennis Reed of Hi-Tek Redneck karaoke for one event at UIS for their Prairie Star Search competition. Lots of stars shined that day! Also that year was the MDA Walk-A-Thon at the Expo Building, where we provided sound support and saw hundreds of people coming together to raise money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association.
  • 2017 > Music Source gets to be the DJ, MC & Reception Director at the wedding reception for the daughter of the founder, Allen Stare. It was GRAND!
  • 2018 > Music Source switches from Cortex digital controllers to the Denon MCX8000 controller for quicker and easier access to mix music on the fly, fla-fla fly, fla fly fly fly.
  • 2019 > Music Source Professional Disc Jockey Service and Rock Star Photo Booth is hired as the entertainment at the IDCCA’s Pre-Inaugural Cocktail Reception for the incoming governor with 2,000 people in attendance.

“Jon and his assistants were fabulous! They kept everything together and running smoothly! Everyone loved the music and photo booth! Music Source is the best!”