Looking to hire a singer? In this article, you’ll learn everything you need to know to hire the best one for the job.
Music is the life and soul of every event. Even if it’s just background music, you’ll almost always want to have something.
However, if you want to kick it up a notch, live music is the way to go. Unfortunately, that requires some crucial planning on your part.
For that reason, we’ve put together a list of tips and ideas to help you book the best singer for your upcoming event.
Let’s get started!
What atmosphere are you looking for?
The desired party atmosphere will have a huge impact on which singer you’ll want to hire.
Who is the audience?
It’s possible to hire a singer for almost any occasion. But ideally, you’ll want to hire a singer who specialises in performing for your type of event/audience.
For example, weddings, corporate events, anniversaries, retirement parties…
What’s the objective?
Very simply: why you want to hire the singer?
Do you want your guests to dance to live music? Do you want to have an after-dinner show? Or set the atmosphere during a reception?
There is no right or wrong answer but your objective will influence the type of singer you hire.
What music genres are you looking for?
Last but not least, what music genre are you looking for? Rock? Soul? Country music?
The genre you’re looking for will influence who you hire but also when they play during the event. You don’t want anything too overbearing during a casual reception just as you don’t want anything too quiet during a party.
Should I hire a singer or a band?
A question you’re likely to be asking yourself is whether you should hire a singer or a band.
As always, there is no right or wrong answer. We’ve previously published an article on hiring a band. However, there are a few key differences to consider:
How big is the room/audience?
Bands usually need a minimum room size for the vocals to be heard over the drums and percussions. They also need space for their equipment. This means singers are generally better suited for the smaller rooms.
It’s personality-driven entertainment
Singers are generally more personality-driven than bands; they’ll present their set like a show and make the music feel more personal.
For example, PartyWizz entertainer Kristen Kapelli is both a singer and a comedian.
Note: This doesn’t mean singers can’t be hired for atmospheric music as we mentioned in the previous section.
Singers are generally cheaper
All things being equal, singers tend to be cheaper than bands as they have lower operating costs. It’s only one person and they require less equipment. If you’re on a shoestring budget this is something to consider.
However, keep in mind that the reputation of the singer (or band) will further differentiate the price. Experts are more in demand and therefore charge more.
Is the singer suitable for your event?
Before hiring a singer, you’re going to want to make sure he or she is suitable for your event.
Audience size
Singers can play to audiences of any size. Big and small. However, some singers will be more used to playing certain types of rooms that others.
Make sure you take this into account. Especially for very large rooms.
Equipment
Very simply, does the singer have the required equipment for your event? Most professionals can cater to any venue.
However, it’s something you’ll want to check before placing the booking. Especially if the venue doesn’t have amplifiers.
Budget
Is the singer in your price range?
Prices differ based on location. For example, here in Ireland, prices range from €200 to €1000+ for 2 hours of singing.
If you’re based in Ireland, you can see prices for different singers and bands directly on PartyWizz.
Venue
When it comes to singers, venue concerns aren’t too much of an issue.
It’s a very versatile form of entertainment as they can get set up just about anywhere. Just make sure they travel to your area!
Vetting the quality of the singer
You’ll want to vet the quality of the service you’re paying for. Here are a few pointers to get you started:
Try to see them live
Seeing a singer performing first-hand is always the best option. You’ll immediately tell whether or not you like their style of performance and if they’re suitable for your event.
Unfortunately, this isn’t always possible.
Get a referral
The second best option is to get a referral from someone you know and trust. As a starting point, it’s as good as any.
Check for reviews and testimonials
Try to find third-party reviews and testimonials of the singer.
At PartyWizz, you can find reviews on the profiles of all of our entertainers and party service providers.
If you aren’t based in Ireland, you can find reviews on Google and Facebook. Just be aware that these reviews can be faked. Read through them and make sure they feel authentic.
Check for a vetting system
Is the singer part of a vetting system? Depending on where you live, this may or may not be possible.
For example, at PartyWizz we vet all of our entertainers and party service providers to make sure we only work with the best in the business. You can view all of our singer partners on the platform.
Look at pictures & videos
This is a bit of a tricky one.
On the one hand, it makes sense to look at pictures and videos before making a booking. You can even reach out to ask for a sample of their work. Most singers will be happy to provide you with one.
But on the other hand, it’s not very representative of what a singer does. Pictures and videos can’t truly convey the true atmosphere of an event or party.
Do they have performing experience?
More experience doesn’t necessarily translate into better entertainment. Especially when it comes to singing. However, it’s worth checking that they have a few shows under their belts before you decide on booking them.
Practicalities to consider when hiring a singer
What’s included in the singer’s fee?
Before making your reservation, take the time to understand what’s included in the singer’s fee. Entertainers generally offer different show packages that contain different features.
Take the time to understand which one suits you best. Here are a few questions to ask:
- How long will the singer be there?
- What is the show format?
- How long will they be singing for?
- Are travelling costs included?
- Do they have any special requirements?
- Do you have any special requests for the singer?
- Are there any additional/hidden fees? This is more relevant to bands than to singers.
- Do they have public liability insurance?
When making a booking on the PartyWizz website, the total price is automatically calculated based on factors such as location and duration. There are no hidden fees.
Get a contract or written agreement
Professional entertainers should provide you with a written contract or agreement. It will outline everything you’ve agreed on. It doesn’t have to be lengthy or overly formal but make sure everything is written down.
At PartyWizz, we provide a general agreement between the booker and the performer. When confirming the booking, both parties agree to these terms and conditions.
Get in contact before the show
We always recommend getting in touch with all of your suppliers a few days before the event. In fact, they might be the one to call you. This call will help you make sure you both (still) agree on the event details.
Have a back-up plan
Unfortunately, we’re at the mercy of unforeseeable circumstances. Although you most likely won’t need your backup plan, it’s always prudent to have one. In particular, if the singer is central to the event. Keep it simple and keep the fun going.
When making the reservation, it’s worth checking with the singer if he or she provides a back-up plan. If they can’t make the event, do they offer a full refund? Make sure this is also stated in the contract.
Hiring a singer directly through PartyWizz
For some general tips about hiring an entertainer, check out our kids, weddings and corporate blogs.
If you’re interested in hiring a singer for an upcoming event, please check out the PartyWizz website.
