Murray Hill Talent

Bar Mitzvah & Bat Mitzvah Planning

cory — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 15:24:28 +0000

Bar Mitzvah & Bat Mitzvah

We are committed to helping make your event a success.

On the right hand side, you will see some helpful forms to fill out. If you have hired a live band to perform at your Mitzvah event please fill out the live band pre-planning worksheet. If you have hired a DJ, please fill out the DJ pre-planning worksheet.

Please look at some of our advice and tips on the right hand column or click tabs below for helpful information

College Events, Birthdays, Anniversaries and Parties

cory — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 15:22:10 +0000

Private Party, Birthday/Anniversary, Graduation, Promo, Reunions

We are committed to helping make your event a success.

On the right hand side, you will see some helpful forms to fill out. If you have hired a live band to perform at your event please fill out the live band pre-planning worksheet. If you have hired a DJ, please fill out the DJ pre-planning worksheet.

Please look at some of our advice and tips on the right hand column or click tabs below for helpful information

Corporate Event Planning

cory — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 15:04:13 +0000

Company Party, Corporate Event, Fundraiser/Charity or Social Event

We are committed to helping make your event a success.

Please look at some of our advice and tips on the right hand column or click tabs below for helpful information

Song Suggestions

paul — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 20:23:20 +0000

Our DJs are often asked for song suggestions for introductions, first dance, parent dances, etc. While we’re aware hundreds of song ideas can be found online, we thought we’d include a few suggestions here as well. Some are tried and true favorites, some might not be as obvious as many of the lists out there.

Ceremony Processionals:

The Way I Am – Ingrid Michaelson
Take Care – Beach House
The Promise – Tracy Chapman
Buon giorno Principessa – Nicola Piovani
God Only Knows – The Beach Boys
Somewhere Over The Rainbow – IZ
Marry Me – Train
Falling In Love At A Coffee Shop – Landon Pigg
How Deep Is Your Love – The Bird And The Bee
I Melt With You – Nouvelle Vague
Please Please Please Let Me Get What I Want – The Dream Academy

Ceremony Recessionals:

Linus & Lucy – Vince Guaraldi
Suddenly I See – KT Tunstall
(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher & Higher – Jackie Wilson
Diamonds On The Souls Of Her Shoes – Paul Simon
You And I – Ingrid Michaelson
All I Want Is You – Barry Louis Polisar
Anyone Else But You – The Moldy Peaches
Dog Days Are Over – Florence & The Machine

First Dances:

You Are The Best Thing – Ray LaMontagne
Lucky – Jason Mraz/Colbie Caillat
I’m Yours – Jason Mraz
Today We’ll Start Forever – Now & Neverland
Powerful Stuff – Sean Hayes
At Last – Etta James
L.O.V.E. – Nat King Cole
She’s Everything – Brad Paisley
Someone Like You – Van Morrison
Sweet Pea – Amos LeeLove
Love Ain’t Gonna Let You Down – Jamie Cullum
You & Me – Dave Matthews Band

Parent Dances:

Forever Young – Bob Dylan or Pretenders
Forever Young – Rod Stewart
Into The Mystic – Van Morrison
Someone Like You – Van Morrison

Introductions:

Club Can’t Handle Me – Flo Rida
I Gotta Feeling – Black Eyed Peas
Howlin’ For You – The Black Keys

Cake cutting:

Ice Cream - Sara McLachlan
Cut the Cake – Average White Band
I Wanna Grow Old With You – Adam Sandler
How Sweet It Is – James Taylor
Sugar, Sugar – The Archies
When I’m 64 – The Beatles
Recipe For Love – Harry Connick Jr.
That’s Amore’ – Dean Martin
Happy Together – The Turtles
Pour Some Sugar On Me – Def Leppard
I Got You Babe – Sonny & Cher
Love & Marriage – Frank Sinatra

Last Dances:

Home – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeroes
Say Hey (I Love You) – Michael Franti and Spearhead
Give Me Everything – Ne-Yo/Pitbull
Party Rock Anthem – LMFAO
Marry Me -Train Till The World Ends – Britney Spears
Just The Way You Are – Bruno Mars
One For My Baby (And One More For The Road) – Frank Sinatra

Creative Suggestions

Rain in the forecast? Instead of letting it spoil you mood, why not celebrate it? ”Come Rain or Come Shine” by either Ray Charles or Billie Holiday is a romantic notion that can brighten anyone’s day.

Long Engagement? Etta James’ “At Last” aptly punctuates an extended prenuptial period with a soulful, heartfelt sentiment.

2012 Porsche 911 Unveiled

scott — Wed, 08 Feb 2012 15:50:00 +0000

Hello Again Friends and Colleagues!

On Saturday, Februrary 4, I was the DJ at the unveiling of the brand new, never before seen, Porsche 911 Carerra. Local experts and car enthusiasts from all over New England gathered at Porsche of Nashua, dressed in costumes to commemorate their favorite decade of the 911. The first of its kind was made in the 50′s. The popular style we know today began to develop in the 60′s. There was a 911 in the showroom to represent every decade between the 60′s and today. The winner for best outfit at the end of the night would win a weekend with the untouched 2012 911. The pressure was squarely on me to decide who would win. It came down to a Miami Vice lookalike and a 70s fella with an afro, leather jacket, aviators and bell bottoms. He had the right vibe and I gave the edge to him. It was all in good fun. Guests were invited to take pictures and video of the car and even sit inside. For my part, I asked some trivia questions about the car and just played sets of music from each decade as a nod to each of the cars (and guests) in the room. It was a great success and we are proud to be the entertainment of choice for Lyon Waugh Auto Group! Thanks, Cydalia!

Girlfriends Weekend

scott — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 21:27:21 +0000

January 27-29 was the debut of the Chatham Bars Inn “Girlfriends Spa Weekend”. As the entertainment provider of choice at CBI, we were glad to be invited to DJ the Saturday night event. Jenn Allard, an events director at the venue, also invited my wife, Amy, to join me and we stayed in one of the spectacular spa suites for the entire weekend (pictured here). The suite, equipped with an enormous steam shower, a sauna, jacuzzi, flat screen TV and fireplace, immediately transported us into instant relaxation. From start to finish, the staff was eager and accommodating and we would highly recommend Chatham Bars Inn if you happen to find yourself on the Cape looking for a place to stay.

The weekend was for women, some with family and friends, some on their own, to get away for some R&R. Saturday night there was a dinner/dancing/shopping event in one of the CBI ballrooms. I was lucky enough to be the DJ! The girls drank cocktails while perusing clothing, jewelry, and spa products from local vendors. Then came a delicious dinner and some spirited dancing! I couldn’t help but think how much more difficult my night would have been had I been stuck with 75 men instead! The women were so gracious and good natured and the event looked like a great success.

I want to thank Chatham Bars Inn for their unbelievable hospitality and generosity. We always cherish our experiences and longstanding relationship with Cape Cod’s premiere resort!

Wedding Planning

paul — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 17:04:21 +0000

At the beginning of every year, our bands like to get a broad sense of what music styles are trending, what styles are on their way out. Please take this quick survey about music styles. This information is valuable to our bands, helping us to determine our repertoire for the 2012 season.

FAQ:

When can I expect to begin planning for/with my band?

6 Weeks Prior…

Please inform us of any specialty song you wish to have the band learn (A band will learn ONE song not found on their current song list). We need a sufficient amount of time to purchase or download music, distribute copies and sheet music to band members, and determine whether or not the band can perform the song.

4 Weeks Prior…

Send in your final payment. You will receive an invoice approximately one month prior, and the balance is due to our office no later than two weeks prior to your wedding. We accept checks, cash, or money orders ONLY for final balance payments (no credit cards please).

2 Weeks Prior…

Send in your Reception Planner. Please be sure to save a copy for yourself and forward a copy to your Murray Hill Talent representative. After we receive the completed planner, we will contact you to schedule a consultation with the bandleader. Be sure to include phone numbers where we may contact you the week leading up to, as well as the day of, the event. If your wedding is taking place at a private residence, please send us directions, the street address, and phone number at the home/venue. Additionally please let us know the name and mobile numbers of key members of your function team (Catering Managers, Onsite Director, etc).

The Day of…

Relax. You have the peace of mind necessary to focus on the main event, knowing that everything is in good hands with Murray Hill Talent.

Can You provide ceremony and/or cocktail music?

Often members of the band can preform music for the ceremony or cocktail hours in another room or remote location. Overtime rates typically apply, and occasionally, based on the complexity/location of the set-up, additional equipment may need to be rented. Murray Hill Talent also represents several other live music options, as well as rents ceremony PA systems, for amplifying the officiant and/or readers.

How should I go about requesting songs?

Specialty Songs

We strongly suggest that you choose any special dance songs from the band’s song list. The band will learn ONE song for your event (as long as the song is within the band’s instrumentation capabilities and general style) We must receive your specialty song request at least 4 weeks prior to your wedding date, in order to adequately prepare the song for performance. Clients should also consider utilizing pre-recorded versions of songs played through the band’s full scale sound system. (for music not on the band’s repertoire.) In many instances the original versions of songs are what people and clients are more accustomed too and stirs up more emotions than having a band perform a song that is relatively unfamiliar to them. (especially for key moments such as first dances, parental dances, etc).

General Playlist

We do not recommended that you go through a band’s song list and hand-pick or circle songs for the band to play (like selecting songs from a juke box). While a band’s song list contains hundreds of songs that they have played before, and could potentially play, it is not necessarily representative of their strongest material. Bands know which specific songs they play best and sound strongest. Repertoire varies from season to season based on the band’s chemistry at that point in time and what is working well at the events. Bands often formulate sets in regards to tempos, song keys, lead singer interchange and set pacing. Many bands have segueways, solos, and extended parts rehearsed that have been carefully planned. For a strong, tight and powerful performance, we recommend you keep a general approach to letting us know your likes and dislikes. Give us a handful of specific songs you would rather not have the band play, as well as a few general styles and songs that you would love to hear. This will be a helpful tool for the band to use, while allowing the band to play to their strengths.

What are the staging/Electrical requirements?

Electrical Requirements for Bands

(2) 20 Amp 110 volt dedicated circuits. (Independent of catering, lighting or other power sources). If you must use extension cords, use heavy cords (12 or 14 gauge). Never plug more than (2) 50’ cords together. Total distance from power source to stage should not exceed 100’. Cords must be plugged into dedicated 20-amp circuit. When using generators, a 6000-watt generator with (2) 20 amp 110-volt duplex outlets is recommended. Total distance from power source (generator) should not exceed 25’.

Staging Requirements

Dance bands which include a drummer (5 to 9-pieces) require a minimal staging of 12’ x 16’. (Staging of 12’ x 24’ is the minimum stage size for larger bands such 10 to 17-piece swing bands). Please remember that these dimensions are the Minimum Requirements. Larger performance areas are beneficial to the band if available. The stage should be level and should be covered to provide shelter from excessive rain, wind, sun, etc. As a general rule when constructing a stage on unleveled surfaces (grass, sand, etc) a higher stage will provide more room for level compensation.

Flipside members play at Hot Stove Red Sox charity event

corin — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 19:10:55 +0000

Members of top Boston event band Flipside were recently tapped to help with former Red Sox General manager Theo Epstein’s annual Hot Stove Cool Music benefit for children’s charities at the Paradise Club. ESPN baseball maven Peter Gammons and comedic actor Mike O’Malley (Glee, Yes Dear) returned to host for the 13th year and helped raise over $300,000 for Theos’s Foundation. Music for the night came courtesy of Derek Trucks (Allman Bros. Band)- recently named in Rolling Stone Magazine’s list of the greatest guitarists of all time-and his wife, local favorite Susan Tedsechi with the Hot Stove All Stars featuring our own Elan Trotman on sax and members of Buffalo Tom, The J. Geils Band , Tanya Donelly and the Figgs. Flipside’s Corin Ashley joined former Letters To Cleo singer Kay Hanley who is known for her recent collaborations with the Dropkick Murphys as well as her work for Disney with music for Miley Cyrus, the Care Bears, My Friend’s Tigger And Poo and other shows. It was a night of fantastic music with good friends playing for a great cause.

Kay Hanley and Corin Ashley photo by Steve Latham

Flipside’s favorite winter social events

corin — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 16:35:19 +0000

The majority of Flipside’s events are referrals from past clients, so we get to see a lot of the same lovely faces throughout the year. However, winter is an especially meaningful time for the band as we get to play at a few social events that we have done multiple times over the years. The philanthropy scene in New England is not small, but one tends to see a lot of the same people and we have definitely noted over time that the motivators in the charity world are younger with a lot of energy and they are creating compelling events with exciting visuals, food and drinks designed to impress a more adventurous palette and ultimately they are looking of music that will keep the dance floor hopping all night long. The old days of a simple chicken Kiev, a polite swing band tucked in the corner and everybody leaves early are a thing of the past. The innovators in fundraising have figured out that creating a magical evening ends up raising more money for the causes that are dear to their heart.

Amidst all the holiday parties , the season starts in December with a fantastic event for a very worthwhile cause the Greenlight Fund Emerald Evening at the Park Plaza castle. The event is co-sponsored by the wonderful Rounder Records and we are always happy to align ourselves with people who have done so much to bring the best of soul, gospel, world music, reggae, folk, etc. to the world. This year’s party was no exception as a fantastic team put together a truly magical night that raised a lot of money for low-income urban children and families.

The founder of Greenlight, John Simon, is a truly inspirational person. It means a lot that he always takes a little time to come over and thank the band for being there and he makes us feel proud to be part of something something so meaningful in the community. John was also one of the founders of the Steppingstone Foundation- an event we have done for the past 7 years in a row. The next Steppingstone Foundation Crystal Ball is coming up in February and that is always an amazing night. Tickets are available at http://www.tsf.org/events

Camp Joslin Wedding

scott — Thu, 08 Sep 2011 17:58:16 +0000

Camp Joslin, located in Charlton, MA, is a campground property owned by Joslin Diabetes Center in Boston. Joslin is an independent, nonprofit institution affiliated with Harvard Medical School. Camp Joslin offers year round programs to children and young adults with type-1 diabetes. Its purpose is to provide a fun and educational atmosphere, where campers can play sports, exercise artistic creativity, and grow socially, while gaining a better understanding of diabetes.

On September 3, 2011, I had the pleasure of providing DJ services for a wedding at Camp Joslin. The bride, Dr. Quang-Tuyen Nguyen, is a Boston-based pediatric surgeon and her groom, Dr. Ithan D. Peltan, practices internal medicine at Massachusetts General Hospital. The two chose a very unique setting for their special day and they were joined together in a traditional Jewish ceremony overlooking Putnam Pond while the sun went down. I provided microphones for the ceremony, as pictured. The site was secluded and surrounded by trees on three sides so there was little outside noise to contend with.

The reception took place in the brand new, state-of-the-art Penta Dining Hall, named after Back Bay resident Louise Penta, whose generosity made the new facility possible. I provided up-beat big band swing music for cocktails on the patio and a laid back dinner soundtrack in the new dining room. The event had a profoundly personal feeling to it, with cafeteria-style seating and family-style dinner service. During dinner, both families took the floor and spoke very highly of each other. It was clear how much love there was in the room and I was honored to be a part of it. When the lights went down, the dance floor was PACKED! I did my best to get a couple photos and a short video. It was awesome being a part of such a wonderful celebration at a truly inspiring venue! Thanks for taking a look!