by Ryan Townsend
Kick off your event with this setlist of tracks that span the decades
Music for a cocktail hour should be happy, uplifting, and have a broad appeal. The music shouldn’t overpower the mood, yet should also be energetic and engaging. It should encourage good vibes and conversation, while getting everyone primed for the main event.
You want to select recognizable feel-good songs to start your event strong and keep your guests in a festive spirit. Choosing around 15 songs for your set or playlist will put you at the perfect length. Consider the setting of your event for song selection as well.
You’re most likely going to have a varied crowd of people from different age groups and the songs you choose should cater to that. Be sure to select tracks from different time periods and genres as well.
For planners, remember not to overlook the importance of the cocktail hour. This in-between period of time is the perfect chance to set the atmosphere for the rest of the event. A well-chosen song list, along with talented musicians, can transform this time into a smooth and unforgettable experience.
For singing guitarists looking to put together songs and create set lists, try changing the tempo/key/vibe of the song to fit the cocktail hour atmosphere, or also try instrumental arrangements of popular songs. Be open to the clients requests and always keep adding new and modern music to your repertoire.
I’ve been performing as a singing guitarist in New York and the Tri-State area at weddings, corporate functions, and private events for the last 15 years at venues such as 620 Loft and Garden at Rockefeller Center, Intercontinental New York Times Square, Silo Ridge, and Ike Hall at West Point. Throughout numerous events I’ve complied a seamless collection of songs that are a perfect mix for a successful cocktail hour.
Here’s a list of my go-to songs to help create your ultimate cocktail hour playlist:
1. ( Sittin’ On ) The Dock of the Bay
Otis Redding (1968)
2. Riptide
Vance Joy (2013)
3. You Are The Best Thing
Ray LaMontagne (2008)
4. Electric Love
Børns (2015)
5. She Drives Me Crazy
Fine Young Cannibals (1989)
6. Thinking Out Loud
Ed Sheeran (2014)
7. Valerie
Amy Winehouse (2007)
8. Tennessee Whiskey
Chris Stapleton (2015)
9. Three Little Birds
Bob Marley (1977)
10. Better Together
Jack Johnson (2005)
11. Send Me On My Way
Rusted Root (1992)
12. Watermelon Sugar
Harry Styles (2019)
13. Higher Love
Steve Winwood (1986)
14. Cold Heart
Dua Lipa and Elton John (2021)
15. What A Wonderful World
Louis Armstrong (1967)
If you’re looking to book a singing guitarist in New York call RCT Music Group at (845) 358 – 1236. You can also email ryantownsend@rctmusicgroup.com and visit www.ryantownsendband.com for more info, media, and music.