This page is a collection of frequently asked questions, however if you have a query that is not covered here, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Why is there no mention of price on your web site?
Every event is different, therefore we individually tailor what offer to meet your needs. Many different factors affect the price that we charge, starting with whether you would like the 4 or 6 piece band, whether you’d like the DJ option, the time of setup, location etc. So we need to consider your individual requirements before we quote a price. Our aim is make everything perfect for you and we will tailor the package to suit your requirements.
Will you provide background music in between sets?
Yes- this is a very popular option. We realise that booking a DJ can incur additional cost for very little ‘airtime’, so we are happy to include our music playlist between band sets free of charge. We have a large catalogue of songs suited to weddings, private parties etc – something for all the family! There is also the option of booking our manned DJ service (more details below).
Do the band provide everything ? – for example all sound and lighting equipment?
Yes we do. We will bring a nice big PA system, and stage & disco lighting.
How long are your sets? How long can you play for?
Typically we will play for 2 hours 10 minutes with a break in between. We are entirely flexible to meet your needs. Generally, the format that a wedding, corporate function, birthday party etc would use would be one first set of 50 minutes followed by a break (usually for buffet, speeches etc) then a second set of around 1 hour and 20 minutes, however we can tailor the sets to suit your event.
How is the set list decided?
We plan our setlist to suit the individual tastes of the client and guests. We generally play a mix of popular songs from the 60s through to the present day. You can tell us your favourite songs from our songlist, and also any that you’d prefer us not to play, (we won’t be offended!).
We know the songs that work really well, so please trust us. Our aim is to keep the crowd happy and on the dance floor. We can make decisions as we go along and respond to the crowd. We pride ourselves in having a great repertoire that creates a memorable evening for you.
Will you set up before the guests arrive?
Usually for all parties and events we set up before guests arrive and for weddings we set up after the reception and before the evening party while the room is being turned around, however we can setup in a way to suit you.
How long do you take to set up?
Typically we will need at least 90 minutes to setup, though the loading in time does affect this for instance if the performance room is along way from the load in door and includes lifts/stairs it can add on time. The more information we have in advance, the better prepared we can be.
What do you wear?
For weddings, private parties and corporate functions we would normally wear smart clothing (shirt tie, waistcoat etc). Events such as pubs and clubs are a little less formal, generally used as showcases for private parties so we usually dress a little more informally. If you’d like us to wear something in particular, please let us know.
How much space do you need?
Normally we need a performance area of at least 6×3 metres, but have squeezed into spaces smaller in the past. We’re happy to work with you, but the more advanced warning we have, the better!
How is it best to time things?
The timing of how we work is up to you and we always try to fit in with the event to make it as effective as possible. If there is a buffet being served we would suggest not having a set at the same time as people get distracted by it which can sometimes lead to a lull in the atmosphere.
This is how a typical event (that finishes at 12am) would be timed:
Arrive at 6pm to be set up and sound checked by 7.30pm
Background music 7.30-8.30
First set 8.30-9.20
DJ/Disco 9.20-10.20
Second set 10.20-11.40
DJ/Disco 11.40-12.00
Can I pick the band’s playlist?
We have a great selection of songs on our songlist. What we recommend is for you to tell us the songs that you definitely DO or DO NOT want us to play. We have years of experience to know the songs that get the best reactions from the audience. Please trust us. Our job is to make your event amazing, so we always pick songs that we know the crowd will love (not some self indulgent muso rubbish!!).
Where will you travel to?
We can travel anywhere, UK and Internationally.
Can I see you play live?
The gigs we do are mainly private events but we do do the odd public gig that you could come to. These events would be advertised on our Facebook page www.facebook.com/thecrazyknights
There is also video and audio samples on our website.
Will you learn our special song?
We will happily learn your first dance or another special song. We include 1 new song in the package, and can do more new songs on advance request.
Is the video on your website a true reflection of the band?
Yes. The video features live footage taken from recent performances.
How do I book you?
Just contact the band directly via our contact page. When we’ve provided the initial details and agreed availability we will send you a booking form and deposit details to secure the date.
Are you able to DJ in between sets?
As mentioned above, our music playlist between sets comes as standard with every booking, however if you want a more bespoke DJ service, we offer a manned DJ package upgrade option where one of the band members will man the laptop all night to take requests and make basic announcements. We carry a laptop with a large array of songs to all our gigs that we use specifically for DJ’ing, making sure that we keep the dance floor swinging in between our live sets. We’re happy to take requests for DJ songs, however we may not have some of the more obscure songs. So if you are desperate for a song to be played in the DJ set please check with us before the date so we can download it if we don’t have it.
Can we use your sound system for speeches?
If we have set up by the time of your speeches, You are welcome to use our PA system for your speeches. Or we can arrange to set up early. We also have a wireless microphone available for speeches.
What if the band split up before my event?
Like many professional party bands, our work is our livelihood and so we take our commitments very seriously. We also have a range of ‘Deps’ (stand-in musicians) that provide cover if band members fall ill, or are away. In the very very unlikely event that the band had split up before your party, every effort would be made to find a suitable replacement band.
Can my sister’s/boss’/daughter’s dog sing with your band?
If there is someone you want to sing with the band then great, and is often great for the atmosphere of the event. We do prefer it if we are informed before the date of this happening. We don’t mind if there is maybe one impromptu guest singer on the night however we do need to be strict as being too liberal with the guest singers has the potential to turn into a bit of a shambles… speaking from past experience.
Does the band have PAT and PLI certificates?
We always carry up to date PAT certification and have Public Liability Insurance cover up to £10M.
Do the band have any specific requirements?
All we ask that that we have somewhere to change, a meal and drinks.
What type/size venues are you able to play at?
We are able to play at any size/type venue. We can hire additional sound and lighting equipment if required, however in most cases this won’t be necessary.
How loud will the band be?
We understand what its like to be at an occasion where you want to talk to a friend you haven’t spoken to in ages but cant hear them speak. So we will do our best to adjust our sound level accordingly to every event.
Some venues can be quite strict when it comes to the sound level so please check with the venue if they have a DB (decibel) limiter. If they do, please request details and let us know. We often work together with venues that have limiters to ensure everything runs smoothly.
What is the band power requirement?
We usually request 2 double 13 amp supplies near to the stage area. As a rule, we draw approximately 16 amps with everything on and have only ever experienced any issues in events in marquees where the generator capacity has been too low.