Repertoire planning
How to brief an event singer on repertoire and do-not-play songs
A useful repertoire brief gives direction without removing the performer's ability to read the room. It explains priorities, meaning and boundaries.
Quick answer
Provide the event purpose, audience, desired moods, a few must-play requests and a concise do-not-play list with reasons. Send exact song references and language or lyric concerns. Agree the deadline for special arrangements and give one person authority over guest requests on the day.
1. Describe moods and moments
Instead of sending one long playlist, connect musical direction to arrival, dining, a featured moment and celebration. Examples help, but explain what you like about them.
Share the audience mix and how prominent the performance should feel.
2. Prioritise special requests
Label requests as essential, preferred or optional. For every essential song, provide the exact artist, version, language and intended cue.
A singer may need to change key or arrangement. Confirm feasibility and approval timing before treating a song as promised.
- Exact reference link
- Reason the song matters
- Required section or duration
- Final approval date
3. Make the do-not-play list practical
List songs, artists, genres, themes or language concerns that genuinely matter. Explain if the reason is brand conflict, personal history, explicit lyrics or cultural sensitivity.
An enormous exclusion list can make the programme unworkable. Focus on meaningful boundaries and discuss alternatives.
4. Manage guest requests
Decide whether requests are welcomed and who filters them. The performer should be able to decline material that is unknown, unsuitable or technically unavailable.
Keep the agreed programme as the foundation. Spontaneity should enhance the event, not override the host's brief.
Common questions
Can an event singer learn any requested song?
Not always. Vocal fit, arrangement, language, licensing context and preparation time all matter. Confirm feasibility before the event.
How long should a do-not-play list be?
As short as possible while protecting real priorities. Group exclusions by reason and discuss suitable alternatives.
Who approves guest requests?
Choose one host or planner contact. The singer still needs discretion if a request is unknown, unsuitable or unavailable.
Sources and review date
- Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. Plan a Business Event
Source review: . Repertoire availability and special arrangements depend on the performer, line-up, preparation time and event approvals.
Marina Malina Music
Need a coherent event repertoire?
Share the audience, event moments, essential songs and exclusions. Marina can shape a programme direction around them.