If you're selective about your music types and styles, a disc jockey can supply a wide variety. That means if your grandfather loves Glenn Miller, your favorite Aunt Cathy wants to hear a polka and your new husband adores rock and roll, you can have it all. During the course of the evening there is something for everyone and no segment of your guest list will feel alienated. If you'd rather not prepare a list you always have the option of letting the D.J. choose the music. They are trained to read the likes and dislike of the audience.
Live entertainment can be somewhat limited in it's ability to play a variety.
Although they may be excellent musicians, it's difficult for any band to specialize in music from five different decades. The first dance is an important part of most receptions and a live band may not be prepared to play the song of your choice. Find out before your hire them. With a D.J. you are much more likely to get the specific song you desire. Within the past fifteen years, an entirely new option has been added to reception entertainment, Karaoke.