There are the old Motown hits everyone loves and later soul icons such as Al Green, Barry White and Curtis Mayfield. Hipsters, old timers and teeny tykes alike can thrill to the upbeat sounds of swing. With its rigorous drumbeats and robust brass explosions, few can resist the urge to jump and jive. To season dancing with island flavor, try the hottest sounds to come from Caribbean shores. Ask your DJ or band to recommend best bets.
Many couples shake up the cocktail hour by indulging their wildest music fantasies.
A string quartet playing the best of Vivaldi is elegant, but a steel band playing Calypso, an acoustic guitar rendering of Depeche Mode's greatest hits or an a cappella group singing only show-tunes will be just as divine. Save the dancing stuff for later on and kick off the reception with a splash of creativity. Make the party a blast from beginning to a bittersweet end. Cap off the affair with a musical moment of closure that will bring everyone together for one last dance. Go out wildly, with a passionate, fast-paced dance hit or something tender, soft and sentimental.