Party Music

A party isn't much of a celebration without music that fits the party's theme. Have songs specific to the occasion or theme to help set the mood and provide entertainment for guests. Choose a great song list and then decide how you want that music to be broadcast - through a deejay, band, or by doing it yourself.

Songs for Themed Parties

Pick your playlist based on your party theme.

Mexican Fiesta

Whether you are celebrating Cinco de Mayo or have another reason for a fiesta, these tunes are likely to keep the party rolling. Be sure to play a mix of mariachi music and some popular Mexican favorites.

• "La Bamba" - Los Lobos or Richie Valens
• "Livin' la Vida Loca" - Ricky Martin
• "Oye Como Va" - Carlos Santana
• "Techno Cumbia" - Selena
• "What Happens in Mexico" - Toby Keith
• "South of the Border" - Frank Sinatra
• "Macerena" - Los Del Rios
• "Margaritaville" - Jimmy Buffet
• "Suavamente" - Elvis Crespo
• "Beer in Mexico" - Kenny Chesney

Dance Party

Nothing can liven up a weekend like a dance party. Choose a good mix of up-beat tunes with some slower paced songs.

• "Get The Party Started" - Pink
• "Larger Than Life" - Backstreet Boys
• "Walk This Way" - Run DMC and Aerosmith
• "Barbie Girl" - AQUA
• "Love Shack" - B-52s
• "Old Time Rock and Roll" - Bob Seger and The Silver Bullet Band
• "Mambo #5" - Lou Bega
• "YMCA" - Village People
• "Macerena" - Los Del Rios
• "Can't Touch This" - MC Hammer

Kids' Dance Party

The under ten crowd still likes to party like rock stars. Here are some songs to get those little feet boppin' and groovin':

• "A Friend Like You" - The Fresh Beat Band
• "Pumpin Up The Party" - Hannah Montana
• "Hokey Pokey" - Rich Acocella
• "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" - Cyndi Lauper
• "Don't Worry, Be Happy" - Bobby McFerrin
• "Move Along" - Kidz Bop
• "S.O.S." - Jonas Brothers
• "The Backyardigans Theme Song" - The Backyardigans
• "Dancing Crazy" - Miranda Cosgrove
• "Make it Shine" - Victoria Justice

Barn Dance or Cowboy Themed Party

Cowboy, western, or farm-themed parties are the perfect time for a hoedown.

• "Down on the Farm" - Tim McGraw
• "It's 5 O'Clock Somewhere" - Alan Jackson
• "Boot Scootin' Boogie" - Brooks & Dunn
• "All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight" - Hank Williams, Jr.
• "Beer for My Horses" - Toby Keith
• "Achy Breaky Heart" - Billy Ray Cyrus
• "Here for the Party" - Gretchen Wilson
• "Chattahoochie" - Alan Jackson
• "This Ones For The Girls" - Martina McBride
• "Heads Carolina, Tails California" - Jo Dee Messina

Dinner or Cocktail Party

Jazz music is the perfect match to a sophisticated dinner party or great dancing music after cocktails.

• "Take Five" - The Dave Brubeck Quartet
• "Over the Rainbow" - Chet Baker
• "In A Sentimental Mood" - Duke Ellington and John Coltrane
• "A Foggy Day" - George Benson Quartet
• "Can't Help Falling In Love" - Kenny G
• "Just the Way You Are" - Harry Connick, Jr.
• "1 O'Clock Jump" - Count Basie
• "More than This" - Charlie Hunter Quartet
• "True" - Paul Anka
• "Get a Kick Out of You" - Frank Sinatra

Christmas or Holiday Party

Winter is the perfect time of the year to celebrate with a party. After you create the festive decor items and figure out the menu, its time to choose the tunes that will make the party merry. Mix some classics in with some more contemporary favorites in order to appeal to wide range of party goers.

• "A Holly Jolly Christmas" - Burl Ives
• "White Christmas" - Bing Crosby
• "All I Want For Christmas is You" - Mariah Carey
• "Baby, It's Cold Outside" - Dean Martin
• "Winter Wonderland" - Louis Armstrong
• "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" - Judy Garland
• "Jingle Bell Rock" - Brenda Lee
• "(There's No Place Like) Home for the Holidays" - Perry Como
• "I'll Be Home for Christmas" - Bing Crosby
• "Santa Baby" - Kellie Pickler

Where to Get Party Music

Your party tunes can come from a variety of places. Pick the one that fits your budget and location.

Professional Deejay

These professional record spinners are a great addition to many different types of parties, especially dance parties. Though this might be the most costly option, these professionals will not only keep the tunes going, but will also act as host for the evening to keep the event running smoothly.

Live Band

Live bands are another great way to keep the party rolling, as they not only provide music, but visual entertainment. The host should always be sure to listen to a few songs, see them perform live or few a video of a performance before hiring them.

DIY Music

Scan your collection of CDs and music files for appropriate music. CDs and computer files (or iPod selections) are best because they can be set for continuous play.

If you don't have the right music, or enough music, in your own collection, ask friends to create their own playlists or CDs to supplement your songs. Utilize other inexpensive resources like local music consignment stores, or local thrift shops for additional tunes.

Musical Courtesies

No matter what type of music is being played, it's wise to be courteous to neighbors and others who might be disturbed by excess noise. Plan the party at a time when it will be the least offensive, such as the early evening and try to keep the volume down. Be sure to end the party at an appropriate time so the music doesn't keep the neighbors awake.