Q. Do they have a contract? Are they willing to make additions to the contract to meet any special needs you may have?
Yes, Urban Cowboys have a written contract and are happy to make additions to the contract to meet any special needs you may have and will inform you up front if the band is unable to accommodate these special needs.
Q. How many songs in their play list? What styles of music do they play? (Are the styles they play the kind of music you want to have?)
We have more than enough material to meet your needs. Urban Cowboys are a band which likes to get everyone on the dance floor and normally perform either 2 x 50 minute spots or 1 x 1hr 30 minute spot decided by you on the night.
See the play list for Urban Cowboys current repertoire. If there is a specific song on our list you would like us to play, mention this to us in advance as we frequently alter the set list.
Q. How much do they charge for an 'x' hour reception? Are there any other charges above and beyond the quoted price? How much do they charge for extra sets?
The band normally arrives between 6.30pm to 7pm at wedding receptions, regardless of the day of week and normally provide up to 2hrs of music.
At weekends, there is a surcharge for afternoon set up negotiable depending on arrival time and travelling distance and there is a surcharge of £100 for performances after midnight in keeping with Musicians Union guidelines. There are no other hidden charges.
Q. What will they wear?
Urban Cowboys usually wear blue jeans and tee shirts for most shows but sometimes they dress in shirts and trousers at their discretion if the function warrants it. Where appropriate they will happily wear black-tie.
Q. Do they accept more than one performance a day?
It is not logistically viable for a five piece band to accept more than one engagement a day.
Q. How long do they require to set up?
Urban Cowboys normally has all the sound and lighting equipment set up and the sound check completed within 1 hour.
Q. Will they be set up and ready to play when your guests arrive at the reception site, even if they are not supposed to start playing right away?
The normal arrival time is 6:30pm regardless of the day of week. The band is prepared to wait in the wings if things are running behind schedule. It is necessary for the band to carry out a 'sound check' to ensure the sound quality and volume level is appropriate for the room and guests.
The actual sound check usually takes approximately 15 minutes. Where guests are still present in the room, the band always announce what they are doing and ask for their perseverance. If it is possible, it's recommended in some venues to clear the room during the sound check; as it can be a source of annoyance to older guests with more sensitive hearing, until we achieve the correct balance.
Q. How long are their breaks and do they provide any music during the breaks?
The length of the breaks, indeed all the timing is specified by you on the night to fit your schedule. Urban Cowboys regularly work alongside their own DJ and we strongly recommend this if your budget will stretch to it, as the atmosphere is kept going throughout the entire night and can play your choice of first dance etc.
Q. Will they learn any special songs for you if they are not already on their play list?
The band can learn one song that is not on the set list but usually we require three months notice. You may also want to consider asking our DJ to play any special requests if you have booked this option.
Q. Do they expect to be fed?
No, the band does not expect to be fed, however they normally leave home late afternoon and therefore any offerings would be gratefully received! They also do not abuse free bars. Urban Cowboys pride themselves on their professionalism.
Q. What are their deposit and payment requirements?
Urban Cowboys require a deposit which is usually 50% of the fee. Payment is by cash on the night (minus deposit) at the end of the night or at a point convenient to you. Always make sure you have a written contract with the band you choose and make sure you have all verifiable contact details, postal and telephone and a receipt for your deposit.