About Benjie Hughes

I'm founder and CEO of Backthird Entertainment, a Chicago-area DJ and live music company, and of Backthird Audio, a membership recording studio. I arrange music and and play piano and guitar with our Twin Strings ensemble. When I'm not writing or making music, I'm reading history and theology or seeking out great stories in books, graphic novels and video games. My wife and I live on the Fox River in downtown Aurora, Illinois, close enough to walk to Backthird Audio.

3 Words for a Perfect Wedding Toast

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I’m not saying it should literally only be 3 words long. But if it was, then this would be your toast: “We love you.” […]

10 wedding dance songs to play instead of the usual” requests”

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An oldie – or a goodie? Sure, a song can be both. The “usual wedding songs” got that way for a reason – guests know ‘em, guests like ‘em, and at least some of your guests will usually get up and dance to ‘em. But that doesn’t mean you have to play ‘em. […]

12 Perfect Last Dances for Your Wedding Reception

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Finish big. You should be having so much fun at your Chicago wedding that you never want it to end – but when it does, it’s sure nice ending on a high note. […]

10 Can’t Miss” Songs for Your Wedding Reception”

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“We just want everyone to dance and have fun.” When our DJs meet with couples to plan wedding music, it’s often the first thing we hear. And the truth is, a DJ can’t force anyone to have a good time. […]

Cocktail Music vs. Dinner Music

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Cocktail or dinner music? If your wedding reception is like most, of course you’ll have both. But maybe you’re programming music with your DJ, and you’re wondering what styles work best in each part of the night. Or perhaps you’re hiring live musicians for cocktails and dinner, and aren’t sure what kind of musicians to get. And suppose your budget only allowed for live music during cocktails or dinner, but not both – which would you choose? […]