The Best Song Request Apps for Event Venues in 2026

Event venues rely on technology that keeps guests engaged while simplifying operations. Song request apps solve both problems by giving crowds a voice in the music and helping venue staff control the flow. Here are the best tools for venues in 2026, ranked by ease of use, features, and value.

Why venue needs differ from DJ needs

Unlike mobile DJs who pack and unpack for each gig, venue operators run events night after night with different resident DJs, guest performers, and event types. The ideal song request system for a venue must handle multiple users, integrate smoothly with varying DJ setups, work reliably on the venue WiFi, and provide fast onboarding for new staff and performers.

Budget also matters differently. Rather than paying per event, venues benefit from tools with monthly or annual pricing that scale with usage. Look for solutions that let you manage multiple rooms or nights from one account and that export data for marketing and analytics.

What to look for in a venue song request app

Guest accessibility

The fewer steps to submit a request the higher the engagement. Apps that work in a browser without downloads or sign ups convert casual interest into active participation. QR codes displayed on screens or table tents reduce friction and keep guests in the moment.

Moderation and control

Venue staff need to filter inappropriate requests, limit repeats, and match the music to the vibe. Manual approval workflows work for low volume events but automated filtering based on repertoire or genre rules saves time on busy nights. The best systems let you toggle between open requests and curated song lists depending on the event.

Integration with DJ gear and streaming

Requests are only useful if they flow directly into the DJ workflow. Check for compatibility with major DJ software like Serato, Rekordbox, Virtual DJ, and direct integrations with Spotify, Apple Music, and SoundCloud. The less time DJs spend searching or typing the smoother the night runs.

Analytics and guest data

Knowing which songs drove the most engagement, when requests peaked, and who submitted them helps with future programming and targeted promotions. Privacy friendly capture of contact details allows follow up marketing without annoying guests.

Tipping and monetization

When guests love a song or a set they often want to show appreciation. Enabling tipping through the same interface used for requests increases revenue for performers and can offset platform costs.

Top song request apps for venues in 2026

Rekwest (5/5)

Rekwest is the leading choice for event venues that want a flexible, scalable solution. Guests scan a QR code to request songs from Spotify, TIDAL, Apple Music, SoundCloud, or own repertoires without installing anything. Requests sync in real time to the DJ interface and integrate directly with Serato, Rekordbox, and other major platforms.

• Pricing: Free basic plans; Pro features start at affordable monthly or annual rates
• Pros: No app download required for guests; multi platform streaming integration; customizable repertoire and filtering rules; tipping and donations built in; detailed analytics and export options
• Cons: Advanced features and analytics require paid subscription
• Best for: Clubs, bars, live music venues, event spaces with recurring or rotating lineups

Rekwest excels at venues with changing talent because the same QR code and account work across nights. The platform handles both open format and genre specific events with equal ease.

Virtual DJ Song Request Plugin (4/5)

Integrated into Virtual DJ software, this plugin provides a web based request interface that syncs directly with the DJ deck. Guests submit song titles and the software attempts to match them with available tracks.

• Pricing: Included with Virtual DJ Pro license ($299 one time)
• Pros: Deep integration into DJ software; automatic song matching from local library; reliable and stable
• Cons: Limited guest facing design; requires every DJ to use Virtual DJ; no built in streaming service integration; no cross platform support for Serato or Rekordbox users
• Best for: Venues committed to Virtual DJ as the standard platform for all resident and guest DJs

Virtual DJ works well if the venue controls the booth setup and standardizes software. However, forcing visiting DJs to switch platforms can create friction.

RequestNow (3/5)

RequestNow uses SMS instead of a web interface. Guests text song requests to a dedicated phone number and DJs manage incoming messages through an app.

• Pricing: $19.99 per month
• Pros: Works without internet access for guests; very simple for non tech savvy crowds; no QR scanning required
• Cons: No integration with music libraries or DJ software; guests must type song and artist names; higher error rate from typos; limited filtering or automation
• Best for: Venues targeting older demographics or locations with poor WiFi coverage

SMS can work in specific settings but lacks the speed and integration that busy venues need on peak nights.

Fotify Live Song Requests (3/5)

Fotify combines event photo sharing with song requests. Guests scan a QR code to access both features.

• Pricing: $24.99 per event
• Pros: Adds social photo sharing alongside requests; single QR code for multiple features
• Cons: Song requests are a secondary feature with limited DJ tools; per event pricing can add up for venues running multiple nights per week
• Best for: Special events or venues hosting occasional themed parties where photo sharing adds value

For venues running music events every night, paying per event becomes expensive and song request features lag behind dedicated tools.

Google Forms and spreadsheets (1/5)

A DIY approach where venues create custom Google Forms for song requests and staff manually check submissions.

• Pricing: Free
• Pros: Highly customizable; no upfront cost
• Cons: No real time updates; no integration with DJ software or streaming services; requires constant manual monitoring; prone to spam and duplicate requests
• Best for: Budget constrained single night events or testing demand before investing in a dedicated tool

Forms work as a proof of concept but do not scale for regular operations.

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Comparison table

App	Rating	Best For	Pricing	Key Strength
Rekwest	5/5	Clubs, bars, event venues with rotation	Free + affordable Pro	Multi platform, streaming integration, tipping
Virtual DJ Plugin	4/5	Virtual DJ exclusive venues	Included in license	Native DJ software integration
RequestNow	3/5	Older crowds or poor WiFi venues	$19.99 per month	SMS accessibility
Fotify	3/5	Special events with photo sharing	$24.99 per event	Combined photo and request features
Google Forms	1/5	Single event proof of concept	Free	Customizable and no cost

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Implementation tips for venues

Start with a trial run

Pick a slower night or off peak hour to test a new request system. This gives staff and DJs time to learn the workflow before a packed room depends on it.

Display the QR code prominently

Place table tents near seating, project the code on screens near the bar and stage, and include it on drink menus. The more visible the better.

Set clear expectations with guests

Use signage or announcements to explain that requests may be played later or adjusted based on vibe. Guests appreciate transparency and are more patient when they know the DJ saw their request.

Quick decision guide

• High volume multi DJ venue: Rekwest for flexibility and scale
• Virtual DJ standardized setup: Virtual DJ Plugin for tight integration
• Occasional special events with photos: Fotify for bundled features
• Testing demand on a budget: Google Forms for free proof of concept

Final thoughts

Song request apps turn passive listeners into active participants and give venues a tool for gathering guest data and increasing revenue. For most event venues in 2026, Rekwest offers the best balance of ease, integration, and value. Its browser based guest experience, and streaming service sync make it suitable for clubs, bars, and event spaces with rotating talent and varying event types.

Choose a tool that fits your current operations but also scales as your venue grows. The right song request app pays for itself in guest satisfaction, repeat visits, and smoother event operations.