The Hound Dogs | Frequently Asked Questions & Booking Info

Performance & Music

Will you get people dancing? From the minute we strike the first note, dance floors fill. We pride ourselves on creating an atmosphere where guests can't help but join in - and stay dancing all night.

"From the minute you struck the first note, everyone was on the dance floor and pretty much stayed there all night." - Karen Allen

Can we choose the specific songs for our setlist? Absolutely! We want the music to reflect you. You are welcome to highlight your favorites from our repertoire and let us know if there are any songs you’d prefer we skip. However, with years of experience, we find the best results happen when you give us the flexibility to "read the room" and choose the right song for the energy of the moment.

Do you cater to different age groups? Absolutely. One of our greatest strengths is creating a musical experience that appeals to everyone - from young children to grandparents. Our diverse repertoire and ability to read the room means everyone feels included.

Can you play in smaller venues or marquees? Yes. We have performed everywhere from grand ballrooms to intimate garden tents. As long as there is a reliable power supply, we can make it work and will adapt our setup to fit your space.

Have you ever cancelled a booking? Never. In hundreds of successful weddings and events, we have maintained a 100% attendance record. When you book us, you can rest assured we will be there. In the unlikely event of an emergency or illness, we have a "gold-standard" pool of superb, reliable, and top-notch musicians who work with us regularly. They can step in at a moment's notice to ensure the performance remains at the high standard you expect, so your day is never interrupted.

What equipment do you bring? The Hound Dogs are fully self-contained. We provide professional-grade PA systems and a high-spec lighting rig suitable for any venue size, from intimate rooms to large marquees.

What happens to the music when you're not playing? The dancefloor stays full! We offer a professional DJ service between our live sets and into the late evening. This keeps the energy flowing throughout the night, and we're happy to take requests both in advance and on the night itself. If you prefer, we can provide a curated party playlist, or you're welcome to supply your own music.

Logistics & Planning

Are you fully insured and PAT tested? Yes. We carry full Public Liability Insurance (PLI) and all of our equipment is regularly PAT tested. We are happy to email these certificates directly to your venue or wedding planner in advance.

How far do you travel? Distance is no object. While we are based in the UK, we have performed at incredible weddings in Italy, Germany, and beyond. We are happy to provide a bespoke quote that includes travel and accommodation where necessary.

Do you provide a contract? Yes. Professionalism and peace of mind are paramount. We provide a clear, written contract that is signed by both parties before any deposit is taken.

On the Day

What are your requirements for food and drink? Because a wedding day is a long shift—often starting with travel in the early afternoon—we do ask for a hot meal for the band members. You don’t need to provide the full wedding breakfast; most venues offer a "vendor meal" option. A supply of water and soft drinks and a changing area is also much appreciated so we can stay hydrated and ready to perform!

What do you do when you aren't on stage? We aim to be the most low-maintenance part of your day. Between setup and soundcheck, we generally stay out of your hair in a designated break room or quiet area, ensuring the focus remains entirely on you and your guests.

Meet the bandleader

When you book The Hound Dogs, you are booking a performance led by a genuine artist with a career rooted in the heart of the UK’s creative scene.

Bandleader Nigel Thomas brings a unique level of charisma and stagecraft to every wedding, shaped by a diverse career in performance:

The Songwriter: With two acclaimed solo albums and his work as the frontman of The Foxes, Nigel’s musical pedigree is built on years of writing, recording, and touring. He doesn’t just "play" songs; he understands the craft behind them.

The Actor: Nigel’s background in professional acting gives him a natural ability to command a stage and read an audience, ensuring the energy in the room is always exactly where it needs to be.

The Creative Network: As a member of the prestigious Groucho Club in Soho, Nigel is immersed in London's creative culture—a standard of excellence and "cool" that he brings to every event the band plays.

"For me, music is about more than just a setlist; it’s about storytelling and energy. Whether I’m in a recording studio or playing for a couple's first dance, my goal is to create a moment that feels authentic. We treat every wedding with the same professional intensity as a West End stage or a London club show." — Nigel Thomas