Props or no props ... That is the question

Carrot Top has made a living off of it. But I've never really been a prop guy.

It's a common practice in the mobile DJ business to tote props to gigs. I'm talking about inflatable instruments, wigs, costumes, maracas, tambourines, etc. If there is one thing I always strive for it's to be myself, not only in my performances, but with life in general. And props are just not "me."

They have always had an aroma of "cheese" to me, and I have viewed them as a crutch for less experienced DJs to use to get a crowd going. I think because of thinking, I've tried to convince my clients that it's just not them either. I've always said that music is what will move people. As long as I play good music, you don't need an inflatable saxophone to gain excitement.

But last night I attended a party with entertainment from the Tostado Sisters. Their website claims:

"This Dynamic Duo has a unique style and approach as they captivate the crowd with their contagious energy! They promote audience participation, and interaction with the use of props, which automatically stimulates everyone to get involved, become uninhibited and have the greatest time ever!"

And that pretty much sums them up.

They were good. They were loaded down with props. And they had the crowd of about 50 all dancing, no one was sitting down. They played all of those audience participation songs, "YMCA," "The Twist," even the dreaded "Chicken Dance." And people loved it.

So I'm starting to re-think props and I think I may have stumbled upon something. Maybe props are only cheesy when they are not presented right. Maybe there is something about an energetic, charismatic Italian woman (Maria Tostado) that makes props pretty cool.

I'd like to know your thoughts on props. Like 'em or leave 'em? If you like 'em, maybe the Tostado Sisters and DJ Kanoya will be collaborating in the near future.