Gary, I have to disagree somewhat with your statements about why bands and DJs played (or play) so loud ... During the 80s most 'wedding bands' in the 'tri-state' NY/NJ/CT area were well schooled, full time, professional musicians - they had to be or they didn't work ... the problem was (is) that the young people go to these dance clubs with the ear-splitting music and want the same thing at their wedding ... and really don't care what the older folks want ... and truthfully, most of the 'older folks' are out on the dance floor with them ...