Someone turning 60 now was born in the mid-1960s. They were teenagers in the late 70s and early 80s, which means punk, disco, new wave and the start of 80s pop. That's a brilliant party soundtrack.
Teenage years: late 70s
- Heart of Glass, Blondie
- Hotel California, Eagles
- Le Freak, Chic
- Do Ya Think I'm Sexy?, Rod Stewart
Twenties: the 80s
- Billie Jean, Michael Jackson
- Karma Chameleon, Culture Club
- Club Tropicana, Wham!
- Holiday, Madonna
- Don't You Want Me, The Human League
Motown and soul they grew up with
- My Girl, The Temptations
- Baby Love, The Supremes
Acts that suit a 60th
- Rod Stewart tribute, from the Faces days to the Songbook.
- Blondie tribute by Bonnie.
- Michael Jackson tribute by Paul Tayler.
- Madonna, George Michael or Boy George tributes.
- Angelettes for a Motown set.
Make it personal
Ask the birthday guest which song they danced to at 18, and ask the act to play it. A Happy Birthday moment with the cake is easy to arrange.
Quick answers
Should we have a band or a tribute?
A tribute gives a clear theme; a band covers more styles. See choosing between two acts.
What about guests in their 30s?
80s songs are well known by younger guests too.
Building the night
A 60th usually has guests from several generations, so mix the birthday guest's teenage favourites with the big 80s hits that younger guests also know. Start with background music while people arrive and eat, bring the act on after the food, and save the birthday guest's own favourite song for the end of the final set. A short speech before the last set gives the family a chance to raise a toast without interrupting the dancing. Read our 60th birthday party ideas for more.
Next steps
Ready to find your act?
Flair Entertainments has been booking entertainers for clients across the UK since 1984. Send us your date, venue and the kind of night you want and we’ll come back with acts that suit.
