depends on who you're talking to, of course. talk to a professional musician who has spent their entire life educating themselves and practicing their skill/art, and they'll say, "...live", of course.
Talk to a DJ, and they might say something like, "you'll get the exact sound of the original band", or whatever tune or group you like. ...or they might try to convince you that it will cost less.
Nobody's really going to get you the answer you need to hear, unless they know a lot about both. Some DJ's are former pro musicians. If they were GOOD musicians, they probably have a good sense of rhythm...timing, you might call it. Sort of like what comedians do when they get the 'comedic timing' just right. Everyone 'gets it.'
Seems to me, a musician who is still actively playing their ax or singing or whatever, will be better focused on the music. If they stay in the scene, stay up to date with changing musical styles, they're going to get you the best entertainment value...assuming they CARE about you and your special event. Caring about other peoples' fun is like taking a shower...or eating spicy food. Some people really like it really hot! Some can't stand it. And some people care just a little...just enough to get the gig. Others care all night long. Enough to keep finding the tune you want....you know, the one that makes your feet want to jump around. The one that makes you giggle and laugh and say, "Hey!"
So ok, how do you know this DJ or musician is going to REALLY care? Well, do they care enough to spend a little time with you? Are they interested in what YOU like? Do other people like them? I think that's where recommendations from happy customers comes in.
What do you think? How can you tell an entertainer who cares from one who's only luke-warm? ...before the gig starts, preferably. before you pay the deposit!
Oh, and can they do both equally well? perform on an instrument...say for your ceremony and your cocktail hour, and then turn around and keep people entertained and the tunes flowing smoothly for anywhere from 3 to 9 hours?
