Keynote
Keynote delivers soulful vocals, dynamic performances, and customizable configurations to create unforgettable events.
Core Lineup
Add-on Lineup Options
Add-on Services
About the Band
Keynote
Keynote’s bandleader and female vocalist, Patrice Forbes, founded the band on the premise that a party band can be excellent, flexible AND affordable. With an ear for quality music, an eye for impeccable style, and a passion for entertaining, Keynote has set the perfect tone at weddings receptions, corporate events and other incredible parties in the DC area for many years.
Patrice’s fun and inspirational singing style pairs perfectly with male vocalist James Harris' authentic charm and soul, and together they combine to bring a charismatic one-two punch to the frontline of Keynote. Backing up the dynamic singers is a four-piece rhythm section that keeps the groove alive, hits the perfect notes and unlocks hours of unforgettable moments on the dancefloor at every performance. In an effort to offer flexibility for its clients' styles and budgets, Keynote offers optional additional horn sections - either two-piece (add sax and trumpet) or three-piece (plus trombone too) - to deliver any visual and musical impact an event may call for.
Aiming to deliver not only ideal sound but also impeccable service each and every night, Keynote works closely with each client to perfect the event schedule and song list for any occasion. From Motown classics to contemporary pop hits, the best of the 70s, 80s, 90s, rock’n’roll, funk and R&B, jazz standards and more, Keynote delivers on time and in tune, every note, every song.
LIVE PERFORMANCES
Testimonial
Keynote was phenomenal and exceeded our expectations. Many people said they were the best wedding band they have ever heard and I couldn't agree more. They brought energy and fun!
Relax. You're booking a Sam Hill band.
Excellence On & Off Stage
It’s more than the performance—our bands are as professional offstage as on. We’ve got you.
Personal Booking Managers
No one-size-fits-all here. Your Booking Manager ensures your event is just as you envision.
Tech That Simplifies Everything
Our event planning tools make the process easy and efficient. Less stress, more excitement.
FAQs
Find answers to your questions about our bands and booking process right here.
We offer bands for nearly every budget, starting around $2,000 and going up to $15,000+. Most dance bands range between $3,500 and $8,500.
Bands bring instruments and sound equipment for most weddings and events, covering up to several hundred guests. For larger events, additional sound support can be arranged for a fee or through a vendor you provide.
All bands provide basic lighting for their performance area, but this isn’t decor lighting for the whole space. Light stands typically feature a few white or colored LED or par cans. Some bands can adjust lighting to fit the event, or they can skip it if you’re working with a separate lighting vendor.
Special event bands charge a single fee for up to a 4-hour block, including breaks. They’ll play a preset playlist during breaks, scheduled around natural pauses like speeches or cake cutting. For a 4-hour event, bands need at least 45 minutes of break time, usually split into two 20-25 minute breaks. Some bands offer a three-hour no-break option and can add overtime for an extra fee.
Spring and fall Saturday events often book a year or more in advance, with popular dates typically securing bands 8-15 months ahead. Non-Saturday events book closer to the date, and we often help clients with shorter timelines (2-6 months) find great bands. Booking early increases your options for in-demand bands, so reach out soon!