Welcome to In The Spotlight, where we get to know some of the exceptionally gifted performers we work with at Entertainment Nation. In this edition, we chatted with one of the UK’s finest wedding singers for hire: the abundantly talented Via Joy!
Via Joy is an outstanding vocalist who is equally at home supplying easy-listening background music as a jazz singer or getting guests in the party spirit as a classic and modern soul and pop singer. With over a decade’s professional performing experience and a versatile repertoire to suit guests of all ages, Via Joy is a stunning performer who always sets the right mood at any event.
But that’s enough from us; let’s hear from the lady herself!
Who is Via Joy?
“Hello! I’m Via Joy and I’m a singer based in Brighton! I perform at all kinds of events but mostly I sing at weddings, from singing favourite love songs at the ceremony, to Jazz / Easy Listening music at the drinks reception or wedding breakfast, to the classics at the evening party! I’m very versatile so can mould my set and style to suit any occasion!”
When did you first start singing?
“I started singing at infant school (I had the role of the singing donkey in my nativity play!) and from the age of 7 I had singing lessons.”
Who are your musical influences?
“I have so many! From the amazing Ella Fitzgerald, Julie London and Etta James, to the stunning voice of Eva Cassidy, to incredible big voices like Whitney Houston and Christina Aguilera. I can’t pick just one, they all inspire me in their own way!”
Which is your favourite song to perform?
“This is a difficult one! I do like a good challenge so probably ‘I Will Always Love You’ by Whitney Houston or ‘The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face’ by Roberta Flack. Both beautiful songs and both technically a challenge!”
Have you ever been asked to learn a special request? If so what was it and what was the event?
“I’ve had so many requests over the years! The most memorable one was a James Bond premier after party in Leicester Square, London, where I had to learn 5 James Bond songs in about 3 days. I had dancers with huge feather costumes and sparklers, it was incredible!”
What is your most requested song?
“I’d say ‘Perfect’ or ‘Thinking out loud’ by Ed Sheeran. It’s easy to see why, they’re both beautiful songs and I still love singing them!”
What’s your favourite wedding moment?
“I can honestly say it’s every first dance I have ever done and ever will do. I get emotional every time, it’s my favourite thing to do alongside singing a bride down the aisle. Both such a personal moment that I’m honoured to be involved with each time!”
What’s the best thing about being a professional musician?
“That your job is doing what you love! It never feels like work!”
… and what’s the worst?
“The travelling!”
What’s the weirdest thing that’s happened to you at an event?
“The weirdest / most hilarious was singing at a corporate event where I was asked to do my Jazz set. I was given a Chez lounge to sing / lie on, I obviously had my vintage microphone and a beautiful long dress on, and they gave me a glass of wine I was told to drink whilst performing (not that I’m complaining haha). It looked very authentic! And just to say I had a hotel room so didn’t drink and drive home ?.”
What would you do for a living if you weren’t a musician?
“I’d work for Thornton’s as a chocolate tester! Wishful thinking?”
Hire Via Joy For Your Event!
A massive thank you to Via Joy for taking her turn In The Spotlight! If you’ve enjoyed finding out more about this sensational soloist and would like to book her for a performance at your event, then hop on over to her profile and fill out the quick and easy enquiry form!
As well as sublime singers, here at Entertainment Nation, we offer the UK’s most exciting range of live wedding bands, party bands and bands for corporate events. To hire a singer, band or any other style of entertainment, get in touch with our friendly team who’ll help you discover your dream entertainment!
