There are many lists of first dance songs available, which can make it a daunting task. As you embark on the thrilling task of selecting the perfect tune, let us guide you through the exciting journey.
From timeless classics to modern hits, discover a world of beautiful options that capture the essence of your unique love story. With shared musical tastes and sentimental favorites in mind, we’ll help you set the perfect mood for your reception. Trust your instincts, listen to your hearts, and savor the joy of finding the soundtrack that will forever echo in your hearts on this momentous day.
“I have played at over a hundred weddings and understand that, as a couple, it is sometimes easier to choose from more compact lists. So, in this article, I share some of my favorites and some of the most popular first dance songs.”
Popular First Dance Songs
All Time Favorites
There are several all-time favorite first dance songs that continue to make their mark on weddings. These timeless classics will undoubtedly bring an air of romance and nostalgia to your special day. Some of the greatest first dance songs include:
- All of Me by John Legend
- At Last by Etta James
- Can’t Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley
- Endless Love by Lionel Richie and Diana Ross
- For Once in My Life by Stevie Wonder
- Have I Told You Lately by Van Morrison
- I Get a Kick Out of You by Frank Sinatra
- I Just Called to Say I Love You by Stevie Wonder
- I’ll Be There for You by The Rembrandts
- I’ll Stand by You by The Pretenders
- I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me) by Whitney Houston
- It Had to Be You by Frank Sinatra
- Let’s Stay Together by Al Green
- Love Story by Taylor Swift
- Make You Feel My Love by Adele
- Marry You by Bruno Mars
- My Heart Will Go On by Celine Dion
- Somewhere Over the Rainbow by Judy Garland
- Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran
- Your Song by Elton John
Enter a realm of pure romance with “All of Me” by John Legend. This heartfelt ballad, adorned with soul-stirring melodies, encapsulates the depth of unconditional love. From the moment John Legend croons, “Cause all of me loves all of you,” your hearts will be intertwined, dancing to the rhythm of everlasting devotion. Let the captivating lyrics and soulful harmonies of this timeless masterpiece make your first dance an unforgettable declaration of love. Allow “All of Me” to serenade you and your partner into a world where every imperfection is embraced, and love reigns supreme.
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Modern Hits
If you prefer a more contemporary sound for your first dance, there is no shortage of modern hits that can make your wedding moment memorable. Some of the best first dance songs in recent years are:
- Perfect – Ed Sheeran
- Better Half of Me – Tom Walker
- All of Me – John Legend
- A Thousand Years – Christina Perri
- If You Love Me – Lizzo
- Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran
- Make You Feel My Love – Adele
- I Won’t Give Up – Jason Mraz
- Everything – Michael Bublé
- Marry You – Bruno Mars
- Love Story – Taylor Swift
- Your Song – Elton John
- I’m Yours – Jason Mraz
- Lucky – Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat
- Hold You in My Arms – Ray LaMontagne
- Your Song – Ellie Goulding
- How Long Will I Love You – Ellie Goulding
- Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran (Acoustic Version)
- Kiss Me – Ed Sheeran
- I’m Yours – Jason Mraz (Acoustic Version)
Immerse yourself in the enchanting melody of “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran. This modern ballad, adorned with heartfelt lyrics, paints a picture of a love that transcends perfection. As Ed Sheeran serenades, “Darling, just hold my hand,” you’ll feel the warmth of an extraordinary connection. Let the tender harmonies and poetic verses of this beautiful song weave their magic as you share your first dance. With “Perfect,” Ed Sheeran captures the essence of a love story that is uniquely yours, creating an unforgettable moment that celebrates the beauty of imperfections and the power of an unbreakable bond.
The important thing is to choose a song that truly reflects your relationship and creates a lasting memory for you and your wedding guests.
Top 20 First Dance Songs by Spotify
Spotify, the renowned music streaming platform, has its finger on the pulse of music trends, making it a valuable resource for discovering the most popular songs for special moments like the first dance. We’ve compiled a list of the top 20 first dance songs on Spotify in 2023. These songs have captured the hearts of countless couples and are sure to add a touch of magic to your wedding celebration.
Now let’s explore the top 20 first dance songs according to Spotify, showcasing a diverse range of musical genres and styles that are resonating with couples as they embark on their journey of marital bliss.
- Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran
- You Are The Best Thing – Ray Montagne
- At Last – Etta James
- All of Me – John Legend
- A Thousand Years – Christina Perri
- Make You Feel My Love – Adele
- I Won’t Give Up – Jason Mraz
- Everything – Michael Buble
- Better Together – Jack Johnson
- Amazed – Lonestar
- Come Away With Me – Norah Jones
- First Day of My Life – Bright Eyes
- Let’s Stay Together – Al Green
- Lucky – Jason Mraz, Colbie Caillat
- Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley
- Marry Me – Train
- Wonderful Tonight – Eric Clapton
- What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong
- Crazy Love – Van Morrison
- I’m Yours – Jason Mraz
Unique First Dance Songs
Your wedding day is a special occasion, and one of the highlights is the first dance between you and your partner. Choosing a unique song for your first dance can make this moment even more memorable. In this section, we’ll explore some R&B first dance songs, indie song choices, and options for personalized songs, providing you with a well-rounded wedding playlist.
R&B First Dance Songs
R&B music is known for its soulful melodies that can evoke deep emotions, making it a perfect choice for your first dance. Some unique R&B first dance songs you may want to consider are:
- “All of Me” by John Legend
- “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran
- “Say You Won’t Let Go” by James Arthur
- “Perfect” by Beyoncé and Ed Sheeran
- “Adorn” by Miguel
- “At Last” by Beyoncé
- “Love on Top” by Beyoncé
- “A Couple of Forevers” by Chrisette Michele
- “Stay with Me” by Sam Smith
- “Like I’m Gonna Lose You” by Meghan Trainor ft. John Legend
- “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne
- “Die with You” by Beyoncé
- “Unconditionally” by Katy Perry
- “Gravity” by John Mayer
- “Make You Feel My Love” by Adele
- “So High” by John Legend
- “Adore” by Prince
- “Lay Me Down” by Sam Smith
- “All My Life” by K-Ci & JoJo
- “Ribbon in the Sky” by Stevie Wonder
Indulge in the timeless elegance of “At Last” by Beyoncé. With each soulful note, Beyoncé’s powerful voice breathes life into this classic ballad, capturing the essence of long-awaited love. As she croons, “At last, my love has come along,” you’ll feel the weight of anticipation lifted as you embark on your first dance. Let the enchanting melodies and heartfelt lyrics of this iconic song serenade you and your partner into a world where dreams become reality. With “At Last,” Beyoncé delivers a stunning rendition that embodies the joy and bliss of finding your true love. Allow this captivating masterpiece to create a moment of pure magic, celebrating the beginning of your forever together.
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Country Tracks
From heartfelt ballads to toe-tapping melodies, our list of country first-dance songs encapsulates the timeless charm of the genre, providing the perfect soundtrack for your unforgettable moment as newlyweds.
- “Amazed” by Lonestar
- “Bless the Broken Road” by Rascal Flatts
- “I Cross My Heart” by George Strait
- “I Don’t Dance” by Lee Brice
- “It’s Your Love” by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill
- “Die a Happy Man” by Thomas Rhett
- “Then” by Brad Paisley
- “Making Memories of Us” by Keith Urban
- “Forever and Ever, Amen” by Randy Travis
- “From the Ground Up” by Dan + Shay
- “My Best Friend” by Tim McGraw
- “Wanted” by Hunter Hayes
- “You’re Still the One” by Shania Twain
- “H.O.L.Y.” by Florida Georgia Line
- “She’s Everything” by Brad Paisley
- “I Swear” by John Michael Montgomery
- “Yours” by Russell Dickerson
- “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack
- “When You Say Nothing at All” by Alison Krauss
- “Speechless” by Dan + Shay
Celebrate a bond that transcends time and trials with “My Best Friend” by Tim McGraw. This heartwarming country ballad is a heartfelt tribute to the person who knows you inside out and stands by you through thick and thin. As Tim McGraw sings, “You’re more than a lover, there could never be another,” the lyrics capture the essence of a love that goes beyond romance. Let the soothing melodies and sincere lyrics of this beautiful song fill your first dance with warmth and gratitude. With “My Best Friend,” Tim McGraw delivers a poignant reminder of the incredible gift of finding a partner who becomes not only your love but also your closest confidant.
Read Next: Best Country Songs: A List of Top Tracks for Every Mood
Indie Choices
If you’re looking for something less traditional, indie music offers a variety of unique first dance songs. A few indie songs you might want to consider for your first dance include:
- “First Day of My Life” by Bright Eyes
- “Ho Hey” by The Lumineers
- “Such Great Heights” by The Postal Service
- “Home” by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
- “Heartbeats” by José González
- “Sweet Disposition” by The Temper Trap
- “The Luckiest” by Ben Folds
- “I Will Follow You into the Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie
- “Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green (covered by Obadiah Parker)
- “Sea of Love” by Cat Power
- “Northern Wind” by City and Colour
- “Your Song” by Ellie Goulding (covered by Elton John)
- “Lover of the Light” by Mumford & Sons
- “Flightless Bird, American Mouth” by Iron & Wine
- “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Ingrid Michaelson (covered by Elvis Presley)
- “I Will Wait” by Mumford & Sons
- “Slow Dancing in a Burning Room” by John Mayer
- “You’re the One That I Want” by Angus & Julia Stone (covered by John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John)
- “Wild Horses” by The Rolling Stones (covered by The Sundays)
- “Stay Alive” by José González
Personalized Songs
Another way to make your first dance utterly unique is by selecting a song that has personal meaning to you and your partner. This could be a song that reminds you of the moment you fell in love, your favorite band, or a song with lyrics that perfectly express your feelings for one another. Personalized song choices can reflect your unique love story, and are sure to be cherished memories for years to come.
Your wedding playlist should include unique first dance songs that represent you as a couple, and evoke the emotions that define your love and relationship. As you explore your options for R&B songs, indie choices, and personalized songs, keep in mind the tone and atmosphere you want to create, and let your heart be your guide.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect First Dance Song
Music Style and Lyrics Considerations
When selecting the ideal first dance song for your wedding, it’s crucial to consider both the music style and the lyrics. First, think about the genres that resonate with you and your partner. This might be a classic ballad, a romantic jazz tune, or a modern pop hit. Remember to explore beyond current songs, as older classics can be crowd-pleasers too.
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Next, pay close attention to the lyrics. Even if the melody seems perfect, inappropriate or sad lyrics can create an awkward atmosphere. Ensure the words of your chosen song reflect the love and joy of your special day. You won’t want to accidentally choose a song about heartbreak – that would be bad luck! To avoid this, read the lyrics carefully before settling on your first dance track.
Comfort and Dance Level
It’s essential to feel comfortable and confident during your first dance, so don’t underestimate the importance of considering your dance experience. If you and your partner are not experienced dancers, select a song with a simple rhythm that’s easy to sway and step to. For those more confident in their dancing abilities, consider songs with a more complex or faster tempo.
Remember, your first dance should feel natural and enjoyable for both of you. The goal is to create a memorable moment that reflects your love and connection, making for a perfect start to your life together.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the top romantic first dance songs for weddings?
Some of the top romantic first dance songs for weddings include classics such as “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra and “Dream a Little Dream of Me” by Etta Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. Contemporary favorites like “All of Me” by John Legend or “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri are also popular choices.
Which country songs are popular choices for first dances?
Popular country songs for first dances include “Change Your Name” by Brett Young and “Big, Big Plans” by Chris Lane. Other options could be “I Don’t Dance” by Lee Brice or “From This Moment On” by Shania Twain.
How can I find unique and unexpected songs for my first dance?
To find unique and unexpected songs for your 1st dance, you can explore genres you adore or browse through curated playlists on streaming platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, or Tidal. Ask your friends, family, and your partner for song suggestions that resonate with you personally.
What are some popular R&B tunes for first dances at weddings?
Popular R&B tunes for first dances include classics like “At Last” by Etta James and more modern hits like “Adore You” by Harry Styles or “By Your Side” by Sade. Consider other options like “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne and “Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green.
Which hip-hop songs are suitable for a memorable first dance?
Although hip-hop might not traditionally be the first choice for a first dance, there are still some fitting options. Consider songs like “Get You” by Daniel Caesar ft. Kali Uchis, “Best Part” by H.E.R. ft. Daniel Caesar, or “The Light” by Common.
Can you recommend any emotional first dance songs for our wedding?
For deeply emotional first dance songs, consider tracks like “First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” by Roberta Flack or “Make You Feel My Love” by Adele. Another option could be “Falling Slowly” by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, which is a heartfelt choice for an intimate wedding.
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