Choosing the perfect first dance song is a pivotal moment in wedding planning. It’s more than just a song; it’s the soundtrack to your first moments as a married couple, a melody that will forever evoke the emotions of your special day. If you’re searching for that magical tune to sway to in each other’s arms, look no further. We’ve curated a list of top songs perfect for your first dance, ensuring your wedding is unforgettable.
A newlywed couple sharing their first dance at their wedding reception, bathed in soft light and surrounded by cheering guests.
Selecting your first dance song is a deeply personal decision. It might be a tune that already holds significance in your relationship, or perhaps you’re on the hunt for a new anthem to symbolize your union. This song will not only be the centerpiece of a beautiful wedding moment but will also become “your song” for years to come, a cherished reminder of your wedding day.
To help you navigate the vast ocean of love songs, we’ve compiled a diverse playlist, brimming with over 100 tracks. Whether you envision a romantic pop ballad filling the dance floor, a timeless classic setting an elegant tone, or a unique melody that reflects your individual style, our selection offers something for every couple.
Popular First Dance Songs to Set a Romantic Mood
For couples seeking contemporary hits that resonate with today’s love stories, these popular choices are guaranteed to create a heartwarming atmosphere.
- You Are The Best Thing – Ray LaMontagne: With its soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, this song is a beautiful declaration of love and appreciation.
- Forever Like That – Ben Rector: Ben Rector offers a plethora of fantastic first dance options, and this song stands out for its sweet melody and promises of lasting love.
- Home – Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes: An indie-folk favorite, “Home” exudes warmth and joy, perfect for couples who want a lighthearted and loving first dance.
- Photograph – Ed Sheeran: Ed Sheeran’s discography is full of wedding-worthy songs, and “Photograph” with its touching lyrics about capturing moments, is a popular choice.
- Take The World – Johnnyswim: This duo’s harmonies and uplifting lyrics make “Take The World” an inspiring and romantic selection for your first dance.
- Lover – Taylor Swift: A modern classic, “Lover” is Taylor Swift’s ode to enduring romance, capturing the essence of commitment and adoration.
- Lucky – Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat: This duet is all about being in love with your best friend, a sentiment many couples cherish on their wedding day.
- Flightless Bird, American Mouth (Wedding Version) – Iron & Wine: Made famous by the movie Twilight, this version is soft, gentle, and undeniably romantic, creating an intimate atmosphere.
- Marry Me – Train: A straightforward and heartfelt proposal in song form, “Marry Me” is a popular choice for its clear message of commitment.
- Stuck With U – Ariana Grande & Justin Bieber: A sweet and catchy pop duet about being inseparable, perfect for couples who are excited to start their lives together.
- All Of Me – John Legend: With its powerful vocals and deeply romantic lyrics, “All Of Me” has become a modern anthem for weddings worldwide.
- Say You Won’t Let Go – James Arthur: A tender ballad about unwavering love and commitment, “Say You Won’t Let Go” is emotionally resonant and perfect for a first dance.
- Forever After All – Luke Combs: For country-loving couples, this song beautifully expresses the idea of love that lasts beyond a lifetime.
- It’s Your Love – Tim McGraw & Faith Hill: A country classic, this duet embodies the joy and strength of love, perfect for couples who appreciate timeless romance.
- Love Your Love The Most – Eric Church: Even for those not deeply rooted in country music, this song’s sweet sentiment about cherishing love is universally appealing.
A bride wiping away tears of joy as she dances with her groom during their first dance, surrounded by soft lighting.
Classic First Dance Songs for Timeless Romance
For an elegant and timeless feel, these classic songs evoke romance and sophistication, perfect for couples seeking enduring charm.
- L-O-V-E – Nat King Cole: An iconic classic, “L-O-V-E” is playful, romantic, and instantly recognizable, bringing a touch of vintage charm to your first dance.
- At Last – Etta James: Etta James’ powerful vocals and the song’s message of finally finding love make “At Last” an eternally romantic choice.
- Come Away With Me – Norah Jones: Norah Jones’ smooth voice and the song’s gentle invitation to escape together create an intimate and tender atmosphere.
- Fly Me To The Moon – Frank Sinatra: Frank Sinatra’s legendary voice and this song’s dreamy lyrics offer a classic, sophisticated, and utterly romantic first dance option.
- La Vie En Rose – Emily Watts Version: While the original is a classic, Emily Watts’ rendition brings a fresh, modern touch to this timeless song about seeing the world through rose-colored glasses because of love.
- Can’t Help Falling In Love – Elvis Presley: Elvis’s smooth vocals and the song’s simple yet profound message of inevitable love make it a classic for generations.
- The Way You Look Tonight – Frank Sinatra: Another Sinatra gem, this song is pure romance and admiration, ideal for expressing adoration on your wedding day.
- (I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons – Nat King Cole or Ella Fitzgerald: Whether you choose Nat King Cole’s or Ella Fitzgerald’s version, this song is dreamy, heartfelt, and full of tender emotion.
- Dancing In the Moonlight – King Harvest: For a slightly more upbeat classic, “Dancing In The Moonlight” is joyful and romantic, perfect for couples who want a light and happy first dance.
- It Had To Be You – Harry Connick Jr. or Frank Sinatra: Choose your favorite version of this jazz standard, both Harry Connick Jr. and Frank Sinatra deliver versions that are both playful and romantic, perfect for a classic feel.
A happy bride and groom laughing together during their first dance, surrounded by guests.
Unique & Cover First Dance Songs for a Personal Touch
For couples wanting to step outside the mainstream or put a unique spin on a familiar tune, these cover songs and less-common choices offer individuality and charm.
- This Must Be The Place (Naive Melody) – Iron & Wine Cover: Iron & Wine’s cover of this Talking Heads song transforms it into a beautiful, acoustic rendition, perfect for a unique and heartfelt first dance.
- Friday I’m In Love – Janet Devlin Cover: Originally by The Cure, Janet Devlin’s acoustic cover brings a softer, more romantic feel to this already beloved song.
- I Believe in a Thing Called Love – Branches Cover: Branches turns The Darkness’s rock anthem into a soulful and powerful ballad, making it a surprising yet wonderful first dance choice.
- Better Together – Us The Duo Cover: While the original by Jack Johnson is already perfect, Us The Duo’s harmonies add an extra layer of sweetness and intimacy to this lovely song.
- Earth Angel – Death Cab For Cutie Cover: Death Cab For Cutie’s take on this classic doo-wop song is both nostalgic and sweetly melancholic, offering a unique and indie vibe.
- Can’t Help Falling In Love – Haley Reinhart Cover: Haley Reinhart’s vintage-inspired, jazzy cover of this Elvis classic brings a fresh and soulful perspective to a well-loved song.
- Baby I’m Yours – Arctic Monkeys Cover: Originally by Barbara Lewis, the Arctic Monkeys’ version is both retro and cool, perfect for couples with a vintage aesthetic.
- Simply The Best – The Hound + The Fox Cover: Made popular again by Schitt’s Creek, The Hound + The Fox’s acoustic version strips down Tina Turner’s power anthem into a tender and heartfelt declaration of love.
- Home – Edith Whiskers Cover: Edith Whiskers’ hauntingly beautiful piano cover of Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes’ “Home” offers a more intimate and emotional take on this popular song.
- I Like Me Better – Jonah Baker Cover: Jonah Baker’s acoustic rendition transforms Lauv’s pop hit into a sweet and mellow love song, ideal for a relaxed and modern first dance.
- You and I – Ingrid Michaelson: A sweet and sincere song with Ingrid Michaelson’s signature charming vocals, perfect for a couple seeking a genuinely heartfelt and slightly quirky first dance song.
- I Was Born To Love You – Ray LaMontagne: Another gem from Ray LaMontagne, this song is soulful and deeply romantic, expressing a destiny of love.
- Green Eyes – Coldplay: A beautiful and tender Coldplay ballad that can bring tears to your eyes, “Green Eyes” is a heartfelt and slightly less mainstream choice.
- I Got You – Jack Johnson: Jack Johnson’s laid-back and warm vocals make “I Got You” a comforting and loving song, perfect for a relaxed and intimate first dance.
- Q&A – Kishi Bashi: For indie and acoustic music lovers, Kishi Bashi’s “Q&A” is unique, whimsical, and beautifully intricate, offering a truly distinctive first dance experience.
- The Luckiest – Ben Folds: A poignant and emotional ballad, “The Luckiest” is perfect for couples who appreciate heartfelt lyrics and aren’t afraid to shed a tear during their first dance.
- Heaven’s Knife – Josh Garrels: For couples seeking a song with deeper meaning and soulful vocals, Josh Garrels’ “Heaven’s Knife” is both spiritual and romantic.
- Honeymoon – Johnny Stimson: Upbeat and joyful, “Honeymoon” captures the excitement and bliss of starting a marriage, perfect for a happy and celebratory first dance.
- First Try – Johnnyswim: Another Johnnyswim track, “First Try” is soulful and romantic, with lyrics about taking chances on love and making it last.
- Wedding Song – The Well Pennies: Directly titled and sweetly sung, “Wedding Song” by The Well Pennies is an under-the-radar gem perfect for a unique and charming first dance.
- I Will Spend My Whole Life Loving You – Imaginary Future, Kina Grannis: This gentle duet is a beautiful promise of lifelong love, perfect for an intimate and heartfelt first dance moment.
- Grow As We Go – Ben Platt: Ben Platt’s emotional vocals and the song’s message of growing together make “Grow As We Go” a meaningful and contemporary choice.
- This Too Shall Last – Anderson East: With its soulful sound and reassuring lyrics about enduring love, “This Too Shall Last” is a comforting and romantic option.
- XO – John Mayer: John Mayer’s soulful voice and the song’s message of all-encompassing love make “XO” a modern classic for expressing deep affection.
- You’re Still The One – Shania Twain: A country-pop classic, “You’re Still The One” celebrates lasting love and enduring commitment, perfect for a nostalgic and heartwarming first dance.
- First Day Of My Life – Bright Eyes: Bright Eyes’ raw emotion and the song’s tender lyrics about new beginnings make “First Day Of My Life” an intensely romantic and indie choice.
- Oh, It Is Love – Hellogoodbye: For a touch of pop-punk nostalgia, “Oh, It Is Love” is upbeat, joyful, and undeniably sweet, bringing a fun and youthful energy to your first dance.
- Once In A Lifetime – Landon Austin: Landon Austin’s “Once In A Lifetime” is a modern romantic ballad, perfect for couples looking for a contemporary and heartfelt song.
- The World Could End With You – Llunr: A dreamy and atmospheric track, “The World Could End With You” is unique and intimate, ideal for couples wanting a less conventional first dance song.
- Honeybee – The Head and the Heart: With its folksy charm and sweet lyrics, “Honeybee” by The Head and the Heart is a warm and joyful song, perfect for a lighthearted and loving first dance.
A newlywed couple sharing their first dance at their wedding reception, with elegant decorations in the background.
Choosing your first dance song is a deeply personal journey. We hope this curated list and playlist provides inspiration as you select the perfect soundtrack to your first moments as a married couple. Let the music guide you to a song that truly reflects your love story and creates a magical start to your married life.
