Choosing the perfect song for your first dance as a married couple is a deeply personal and significant decision, marking one of the most cherished moments of your wedding reception. Couples often dedicate considerable time and thought to selecting a song that truly encapsulates their relationship and sets the tone for their celebration. With countless options available, navigating the world of first dance songs can feel overwhelming. Do you opt for a classic, romantic ballad that speaks to timeless love, or a more upbeat tune that reflects your personalities and shared joy? Perhaps a song that holds special meaning to your journey together, or simply one that resonates with both of you musically?
Experts in the wedding music industry emphasize that today’s couples prioritize personal connection and meaning when choosing their first dance song. “Most couples are drawn to songs that hold deep personal significance, whether through meaningful lyrics or a shared memory,” notes Cara Samantha, bandleader for Highline at Élan Artists. “While ballads and soulful, slower songs remain popular, the emphasis is firmly on selecting music that truly represents the couple’s unique bond.”
DJ Chris Stiles of Élan Artists echoes this sentiment, highlighting the trend of distinctiveness. “The most prominent trend is choosing a song that is both meaningful and unique to the couple,” he explains. While personalization is key, data from Spotify reveals enduring favorites among American couples. In 2024, classics like Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and Etta James’ “At Last” topped the charts as most popular first dance selections. Contemporary hits, particularly from the country genre, such as Chris Stapleton’s “Joy of My Life,” also feature prominently. And of course, staples like Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect” and Taylor Swift’s “Lover” continue to be beloved choices.
To help you navigate this exciting decision, we’ve curated expert advice and editor-approved suggestions to inspire your perfect first dance song selection.
The 90 Most Romantic Wedding Songs of All Time
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Photo by Olivia Rae James / Design by Tiana Crispino
Classic & Timeless First Dance Songs
These enduring classics remain popular choices for marriage first dances, offering a sense of timeless romance and elegance.
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“All of Me,” by John Legend
Lyrics of Love: “Give your all to me/I’ll give my all to you/You’re my end and my beginning” -
“Unchained Melody,” by The Righteous Brothers
Lyrics of Love: “Oh, my love, my darling/I’ve hungered for your touch” -
“At Last,” by Etta James
Lyrics of Love: “At last my love has come along/My lonely days are over and life is like a song, oh yeah” -
“The Way You Look Tonight,” by Frank Sinatra
Lyrics of Love: “There is nothing for me but to love you/And the way you look tonight” -
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You” by Frankie Valli
Lyrics of Love: “You’re just too good to be true/Can’t take my eyes off you” -
“Your Song,” by Elton John
Lyrics of Love: “I hope you don’t mind/That I put down in words/How wonderful life is while you’re in the world” -
“Fly Me to The Moon,” by Frank Sinatra
Lyrics of Love: “Fill my heart with song and let me sing forevermore/You are all I long for” -
“Can’t Help Falling in Love,” by Elvis Presley
Lyrics of Love: “Take my hand/Take my whole life too/For I can’t help falling in love with you” -
“You Send Me,” by Sam Cooke
Lyrics of Love: “All her friends tell me she’s got a halo/I think I knew that right from the get-go”
Modern Romantic Ballads for Your First Dance
For a contemporary romantic feel, these ballads offer heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melodies perfect for your marriage first dance.
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“Like I’m Gonna Lose You,” by Jasmine Thompson
Lyrics of Love: “So I’m gonna love you/Like I’m gonna lose you/I’m gonna hold you/Like I’m saying goodbye” -
“Joy of My Life,” by Chris Stapleton
Lyrics of Love: “She’s sweet to me/Must be the luckiest man alive/Did I tell you, baby/You are the joy of my life?” -
“Amazed,” by Lonestar
Lyrics of Love: “I want to spend the rest of my life with you by your side/Forever and ever” -
“If I Ain’t Got You,” by Alicia Keys
Lyrics of Love: “Some people want it all/But I don’t want nothing at all/If it ain’t you, baby” -
“Perfect,” by Ed Sheeran and Beyoncé
Lyrics of Love: “But darling, just kiss me slow/Your heart is all I own/And in your eyes, you’re holding mine” -
“10,000 Hours,” by Dan + Shay
Lyrics of Love: “I’d spend 10, 000 hours and 10, 000 more/Oh, if that’s what it takes to learn that sweet heart of yours/And I might never get there, but I’m gonna try/If it’s 10, 000 hours or the rest of my life” -
“Yours,” by Russell Dickerson
Lyrics of Love: “I came to life when I first kissed you/The best me has his arms around you/You make me better than I was before/Thank God I’m yours” -
“Kiss Me,” by Ed Sheeran
Lyrics of Love: “And your heart’s against my chest, your lips pressed in my neck/I’m falling for your eyes, but they don’t know me yet/And with a feeling I’ll forget, I’m in love now” -
“By Your Side,” by Sade
Lyrics of Love: “When you’re on my outside, baby, and you can’t get in/I will show you, you’re so much better than you know” -
“My Best Friend,” by Tim McGraw
Lyrics of Love: “I fall in love all over/Every time I look at you” -
“All My Life,” by K-Ci & JoJo
Lyrics of Love: “All my life/I prayed for someone like you/And I thank God/That I/That I finally found you” -
“A Thousand Years,” by Christina Perri
Lyrics of Love: “I have died every day, waiting for you/Darling, don’t be afraid, I have loved you for a thousand years” -
“Marry Me,” by Train
Lyrics of Love: “Forever can never be long enough for me/Feel like I’ve had long enough with you” -
“I Am Yours,” by Andy Grammer
Lyrics of Love: “Still can’t believe it when you say you’re mine and/I am yours, I am yours, I am yours” -
“Starting Over,” by Chris Stapleton
Lyrics of Love: “And it don’t matter to me/Wherever we are is where I wanna be” -
“That’s When I Knew,” by Alicia Keys
Lyrics of Love: “That’s when I knew I fell in love/That’s when I knew you were the one” -
“Falling Like the Stars,” by James Arthur
Lyrics of Love: “We’re fallin’ like the stars, fallin’ in love/And I’m not scared to say those words with you, I’m safe” -
“Thinking Out Loud,” by Ed Sheeran
Lyrics of Love: “And darling I will be loving you ’til we’re 70/And baby my heart could still fall as hard at 23” -
“Say You Won’t Let Go,” by James Arthur
Lyrics of Love: “I know I needed you/But I never showed/But I wanna stay with you until we’re grey and old” -
“You’re Still the One,” by Shania Twain
Lyrics of Love: “You’re still the one I run to/The one that I belong to/You’re still the one I want for life” -
“From the Ground Up,” by Dan + Shay
Lyrics of Love: “And we’ll build this love from the ground up/Now ’til forever it’s all of me, all of you/Just take my hand” -
“Lover,” by Taylor Swift
Lyrics of Love: “Can I go where you go?/Can we always be this close forever and ever?/And ah, take me out, and take me home (forever and ever)” -
“Anyone,” by Justin Bieber
Lyrics of Love: “Dance with me under the diamonds/See me like breath in the cold/Sleep with me here in the silence/Come kiss me, silver and gold” -
“Conversations in the Dark,” by John Legend
Lyrics of Love: “I won’t ever try to change you, change you/I will always want the same you, same you/Swear on everything I pray to/That I won’t break your heart” -
“Find Someone Like You” by Snoh Aalegra
Lyrics of Love: “I’ve been waitin’ my whole life, to find someone like you/Find someone like you/Maybe I, I want this, I want this to last forever” -
“Finally // Beautiful Stranger,” by Halsey
Lyrics of Love: “Beautiful stranger, here you are in my arms/But I think it’s finally, finally, finally, finally, finally safe/For me to fall” -
“Minefields,” by Faouzia and John Legend
Lyrics of Love: “Ooh-ooh, maybe I’m just a fool/I still belong with you/Anywhere you, anywhere you are” -
“Beyond,” by Leon Bridges
Lyrics of Love: “I-I-I-I’m scared to death that she might be it/That the love is real, that the shoe might fit/She might just be my everything and beyond (beyond)”
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Photo by Peyton Byford / Photo by Matoli Keely / Design by Tiana Crispino
Soulful & Unique First Dance Songs
For couples seeking something a little different, these soulful and unique tracks offer depth and emotion for a memorable first dance.
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“500 Miles,” by Sleeping at Last
Lyrics of Love: “But I would walk 500 miles/And I would walk 500 more/Just to be the man who walked a thousand miles/To fall down at your door” -
“Thinkin Bout You,” by Frank Ocean
Lyrics of Love: “It will never get old, not in my soul, not in my spirit, keep it alive/We’ll go down this road ’til it turns from color to black and white” -
“There Is No Greater Love,” by Amy Winehouse
Lyrics of Love: “There is no greater love/Than what I feel for you/No sweeter song, no heart so true” -
“Baby, I Love Your Way,” by Peter Frampton
Lyrics of Love: “I wanna tell you I love your way, I wanna be with you night and day” -
“Sweetest Thing,” by Allman Brown
Lyrics of Love: “You’re the sweetest thing that I ever did see/Like a bird taking way/Tears that set you free” -
“Give Me Love,” by Ed Sheeran
Lyrics of Love: “All I want is the taste that your lips allow/My, my, my, my, oh give me love” -
“Sure Thing,” by Miguel
Lyrics of Love: “Even when we’re down to the wire, babe/Even when it’s do or die/We could do it, baby, simple and plain/’Cause this love is a sure thing” -
“Essence,” by Wizkid featuring Tems
Lyrics of Love: “Baby girl I want you there/Girl I want you there/Promise to treat your love fair” -
“Moon River” by Frank Ocean
Lyrics of Love: “Wherever you’re goin’/I’m goin’ that way” -
“Work Song,” by Hozier
Lyrics of Love: “When my time comes around/Lay me gently in the cold dark earth/No grave can hold my body down/I’ll crawl home to her” -
“Weak,” by SWV
Lyrics of Love: “Your love is so sweet/It knocks me right off of my feet/Can’t explain why your love, it makes me weak” -
“XO,” by John Mayer
Lyrics of Love: “Your heart is glowing/And I’m crashing into you/Baby kiss me, kiss me” -
“Make You Feel My Love,” by Adele
Lyrics of Love: “No, there’s nothing that I wouldn’t do/To make you feel my love” -
“Never Let Me Go,” by Florence + The Machine
Lyrics of Love: “Never let me go, never let me go/And the arms of the ocean are carrying me/And all this devotion was rushing over me” -
“You & I (Nobody in the World),” by John Legend
Lyrics of Love: “All of the stars, you make them shine like they were ours/Ain’t nobody in the world but you and I/You and I” -
“Sweet Creature,” by Harry Styles
Lyrics of Love: “Sweet creature, sweet creature/Wherever I go, you bring me home/Sweet creature, sweet creature/When I run out of road, you bring me home” -
“Adore You,” by Harry Styles
Lyrics of Love: “You don’t have to say you love me/I just wanna tell you somethin’/Lately you’ve been on my mind”
Upbeat & Fun First Dance Songs
If you prefer a more joyful and energetic start to your married life on the dance floor, consider these upbeat and fun options.
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“Eight Days a Week,” by The Beatles
Lyrics of Love: “Ain’t got nothin’ but love babe/Eight days a week” -
“Boom Clap,” by Lennon & Maisy
Lyrics of Love: “You are the light that I will follow/You let me lose my shadow/You are the sun, a glowin’ halo/You keep burnin’ me up with all of your love” -
“Escapade,” by Janet Jackson
Lyrics of Love: “Come on baby, let’s get away/Let’s save our troubles for another day” -
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You” by Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons
Lyrics of Love: “When tears are in your eyes and you can’t find the way/It’s hard to make believe you’re happy when you’re gray/Baby, when you’re feelin’ like you’ll never see the mornin’ light/Come to me/Baby, you’ll see” -
“Teenage Dream,” by Boyce Avenue
Lyrics of Love: “My heart stops when you look at me/Just one touch now baby I believe this is real” -
“Let’s Get Married,” by Jagged Edge
Lyrics of Love: “Been feelin’ you all the while, girl, I must confess (and I must confess)/Let’s just get married (baby, lets get married)” -
“Fresh Eyes,” by Andy Grammer
Lyrics of Love: “So suddenly I’m in love with a stranger/I can’t believe that she’s mine” -
“You Are the Best Thing,” by Ray LaMontagne
Lyrics of Love: “Believe me, you don’t even have to try/Oh, because/You are the best thing” -
“Home,” by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros
Lyrics of Love: “Ah, home, let me come home/Home is wherever I’m with you” -
“Latch,” by Sam Smith
Lyrics of Love: “How do you do it, you got me losing every breath/What did you give me to make my heart beat out my chest” -
“So Into You,” By Tamia
Lyrics of Love: “What I feel when I’m with you/You’re a dream come true/Don’t you ever leave my side/’Cause it feels so right” -
“Better Together,” by Jack Johnson
Lyrics of Love: “Yeah, we’ll look at the stars when we’re together/Well, it’s always better when we’re together” -
“Let’s Stay Together,” by Al Green
Lyrics of Love: “Let me say that baby, since we’ve been together/Ooh, loving you forever/Is what I need” -
“Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic,” by Sleeping at Last
Lyrics of Love: “Every little thing she does is magic/Everything she does just turns me on/Even though my life before was tragic/Now, I know my love for her goes on” -
“My Girl,” by The Temptations
Lyrics of Love: “I’ve got a sweeter song/Than the birds in the trees/Well, I guess you’d say/What can make me feel this way/My girl, my girl, my girl” -
“Coming Home,” by Leon Bridges
Lyrics of Love: “Baby, baby, baby/I’m coming home/To your tender sweet loving/You’re my one and only woman” -
“Black and White,” by Niall Horan
Lyrics of Love: “See you standing in your dress/Swear in front of all our friends/There’ll never be another/I promise that I’ll love you for the rest of my life”
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Photo by Sasithon Photography / Design by Tiana Crispino
Country First Dance Songs
For couples who love country music, these songs offer heartfelt storytelling and romantic melodies perfect for your first dance.
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“Joy of My Life,” by Chris Stapleton
Lyrics of Love: “She’s sweet to me/Must be the luckiest man alive/Did I tell you, baby/You are the joy of my life?” -
“Yours,” by Russell Dickerson
Lyrics of Love: “I came to life when I first kissed you/The best me has his arms around you/You make me better than I was before/Thank God I’m yours” -
“My Best Friend,” by Tim McGraw
Lyrics of Love: “I fall in love all over/Every time I look at you” -
“10,000 Hours,” by Dan + Shay
Lyrics of Love: “I’d spend 10, 000 hours and 10, 000 more/Oh, if that’s what it takes to learn that sweet heart of yours/And I might never get there, but I’m gonna try/If it’s 10, 000 hours or the rest of my life” -
“Starting Over,” by Chris Stapleton
Lyrics of Love: “And it don’t matter to me/Wherever we are is where I wanna be” -
“From the Ground Up,” by Dan + Shay
Lyrics of Love: “And we’ll build this love from the ground up/Now ’til forever it’s all of me, all of you/Just take my hand” -
“Mine Would Be You,” by Blake Shelton
Lyrics of Love: “Baby, if I had to choose/My best day ever/My finest hour, my wildest dream come true/Mine would be you” -
“Lucky,” by Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat
Lyrics of Love: “I’m lucky I’m in love with my best friend/Lucky to have been where I have been/Lucky to be coming home again” -
“You’re Still the One,” by Shania Twain
Lyrics of Love: “You’re still the one I run to/The one that I belong to/You’re still the one I want for life”
Alternative & Indie First Dance Songs
For couples with alternative or indie music tastes, these songs offer unique and heartfelt options for your marriage first dance.
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“500 Miles,” by Sleeping at Last
Lyrics of Love: “But I would walk 500 miles/And I would walk 500 more/Just to be the man who walked a thousand miles/To fall down at your door” -
“Thinkin Bout You,” by Frank Ocean
Lyrics of Love: “It will never get old, not in my soul, not in my spirit, keep it alive/We’ll go down this road ’til it turns from color to black and white” -
“500 Miles,” by Sleeping at Last
Lyrics of Love: “But I would walk 500 miles/And I would walk 500 more/Just to be the man who walked a thousand miles/To fall down at your door” -
“Dreams Are More Precious,” by Enya
Lyrics of Love: “Come see, close your eyes/Come see, give me your sorrow/And I keep watch for you” -
“The One” by Kodaline
Lyrics of Love: “You make my heart feel like it’s summer/When the rain is pouring down/You make my whole world feel so right when it’s wrong/That’s how I know you are the one” -
“First Day of My Life,” by Bright Eyes
Lyrics of Love: “This is the first day of my life/I’m glad I didn’t die before I met you/But now I don’t care, I could go anywhere with you” -
“Crush,” by Dave Matthews Band
Lyrics of Love: “Just as long as you’re around/And here I’ll be dancing on the ground” -
“Home,” by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros
Lyrics of Love: “Ah, home, let me come home/Home is wherever I’m with you” -
“Never Let Me Go,” by Florence + The Machine
Lyrics of Love: “Never let me go, never let me go/And the arms of the ocean are carrying me/And all this devotion was rushing over me” -
“Work Song,” by Hozier
Lyrics of Love: “When my time comes around/Lay me gently in the cold dark earth/No grave can hold my body down/I’ll crawl home to her” -
“Sweet Creature,” by Harry Styles
Lyrics of Love: “Sweet creature, sweet creature/Wherever I go, you bring me home/Sweet creature, sweet creature/When I run out of road, you bring me home” -
“Beyond,” by Leon Bridges
Lyrics of Love: “I-I-I-I’m scared to death that she might be it/That the love is real, that the shoe might fit/She might just be my everything and beyond (beyond)” -
“January Wedding,” by The Avett Brothers
Lyrics of Love: “I understand because my heart and hers are the same/And in January we’re gettin’ married” -
“There Will Be Time,” by Mumford & Sons feat. Baaba Maal
Lyrics of Love: “And in the cold light, I live to love and adore you/It’s all that I am, it’s all that I have” -
“Come Rain or Come Shine,” by Ray Charles
Lyrics of Love: “I’m gonna love you/Like no one’s loved you/Come rain or come shine” -
“You Are,” by Lionel Richie
Lyrics of Love: “And my love you’ll see/We’ll stay together, just you and me/I’ve got so much love” -
“Hold Me,” by Stevie Wonder
Lyrics of Love: “So hold me, baby hold me/Say you’ll never let me go” -
“This Kiss,” by Faith Hill
Lyrics of Love: “It’s the way you love me/It’s a feeling like this” -
“Have You Ever Been in Love,” by Céline Dion
Lyrics of Love: “Have you ever been in love/You could touch the moonlight” -
“Only Wanna Be With You,” by Hootie and the Blowfish
Lyrics of Love: “I just want to love you, but you wanna wear my ring/Well there’s nothing I can do/I only wanna be with you” -
“Forever and for Always,” by Shania Twain
Lyrics of Love: “I can still feel the way you want me when you hold me/I can still hear the words you whispered when you told me/I can stay right here forever in your arms”
Choosing Your Perfect Marriage First Dance Song
Ultimately, the best first dance song is one that resonates deeply with you as a couple. Consider these factors as you make your selection:
- Personal Meaning: Does the song hold a special memory or significance for your relationship?
- Lyrics and Message: Do the lyrics express your feelings for each other and your commitment to marriage?
- Tempo and Dance Style: Does the song’s tempo suit your desired dance style and comfort level?
- Musical Taste: Does the song reflect your shared musical preferences and personalities as a couple?
By considering these elements and exploring the diverse range of songs available, you’ll be sure to find the perfect marriage first dance song to create a truly magical and unforgettable moment on your wedding day.
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The 104 Most Requested Wedding Reception Songs
