Choosing the perfect first dance song can feel like immense pressure when planning your wedding reception. It’s a deeply personal moment, a chance to express your unique love story right there on the dance floor in front of all your loved ones. Couples often spend considerable time searching for the song, the one that truly encapsulates their relationship and sets the tone for their celebration. Are you envisioning a slow, romantic ballad that speaks volumes, or something more upbeat and reflective of your personalities as a couple? Perhaps there’s a melody that holds a special place in your hearts, a soundtrack to a cherished memory, or maybe you’re seeking a fresh, unique tune to mark this milestone. Ultimately, the most important factor is choosing a song you both genuinely love.
Experts in wedding music note that couples are increasingly prioritizing personal connection when selecting their first dance song. “Most couples are gravitating towards songs that resonate deeply with them, whether it’s through meaningful lyrics or a shared memory,” explains Cara Samantha, bandleader for Highline at Élan Artists. “While tempos vary, ballads and soulful, slower tracks remain exceptionally popular, emphasizing the emotional weight of the moment.”
DJ Chris Stiles from Élan Artists echoes this sentiment, highlighting the trend of distinctiveness and meaning. “Selecting a song with personal significance is the defining trend I’m observing right now.” However, despite the emphasis on individuality, certain songs consistently emerge as favorites. Recent data from Spotify reveals that classic choices continue to dominate first dance selections. In 2024, Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love” and Etta James’ “At Last” topped the charts as the most beloved first dance songs. Contemporary hits, particularly from the country genre like Chris Stapleton’s “Joy of My Life,” also feature prominently. And of course, no list of top first dance songs would be complete without Ed Sheeran and Taylor Swift, whose tracks “Perfect” and “Lover” remain steadfastly popular.
Need more inspiration for your first dance? Below, wedding music experts and BRIDES editors share a curated list of some of the best first dance songs to consider for your special day, offering a blend of timeless classics and modern favorites.
The 90 Most Romantic Wedding Songs of All Time
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Alt text: Romantic aerial perspective captures the bride and groom sharing their first dance, encircled by wedding guests during their reception.
Timeless & Romantic First Dance Songs
These classic love songs are guaranteed to evoke emotion and create a romantic atmosphere for your first dance.
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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”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: A modern classic ballad with heartfelt lyrics about unconditional love, perfect for a deeply emotional first dance.
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“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”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: A soulful and iconic declaration of love found, ideal for couples who feel they’ve finally found their perfect match.
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“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”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: A timeless and universally recognized love song, its gentle melody and sincere lyrics make it an enduring favorite.
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“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”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: Classic elegance and charm personified, this song exudes sophistication and timeless romance.
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“Unchained Melody,” by The Righteous Brothers
- Lyrics of Love: “Oh, my love, my darling/I’ve hungered for your touch”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: A powerfully emotional ballad known for its soaring melody, perfect for a dramatic and passionate first dance.
Modern Ballads for Your First Dance
For couples seeking contemporary romance, these ballads offer heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melodies that resonate with today’s love stories.
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“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”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: A global phenomenon, this song’s tender lyrics and Sheeran’s signature sound make it a go-to for modern romantic first dances. The Beyoncé version adds an extra layer of star power.
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“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”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: Another Sheeran hit, this song speaks of enduring love and growing old together, making it a deeply touching choice.
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“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)”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: Swift’s romantic anthem is perfect for couples who want a sweet and sincere song with relatable lyrics about long-lasting love.
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“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”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: A raw and honest ballad about commitment and wanting to cherish love for a lifetime.
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“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”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: Popularized by the Twilight saga, this epic ballad with its dramatic build-up and themes of eternal love is a powerful choice.
Upbeat & Soulful First Dance Songs
If you prefer a first dance that’s less traditional and more reflective of your lively personalities, these upbeat and soulful tracks offer a joyous and celebratory vibe.
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“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”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: A feel-good, soulful track with a retro vibe, perfect for couples who want a relaxed and joyful first dance.
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“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”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: A breezy and acoustic tune with a positive message about partnership, ideal for a laid-back and heartwarming first dance.
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“Home,” by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros
- Lyrics of Love: “Ah, home, let me come home/Home is wherever I’m with you”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: An indie-folk anthem celebrating finding home in each other, perfect for free-spirited couples.
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“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”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: A classic Motown hit, full of energy and joy, ideal for couples who want to start the party with their first dance.
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“Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours,” by Stevie Wonder
- Lyrics of Love: “Like a fool I went and stayed too long/Now I’m wondering if your love’s still strong/Ooh baby here I am, signed sealed delivered, I’m yours”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: Another Motown gem, this song is infectious and fun, perfect for couples who want to get their guests clapping and moving.
Country First Dance Songs with Heart
Country music is rich with love songs, and these selections offer heartfelt storytelling and authentic emotion, perfect for country-loving couples.
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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?”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: Stapleton’s soulful voice and sincere lyrics make this a deeply touching country ballad perfect for expressing gratitude for love.
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“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”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: A modern country hit with a catchy melody and lyrics about devotion, great for a romantic and slightly upbeat country first dance.
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“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”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: A popular country duet about lifelong commitment and dedication to love, perfect for couples planning a long future together.
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“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”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: Another Dan + Shay favorite, this song speaks of building a lasting love from a strong foundation, a beautiful sentiment for a wedding.
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“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”
- Why it’s a great first dance song: A crossover country-pop classic about enduring love that stands the test of time, relatable and heartwarming for many couples.
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Alt text: Intimate first dance moment of a bride and groom is illuminated by soft string lights creating a romantic ambiance at their wedding reception.
Choosing Your Best 1st Dance Song
Ultimately, the best first dance song is one that holds special meaning for you as a couple. Here are a few tips to guide your decision:
- Lyrics that Resonate: Pay attention to the lyrics and choose a song whose message truly reflects your relationship and feelings for each other.
- Meaningful Memories: Consider songs that are tied to special moments in your relationship, like the song that was playing when you first met or your “song” as a couple.
- Tempo and Style: Think about the vibe you want to create. Do you envision a slow, romantic dance, or something more upbeat and fun? Choose a tempo and style that suits your personalities and dance floor comfort.
- Personal Preference: Don’t feel pressured to choose a “popular” song if it doesn’t feel right for you. The most important thing is that you both love the song and it feels authentic to your relationship.
- Practice Makes Perfect (Optional): If you’re planning a choreographed dance, give yourselves enough time to practice and feel comfortable with your chosen song.
No matter which song you choose, your first dance will be a cherished moment. Focus on selecting a track that speaks to your hearts and allows you to celebrate the start of your married life in a way that feels uniquely you.
FAQ
The 104 Most Requested Wedding Reception Songs
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Alt text: Romantic close-up shot of the bride kissing her groom as he dips her during their memorable first dance at their wedding reception.
