A newlywed couple sharing their first dance at their wedding reception.
Choosing the perfect first dance song is a significant moment in wedding planning. As a wedding photographer with a passion for music, I’ve witnessed countless couples select songs that not only fill the dance floor but also become deeply personal anthems for their relationship. Your first dance song often evolves into “your song,” a melody that will evoke cherished memories for years to come. Making this choice special is key to adding an extra layer of magic to your wedding day.
Inspired by the beautiful first dances I’ve photographed, I began compiling a list of songs that resonate with couples. This evolved into a comprehensive playlist, expanding beyond just the songs I’ve heard at weddings to include a wealth of other incredible options perfect for that unforgettable first dance.
If you’re searching for that perfect song to sway to with your loved one, your search ends here! I’ve curated a collection of over 100 songs designed to evoke those warm, fuzzy feelings and perhaps even bring a happy tear to your guests’ eyes. Whether you’re drawn to current pop love anthems, timeless romantic classics, or something uniquely different to surprise your guests, you’ll find a diverse range of choices perfect for your first dance.
To help you navigate this musical journey, I’ve organized the songs into categories to spark inspiration. You can also explore the complete playlist HERE! Happy listening and happy wedding planning! 🎉
My Favorite Top 15 Popular First Dance Songs
These songs consistently top charts and wedding playlists for a reason—they’re universally loved and embody the essence of romance. Ranging from soulful ballads to upbeat love songs, this selection offers something for every couple looking for a crowd-pleasing and emotionally resonant first dance.
- You Are The Best Thing – Ray LaMontagne
- Forever Like That – Ben Rector (Ben Rector offers a plethora of amazing choices! You can’t go wrong with any of his songs for a heartfelt first dance.)
- Home – Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeroes (This indie love anthem is a timeless choice, perfect for couples seeking a bohemian or whimsical vibe. Its heartfelt lyrics and catchy melody make it endlessly charming.)
- Photograph – Ed Sheeran (Ed Sheeran’s discography is filled with first-dance gold! His songs, including this one, are known for their sincerity and romantic melodies that resonate deeply.)
- Take The World – Johnnyswim
- Lover – Taylor Swift (A modern classic for lovebirds! Taylor Swift beautifully captures the excitement and depth of love in this contemporary favorite, making it ideal for a romantic first dance.)
- Lucky – Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat
- Flightless Bird, American Mouth – Iron and Wine (The “wedding version” from Twilight’s Breaking Dawn soundtrack is incredibly tender and sweet. The soundtrack curators truly understood the assignment, selecting songs that amplify romance.)
- Marry Me – Train
- Stuck With U – Ariana Grande & Justin Bieber
- All Of Me – John Legend
- Say You Won’t Let Go – James Arthur
- Forever After All – Luke Combs
- It’s Your Love – Tim McGraw & Faith Hill (An absolute country bop! This duet is a joyous celebration of love, perfect for couples who appreciate a blend of country charm and upbeat romance.)
- Love Your Love The Most – Eric Church (Despite not being strictly country, this song’s sweetness transcends genres. It’s a heartfelt country ballad that even non-country fans can adore for its genuine expression of love.)
A couple sharing their first dance as newlyweds, with the bride crying.
My Favorite Top 10 Classic First Dance Songs
For couples desiring timeless elegance and enduring romance, these classic songs provide a sophisticated and unforgettable ambiance for a first dance. These tracks have stood the test of time, embodying romance and grace.
Romantic, classy vibes that you’ll never get tired of.
- L-O-V-E – Nat King Cole (An absolute classic! This song instantly evokes scenes from classic romantic movies like The Parent Trap. Its playful and sweet melody is simply timeless.)
- At Last – Etta James
- Come Away With Me – Norah Jones
- Fly Me To The Moon – Frank Sinatra
- La Vie En Rose – Emily Watts (While this version isn’t a “classic” in the traditional sense, this rendition brings a fresh, modern feel to a timelessly romantic French song.)
- Can’t Help Falling In Love – Elvis Presley
- The Way You Look Tonight – Frank Sinatra
- (I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons – Nat King Cole or Ella Fitzgerald (Both versions are incredibly dreamy and romantic, each artist bringing their unique vocal charm to this sentimental favorite.)
- Dancing In the Moonlight – King Harvest
- It Had To Be You – Harry Connick Jr., or Frank Sinatra
A newlywed couple laughing as they share their first dance.
My Favorite Top 10 Cover Songs Perfect for First Dances
Cover songs offer a unique twist on familiar tunes, providing a way to honor a beloved song while adding a personal touch. These covers range from stripped-down acoustic versions to reimagined takes on pop hits, perfect for couples seeking something both recognizable and distinctive for their first dance.
- This Must Be The Place – Iron and Wine (This Talking Heads cover is arguably even more beloved than the original in wedding settings. Iron & Wine’s signature acoustic style transforms this song into a tender and heartfelt ballad.)
- Friday I’m In Love – Janet Devlin
- I Believe in a Thing Called Love – Branches
- Better Together – Us The Duo (While the original Jack Johnson version is iconic, Us The Duo’s cover brings a fresh, intimate feel, perfect for a cozy and heartfelt first dance.)
- Earth Angel – Death Cab For Cutie (This classic doo-wop song gets a modern indie makeover by Death Cab For Cutie, blending nostalgia with contemporary sensibilities.)
- Can’t Help Falling In Love – Haley Reinhart
- Baby I’m Yours – Arctic Monkeys
- Simply The Best – The Hound + The Fox (Channel Schitt’s Creek vibes with this soulful and folksy rendition of a Tina Turner classic. It’s both unexpected and utterly charming.)
- Home – Edith Whiskers (Popularized on TikTok, this cover brings a gentle, ethereal quality to the already beloved song, making it a uniquely touching first dance option.)
- I Like Me Better – Jonah Baker
A newlywed couple sharing their first dance at their wedding reception.
My Top 20 Unique First Dance Songs
For couples wanting to step outside the mainstream and express their individuality, these unique songs offer distinctive and memorable choices for a first dance. These selections are less commonly heard at weddings, guaranteeing a first dance that truly reflects your unique love story.
Songs that I hardly (if ever!) hear at weddings, and I think would be super cute and unique to use!
- You and I – Ingrid Michaelson (This was my own first dance song! It’s been “our song” since 2012. It’s sweet, concise, and Ingrid Michaelson’s voice is simply angelic.)
- I Was Born To Love You – Ray LaMontagne
- Green Eyes – Coldplay (This Coldplay gem is emotionally resonant and beautifully understated. It was a friend’s first dance song, and it was incredibly moving and tender.)
- I Got You – Jack Johnson (Jack Johnson’s laid-back, mellow voice is perfect for creating a relaxed and loving atmosphere for your first dance. His songs are filled with feel-good vibes.)
- Q&A – Kishi Bashi (For acoustic indie enthusiasts seeking something truly different, this song is a hidden gem. Its intricate melodies and heartfelt lyrics make it exceptionally unique.)
- The Luckiest – Ben Folds (This song is a tear-jerker in the best way possible. Ben Folds’ poignant lyrics about finding true love are universally touching.)
- Heaven’s Knife – Josh Garrels
- Honeymoon – Johnny Stimson
- First Try – Johnnyswim
- Wedding Song – The Well Pennies
- I Will Spend My Whole Life Loving You – Imaginary Future, Kinna Grannis
- Grow As We Go – Ben Platt
- This Too Shall Last – Anderson East
- XO – John Mayer
- You’re Still The One – Shania Twain (Despite perhaps fading from recent popularity, this song remains a timeless country-pop classic, absolutely worthy of a first dance.)
- First Day Of My Life – Bright Eyes (If you choose this Bright Eyes classic, be prepared for an emotionally charged and deeply moving first dance. Tears are guaranteed!)
- Oh, It Is Love – Hellogoodbye (Throwback to the 2000s! This upbeat and joyful song is perfect for couples who want a fun and energetic first dance.)
- Once In A Lifetime – Landon Austin
- The World Could End With You – Llunr
- Honeybee – The Head and the Heart
The End!
I hope this collection of first dance song ideas inspires you! Everyone deserves a first dance song they adore and deeply connect with. I trust these lists and my playlist will guide you to discover the perfect soundtrack for your wedding day. Think I’ve missed any of your personal favorites? Let me know in the comments – I’m always eager to expand this playlist and make it even better! You can also reach out via email at [email protected] or contact me here!
