Planning your wedding playlist? If you’re looking for something a little different for your first dance, you’ve come to the right place. Everyone knows the classic wedding songs, but what if you and your partner are more into indie and alternative music? Finding the perfect wedding dance song that reflects your unique style can make your special moment even more memorable.
As someone who works closely with couples as an alternative wedding photographer, I’ve noticed more and more couples are choosing non-traditional music for their big day. From walking down the aisle to The Pixies to recessing to Sigur Ros, couples are embracing their personal tastes. If you’re searching for Wedding Dance Songs that are a bit off the beaten path, this list is for you.
I consider myself an indie and alternative music enthusiast. While I don’t claim to know every obscure track, the songs here are ones I believe have a special quality, perfect for a meaningful first dance. Some might even seem a little unconventional, but I know there are couples out there who will appreciate the humor and emotion in these selections. This isn’t your typical wedding dance songs list. You won’t find mainstream hits here. Think of this as an alternative to the alternative, with some deeper cuts that might surprise you, but will resonate when you truly listen to the lyrics and feeling.
I plan to keep adding to this list, and I’m always open to suggestions! If you have an indie or alternative wedding dance song idea, please get in touch and share your thoughts.
(If you’re actually looking for information on alternative wedding first dance photography, you can find that on my dedicated page.)
Couple's First Dance at a Wedding Reception
Indie & Alternative Wedding Dance Song Suggestions
Here are some unique and alternative wedding dance song choices to consider for your first dance:
Iron & Wine – “Such Great Heights”
While The Postal Service original is fantastic for getting everyone moving, Iron & Wine’s version brings a beautiful, romantic intimacy that’s ideal for a first dance. It’s a softer, more heartfelt take on the song that emphasizes the loving lyrics. If you want a gentler start to your dance and then perhaps switch to The Postal Service version later to liven things up, this is a great option.
Bob Dylan – “I’ve Made Up My Mind To Give Myself To You”
For Bob Dylan fans, this is a hidden gem. It’s incredible that even later in his career, Dylan can create such a profoundly moving love song. It’s a testament to enduring love and commitment, perfect for a wedding. You might not have heard it yet, but this song has all the hallmarks of becoming a future classic, rediscovered and cherished by couples for years to come as a unique wedding dance song.
Bright Eyes – “First Day of My Life”
This song has been a favorite for heartfelt moments for years. The lyric, “I’d rather be working for a paycheck than waiting to win the lottery,” beautifully captures the realistic and comforting aspects of a strong relationship – choosing partnership over fleeting dreams of fortune. It speaks to the everyday love and commitment that marriage embodies. I’ve even witnessed this song used at a wedding, and it was incredibly touching as a wedding dance song.
Elbow – “The Everthere”
Often overlooked, “The Everthere” is a gorgeous, When I’m 64-esque ballad about a lifetime of companionship. From Elbow’s earlier work, it showcases Guy Garvey’s warm, soulful voice, singing about the enduring nature of love through life’s changes. The lyrics, “If I lose a sequin here and there / More salt than pepper in my hair / Can I rely on you when all the songs are through / To be for me the everthere?” are incredibly poignant and fitting for a wedding first dance.
John Lennon – “Oh My Love”
You simply can’t go wrong with John Lennon. “Oh My Love” is a wonderfully simple and pure love song. Its sincerity and gentle melody make it a timeless choice for a wedding dance song. When a couple used it at their wedding, it immediately stood out for its understated beauty and emotional depth.
The Paper Kites – “Bloom”
“Bloom” is another beautifully understated love song, perfect if you want a gentle and romantic first dance. Its soft instrumentation and sweet vocals create an intimate atmosphere, ideal for those who prefer a more mellow and heartfelt moment as their wedding dance song.
Paramore – “The Only Exception”
Adding a bit more energy, “The Only Exception” offers a blend of gentle verses and a slightly more upbeat feel. The lyrics, “And up until now I had sworn to myself / That I’m content with loneliness / Because none of it was ever worth the risk / But you are the only exception,” speak to overcoming fear and embracing love, making it a powerful and relatable wedding dance song choice. Hearing this at a wedding was a reminder of its emotional resonance and suitability for such a moment.
Talking Heads – “This Must Be The Place (Naive Melody)”
While I personally love the Talking Heads version, there are also fantastic covers of “This Must Be The Place” by artists like The Lumineers and Kishi Bashi. This song is iconic for its quirky yet heartfelt celebration of home and love. Its unique rhythm and David Byrne’s distinctive vocals make it a memorable and joyous wedding dance song choice.
Angel Olsen – “Chance”
Prepare for a truly emotional experience with “Chance.” This song is incredibly moving, exploring the vulnerability and hope in opening yourself up to love. The lyrics, “If we got to know each other / How rare is that? / All that space in between where we stand / Could be our chance,” are both poignant and hopeful. While the recorded version is perfect, the live version amplifies the raw emotion, making it an intensely powerful wedding dance song.
Fiona Apple – “Cosmonauts”
Fiona Apple’s “Cosmonauts” is for couples who appreciate honesty and complexity in relationships. Opening with the line, “Your face ignites a fuse to my patience,” it might seem unconventional. However, the song delves into the realities of co-existence and commitment in marriage, with raw honesty and insightful lyrics. It’s a bold and truthful choice for a wedding dance song for couples who value authenticity.
M. Ward – “Fool Says”
For a lighter, more upbeat moment, “Fool Says” is a cheesy, fun, and undeniably romantic song. It’s a quick, joyful burst of energy that keeps the mood light and sweet. As a slightly lesser-known track, it’s a delightful surprise and a less emotionally heavy option compared to some of the previous choices, perfect for transitioning to more upbeat dancing after a heartfelt moment.
Wilco – “You and I”
Inspired by Jeff Tweedy’s songwriting, Wilco offers several great options. While “I’m the Man Who Loves You” is a personal favorite, “You and I” is a more universally fitting and chilled-out choice for a wedding dance song. It’s a gentle and loving song about partnership and shared experiences, perfect for a relaxed and intimate first dance.
Cigarettes After Sex – “Apocalypse”
“Apocalypse” by Cigarettes After Sex creates a dreamy, shoegaze atmosphere that is incredibly swoony and romantic. Its slow, ethereal vibe is perfect for couples who want a deeply intimate and atmospheric first dance. Discovering this song at a gay wedding highlighted its universal appeal as a deeply romantic and unique wedding dance song.
The Replacements – “Skyway”
If you’re unfamiliar with The Replacements, they are an underrated 80s college rock band with a knack for heartfelt melodies. “Skyway” is a simple yet gorgeous song that encapsulates longing and affection. Its understated beauty and genuine emotion make it a surprisingly perfect and unique wedding dance song choice for couples looking beyond the clichés. If you enjoy shows like The Bear or Guardians of the Galaxy, you might recognize their music, but “Skyway” offers a different, tender side of the band, ideal for a wedding.
