Your first dance as a married couple is one of the most anticipated and memorable moments of your wedding reception. According to surveys, over 90% of modern brides and grooms incorporate a first dance into their big day. Choosing the perfect song to sway along to is an important piece of wedding planning.
While classic romantic pop ballads are always a popular choice, you may want something different and unique for your special newlywed dance. From vintage oldies to modern chart-toppers, here are 25 one-of-a-kind song ideas to make your first dance personal, meaningful and purely yours.
“A couple’s first dance song sets the tone for the marriage. It’s the first thing you do together so it highlights the start of your new journey.” - Wedding Planner David Tutera
Classic Oldies First Dance Songs
- " At Last" by Etta James (1961) - This bluesy, romantic jazz song exudes vintage glamour.
- "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis Presley (1961) - The King of Rock n Roll serenading you makes for a classic choice.
- "God Only Knows" by The Beach Boys (1966) - Gorgeous acapella harmonies on this sentimental pop song.
- "Sea of Love" by Cat Power (1972) - Dreamy, slowed-down version perfect for swaying.
- "Unchained Melody" by The Righteous Brothers (1965) - Gorgeous, emotional ballad.
- "Your Song" by Elton John (1970) - Sweet, sentimental lyrics over piano.
- "You're My Best Friend" by Queen (1975) - Joyful, upbeat ode to friendship and love.
80s First Dance Song Picks
- "Crazy Love" by Van Morrison (1970) - Smooth and soulful with a catchy beat.
- "Everything" by Michael Bublé (2004) - Classy ballad with big band sound.
- "Have I Told You Lately" by Rod Stewart (1983) - Earnest rock ballad.
- "How Sweet It Is" by James Taylor (1975) - Feel good song with cheerful tempo.
- "I Wouldn't Want to Be Your Enemy" by Eels (1996) - Quirky, fun choice.
Modern Pop & Rock First Dance Songs
- "Beautiful Day" by U2 (2000) - Joyful and hopeful with soaring sound.
- "Better Together" by Jack Johnson (2005) - Sweet acoustic song ideal for beach weddings.
- "Halo" by Beyonce (2009) - Powerful pop ballad with soaring vocals.
- "Just the Way You Are" by Bruno Mars (2010) - Smooth modern pop love song.
- "Lucky" by Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat (2008)- Playful, upbeat indie pop duet.
- "Marry Me" by Train (2010) - Cheerful proposal song with a pop rock vibe.
- "Over the Rainbow" by Israel Kamakawiwoʻole (1993) - Beautiful, Hawaiian ukulele version.
- "Sweetest Devotion" by Adele (2015) - Powerful, soulful ballad.
- "These Arms of Mine" by Otis Redding (1962) - R&B classic with vintage vibe.
- "Thinking Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran (2014) - Popular romantic ballad with over 2 billion streams.
- "Treat You Better" by Shawn Mendes (2016) - Newer romantic song perfect for swaying.
Don't forget other special wedding dance songs beyond your first dance:
Father/Daughter Dance: "My Girl" by The Temptations, "Isn't She Lovely" by Stevie Wonder
Mother/Son Dance: "Forever Young" by Rod Stewart, "In My Life" by The Beatles
When choosing your perfect first dance song, consider your musical tastes, wedding theme and most importantly, the unique story of your relationship. The right song will create a magical moment that you'll remember forever. With so many romantic options across eras and genres, you're sure to find the perfect fit.
Or, if you’d like a custom song written that perfectly encapsulates just how special your relationship is, we’d love to help tell your story! www.loveandmelody.com.