Perfect First Dance Songs
Choosing the perfect song for your first dance can feel overwhelming—there are so many possibilities, and each song holds the potential to make your moment unforgettable. Whether you want a tune that speaks to your unique love story, reminds you of a shared memory, or simply resonates with your personalities, your first dance is a chance to create a memory you’ll cherish forever.
What Makes the Perfect First Dance Song?
There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, but here are a few things to consider when choosing:
- Emotion & Mood: Do you want a song that captures your romantic side, or \are you a fun-loving couple looking for a song with a bit more rhythm? Think about the mood you want to set for the rest of the evening and let that guide your choice. Whether it’s sentimental or upbeat, the song should evoke the feeling you want to remember forever.
- Personal Connection: The best first dance songs often hold personal significance. Consider songs that represent a milestone in your relationship, like the artist you both love, the soundtrack from your first concert together, or a song that reminds you of a favorite place or experience you’ve shared.
- Danceability: Think about the type of first dance you envision. Would you prefer a simple sway, a choreographed routine, or something that gets the whole wedding party joining in? The tempo and rhythm of the song will play a big role in setting the tone for the dance, so it’s worth considering how you plan to dance to it.
- Timeless Appeal: This song will be a key part of your wedding memories, so selecting a classic or timeless song can add to the magic of revisiting this memory down the line. There are songs that, despite changing music trends, never go out of style, and these often make for great first dance selections.
Popular Choices for First Dances
To help you get started, we’ve curated a playlist of some of the most requested first dance songs, each one bringing its own style and charm to wedding celebrations. These tracks cover a variety of genres and moods to suit any couple’s vibe, whether you’re after something classic, modern, soulful, or upbeat.
Our First Dance Playlist
Here are some favorites from our curated playlist:
“Let’s Stay Together” – Al Green
For couples who want something soulful and slightly upbeat, this track brings both warmth and groove to the dance floor.
“All of Me” – John Legend
A heartfelt anthem dedicated to unconditional love, “All of Me” is a go-to for couples wanting a modern yet classic love song.
“At Last” – Etta James
An iconic choice, this song’s timelessness and soulful melody make it perfect for a romantic, vintage-inspired moment.
“Baby I’m Yours” – Arctic Monkeys
This modern take on a classic love song brings an indie feel, ideal for couples who want something unique yet sentimental.
“Best Part” (feat. H.E.R.) – Daniel Caesar, H.E.R.
Smooth, soulful, and contemporary, this duet captures the beauty of partnership and connection.
“Can’t Help Falling in Love” – Elvis Presley
A beautiful and tender ballad, Elvis’s classic is ideal for couples wanting a touch of nostalgia.
“Cheek to Cheek” – Ella Fitzgerald, Louis Armstrong
A jazz classic, this song adds a bit of swing and elegance for a charming first dance.
“Endless Love” – Lionel Richie, Diana Ross
With lyrics that encapsulate the depth of lifelong love, this ballad remains one of the most popular first dance songs for good reason.
“Forever” – Ben Harper
Simple and sincere, this song is perfect for couples who prefer a laid-back yet meaningful melody.
“La Vie en Rose” – Louis Armstrong
A nod to romance and Parisian charm, this song’s timeless beauty will make your first dance feel like a classic film moment.
Making Your Moment Unique
Remember, your first dance is one of the first moments you’ll share as a married couple in front of your loved ones. It’s a personal moment that belongs solely to the two of you, even though you’re surrounded by family and friends. As you think about your song choice, take a few minutes together to discuss what you want this moment to feel like and how your chosen song can bring that vision to life.
Tips for Choosing Your Song
- Listen to Each Other’s Choices: Even if you each have different music tastes, listening to and respecting each other’s preferences can help you find a song that speaks to both of you.
- Practice Dancing Together: Trying out a few moves can help you visualize how the song will play out on your wedding day. Some songs might feel different when you dance to them, so don’t be afraid to experiment.
- Consult with Your Band or DJ: If you’re using live music, talk to your band or DJ to see if they have ideas or special arrangements that might add an extra personal touch to your chosen song.
Your first dance song is more than just a melody; it’s a memory that will stay with you forever. Whether you choose a timeless classic, a contemporary hit, or something uniquely your own, the right song will make this moment feel perfect. We hope our playlist inspires you and helps you find the song that’s just right for you!
When you meet the one who changes the way your heart beats, dance with them to that rhythm for as long as the song lasts.
Kirk Diedrich