First Dance Wedding Songs

Jun 1, 2010
Trina Doane

Choose a Romantic First Dance Song! - midiman on Flickr

There are a lot of options for that first dance wedding song. Here is a list of songs from several genres to help in the search for that perfect number.

For many couples, choosing a song for the first dance at their wedding can be overwhelming. There are literally thousands of songs to choose from, and narrowing it down can be time consuming and sometimes stressful – especially with all the other things a couple has to worry about when planning a wedding.

But, since the first dance song is a central part of almost every reception, its important that it be just right. Take into account the style of dance the couple wants – something quirky and fun, something slow and romantic, or something in between – and then check out this list of songs for a wedding first dance.

Classic Romantic First Dance Song

Many couples still want the classic love song as their first dance; something that puts to music how they feel about one another on the most romantic day of their lives. There are a lot of love songs out there, so to narrow down the choices, here are some classic romantic songs that would suit any wedding.

"At Last" – Etta James
"It Had to be You" – Harry Connick Jr
"Love" – John Lennon
"I Only Have Eyes for You" – The Flamingos
"The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" – Roberta Flack
"Loving You" – Elvis Presley
"Unforgettable" – Nat King Cole
"Somewhere Over the Rainbow" – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
"Close to You" – The Carpenters
"Grow Old With Me" – Mary Chapin Carpenter
"Maybe I’m Amazed" – Paul McCartney

Quirky or Unique First Dance Song

Lots of couples these days are choosing less formal songs for their first dance, opting instead to go with a more original selection; something that sets them apart from the crowd, kicks off the celebration on a high note, and sets the mood for an evening of fun. Here are some songs that are still in keeping with the romance of the evening, but have a bit of a unique twist too.

"When I’m 64" – The Beatles
"Crazy Little Thing Called Love" – Queen
"I Got You Babe" – Sonny and Cher
"Neverending Song of Love" – Daniel O’Donnell
"Love and Marriage" – Frank Sinatra
"Hooked on a Feeling" – Blue Swede
"I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)" – The Proclaimers
"Grow Old With You" – Adam Sandler

Country Music First Dance Song

If the couple getting married are fans of country music, it only makes sense to have a first dance song that reflects this. There are plenty of romantic songs to be found in the country music genre, and here are just a few that have great wedding-oriented lyrics.

"Forever and Ever, Amen" – Randy Travis
"From This Moment" – Shania Twain
"You Had Me From Hello" – Kenny Chesney
"Forever’s as Far as I’ll Go" – Alabama
"Rockin’ Years" – Dolly Parton
"Just You and I" – Eddie Rabbitt and Crystal Gayle
"Making Memories of Us" – Keith Urban

Non-Traditional First Dance Song

Non-traditional first dances have been becoming more popular in recent years, with couples choosing to imitate scenes from movies or music videos, or taking dance lessons to learn swing, disco or even hip-hop, in order to wow their crowd of family and friends.

Many couples even involve the members of the wedding party in the choreography of their first dance, which can make for a really exciting and memorable start to the celebrations. Those who are thinking about a non-traditional first dance at their wedding can consider some of these fun songs.

"Hammer Time" – MC Hammer
"You’re the One That I Want" – Olivia Newton John and John Travolta
"Evolution of Dance Medley" – Various Artists
"Super Freak" – Rick James
"If You Wanna be Happy" – Jimmy Soul
"White Wedding" – Billy Idol
"Rapper's Delight" – Sugar Hill Gang
"Zoot Suit Riot" – Cherry Poppin’ Daddies
"Kung Foo Fighting" – Carl Douglas

Tip: Worried about committing completely to a non-traditional first dance? Get the best of both worlds; many couples start out with a slow romantic song and partway through switch to one that’s more unique and fun. Something to consider!

Bonus Tip: Check out social video sites like YouTube for ideas on how to choreograph a non-traditional first dance – borrow moves from someone else’s wedding video, or watch a favorite movie scene or music video and dance along until you’ve got the steps down pat!

Whether choosing a classic romantic song, a quirky upbeat one, a country number, or something non-traditional, the first dance song should reflect the spirit and personality of the couple. The most important thing is to choose a song that makes both partners feel good, and is something they’ll be able to look back on with happy memories years from now.