The first dance at your wedding is a special and symbolic moment that you will remember for the rest of your life. So, the song you choose for your first dance is of the utmost importance. But, with literally hundreds of thousands of different songs to choose from, it can be a major task to choose the perfect song.
In this post, I have rounded up some of my top picks for wedding first dance songs. You’ll find everything from the classic cliches to unusual picks, upbeat songs, and even some country hits. I have also created several Spotify playlists to help you make the right decision.
Make sure to check out my curated list of the best wedding songs to walk down the aisle to!
Classic First Dance Songs
There are millions of recorded songs out there, but sometimes nothing beats the classics! Here are some of the most popular first dance wedding songs that have withstood the tests of time.
1. Can’t Help Falling in Love With You – Elvis Presley
A beautiful love song that has been used in weddings time and time again.
2. Stand By Me – Ben E. King
One of the most popular and recognizeable tunes out there, this song has the perfect sentiment for a wedding.
3. Your Song – Elton John
One of Elton John’s biggest hits and a perfect song for your first dance.
4. Can’t Take My Eyes off You – Frankie Valli
Super popular song that dates back to the 1960s, it was made famous again thanks to the film 10 Things I Hate About You.
5. At Last – Etta James
This soul song from 1960 is an eternal classic that has been used as countless first dance songs at weddings.
6. The Way You Look Tonight – Tony Bennett
Tony Bennett’s cover of Frank Sinatra’s classic tune is an excellent first dance song as it is romantic, slow, and intimate.
7. My Girl – The Temptations
“My Girl” is a more upbeat tune that is an extremely popular wedding song. This iconic Motown song is nearly 60 years old, but it is timeless!
8. When a Man Loves a Woman – Percy Sledge
This is a soulful and romantic song that has an unmatched emotional energy. Honestly, it would be difficult to slow dance to this song without tearing up a bit.
9. What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong
Louis Armstrong might not have a traditionally “romantic” singing voice, but this song has a raw and emotional nature that is perfect for a first dance.
10. L.O.V.E. – Nat King Cole
Looking for a classic “crooner” vibe for your wedding’s first dance? “L.O.V.E.” might just be the perfect song!
11. Every Breath You Take – The Police
While this song admittedly invokes some “stalker” vibes, it is still a beautiful wedding song for 80s music fans.
12. Fly Me to the Moon – Frank Sinatra
One of Sinatra’s signature hits, “Fly Me to the Moon,” is an incredibly passionate love song with jazz and pop elements.
13. Songbird – Fleetwood Mac
One of the softest Fleetwood Mac songs, “Songbird,” has the perfect tempo and dynamics for a slow and intimate wedding dance.
14. Wonderful Tonight – Eric Clapton
Written for his then-wife, Patty Boyd, “Wonderful Tonight” is an endearing love ballad by Eric Clapton.
15. Wild Horses – The Rolling Stones
While not necessarily a love song, “Wild Horses” is one of the most famous songs by the Rolling Stones and makes for a perfect first dance song.
More Classic Wedding First Dance Songs
Unique First Dance Songs
There is nothing wrong with the classics, but I don’t blame you if you are looking for something a little less conventional for your wedding. Here are a few of my top picks for unique first-dance wedding songs.
16. Simply the Best – Tina Turner
This 80s rock ballad is powerful and emotional while still slow enough for an intimate first dance. Aren’t convinced the song is romantic enough? Just watch this scene from Schitts Creek; I’m not crying, you’re crying!
17. Thank You – Chris Cornell (Cover)
Originally written by Led Zeppelin, this cover of “Thank You” by Christ Cornell is one of the few covers out there that I prefer over the original. It is a slow and cute love song that would be a super unique choice for a wedding song.
18. Just Like Heaven – The Cure
The Cure is one of my favorite rock bands of all time, and “Just Like Heaven” is one of their best hits. This upbeat 80s alternative rock song is perfect for a personalized first dance song.
19. Virginia Moon – Foo Fighters
Who knew the Foo Fighters could be romantic? This song is very off brand for the band, but I absolutely love it! It has a super interesting jazzy rhythm and tune and features Norah Jones on piano and vocals.
20. Nothing Else Matters – Metallica
If you and your significant other are metalheads, there is likely no better song choice than “Nothing Else Matters”, which has interesting classic guitar parts and an uncharacteristically slow tempo for a Metallica song.
21. Dreaming of You – Selena
Selena’s music still lives in the hearts of most South Texans and Tejanos, and “Dreaming Of You” is one of her most romantic and beautiful songs.
22. True Love Waits – Radiohead
A hauntingly beautiful song by Radiohead, “True Love Waits” would be a one-of-a-kind pick for a first dance at your wedding.
23. Wedding Song – Tracy Chapman
In this tune, Chapman speaks directly to the promise of a lifetime together. While it may not be a super popular wedding song, it is a great choice for obvious reasons!
24. Hold You in My Arms – Ray LaMontagne
This intimate acoustic song gives me “all the feels” every time I listen to it. Also, the song is a 3/4 waltz, so it works perfectly for a slow dance!
25. Never in My Wildest Dreams – Dan Auerbach
This is such a cute and soft acoustic song that will give anyone the butterflies! “Never in My Wildest Dreams” is a simple and catchy love song that is far from being cliche.
More Unique First Dance Songs
New and Modern First Dance Songs
If you are more of a modern music connoisseur, here are some of the best new songs for a first dance.
26. XO – John Mayer
This song might just be the definition of a sappy love song. But that’s exactly what you want for a first dance, right?
27. All of Me – John Legend
This has become an incredibly popular wedding song since it was released in 2013. It is a classic love song with a simple 4 chord progression and a slow and powerful melody.
28. Lovesong – Adele
Adele’s acoustic cover of “Lovesong” by The Cure is stripped down, softer, and more intimate than the original, perfect for a first dance at a wedding.
29. Still Into You – Paramore
This is a pretty unique choice for a first dance, but if you are a pop punk fan and want to skip over the slow and soft wedding songs, I highly recommend it! “Still Into You” has some serious energy that only Hayley Williams can channel.
30. Thinkin Bout You – Frank Ocean
Frank Ocean may not be the first singer you think of when looking for romantic music, but “Thinkin’ Bout You” is a super cute tune that would be a great choice for your wedding.
31. Perfect – Ed Sheeran
Call me cliche, but Ed Sheeran makes some pretty epic love songs. The one-man-band musician has some impressive skills and has a voice that’ll make just about anyone fall in love.
32. Until I Found You – Stephen Sanchez
The modulated guitar parts of Steven Sanchez’s signature song are enough to get me dancing. This song has the perfect slow-dance rhythm, a dreamy melody, and cute lyrics that any new couple will resonate with.
33. Beyond – Leon Bridges
I love the modern blues and RnB style of Leon Bridges. “Beyond” has a certain soulful and romantic feel to it. Just listen to the song and you’ll be able to envision it being the backing track for the perfect first dance.
34. Stay With Me – Sam Smith
This major hit from Sam Smith’s debut album is a classic song to include in modern weddings. The song is uncomplicated but leaves room for some powerful vocals and resonating instrumentals.
35. Just The Way You Are – Bruno Mars
This list of the best first dance songs wouldn’t be complete without at least one song by Bruno Mars. If I had to epitomize classic love songs into a single song, it would likely be “Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars.
More Modern First Dance Songs
Country First Dance Songs
Here is the thing, I am not generally the biggest fan of country music. But when it comes to love songs, few genres do it as well as country. Here are my top picks for country first dance songs.
36. Tennesee Whiskey – Chris Stapleton
An iconic country song that will likely be played at weddings for generations, “Tennesee Whiskey” is one of the most popular country’s first dance songs.
37. Fast Car – Luke Combs
Luke Combs’s cover of Tracy Chapman’s trademark song is one of my favorite modern country songs. He really does the original song justice while spinning it with his own signature “twang”.
38. God Gave Me You – Blake Shelton
If you are looking for a country-first dance song with Christian sentiments, “God Gave Me You” is one of your best options.
39. The Story – Brandi Carlile
This slow and insanely powerful song is a deep and sentimental song reflecting on Carlile’s life. While not nearly as romantic as some other songs on this list, it is still an excellent song to dance to at your wedding.
40. If You Were Mine – Miranda Lambert and Leon Bridges
The unlikely partnership of country queen Miranda Lambert and blues artist Leon Bridges makes for an excellent and unique song.
41. Georgia On My Mind – Ray Charles
In the 1960s, Ray Charles switched genres from his classic blues style to country. “Georgia On My Mind” is a beautiful song that channels Charles’ love for his home state.
42. Big Big Plans – Chris Lane
It is pretty obvious from the lyrics why this country song is an ideal country-first dance tune. In fact, Chris Lane literally describes the process of proposing to his girlfriend in this song!
43. Tomorrow Never Comes – Zac Brown Band
This is an upbeat and inspiring acoustic country song about seizing the moment and not postponing your goals in life.
44. I Will Always Love You – Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton is one of my all-time favorite country artists. While the most famous version of “I Will Always Love You” is most definitely Whitney Houston’s cover, Dolly’s original version is a gem.
45. Always On My Mind – Willie Nelson
Willie Nelson is a Texas musician who brought a lot of change to the country music scene. “Always On My Mind” describes Willie’s regrets of not being there for his ex-lover when he should have.
More Country First Dance Songs
Indie/Folk First Dance Songs
While older genres like country and jazz tend to dominate wedding first dances, you may be surprised how well some indie and folk songs work. I have rounded up 10 of my favorite indie first dance songs.
46. First Day of My Life – Bright Eyes
This is honestly one of the cutest acoustic folk songs of all time. It has a sweet sentiment of love and would be a beautiful song for your first wedding dance.
47. Baby I’m Yours – Arctic Monkeys
The Arctic Monkeys have released some great songs, but very few are intimate love songs like “Baby I’m Yours”. This song is very off-brand for the band and follows a simple waltz time signature with a melody that is reminiscent of 50s ballads.
48. Re: Stacks – Bon Iver
This is by no means a love song, but every time I listen to “Re: Stacks,” I get tears in my eyes from the raw emotion in the melody and lyrics. The song is about self-acceptance and moving forward in life despite your struggles.
49. I’ll Follow You Into the Dark – Death Cab for Cutie
One of the most popular indie folk songs and a great choice for weddings is “I’ll Follow You Into The Dark”. The song circles around the idea that we will all eventually lose the ones we love. It has a deep, contemplative meaning but also is an adorable sentiment of love.
50. Annie’s Song – John Denver
Released in 1974, “Annie’s Song” is a love ballad for John Denver’s then-wife Annie Martell. The song’s soft melody and rhythm are perfect for a first dance.
51. Mystery of Love – Sufjan Stevens
Sufjan Steven has one of the most recognizable styles in the new-age folk scene. This would be a pretty unique song to play for a first dance, but it definitely ticks all the boxes!
52. The Night We Met – Lord Huron
This slow and meditative song has a beautiful fingerpicked guitar part and soft vocals that would perfectly fit a first dance.
53. Big Black Car – Gregory Alan Isakov
Gregory Alan Isakov is one of my all-time favorite folk singer-songwriters, and “Big Black Car” is one of his most popular songs. This sweet acoustic song has a playful beat and would be a fun song to dance to at your wedding.
54. Chateau Lobby #4 (in C for Two Virgins) – Father John Misty
Admittedly, this Father John Misty song has some borderline explicit lyrics, but it is one of the most perfect wedding songs as it literally describes the story of a couple having sex for the first time on their wedding night.
55. Naked As We Come – Iron And Wine
This 2004 song was part of the movement that inspired many new folk singers in the early 2000s. The song is an emotional acoustic love ballad perfect for an intimate slow dance.
More Indie/Folk First Dance Wedding Songs
Fun and Energetic First Dance Songs
Want to start out the wedding night with something spicy and upbeat? Here are some of the best energetic and fun first dance songs.
56. For Once in My Life – Stevie Wonder
If you are looking to get the party started right away, a Stevie Wonder tune will probably do the trick! “For Once in My Life” is romantic, upbeat, and just fun to dance to! The song was originally made famous by Tony Bennet, but Wonder put his own signature spin on it.
57. Are You Gonna Be My Girl – Jet
The most famous single by Australian rock band Jet, “Are You Gonna Be My Girl,” has a very different vibe than most other songs on this list, but it makes for a memorable first dance song for couples that want to avoid cliches!
58. I Can’t Stop This Feeling – Justin Timberlake
Looking for a modern dance-pop song to play at your wedding? “I Can’t Stop This Feeling” has the same sentiment as many of the slower love songs but is upbeat and fun!
59. I Want to Dance With Somebody – Whitney Houston
If you want to really leave a mark on your wedding guests, start off your night with a banger! Whitney Houston’s powerful vocals and the classic 80s instrumentals are a perfect match for energetic first dances.
60. Happy – Pharrell Williams
This song is fitting for weddings because there are few days that you will be happier than on your wedding day! “Happy” is the song to play if you have some dance moves you are ready to show off. That said, this is a pretty fast song and can be challenging to dance to.
61. How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You) – Marvin Gaye
Motown is one of my favorite genres, and if you are looking for some soulful vibes on your wedding night, this is the genre you should go for. There are few artists that did soul as well as Marvin Gaye, and “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)” is one of his purest love songs.
62. Locked Out Of Heaven – Bruno Mars
I have to include another Bruno Mars song on this list as his style works too perfectly for wedding first dances. While many of Mars’s songs are slower and intimate, “Locked Out of Heaven” is much more upbeat and “dancy”.
63. Wouldn’t It Be Nice – The Beach Boys
A 1960s classic, “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” ticks all of the boxes of the perfect love song, and I can only imagine how sweet of a moment the song could create for a first dance.
64. All My Loving – The Beatles
The Beatles cycled through many different genres and styles throughout their 10-year stint. “All My Loving” was one of the band’s earlier hits and is a love ballad that appealed to the masses.
65. I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor – Arctic Monkeys
If you and your partner are seasoned dancers, you could consider using “I Bet You Look Good on the Dancefloor” as your first dance song. This is an excellent, energetic rock song to show off to!
