Best Wedding Dance Songs for Your First Dance

The first dance at a wedding is no longer just a moment in time. It’s a very memory that will stay a lifetime. That calm and intimate period when the newlyweds are sharing a space that only belongs to them, right there in front of everyone they love. It’s true, there’s a lot going on around the time and the moments leading up to it, but once those first few notes are played, everything seems to slow down significantly.

Just consider first, that in this blog, we are discussing only the best choices for first dance songs to be the very ones that hearts skip a beat (in a good way) of and the ones that are going to be remembered after the wedding day. We have got a variety of songs from wedding songs first dance to upbeat love songs, classic wedding songs and more.

Picking the Right First Dance Wedding Song

Let’s first speak about how to decide before we get to the list.

Not all first dance wedding songs are equally good. Some are romantic, some are slow and tender, and some may even shock with their sudden energy.

The key is to find a middle ground between what your hearts tell you and what your guests will enjoy.

Things to Consider

  • Lyrics – Most people would agree that the music of a song is the first and maybe the most important feature.
  • The Rhythm – Perhaps you might be thinking that a slow ballad would be the best choice, but it could turn out that not everyone would like it.
  • The Song’s Popularity – Yes, “At Last” by Etta James is loved by everyone, but if it’s been played at every wedding in your family for the last ten years, then maybe it’s not the best choice.
  • Your Dance Style – Are both of you dancing with confidence or are you a little afraid that the spotlight will be on you? There are some songs that are easier to dance to while others might require you to practice a bit more.

We have emphasized many essentials, now let’s get to wedding dance songs that could possibly uplift your big moment.

Your First Dance: Top Wedding Dance Songs

1. “At Last” – Etta James

Why not go back to the beginning with a classic? “At Last” has been one of the most beloved first dance songs for decades—and for good reason. Its timeless elegance and emotional depth make it unforgettable, much like a piece of striking black and white wall art that never goes out of style and adds a touch of class to any setting.

The combination of orchestration and the bluesy power of Etta James make it one of the best wedding songs to dance to. If you want to set a timeless atmosphere, this is the one.

 Romantic first dance at wedding under soft lighting with the bride and groom sharing a quiet moment.

2. “Thinking Out Loud” – Ed Sheeran

This is the best choice for couples who want a trendy but still touching song. The lyrics focus on eternal love, thereby making it very suitable for a wedding. Additionally, it is a lovely ballad and it went smoothly for the first dance.

3. “You Are the Best Thing” – Ray LaMontagne

This song is an ideal pick if slow ballads are not your thing and you are seeking something a bit more lively. It conveys a soulful feeling, but the rhythm is that it makes one to feel like less than dancing. So, you can enjoy with this one while still holding it made.

4. “All of Me” – John Legend

Let’s switch to love songs. It’s one of the songs that most couple sing along to. The words are simple and emotional, and the piano-driven melody creates that perfect romantic atmosphere. Sharing the moment of the best wedding dance songs with your partner is what this song means to me.

5. “A Thousand Years” – Christina Perri

If you want something that will never age, “A Thousand Years” will make you feel all the right things. It’s slow, touching, and downright gorgeous. Those who want to announce their decision to stay forever, this track is the one to go.

Bride and groom laughing and enjoying the first dance at their wedding reception.

Upbeat Love Songs for Your First Dance

Some couples just don’t like slow songs. Some of them just want to show off their dancing. If you are looking for a little pep to add to your first dance and the crowd to be smiling,

here are a few upbeat love songs that will definitely do the trick.

6. “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” – Queen

What if you were both interested in something that was a bit playful? “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” by Queen would be a fun one.

With its rockabilly vibe, it is the perfect first dance that would be energetic but still romantic.

7. “Shut Up and Dance” – WALK THE MOON

This one is for those couples who during their first dance decides that they want to have the most amazing time possible.

The song is catchy and energetic for sure. If what you want is to have everyone getting off their seats, then this is the song that will help you to start your party.

8. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” – Whitney Houston

To begin with, this song is a great one that will make all people happy. Everyone sings along to Whitney’s song about dancing with the one you love and it sets a wonderful and festive atmosphere for the whole wedding night.

Country First Dance Songs

Please, if you are a country couple, you might be more inclined to pick a country wedding dance song.

There’s something special and authentic about country wedding songs that makes them the perfect choice for couples who want their big day to feel more real and less staged.

They bring heart, warmth, and sincerity—just like carefully picking out gifts for the woman who has everything, where it’s all about finding something meaningful and unforgettable.

9. “Bless the Broken Road” – Rascal Flatts

It is one of the most modern pieces to be used as a wedding song, namely “Bless the Broken Road”. It conveys the message of how all the detours in life led to their love. The song, quite emotional, fits the first dance perfectly if you are a fan of the country genre.

10. “Forever and Ever, Amen” – Randy Travis

For a more traditional country-style, the song “Forever and Ever, Amen” is definitely a highlight. The song tells a love story through an engaging rhythmic beat, and the lyrics are charming but not too sappy.

“Forever and Ever, Amen” is a perfect song for two people who are in love with country music, to play at their wedding.

First Dance Wedding Songs with a Classic Touch

This type of songs will never be out of place at a wedding. They’ve been part of many wedding repertoires simply because they have stood the test of time being emotional and always suitable for that perfect first dance.

11. “Unchained Melody” – The Righteous Brothers

Could there possibly be a more outstanding wedding song? The song “Unchained Melody” is one of the most well-loved songs to be performed at weddings, over the years. The emotional tone in the song together with the slow, soaring melody really makes it stand out for the first dance moment.

12. “Can’t Help Falling in Love” – Elvis Presley

Elvis is always a good option. The song appeals to the ear as smooth, lovely, and dreamy. That’s why it’s simple for the couples who desire a timeless classic to choose this one to be their first dance.

The Most Lovable First Dance Wedding Songs

The wedding song that you pick for your special day should be just as special as your love story. Don’t feel the necessity to stick to the typical paths. Try to choose a song that ignites that sensation within you.

Couple being cuddled by one another, wedding first dance, soft lights and romantic atmosphere surrounding.


FAQs

1. What are some popular wedding first dance songs?

The popular first dance songs at weddings are the timeless ones like “At Last” by Etta James, “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran, and “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne.

2. What are the best wedding dance songs?

The best wedding dance songs include “All of Me” by John Legend, “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri, and “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” by Queen.

3. What are good upbeat wedding dance songs?

If you want energetic songs like “Shut Up and Dance” by WALK THE MOON or “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston, then you came to the right place.

4. What are classic first dance songs?

The songs that have become a tradition in first dance at weddings are “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers and “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley.

5. What are country first dance songs?

Among the most beautiful country first dance songs are “Bless the Broken Road” by Rascal Flatts and “Forever and Ever, Amen” by Randy Travis.