Top 10 Wedding Songs for Your First Dance

When it comes to your wedding day, the first dance is a moment that you'll remember forever. It’s the moment when you and your partner step into your new life together, surrounded by love and joy. The song you choose for this dance is more than just a tune—it should speak to your heart and reflect the unique bond you share. As a musician who has seen firsthand the power of music at weddings, I wanted to share my personal top 10 wedding songs for your first dance. These are my picks, not in any particular order, but each one holds a special place in my heart.

1. "Can't Help Falling in Love" - Elvis Presley: This timeless classic has been a favourite for weddings for decades, and it’s easy to see why. With its slow, gentle rhythm and heartfelt lyrics, this song perfectly captures the feeling of falling deeply in love. It’s an iconic choice that never goes out of style.

2. "All of Me" - John Legend: One of the most popular first dance songs in recent years, “All of Me” speaks directly to the soul. John Legend’s heartfelt lyrics about loving someone with all your heart and soul make this song an emotional and powerful choice for any couple. It’s a modern classic that will stay with you long after the last note fades.

3. "Joy of My Life" - Chris Stapleton: If you're a fan of country music, “Joy of My Life” by Chris Stapleton is an ideal first dance song. The raw emotion in Stapleton’s voice and the sincerity of the lyrics create a truly beautiful moment. This song speaks to the depth of love and the joy of sharing a life together.

4. In Case You Didn't Know - Brett Young: Another country hit, “In Case You Didn’t Know” by Brett Young has quickly become a popular choice for weddings. The lyrics, which express how deeply someone can feel for their partner, are heartfelt and sincere, making this song perfect for a first dance that reflects pure love.

5. Stand by Me - Ben E. King: A true classic, “Stand By Me” has been a wedding favorite for years. The song’s simple, yet profound message about standing by each other through thick and thin resonates with many couples. It’s a timeless tune that never fails to bring emotion to the dance floor.

6. Perfect - Ed Sheeran: Ed Sheeran has an uncanny ability to write songs that feel personal and intimate, and “Perfect” is no exception. With its beautiful lyrics and romantic melody, it’s no wonder this song has become a wedding favorite. It’s a perfect choice for couples who want a song that speaks to the beauty of their love.

7. Hold My Girl - George Ezra: A more modern choice, “Hold My Girl” by George Ezra has a lovely, relaxed vibe that still carries a lot of emotional weight. It’s a song about holding onto the person you love and cherishing every moment with them—perfect for a first dance that feels intimate and heartfelt.

8. Better Together - Jack Johnson: For couples looking for something a little lighter and more upbeat, “Better Together” by Jack Johnson is an excellent choice. The song’s warm, feel-good vibe and sweet lyrics about how life is better when you're together make it a perfect option for a joyful first dance.

9. Lucky - Jason Mraz (ft. Colbie Caillat): “Lucky” is a sweet, uplifting song about two people who are fortunate to have found each other. Its light, catchy melody and lyrics about being in love with your best friend make it a delightful choice for a fun and romantic first dance.

10. Your Song - Elton John: Finally, no list would be complete without the classic “Your Song” by Elton John. Its simplicity and sincerity make it one of the most romantic songs ever written. Whether you’ve been a fan of Elton John for years or are just discovering his music, “Your Song” has a timeless charm that makes it an ideal first dance choice.

Choosing the right song for your first dance is an incredibly personal decision, and the most important thing is that it speaks to you and your partner. These are my personal top 10 first dance songs, and while they’re not ranked in any particular order, each one has a special meaning that resonates with love, joy, and commitment. Whether you’re drawn to the classic sound of Elvis Presley or the modern charm of Ed Sheeran, these songs offer a beautiful soundtrack to your unforgettable moment.

Thanks for reading, and I hope your wedding day is wonderful.

Written by Sam Sheridan.