Choosing the perfect first dance song for your wedding can be a daunting task. After all, this song will be the soundtrack to one of the most memorable moments of your life. But don’t worry, we’re here to help you narrow down your options and find the perfect song for you and your partner.
The Importance of Personalisation
When it comes to picking your first dance song, it’s important to remember that this is your special day, and the song should reflect you and your partner’s unique relationship. Whether it’s a song that holds special meaning to the two of you, or one that makes you both happy, the most important thing is that it feels personal.
1. Popular First Dance Song Choices
While it’s essential to personalize your first dance song, it can also be helpful to consider some of the most popular choices among couples. Some of the most popular first dance songs include “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley, and “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri.
2. Genre and Tempo
When choosing your first dance song, it’s also important to consider the genre and tempo of the song. A slow, romantic ballad will create a different atmosphere than a upbeat, upbeat pop song. Think about the type of dance you want, and choose a song that will set the right tone.
3. Consult the experts
If you struggle to find the perfect first dance song, consider consulting with a wedding DJ or band leader. 7 Entertainment can offer suggestions and help you choose a song that will fit the tone of your wedding and keep your guests dancing all night long. Check out our guide to planning a wedding.
Extensive List Of Popular First Dance Song Choices
Iconic Irish First Dance Songs
If you want to incorporate a touch of Irish culture into your first dance, consider the following list of iconic Irish tunes. These songs are perfect for setting the tone for a romantic and memorable first dance:
- Van Morrison – Have I Told You Lately
- Van Morrisson – Moondance
- Van Morrisson – Days Like This
- Van Morrisson – Perfect Fit
- James Vincent McMorrow – Higher Love
- James Vincent McMorrow – Hear the Noise that Moves so Soft and Low
- The Fureys – When You Were Sweet Sixteen
- Sinead O’Connor – You Do Something to Me
- Hozier – Cherry Wine
- Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova – Falling Slowly
- Thin Lizzy – My Sarah
- The Frames – Star Star
- Snow Patrol – Chasing Cars
- Rory Gallagher – Just the Smile
- Declan O’Rourke – Galileo
- Lisa Hannigan – Lille
- Luka Bloom – You Couldn’t Have Come at a Better Time
- Christy Moore – The Voyage
- Cathy Davey – Sing for Your Supper
- Ash – Shining Light
- Ash – Oh Yeah
- Ash – Girl From Mars
- Kodaline – Brand New Day
- Kodaline – Perfect World
- Little Green Cars – The John Wayne
- Villagers – The Pact
- Bell X1 Eve – The Apple of my Eye
- Damien Rice – Cannonball
- U2 – All I Want is You
- U2 – The Sweetest Thing
These songs are a mix of traditional Irish tunes and more modern songs that have an Irish feel to them. From Van Morrison’s classic “Have I Told You Lately” to Kodaline’s “Brand New Day,” there’s a song on this list for every couple.
Classic Love Songs
When it comes to first dance songs, classic love songs are always a great choice. These timeless hits have stood the test of time and continue to be popular among couples. Some classic love songs that make great first dance choices include:
- “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
- “Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole
- “I Can’t Stop Loving You” by Ray Charles
- “I Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley
- “The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra
- “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” by Frankie Valli
- “As Long as You Love Me” by The Beatles
- “My Girl” by The Temptations
- “Love Me Tender” by Elvis Presley
- “Ain’t That a Kick in the Head” by Dean Martin
Modern Love Songs
For couples who prefer a more modern vibe, there are plenty of contemporary love songs that make great first dance choices. Some modern love songs that are popular among couples include:
- “All of Me” by John Legend
- “Marry You” by Bruno Mars
- “I Choose You” by Sara Bareilles
- “I Don’t Dance” by Lee Brice
- “Can’t Stop” by Red Hot Chili Peppers
- “Love on the Brain” by Rihanna
- “I Will Follow You Into the Dark” by Death Cab for Cutie
- “A Sky Full of Stars” by Coldplay
- “Hold My Hand” by Jess Glynne
- “I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz
Country Love Songs
For couples who love country music, there are plenty of country love songs that make great first dance choices. Some popular country love songs include:
- “God Gave Me You” by Blake Shelton
- “Die a Happy Man” by Thomas Rhett
- “My Best Friend” by Tim McGraw
- “I Don’t Dance” by Lee Brice
- “Love Story” by Taylor Swift
- “You’re Still the One” by Shania Twain
- “I Cross My Heart” by George Strait
- “Love on the Inside” by Sugarland
- “Then” by Brad Paisley
- “She’s Everything” by Brad Paisley
Rock First Dance Songs: Drum Solos Included!
When it comes to choosing a first dance song, many couples opt for more traditional, slow-paced ballads. However, if you’re looking for something a bit more upbeat and rock-oriented, we’ve got you covered. Here is a list of popular rock first dance songs that are sure to bring energy and excitement to your special day:
- “November Rain” by Guns ‘n’ Roses
- “Everlong” by Foo Fighters
- “Time of Your Life” by Greenday
- “Would Do Anything for Love (radio edit)” by Meat Loaf
- “I Belong to You” by Muse
- “Starlight” by Muse
- “Invincible” by Muse
- “You’re my Best Friend” by Queen
- “Love of my Life” by Queen
- “Today” by Smashing Pumpkins
- “Tonight Tonight” by Smashing Pumpkins
These rock songs are perfect for couples who want to add a bit of energy and excitement to their first dance. They are also great for those who want to make their first dance memorable with a touch of rock music. Remember to also consider the genre and tempo of the song to make sure it matches the atmosphere of the wedding and to make it more enjoyable for your guests.
Alternative/Indie Romantic First Dance Songs
- Lana Del Ray – Young & Beautiful
- Bright Eyes – First Day of my Life
- Iron and Wine – Naked as We Came
- Jose Gonzalez – Heartbeats
- Cat Power – See of Love
- Dire Straits – Romeo & Juliet
- Tom Waits – Little Trip To Heaven (on The Wings Of Your Love)
- Yazoo – Only You
- Paolo Nutini – Candy
- Fyfe Dangerfield – She’s Always a Woman
- Slow Club – When I Go
- Bon Iver – Skinny Love
- Birdy – Wings
- The Lumineers – Ho Hey
- The Oh Hellos – Hello My Old Heart
- Nick Drake – Northern Sky
- Coldplay / Johnny Cash – Til Kingdom Come
- Death Cab for Cutie – I Will Follow You into the Dark
- Fleetwood Mac – Need Your Love so Bad
Our List Of Uplifting and Energetic First Dance Songs
Some couples want a happy, upbeat first dance that excited everyone for the night ahead. Here are some uplifting and energetic first dance song options to consider:
- The Beatles – All You Need is Love
- The Kinks – Waterloo Sunset
- The La’s – There She Goes
- The Postal Service – Such Great Heights
- The Rapture – Love is All
- The Turtles – Happy Together
- Take That – Shine
- Take That – Greatest Day
- Tom Baxter – Better
- Wannadies – You & Me Song
- Arcade Fire – Crown of Love
- Arcade Fire – Everything Now
- Barry Manilow – Can’t Smile Without You
- Brian Wilson – God Only Knows
- Elbow – One Day Like This
- ELO – Mr. Blue Sky
- Edward Sharp & The Magnetic Zeros – Home
- Flaming Lips – Do You Realize?
- Fleetwood Mac – You Make Lovin’ Fun
- Madness – It Must Be Love
- Nina Simone – My Baby Just Cares for Me
- Polyphonic Spree – Light and Day
- Sigur Rós – Hoppípolla
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect first dance song for your wedding can be a daunting task, but with this comprehensive list of popular choices, you’ll be sure to find the perfect song for you and your partner. Whether you prefer a classic love song, a modern hit, or a country love ballad, the key is to choose a song that you both love and that sets the right tone for your special day. Remember also to consider the genre and tempo of the song to make sure it matches the atmosphere of the wedding and to make it more enjoyable for your guests. To make your wedding a blast, get in touch with 7 Entertainment for all your wedding entertainment and wedding music needs.
