This is probably the most contentious and controversial of all our Top 10 Wedding Song lists! Choosing your first dance song is totally personal to each couple. Perhaps there was a song playing when your first met, or first kissed, or got engaged. However, if you’re totally stumped or would simply like some inspiration, we’re here to help.
We’ve tried to narrow down the thousands of classic and popular love-songs into the ten finest romantic ballads to be centrally featured at a wedding.
Shortly after starting the list we came to the inevitable realisation that the whole process is absolutely impossible – but we pressed on regardless. You are very welcome.
The list we’ve come up with is of course, completely subjective. There are hundreds of other superb ballads that could have made it, and we’re sure they will be some furious protests about those that we have inadvertently left out.
As we mentioned, of course your first dance song is personal to you and your partner and anything goes. It’s your wedding day after all! However, we’re here to provide you with a little inspiration and perhaps even remind you of a couple of songs you’d totally forgotten about.
Without further ado, let’s get in to our top ten first dance wedding songs…
Let’s Get It On – Marvin Gaye
Kicking thigs off we have Mr Marvin Gaye at his silky-smooth best. His velvet-textured voice really expresses a world of emotion in this slow jam.
Who is more fluent in the language of love than this incredible soul star! Although it might seem like an obvious choice for a first dance song, it’s a popular option for a reason. We can’t think of anyone better to start our list!
Nothing Compares To You – Sinaed O’Connor
This song is still remembered today by its hugely powerful video. The song isn’t half bad either!
Actually written by Prince, this hugely emotive song was a number one hit in 17 different countries! All we can say is, make sure your guests have some tissues at the ready.
I Will Always Love You – Whitney Houston
The title of the song says it all making it the perfect first dance song for a wedding. As the major track in the 1980’s smash hit movie ‘The Bodyguard’, this Whitney classic has hugely positive connotations and is great four couples who love a big dramatic ballad.
It’s a real showstopper song for the couple who will love being the centre of attention! Image you and your love gliding round a Ballroom surrounded by all of your friends and family to this absolute belter of a love song.
Your Song – Elton John
This is Elton John at his lyrical best. Your Song was re-popularised by its feature in the film ‘Moulin Rouge’. It rose to the charts again by the singer Ellie Goulding, and her version as the soundtrack to the tear-jerker John Lewis Christmas advert in 2010.
This beautiful ballad is a fabulous love-song no matter what version you choose. Clearly this number is standing the test of time as it just keeps coming back time and time again.
Love Me Tender – Elvis Presley
How can we leave The King of Rock‘n’Roll off this list? Elvis’ distinctive smoochy baritone really conveys the true meaning of this song. A great one for the Elvis fans amongst us.
This would also be a fantastic choice if you were planning a 1950s rock ‘n’ roll style wedding and would love a first dance song that complements the overall theme!
Let’s Stay Together – Al Green
“Loving you whether times are good or bad, happy or sad…” – It’s almost as if the song was specially written for a wedding day! This song is bursting with romantic phrases and beautiful love quotes.
Although this 1972 tune might not be one people immediately think of for their first dance song, it should definitely be a contender.
I Got You Babe – Sonny and Cher
It might be cheesy, but everybody secretly loves singing along to this 1965 smash hit! Those haunting oboe off beats… It’s also a beautiful duo, perfect for the occasion.
The beat would also make it a fabulous song to choreograph a little dance to. If you’re a couple who likes to do things a little differently or would like to take centre stage, make up a dance to this classic number!
I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing – Aerosmith
Rock God’s Aerosmith tone things down a bit for this romantic ballad but it’s still as passionate as ever. Both the lyrics and the tune are extremely powerful – expect a few tears from your nearest and dearest if you choose to have this one as your first dance song.
Iris – Goo Goo Dolls
Another wild card first dance song but we think it’s a great one. Not everyone will have heard Iris by the Goo Goo Dolls, but there is little doubting the emotion expressed in the lyrics.
A lovely romantic song without being too overbearing, it would be a great song dance into your new chapter to. We’re a big fan anyway. It makes for a lovely slow dance too!
All You Need Is Love – The Beatles
Of course, The Beatles had to make it onto this list somewhere. It might not be the easiest to dance to (1-2, 1-2, 1-2-3), but the sentiment of the song is +-perfect for a wedding!
Everything about this song is in the title, and what more do you need on your wedding day except love?
Any of these classic romantic ballads would be a suitable first dance song at a wedding. However, we are aware that many people choose their special song for very personal sentimental reasons – we’d love to hear what choice you made (or are making) for your big day.
Hopefully we may have even sparked some interest and inspiration for some of you! Take a look at all of the musicians on our website to find the perfect one to play your first dance song. Let us know if you’ve chosen one of these greats in the comment section below. And write down your chosen first dance song!
