Keen to find the top first dance songs to help create the perfect wedding playlist? You’re in the right place! We’ve rounded up the 25 most popular first dance songs, based on our Engagement Report, featuring insights from over 3,500 engaged couples planning their weddings.
What makes a good first dance song?
Picking the perfect first dance song is an important decision, as it sets the tone for a memorable moment that you and your partner will cherish for years to come. While personal preferences obviously play a significant role, there are plenty of other factors to consider.
1. Meaningful lyrics
A good first dance song should ideally feature lyrics that resonate with you and your partner, and celebrate your unique love story. Whether it’s a classic ballad or contemporary hit, the words should mean something to you and say something about your shared journey and love.
2. Timeless appeal
You can’t go wrong with a timeless classic. It’s a classic for a reason, and is guaranteed to have enduring appeal beyond the day of your wedding itself, aging gracefully
3. Beautiful melodies
A beautiful melody sets the perfect tone for your first dance. Whether it’s a slow and soulful ballad or an uplifting tune, it should be captivating and create a seamless, romantic backdrop.
4. Personal connection
The best first dance songs are the ones that truly resonate with the couple. Whether it’s a song tied to a special moment in your relationship or simply one you both love, a personal connection makes the dance even more meaningful.
5. Danceability
Obviously a good first dance song needs to be one you can dance to! While slow ballads may be traditional, and work well for slower waltzes, you can also consider a song with a lively and upbeat rhythm to inject a little celebratory energy into your first dance.
6. Versatility
Choosing a song that accommodates different dance styles can make sure you feel comfortable and confident on the dance floor. A truly versatile song allows for a slow, romantic dance or a more lively and playful performance, depending on your personal preferences of course.
7. Emotional resonance
A good first dance song evokes genuine emotions. Whether it’s the tender lyrics of a ballad or the infectious energy of an upbeat track, the song should create a powerful emotional connection, making the dance a truly moving experience for you and your guests.
8. Cultural significance
Some couples may choose a song that holds cultural or sentimental significance. It could be a song that represents your heritage, reflects your shared values, or is a part of your family traditions.
9. Artist diversity
Beyond just the first dance song, choosing a diverse mix of artists for the reception ensures a variety of musical styles and voices. This keeps the playlist dynamic, caters to different tastes, and adds depth to the overall wedding atmosphere.
10. Memorable instrumentation
The right instrumentation can make a first dance truly magical. Whether it’s the gentle strumming of a guitar, the soulful notes of a piano, or the rich arrangement of a full band, the music should complement the song’s mood and enhance the moment.
What are the top first dance songs?
The top 25 first dance songs blend timeless classics with modern hits, with Elvis Presley continuing to stand out, especially among male vocal ballads and country tracks.
Leading the list is “Can’t Help Falling In Love” by Elvis Presley, likely seeing renewed popularity following the 2022 Elvis biopic. Ed Sheeran, Shania Twain, and Elton John each have two songs in the top 25, proving their lasting influence.
Male vocal ballads are a strong trend, with James Arthur, Lewis Capaldi, Biffy Clyro, and Clinton Kane among the top choices for first dances.
Country music is also gaining momentum, with Luke Combs and Lonestar ranking as favourites.
These insights are based on a survey of over 3,500 engaged couples currently planning their weddings.
Check out the full list below, ranked by popularity.
1. “Can’t Help Falling In Love” – Elvis Presley
Taking the coveted top spot is the timeless classic, “Can’t Help Falling In Love”, by Elvis Presley. This ballad, a staple at weddings for decades, seems to have experienced somewhat of a revival following the 2022 biopic ‘Elvis.’ The lyrics, “Wise men say only fools rush in, but I can’t help falling in love with you,” encapsulate the profound emotion that accompanies the union of two souls.
2. “Perfect” – Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran, a maestro of modern romance, claims the second spot with “Perfect.” The song’s sweet melodic tones and heartfelt lyrics make it a perennial favourite for couples seeking a contemporary yet sentimental first dance track, so it’s no surprise to see it ranking so highly this year.
3. “Stand By Me” – Ben E. King
A true classic, Stand By Me by Ben E. King holds the third spot. Its soulful harmonies and timeless message of unwavering love and support make it a perfect choice for couples stepping onto the dance floor for their first dance as newlyweds.
4. “The One” – Kodaline
Kodaline’s “The One” takes the fourth spot, delivering a heartfelt melody and lyrics that celebrate the deep connection between two people. The chorus, “You make my heart feel like it’s summer when the rain is pouring down,” perfectly captures the feeling of enduring and uplifting love.
5. “Lover” – Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift’s “Lover” graces the fifth position, blending a retro vibe with modern romance. The lyrics, “Ladies and gentlemen, will you please stand? With every guitar string scar on my hand, I take this magnetic force of a man to be my lover,” celebrate the joy of finding a lifelong partner.
6. “Baby I’m Yours” – Arctic Monkeys
Arctic Monkeys’ “Baby I’m Yours” brings a touch of indie coolness to the list, offering a refreshing alternative for couples seeking a unique and memorable first dance experience.
7. “All Of Me” – John Legend
John Legend’s soulful ballad All of Me takes the seventh spot, offering a heartfelt declaration of love. With lyrics like “Cause all of me loves all of you, love your curves and all your edges, all your perfect imperfections,” it resonates deeply with couples celebrating each other’s uniqueness.
8. “Say You Won’t Let Go” – James Arthur
James Arthur’s “Say You Won’t Let Go” holds the eighth position, offering a tender and soul-stirring narrative of love and commitment that endures through the passage of time.
9. “Beautiful Crazy” – Luke Combs
Country music takes centre stage with Luke Combs’ “Beautiful Crazy,” claiming the ninth spot. The song’s country charm and sincere lyrics make it a stand-out choice for couples wanting a more rustic and heartfelt first dance, that still has all the feels.
10. “At Last” – Etta James
Etta James’ classic “At Last” takes the tenth spot, offering a soulful and elegant choice for couples looking for a timeless and sophisticated first dance. The lyrics, “My love has come along, my lonely days are over,” beautifully capture the joy of finding a soulmate.
11. “Amazed” – Lonestar
Lonestar’s “Amazed” holds the eleventh spot, delivering a country-infused ballad that expresses the overwhelming emotion of finding a unique love that leaves you truly in awe.
12. “You’re Still The One” – Shania Twain
Landing in the twelfth spot, Shania Twain’s “You’re Still The One” brings its signature country charm to the list. With its heartfelt lyrics and enduring message of lasting love, it’s a perfect choice for couples reaffirming that, no matter the years gone by, they’re still each other’s one true love.
13. “Pointless” – Lewis Capaldi
Lewis Capaldi’s “Pointless” claims the thirteenth spot, adding a touch of melancholy and introspection to this list. The song’s emotional depth makes it a compelling choice for couples seeking a more contemplative first dance experience.
14. “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” – Elton John
Elton John takes the thirteenth spot with “Can You Feel The Love Tonight.” This iconic ballad, with its enchanting melody and heartfelt lyrics, creates a romantic atmosphere that perfectly captures the joy and tenderness of newfound love.
15. “Better Together” – Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson’s “Better Together” secures the fifteenth spot, offering a laid-back and feel-good vibe for couples who appreciate a more relaxed atmosphere for their first dance.
16. “Thinking Out Loud” – Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran makes a second appearance with “Thinking Out Loud” in the sixteenth spot. The song’s romantic and danceable rhythm makes it a popular choice for couples seeking to strike a balance between both the modern and the timeless for their first dance.
17. “From This Moment” – Shania Twain
Shania Twain’s classic “From This Moment” takes the seventeenth spot, echoing the sentiments of enduring love and commitment that are perfect for a first dance number.
18. “Space” – Biffy Clyro
Biffy Clyro’s “Space” takes the eighteenth spot, standing out from traditional ballads with its alternative rock sound. In the artist’s own words, the song is about returning to someone and realising nothing has changed. Its unique energy makes it a compelling choice for couples with more eclectic tastes.
19. “Simply The Best” – Tina Turner
Tina Turner’s timeless anthem, “Simply The Best”, secures the nineteenth spot, exuding confidence and a real celebration of love. Its upbeat tempo and empowering lyrics make it an ideal choice for couples ready to kick off their first dance and marriage with flair.
20. “Everlong” – Foo Fighters
The Foo Fighters’ “Everlong” lands in the twentieth spot, bringing alternative rock to the list. With its dynamic energy and classic rock ‘n’ roll spirit, it’s a perfect choice for couples looking to add a touch of early 2000s nostalgia to their first dance.
21. “Dancing In The Moonlight” – Toploader
Toploader’s “Dancing In The Moonlight” claims the twenty-first spot, providing a fun and carefree atmosphere for couples who want to celebrate their love with a lively and upbeat dance.
22. “Your Song” – Elton John
Elton John’s “Your Song” secures the twenty-second spot, which showcases this artist’s ability to craft timeless melodies and poetic lyrics that resonate across generations.
23. “Still Into You” – Paramore
Paramore’s “Still Into You” secures the twenty-third spot, bringing a burst of pop-punk energy to the list. With its upbeat tempo and playful lyrics, it’s a fresh and spirited choice for couples looking for a lively, non-traditional first dance.
24. “I Guess I’m In Love” – Clinton Kane
Clinton Kane’s “I Guess I’m In Love” claims the twenty-fourth spot, providing a modern and soulful choice for couples who appreciate the emotive power of contemporary R&B.
25. “How Long Will I Love You” – Ellie Goulding
Start creating your wedding playlist now!
As couples step onto the dance floor, these diverse first dance songs will be serving as the soundtrack to their unique love stories. From the timeless allure of Elvis Presley to the contemporary charm of Ed Sheeran to the soulful notes of country music, the top 25 first dance songs are sure to feature on many a couple’s wedding playlist this year and beyond!
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Happy Planning!
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