100+ Best First Dance Songs for Your Wedding

How to Choose Your First Dance Song

Choosing the right first dance songs can feel like one of the biggest decisions of your wedding day—it’s the soundtrack to your first official moment together as a married couple. Whether you’re going for timeless and emotional or upbeat and unexpected, the goal is to pick something that feels like you. Here’s how to narrow it down.

Start with Meaning

Think about the songs that connect to your story—maybe the track playing during your first date, your road trip playlist, or something that’s always made you both smile. A song becomes unforgettable when it carries emotion and shared history.

Match Your Vibe

Decide what kind of atmosphere you want to create. Do you want your first dance to be a slow, romantic moment that makes guests tear up—or a joyful, high-energy opener that gets everyone ready to dance? Your song sets the tone for the rest of the night.

Think Logistics

A practical rule: aim for 2 minutes and 30 seconds to 3 minutes and 30 seconds. That’s long enough for photos and video without dragging on. Also, consider how easy the rhythm is to sway or dance to—songs that are too fast or irregular can be tricky if you’re not choreographing.

Make It Yours

Your DJ can help personalize your version of the song. Trim a verse, extend the chorus, or mix in a meaningful lyric from another track. Acoustic versions or live covers can also create a fresh, intimate feel that’s uniquely yours. Wedding personalization is something we pride ourselves on at One of a Kind Events.

Talk to Your DJ

Your wedding DJ is your partner in making this moment perfect. Discuss the song’s key, tempo, and any transition into open dancing. They can even edit the song so your photographer catches the perfect dip right on cue—or fade it seamlessly into your party playlist.

Editor’s Quick Picks (Top 15)

Here’s a cross-genre “start here” list of first dance songs our DJs love recommending—each with a reason it works.

• Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley (Timeless, instantly recognizable, emotional but elegant.)

• At Last – Etta James (The definition of classic romance.)

• Perfect – Ed Sheeran (A modern standard couples can easily sway to.)

• Joy of My Life – Chris Stapleton (Warm, soulful, and perfect for country fans.)

• All of Me – John Legend (Heartfelt lyrics that feel like vows in song form.)

• The Way You Look Tonight – Frank Sinatra (Smooth swing rhythm that never goes out of style.)

• Lover – Taylor Swift (Modern fairytale with emotional lyrics.)

• You Are the Best Thing – Ray LaMontagne (Soulful, upbeat, and crowd-pleasing.)

• Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran (Dance-lesson friendly and deeply romantic.)

• By Your Side – Sade (Velvety smooth and intimate.)

• I Won’t Give Up – Jason Mraz (Gentle acoustic sincerity—perfect for singer-songwriter fans.)

• Make You Feel My Love – Adele (Powerful vocal with cinematic emotion.)

• Lucky – Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat (A playful duet with charm and warmth.)

• Fly Me to the Moon – Frank Sinatra (Swingable and elegant—ideal for vintage vibes.

Classics & Standards

Timeless, elegant, and forever in style—these 15 first dance songs are the soundtracks of romance for generations.

• Unforgettable – Nat King Cole (Elegant and sentimental.)

• The Way You Look Tonight – Frank Sinatra (Charming and graceful.)

• At Last – Etta James (Soulful perfection.)

• What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong (Heartwarming and optimistic.)

• L-O-V-E – Nat King Cole (Playful and classy.)

• Fly Me to the Moon – Frank Sinatra (Sophisticated swing.)

• Unchained Melody – The Righteous Brothers (Dramatic and emotional.)

• Dream a Little Dream of Me – Doris Day (Sweet and nostalgic.)

• Can’t Take My Eyes Off You – Frankie Valli (Charming and joyful.)

• Come Away With Me – Norah Jones (Smooth and romantic jazz influence.)

• Cheek to Cheek – Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong (Old-school, flirty, and fun.)

• For Sentimental Reasons – Ella Fitzgerald (Timeless and heartfelt.)

• Moon River – Andy Williams (Graceful and cinematic.)

• Something – The Beatles (Tender and poetic.)

• The Glory of Love – Jimmy Durante (Classic lyrics that still resonate today.)

Modern Pop Favorites

These first dance songs define today’s weddings—modern, emotional, and easy to dance to.

• Perfect – Ed Sheeran (Still the most requested first dance song worldwide.)

• All of Me – John Legend (Lyrics that feel like personal vows.)

• Make You Feel My Love – Adele (A soulful powerhouse moment.)

• Lover – Taylor Swift (Dreamy and romantic, ideal for slow choreography.)

• Adore You – Harry Styles (Playful and affectionate.)

• Mirrors – Justin Timberlake (Smooth, romantic pop energy.)

• Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran (Steady tempo, easy for non-dancers.)

• Photograph – Ed Sheeran (Sentimental and nostalgic.)

• How Long Will I Love You – Ellie Goulding (Short, sweet, and cinematic.)

• Halo – Beyoncé (Powerful vocals with deep emotional punch.)

• Yours – Russell Dickerson (Warm and country-pop crossover appeal.)

• 10,000 Hours – Dan + Shay & Justin Bieber (Country-pop blend perfect for modern couples.)

• Better Together – Jack Johnson (Laid-back and heartfelt.)

• Forever Like That – Ben Rector (Joyful and fresh—great for upbeat couples.)

• Anyone – Justin Bieber (Contemporary pop ballad made for the spotlight.)

R&B & Soul

If you’re dreaming of smooth vocals, emotional lyrics, and timeless romance, these R&B and soul songs deliver every time. From classics to modern favorites, this genre is all about connection, warmth, and that deep, unmistakable groove.

• If I Ain’t Got You – Alicia Keys (Elegant and heartfelt, built for slow dancing.)

• At Last – Etta James (Soulful perfection for the spotlight moment.)

• Let’s Stay Together – Al Green (Smooth, classy, and endlessly romantic.)

• You Send Me – Sam Cooke (Simple, vintage, and sincere—perfect for old souls.)

• Ain’t No Mountain High Enough – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell (Energetic and iconic, especially for duets.)

• Adorn – Miguel (Modern R&B with sensual rhythm and confidence.)

• All My Life – K-Ci & JoJo (’90s nostalgia with a slow, soulful beat.)

• Be Without You – Mary J. Blige (Powerful vocals that tell a story of loyalty and love.)

• Superstar – Usher (Modern slow jam with emotion and energy.)

• By Your Side – Sade (Lush, intimate, and effortlessly timeless.)

• Differences – Ginuwine (Perfect for a romantic, emotional moment.)

• How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You) – James Taylor (Classic crossover that brings joy to every crowd.)

Country

Country songs bring heartfelt lyrics and emotional storytelling to the dance floor. Whether you love acoustic charm or modern pop-country hits, these songs make your love story feel personal and grounded.

• Joy of My Life – Chris Stapleton (A soulful country favorite with genuine warmth.)

• Forever and for Always – Shania Twain (Tender and timeless—perfect for swaying.)

• It’s Your Love – Tim McGraw & Faith Hill (Romantic duet that captures pure chemistry.)

• Forever After All – Luke Combs (Modern country ballad built for wedding moments.)

• Deeper Than the Holler – Randy Travis (Classic and deeply emotional.)

• 10,000 Hours – Dan + Shay & Justin Bieber (A smooth crossover hit for pop-country fans.)

• God Gave Me You – Blake Shelton (Faith-inspired and full of gratitude.)

• I Don’t Dance – Lee Brice (Simple, heartfelt lyrics about love’s surprises.)

• Speechless – Dan + Shay (Perfect blend of pop production and country romance.)

• Butterflies – Kacey Musgraves (Whimsical, romantic, and beautifully written.)

• If You’re Reading This – Tim McGraw (Poetic and powerful storytelling.)

• Peter Pan – Kelsea Ballerini (Bittersweet and melodic—great for couples who love something reflective.)

Indie & Alternative

If you want something a little unexpected, these indie and alternative first dance songs capture emotion in a way mainstream hits often can’t. They’re poetic, raw, and deeply personal—perfect for couples who want their moment to feel authentic.

• First Day of My Life – Bright Eyes (Gentle and intimate.)

• Honeybee – The Head and the Heart (Sweet, lighthearted, and full of charm.)

• Turning Page – Sleeping at Last (Soft, cinematic, and breathtaking.)

• Holocene – Bon Iver (Atmospheric and emotional.)

• The Luckiest – Ben Folds (Unique and lyrically beautiful.)

• Flightless Bird, American Mouth – Iron & Wine (Delicate and unforgettable—“Twilight” made it iconic.)

• Dog Days Are Over – Florence + The Machine (Joyful and energetic ending to a heartfelt first dance.)

• Green Eyes – Coldplay (Calm, romantic, and deeply personal.)

• Home – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros (Playful and instantly recognizable.)

• Sea of Love – Cat Power (Dreamy and intimate cover of the classic.)

• Grow As We Go – Ben Platt (A modern ballad about love’s evolution.)

• Work Song – Hozier (Soulful and powerful with a hauntingly romantic tone.)

Rock & Soft Rock

These first dance songs blend emotional lyrics with rich instrumentals and just enough edge. They’re for couples who love a classic sound but still want something with a little movement and texture.

• Your Song – Elton John (A timeless love letter in melody form.)

• Wonderful Tonight – Eric Clapton (Soft rock gold for slow dances.)

• Something – The Beatles (Romantic and musically perfect.)

• Just the Way You Are – Billy Joel (Sincere lyrics that feel like vows.)

• Iris – Goo Goo Dolls (Epic and emotional, perfect for dramatic lighting.)

• Everything I Do (I Do It For You) – Bryan Adams (’90s anthem that never loses meaning.)

• You’re My Best Friend – Queen (Simple, joyful, and crowd-pleasing.)

• Ho Hey – The Lumineers (Rustic and charming.)

• Dreams – Fleetwood Mac (Laid-back groove for an elegant dance.)

• Time After Time – Cyndi Lauper (Pop-rock balance that hits every heartstring.)

Acoustic & Cover Versions

Acoustic and cover first dance songs often sound more personal—less “radio” and more “us.” They strip the music down to its emotional core, giving your dance an intimate, live-performance feel.

• Can’t Help Falling in Love – Haley Reinhart (Breathy, soulful, and cinematic.)

• You Are the Best Thing – Us The Duo (Upbeat and beautifully harmonized.)

• Home – Edith Whiskers (Modern, viral favorite with nostalgic charm.)

• This Must Be the Place – Iron & Wine (Folky and reflective.)

• Better Together – Boyce Avenue (Smooth and heartfelt acoustic cover.)

• Latch (Acoustic) – Sam Smith (Emotionally raw and stripped down.)

• Simply the Best – The Hound + The Fox (Gentle and unique.)

• Your Song – Ellie Goulding (Cover) (Ethereal and romantic.)

• Thinking Out Loud – Matt Johnson (Cover) (Soft acoustic rendition for a warmer tone.)

• A Thousand Years – James Arthur (Cover) (Rich vocals and modern warmth.)

Upbeat & Fun Choices

If you want your first dance songs to kick off the party, these upbeat tracks strike the perfect balance between fun and heartfelt.

• You Make My Dreams – Hall & Oates (Instant joy—guaranteed to get smiles.)

• I’m Yours – Jason Mraz (Free-spirited and full of warmth.)

• This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) – Natalie Cole (Retro, energetic, and endlessly fun.)

• You’re My Best Friend – Queen (Perfect for couples who laugh as much as they love.)

• How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You) – James Taylor (Sweet and familiar, a feel-good groove.)

• Love On Top – Beyoncé (Playful energy and powerhouse vocals.)

• Sugar – Maroon 5 (Modern pop energy with romantic lyrics.)

• Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Queen (A rockabilly twist on true love.)

Short & Sweet (<3 Minutes)

Short and sweet first dance songs are perfect when you want a powerful moment without overstaying it. These tracks make an impression fast, keeping your dance natural and photo-friendly.

• La Vie En Rose – Emily Watts (Elegant and under 3 minutes.)

• You and I – Ingrid Michaelson (Playful and charming—1:55 runtime.)

• Sweet Creature – Harry Styles (Soft and sentimental.)

• Sea of Love – Cat Power (Dreamy and perfectly brief.)

• Love Me Tender – Elvis Presley (Romantic and classic.)

• Grow Old With Me – Tom Odell (Simple and sweet.)

• Your Song – Ellie Goulding (Cover) (Light and graceful.)

• Can’t Help Falling in Love – Haley Reinhart (Cover) (2:55 of perfection.)

Unique / Left-Field Gems

Looking for something that no one else will pick? These unique first dance songs stand out for their emotion, artistry, and individuality. They’re ideal if you want your moment to feel truly one of a kind.

• Green Eyes – Coldplay (Warm and introspective.)

• The Luckiest – Ben Folds (Emotional and poetic—impossible to forget.)

• XO – John Mayer (Soulful and modern reinterpretation.)

• Honeybee – The Head and the Heart (Lighthearted and charming.)

• Grow As We Go – Ben Platt (Heartfelt message about love’s journey.)

• Heaven’s Knife – Josh Garrels (Underrated acoustic beauty.)

• Beautiful Stranger – Halsey (Soft, emotional, and modern.)

• Once In A Lifetime – Landon Austin (Sweet, uplifting, and romantic.)

Tips: Timing, Edits, Choreo, and Floor Flow

When it comes to first dance songs, the details matter as much as the song itself. The right timing, lighting, and flow can elevate your dance from a simple moment to a cinematic highlight of your night. Here’s how to get every element right.

Length: Keep It Short and Sweet

Aim for 2 minutes and 30 seconds to 3 minutes and 30 seconds. It’s long enough for your photographer to capture the emotion, but short enough to keep guests engaged. If your favorite song runs long, trim a verse or shorten the outro—your DJ can handle that easily.

Custom Edit: Build the Perfect Moment

Ask your DJ to create a custom edit that fits your entrance and dance style. Start with a subtle intro swell for your grand entrance, and time the first chorus around the 45-second to 1-minute mark. This keeps the moment cinematic and ensures your photos align with the most emotional part of the song.

Tempo & Key: Match Your Comfort Zone

Don’t overthink musical perfection. A slightly slower tempo can make the song easier to dance to, and your DJ can adjust this without losing quality. Always choose a key and pace that feel comfortable for both of you—confidence looks better than complexity.

Dance Lesson Strategy

You don’t need to be a professional dancer to look amazing. Just two or three lessons are enough to help you move naturally and confidently. Plan a simple dip or spin for your photo moment—these small details photograph beautifully and add a touch of elegance.

Run of Show: When to Dance

Traditionally, the first dance happens right after the grand entrance, before dinner is served. However, many couples now prefer to do it after dinner, as a way to transition into the open dance floor. Either option works—what matters most is the flow of energy for your guests.

DJ Coordination: Bring the Magic Together

A great first dance is as much about the atmosphere as the music. Coordinate with your DJ to sync up lighting cues, spotlight transitions, and optional effects like dry ice (for a cloud-like floor), low fog, or cold sparks (if venue-approved). These effects turn your dance into an unforgettable moment—one that feels truly cinematic.

FAQs

These are the most common questions couples ask our DJs about first dance songs, choreography, and timing.

When should the first dance happen?

Traditionally, it takes place right after the couple’s grand entrance. Some couples, however, prefer to dance later in the evening after dinner or speeches—it all depends on your flow and the energy of the night.

How long should our first dance be?

Between 2½ and 3½ minutes is ideal. It gives you enough time to enjoy the moment without dragging on.

Can we use an upbeat first dance song?

Absolutely. Your first dance doesn’t have to be slow or traditional. Upbeat songs can make the moment fun, lively, and unexpected—and your DJ can mix it to transition perfectly into the next track.

What if our favorite song is too long?

Your DJ can create a custom edit, trimming extra verses or instrumentals so the song hits all the emotional moments without overstaying its welcome.

Do we need choreography or lessons?

Not necessarily. A few lessons can help build confidence, but what matters most is feeling connected. Even a natural sway can look beautiful when you’re enjoying yourselves.

Can our DJ make a clean custom edit or mashup?

Yes. Our wedding DJs specialize in custom remixes, mashups, and shortened edits—ensuring your first dance fits your timing, theme, and personality.

How do lighting and effects elevate the moment?

Lighting creates focus and mood. Effects like low fog, spotlights, or cold sparks make your first dance feel magical and unforgettable for you and your guests.

What are good first dance songs under 3 minutes?

Some great shorter picks include:

• “La Vie En Rose” – Emily Watts

• “You and I” – Ingrid Michaelson

• “Sweet Creature” – Harry Styles

• “Sea of Love” – Cat Power

• “Love Me Tender” – Elvis Presley

Conclusion

Your first dance deserves a song that feels timeless to you. Whether you choose a classic ballad, an upbeat pop hit, or a soulful R&B track, the right song will make that moment unforgettable. With the right DJ, custom edits, and lighting touches, your first dance songs become more than background music—they become the soundtrack to the start of your forever.