The Perfect Melody

The Perfect Melody: Top 20 First Dance Songs for Your Wedding

Photo Credit: Muiread Kelly Photography

Glenn Burke | 06 July 2023

Your first dance is more than a song — it’s a moment that marks the beginning of the night and sets the emotional tone for the celebration ahead. Whether you want something timeless, modern, soulful or completely unique to your story, choosing the right track helps create a memory you’ll hold onto for years.

To make things easier, I’ve put together a list of the top 20 first dance songs — a mix of classics, contemporary favourites and meaningful choices that suit a wide range of couples and styles. These songs are guaranteed to hit the heartstrings and help you create a moment that feels truly your own.

1. "Thinking Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran:

Ed Sheeran's romantic ballad has become a modern wedding anthem. With its heartfelt lyrics and melodic charm, "Thinking Out Loud" is a popular choice for couples who want a contemporary yet timeless song for their first dance.

2. "At Last" by Etta James:

This timeless classic has been a favourite among couples for decades. Etta James' soulful voice combined with the heartfelt lyrics beautifully capture the joy of finding true love, making it a perfect choice for your first dance.

3. "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis Presley:

Elvis Presley's iconic love song has stood the test of time. Its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a popular choice for couples who want a sentimental and romantic first dance that will transport them to a bygone era.

4. "A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri:

Made famous by its appearance in the Twilight movie series, "A Thousand Years" is a beautiful and emotional song that perfectly captures the feeling of eternal love. Its sweeping melody and heartfelt lyrics will surely leave a lasting impression.

5. "Unchained Melody" by The Righteous Brothers:

This 1965 classic has remained a favourite for first dances throughout the years. The haunting melody and emotionally charged lyrics make "Unchained Melody" a captivating choice that will create a truly magical moment on your special day.

6. "You Are the Best Thing" by Ray LaMontagne:

If you're looking for an upbeat and joyful tune, "You Are the Best Thing" is an excellent choice. Ray LaMontagne's soulful voice and the song's infectious rhythm will have you and your partner dancing with pure happiness.

7. "Make You Feel My Love" by Adele:

Adele's rendition of Bob Dylan's "Make You Feel My Love" is a heartfelt and tender love song that will resonate with your guests. The emotional depth of Adele's voice combined with the song's beautiful lyrics will surely leave everyone in awe.

8. "Marry Me" by Train:

With its sweet, heartfelt lyrics, "Marry Me" by Train is a popular choice for couples who want a modern and romantic first dance song. It's a beautiful declaration of love that perfectly captures the essence of a wedding day.

9. "Fly Me to the Moon" by Frank Sinatra:

For a touch of classic elegance, "Fly Me to the Moon" is an excellent choice. Frank Sinatra's smooth and velvety voice combined with the song's timeless melody will transport you and your partner to a romantic era.

10. "All of Me" by John Legend:

John Legend's soulful and passionate ballad, "All of Me," has become a contemporary wedding favourite. Its combination of emotional lyrics, melodic beauty, strong vocals, timelessness, and popularity all contribute to its appeal as a first dance song for many couples.

11. "Marry You" by Bruno Mars:

An upbeat and cheerful song that captures the excitement and spontaneity of wanting to get married.

12. "Amazed" by Lonestar:

This country ballad is a declaration of awe and admiration, perfect for expressing the love and adoration felt by newlyweds.

13. "Stand by Me" by Ben E. King:

A true classic that embodies unwavering support and love, symbolising the commitment of a lifetime.

14. "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" by Aerosmith:

A powerful rock ballad that embodies the desire to savour every moment and create lasting memories with a loved one.

15. "Everything" by Michael Bublé:

This smooth and jazzy love song expresses the sentiment that the world revolves around the one you love.

16. "Stand by Your Man" by Tammy Wynette:

A classic country hit that speaks to the steadfastness and loyalty a partner can offer, taking vows seriously throughout life's ups and downs.

17. "From This Moment On" by Shania Twain:

Shania Twain's warm and empowering vocals carry the message of commitment and love that endures through all circumstances.

18. "Close to You" by The Carpenters:

This sweet, sentimental tune serves as a reminder of how love brings two hearts closer, creating a closer bond.

19. "Lucky" by Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat:

This upbeat duet captures the magic of finding love and feeling fortunate to have each other.

20. "The Way You Look Tonight" by Tony Bennett:

Tony Bennett's smooth vocals and the timeless beauty of this song make it a classic choice for a magical first dance.

Let’s Clear Up a Few Things

What is the first dance at a wedding?

The first dance is really just a moment for the two of you to be together before the night properly begins. It’s your first dance as a married couple — a chance to slow down, breathe, and share something that’s just yours before everyone else joins the floor.

It’s usually the last moment your photographer captures, so it’s worth making it a good one.

What kind of music works best for a first dance?

There’s no “right” genre. Some couples go for a classic love song, others choose something modern, and some pick a track that means something personal even if it’s not traditionally romantic.
The best first dance song is the one that feels like you — not the one that appears on the most lists.

When does the first dance usually happen?

Most weddings do the first dance after dinner, just before opening the floor.
It flows naturally: speeches → meal → first dance → party.
But every wedding runs differently, and venues each have their own rhythm — so the timing is completely flexible.

How long should a first dance song be?

Most first dance songs are around 2–4 minutes, but there’s no rule.
If the full track feels a bit long, I can create a clean edit so it ends exactly where you want — smoothly and naturally, without cutting it abruptly.

Do we need to follow any traditions?

Not at all. Some couples dance the whole song, some invite family in halfway through, and some skip the first dance entirely.
It’s your day — the only thing that matters is that it feels comfortable and true to you.

Photo Credit: Muiread Kelly Photography

Choosing your first dance song is really about finding a track that feels right for the two of you. It sets the tone for the moment, but it doesn’t have to be a traditional classic unless that’s what you love. Pick something that means something — a song that reflects your style, your story, or a memory you share.

Don’t feel limited to the usual love songs. If an unexpected artist, genre or even a movie soundtrack feels more “you,” then that’s the one. This is your moment together before the night kicks off, so choose a song that makes you feel connected and present. The right track is simply the one that fits your relationship.

If you’d like help choosing the perfect first dance song — or want advice on how to shape the soundtrack for your entire evening — I’m always happy to chat.

Let's talk