The Best Songs For a First Dance create lasting memories, setting the perfect mood for a couple’s special moment.
From timeless classics to modern hits, the first dance songs capture the unique love story of each couple.
This post will guide you through a list of beautiful tracks that make any first dance unforgettable.
Whether you’re looking for something soulful, upbeat, or traditional, these selections offer something for every style and taste.
Get ready to find the song that feels just right for your perfect day.
1. “Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green (1971) – Perfect Soul Song For a First Dance
About this song:
- Album: Let’s Stay Together
- Released: 1971
- Artist: Al Green
- Genre: Soul
- Key Lyric: “Ooh, baby, let’s, let’s stay together. Lovin’ you whether.”
“Let’s Stay Together” is a timeless classic by Al Green, first released in 1971 and capturing a spirit of enduring love.
Known for its soulful melody, the song emphasizes a deep commitment, making it a heartfelt choice for newlyweds.
Al Green wrote it during a time of personal and musical growth, aiming to inspire unity and devotion.
Its soothing rhythms and heartfelt lyrics make it ideal for couples who want their first dance to reflect a message of lasting love.
With its smooth, emotional delivery, “Let’s Stay Together” resonates deeply, creating a romantic ambiance on the dance floor.
2. “The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra (1964) – Best Jazz Song For a First Dance
About this song:
- Album: Days of Wine and Roses, Moon River & Other Academy Award Winners
- Released: 1964
- Artist: Frank Sinatra
- Genre: Jazz, Holiday
- Key Lyric: “With each word, your tenderness grows. Tearing my fear apart.”
“The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra, recorded in 1964, is a smooth jazz ballad that has charmed couples for decades.
Written by Jerome Kern and Dorothy Fields, this song reflects on the beauty of a loved one, perfect for an intimate first dance.
Sinatra’s gentle delivery and the song’s classic feel make it ideal for a romantic wedding atmosphere.
It has been cherished for its ability to express admiration and warmth, encapsulating the emotion of seeing one’s partner on such a special day.
For couples seeking a timeless, elegant start to their marriage, “The Way You Look Tonight” is a beautiful choice.
3. “All of Me” by John Legend (2013) – Recommended R&B Song For a First Dance
About this song:
- Album: Love in the Future
- Released: 2013
- Artist: John Legend
- Genre: R&B, soul, pop
- Key Lyric: “’Cause all of me loves all of you. Love your curves and all your edges.”
In “All of Me,” John Legend created a modern love anthem in 2013, inspired by his relationship with his wife, Chrissy Teigen.
This soulful ballad reflects the beauty of love’s imperfections, celebrating the commitment between two people.
Legend’s heartfelt lyrics and piano-driven melody make it an intimate choice, perfect for a meaningful first dance.
The song captures the essence of vulnerability and acceptance, making couples feel seen and understood.
“All of Me” has quickly become a wedding favorite, offering an honest and tender moment on the dance floor.
4. “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley (1961) – Awesome Pop Song
About this song:
- Album: Blue Hawaii
- Released: 1961
- Artist: Elvis Presley
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “Like a river flows. Surely to the sea.”
“Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley, released in 1961, is a classic love song that remains a popular choice for first dances.
Written by Hugo Peretti, Luigi Creatore, and George David Weiss, the song conveys the inevitability of love.
Elvis’s warm, tender vocals bring out the romantic message, making it a touching track for wedding celebrations.
The timeless melody and lyrics about surrendering to love make this song universally cherished by couples.
With its gentle rhythm, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” creates a moment of connection and warmth on the dance floor.
5. “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran (2017) – Remarkable Pop Song For a First Dance
About this song:
- Album: ÷
- Released: 2017
- Artist: Ed Sheeran
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “Baby, I’m dancin’ in the dark with you between my arms. Barefoot on the grass while listenin’ to our favourite song.”
“Perfect” by Ed Sheeran, released in 2017, became an instant hit for couples looking for a romantic first dance song.
Sheeran wrote it as a personal tribute to his own love story, adding authenticity and warmth to the lyrics.
The song’s melody, combined with lyrics about love’s simple joys, makes it ideal for creating an intimate wedding atmosphere.
Its message of finding someone who feels just right resonates deeply, especially for newlyweds starting their journey together.
“Perfect” remains a go-to choice for its sweet, genuine expression of love that resonates beautifully on the dance floor.
6. “Make You Feel My Love” by Adele (2008) – Stunning Folk Rock Song
About this song:
- Album: 19
- Released: 2008
- Artist: Adele
- Genre: Folk rock, Pop
- Key Lyric: “I know you haven’t made your mind up yet. But I will never do you wrong.”
“Make You Feel My Love” by Adele, a cover of Bob Dylan’s original, was released in 2008 and resonates with heartfelt sincerity.
Adele’s rendition brings a soulful touch to the classic lyrics, making it a popular choice for romantic occasions.
Written during a time when Dylan was reflecting on love’s depth, the song explores the lengths one would go for someone special.
Its simple, poetic lyrics and Adele’s powerful vocals create an atmosphere of unwavering devotion.
This song’s gentle melody and emotional message make it ideal for couples wanting a profound, tender first dance.
7. “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran (2014) – Excellent Soft Rock Song For a First Dance
About this song:
- Album: ×
- Released: 2014
- Artist: Ed Sheeran
- Genre: Blue-eyed soul, soft rock
- Key Lyric: “So honey, now, take me into your lovin’ arms. Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars.”
In “Thinking Out Loud,” Ed Sheeran delivers a modern classic, filled with timeless promises of enduring love.
Written during a period of Sheeran’s own romantic journey, the song reflects his hope for a love that withstands time.
Its lyrics describe a love that remains steady and true even as one grows older, making it a touching first dance choice.
The song’s gentle rhythm and poetic expressions create a warm, inviting atmosphere that resonates with newlyweds.
With a message of everlasting commitment, “Thinking Out Loud” brings an emotional richness perfect for a memorable first dance.
8. “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri (2011) – Wonderful Pop Song
About this song:
- Album: The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn — Part 1: Original Motion Picture Soundtrack
- Released: 2011
- Artist: Christina Perri
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “I have died every day waiting for you. Darling, don’t be afraid.”
“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri captures the anticipation and enduring hope of love, inspired by the Twilight series in 2011.
The song’s lyrics evoke a timeless devotion, making it a moving choice for couples looking to express deep connection.
Written during Perri’s reflection on love’s timeless nature, it speaks to those who feel they’ve waited their whole life for this moment.
Its emotional depth and sweeping melody set a beautiful scene for couples stepping into their journey together.
The gentle build-up and heartfelt words make it a song that’s perfect for a romantic, cinematic first dance.
9. “At Last” by Glenn Miller (1942) – Ideal Jazz Song For a First Dance
About this song:
- Album: Glenn Miller Sound
- Released: 1942
- Artist: Glenn Miller and his Orchestra
- Genre: Pop, jazz
- Key Lyric: “At last my love has come along. My lonely days are over.”
“At Last” by Glenn Miller and his Orchestra, first performed in 1942, has become an iconic anthem of love fulfilled.
The song’s origin as a jazz standard reflects the romance and elegance of a bygone era, yet its appeal endures.
With themes of long-awaited love and happiness, it’s a wonderful choice for couples celebrating the joy of finally being together.
Its orchestral arrangement adds a touch of sophistication, setting an intimate and elegant mood.
For a classic, enchanting first dance, “At Last” offers a timeless sound that resonates with love’s triumph.
10. “Your Song” by Elton John (1970) – Amazing Soft Rock Song
About this song:
- Album: Elton John
- Released: 1970
- Artist: Elton John
- Genre: Traditional pop, soft rock
- Key Lyric: “And you can tell everybody. This is your song.”
“Your Song” by Elton John, released in 1970, is a heartfelt ode that speaks to the simplicity of genuine love.
Elton John wrote this classic during the early days of his career, bringing forth innocence and earnestness in the lyrics.
The song’s melody is as tender as its words, making it a deeply personal choice for couples looking to celebrate their love.
Its lyrics express love without grand gestures, focusing instead on sincerity, which resonates with many couples.
“Your Song” captures the sentiment of wanting to give someone a special moment, making it ideal for an authentic, meaningful first dance.
Conclusion
Choosing the Best Songs For a First Dance adds a personal and unforgettable touch to your wedding day.
These songs create moments you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Whether classic or contemporary, each track sets the stage for a beautiful start to your journey together.
Let your first dance reflect the love and joy you share as a couple.
Make your choice, and get ready to dance into your future with a song that speaks to your heart.