January 3, 2025

The Best Wedding Songs for 2025

The first dance is a cherished wedding moment, and the song choice sets the tone for this intimate, unforgettable experience. As trends evolve, couples often look to a mix of timeless classics and contemporary hits to reflect their personal stories. Here’s a look at some potential top first dance songs of 2025 and why they resonate:

1. “Golden Hour” by JVKE

A dreamy and emotive ballad, this song’s ethereal tones and romantic lyrics make it a timeless choice. Its popularity continues to grow, thanks to its universal appeal and modern feel, perfect for couples looking for something contemporary yet meaningful.

2. “Until I Found You” by Stephen Sanchez

This retro-inspired track is a blend of vintage charm and heartfelt lyrics, appealing to couples who value authenticity and nostalgia. Its slow tempo and raw emotion create an intimate atmosphere for a first dance.

3. “Flowers” by Miley Cyrus (Acoustic Version)

While the original is an anthem of independence, an acoustic version transforms it into a heartfelt melody about resilience and love, appealing to couples who appreciate a modern twist on traditional themes.

4. “You Are the Reason” by Calum Scott & Leona Lewis

A duet full of heartfelt lyrics and soaring harmonies, this track embodies commitment and devotion. Its poignant message makes it a favorite among couples wanting to express their deep emotional connection.

5. “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran (2025 Remastered)

Already a classic, any new rendition or remaster would likely dominate first dance playlists. Its universal appeal and lyrical sincerity make it a staple choice for weddings across the globe.

6. “All of Me” by John Legend (Live 2025 Version)

This timeless ballad remains a favorite, and a fresh live version could bring renewed interest. Its pure expression of love resonates deeply, making it a perfect first dance choice.

7. “Yours” by Conan Gray

A rising star in pop, Conan Gray’s ballads capture vulnerability and romance. This song’s modern and poetic lyrics make it a standout for couples seeking a fresh yet emotional choice.

Why These Songs Work for 2025 Weddings

Timeless Appeal: Songs like “Perfect” and “All of Me” continue to resonate due to their universal themes and emotional depth.
Personal Connection: Couples choose songs that reflect their journey, with lyrics that tell their unique love story.
Blending Old and New: Modern tracks with classic undertones, like “Until I Found You,” appeal to a wide range of tastes, combining nostalgia with contemporary style.

As 2025 unfolds, the top first dance songs will reflect a blend of tradition, personal meaning, and modern trends, creating the perfect backdrop for couples’ unforgettable moments.

How to Choose the Perfect Wedding Music

Music sets the tone for every wedding, from the emotional entrance to the high-energy dance floor. Crafting the perfect wedding day soundtrack is essential for creating unforgettable memories. Here are some wedding music ideas and wedding playlist tips to help you plan a day that reflects your love story.

How to Make an Entrance

Your wedding entrance is a defining moment, and the music you choose can make it even more memorable. Some of the best wedding entrance songs, like Canon in D Major or The Wedding March, create a dramatic and elegant atmosphere. For something different, an old-school soul song can add a unique and heartfelt vibe, ensuring your entrance is personal and meaningful.

To Choose a Theme, or Not Choose a Theme?

Themes can guide your wedding’s overall look and feel, but they’re not for everyone. A great piece of advice is to stick to the best version of the wedding you envision. If you want a traditional wedding, go all in with traditional wedding music and classic touches like a church ceremony, a timeless dress, and orchestral music. If your setting is less conventional, such as a beach, opt for modern wedding music and a cohesive style—romantic and breezy—avoiding mismatched elements like an organ on the sand.

Mixing is Good!

A diverse wedding playlist ensures everyone at your wedding finds something to enjoy. Mixing wedding music genres helps cater to different tastes and keeps your guests engaged. With guests spanning different generations and tastes, blending genres can bring everyone to the dance floor. Start with mellow, inclusive tunes for dinner and cocktails, and gradually introduce more upbeat tracks as the evening progresses. This strategy ensures a dynamic musical journey for all.

Know the Basics

When planning your wedding reception music, always prepare more music than you think you’ll need. For a drinks reception lasting two hours, have at least three hours of music ready. Most songs range from three to five minutes, so aim for 15-20 tracks per hour to avoid awkward silences.

Transitioning from Day to Night

Live music is a fantastic way to energize your wedding after dinner. Consider live wedding band ideas or a DJ wedding playlist to transition from day to night seamlessly. A live band can get everyone moving and set the stage for late-night celebrations. If your budget doesn’t stretch to a full band, a DJ with live elements—like percussion, horns, or vocalists—can create an equally engaging experience.

Celebrate That First Dance Moment

Your first dance song is deeply personal, whether it’s a slow ballad or a lively dance track. For inspiration, check out top first dance songs 2025 for both classic wedding songs and modern wedding hits. If you’re torn, consider asking your DJ to create a remix or medley. Popular choices include slow songs for weddings like “All of Me” by John Legend or high-energy tracks like “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire, which combine sentimentality and fun.

Slow Songs for Weddings:

All of Me – John Legend
Cherish the Day – Sade
You’re My Best Friend – Queen
You’re All I Need to Get By – Marvin Gaye, Tammi Terrell
All I Do – Stevie Wonder

Dance Songs for Weddings:

All That I’m Giving – Gwen McCrae
Only You – Steve Monite
This Must Be the Place – Talking Heads
Kiss – Prince
Never Gonna Let You Go – Tina Moore

Make It a Surprise

Adding a touch of surprise to your music lineup can elevate the party. Disco hits for weddings, like “Lost in Music” by Sister Sledge or upbeat classics like David Bowie’s “Let’s Dance”, are guaranteed crowd-pleasers. Other favorites include “Freed From Desire” by Gala and Marvin Gaye’s “Got to Give It Up.” These tracks bring energy and fun to the dance floor.

How to Plan Wedding Music: The Not-To-Do List

While it’s essential to guide your DJ, avoid overloading your playlist with slow or overly niche tracks. Balance is key—too many mellow songs can drain energy, while over-reliance on hits can feel predictable. Unique wedding music ideas and a thoughtful blend of classic wedding songs can make your playlist shine. Don’t shy away from classics but ensure a good mix to keep guests engaged and dancing all night.

By following these tips, your wedding music will be the perfect soundtrack to a day filled with love, joy, and unforgettable memories.