77 Best Wedding Songs of All Time (Top Romantic Picks) - MG (2024)

Planning your wedding can be a daunting task. There are so many decisions that need to be made, and you want everything to go perfectly on the big day. One of the most important things is choosing songs for the ceremony and reception. Here are the absolute best wedding songs of all time, from old classics to new favorites, that will ensure people keep dancing at the party long after it’s over! The songs chosen will set the mood for guests and significantly impact how they feel about the wedding.

1. Here and Now – Luther Vandross

Here and Now is one of the most beautiful wedding songs out there. It was written by Charles White, Terry Steele, and David Elliot in 1989. This song is a classic, and it has been performed at many weddings over the years. While Luther Vandross is no longer with us, his music will live on forever.

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2. A Thousand Years – Christina Perri

Christina wrote the song basing it on the emotions she felt as she watched Twilight Saga. The song’s soundtrack is wedding themed making it great for wedding songs. The words express and bring out that full of love feeling. It became an international hit and reached number one on multiple charts. It also reached the top ten in many other countries, making it a worldwide sensation.

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3. Perfect – Ed Sheeran

This song is about wanting to spend the rest of your life with someone. Ed brings out the emotions perfectly with his strong vocals. It’s got a good beat and is one that people will be able to dance to.

Next: The top songs of all time (our list)

4. All Of Me – John Legend

The song’s words seem to talk about what happens in a wedding whereby couples give each other all of what makes them. The lyrics suggest that couples need to lean on each other in bad times and be there for one another.

Next: The top upbeat love songs for your wedding playlist

5. Better Together – Jack Jackson

Jack wrote the song for his wife, Sarah, whom he married in 1994. The lyrics hit home for many couples: “We’ve got a good thing goin’ on right now/ We’re walkin’ on our tip-toes/ And we’ve got the kind of love that lasts forever.”

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6. I Do (Cherish You) – 98 Degrees

98°’s pop-style love song “I Do (Cherish You)” appeared on their self-titled album. It’s a sweet song that croons the message, “The day I looked at you/ Something happened to my heart/ And I knew you were the one for me.”

7. I Will Always Love You – Whitney Houston

This song was written by Dolly Parton and is the second best-selling single of all time. The song topped the music charts twice and is now a pop-culture staple.

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8. You Are So Beautiful – Joe co*cker

Billy Preston wrote it, was initially recorded in 1974. It’s a song inspired by his love for his late mother, who died of cancer when he was young.

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9. Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran

Ed wrote the song for his then-girlfriend, but the couple split up a year later. The soulful lyrics are perfect for a wedding song, and the beats make up for the perfect first song as a couple.

Next: The best first dance songs for your wedding day

10. Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley

George Weiss wrote the song, and Elvis sang it for his grandmother. The words of the song are very romantic, making it an excellent choice for weddings.

11. Iris – The Goo Goo Dolls

The song features a mandolin solo played by guitarist Tim Pierce. The music has gained popularity as a wedding song because of its lyrics and the singers’ emotions when performing it.

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12. 10,000 hours – Justin Bieber ft Dan + Shay

It doesn’t matter how long it takes you to know a person, but things take a different turn once you decide they are the one. This song talks about the journey of falling in love and settling for the perfect partner. The duo teamed up with the Canadian singer to produce this wonderful song.

13. Your Song – Elton John

This was among the first songs of Elton John’s music career. He wrote it together with Bernie Taupin. It is an old song, but it remains popular till today, especially among couples getting married.

14. Adore You – Harry Styles

The song was first released as a part of the album, Fine Line. It’s been years since it came out, but you will still see many couples choosing it for their weddings.

15. At Last – Etta James

They wrote the song for a 1941 musical production. It was later released as a single and has been popular ever since. The lyrics are about finding your true love making it a popular wedding piece.

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16. Can’t Help Falling In Love – UB40

Elvis Presley originally sang the song. UB40 made their version of it and turned out to be even more popular than the original one. It performed well in the charts both in the US and the UK.

17. Stand By Me – Ben E. King

The song gave Ben a solid reputation as a solo artist after he left the Drifters. It was released in 1961 and remains popular today. It was no. 4 in the US and no. 27 in the UK. The words of the song are great for couples taking their vows during a wedding.

18. Never Tear Us Apart – INXS

The song was first released as a single in 1987. Many couples for their wedding love it, and you can’t go wrong with this one. There is something about the lyrics and melody that makes it perfect for a wedding.

19. Georgia On My Mind – Ray Charles

The song was released in 1960 from the album; Genius Hits the Roads. This is another old song that still makes many couples choose it for their weddings. The lyrics, though, are for Georgia State have a deep meaning attached to them, making it wedding friendly as well.

20. Truly Madly Deeply – Savage Garden

The song was initially released in Australia by pop-rock band Savage Garden, composed of Darren Hayes as vocalist and Daniel Jones on instruments. It became an international hit for the group in 1997, peaking at No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 in January 1998.

21. Someone To Watch Me Over – Chet Baker

The song’s lyrics are sung from the point of view of a man pledging to watch over his lover as she does the same. It is a meaningful song that could be taken as vows for a couple.

22. A Change Is Gonna Come – Sam Cooke

Initially written by American songwriter, civil rights activist, and businessman Sam Cooke, the song was later sung by such legendary artists as Ray Charles and Otis Redding. The lyrics spoke of a need for change in an unfair world and were performed by Cheap Trick and The Blind Boys of Alabama.

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23. I Don’t Wanna Miss A Thing – Aerosmith

The song was written by Diane Warren and performed with such acts as Celine Dion. The lyrics speak of longing to stay in the moment and remind a lover not to forget it.

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24. Something – The Beatles

The song is simple in its meaning but speaks volumes about a person’s longing for another, written by George Harrison.

Next: The best Beatles songs of all time

25. I’m Yours – Jason Mraz

The song is about accepting love and the possibilities it brings along. It was part of the album We Sing. We Dance. We Steal Things

26. Daring Night – Van Morrison

The song talks about the beauty of nature and the peace it can bring. It is part of Van Morrison’s A Sense of Wonder album, released in 1985.

27. This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) – Natalie Coles

This was part of Natalie Cole’s En Espanol album released in 1994. The lyrics consist of a pledge always to remember a relationship at the moments of its most incredible beauty.

28. All My Love – George Ezra

The song is all about loving someone forever. You will love this song, even if you haven’t met the person yet – when you do, you will know it’s true love, and that’s what weddings are all about.

29. Love Yourself – Justin Bieber

This is the perfect wedding song for people who are not sure they are ready for marriage but feel strongly about the person they want to marry. It’s a song about learning how to love yourself before loving someone else.

30. Your Song – Ellie Goulding

This is a sweet song about falling in love with someone and how you want to make them happy. It’s an excellent example of how love songs used to be more about making the person you’re with feel special and loved, instead of all about your feelings.

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31. Wherever You Will Go – Charlene Soraia

The song’s release was in 2011, but it quickly became a wedding staple. It is one of those songs that you can’t help but sing along with, and the lyrics are amazing. It’s a very romantic song that is perfect for the dance floor.

32. I Wanna Dance with Somebody – Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston has many great songs, but this is one of the best wedding ones. The lyrics are strong and will make guests want to dance all night long.

33. The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face – Roberta Flack

This song is so romantic, and it is for weddings. It will make everyone feel all warm inside. The lyrics are charming, and the piece is timeless.

34. Unchained Melody – The Righteous Brothers

This track is an oldie but a goodie! Deeply romantic and personal, Unchained Melody is perfect for connecting to your partner eternally, exactly what you should be doing on your wedding day.

35. Everything – Michael Bublé

This is an excellent song for the first dance if you want something that isn’t too over-the-top. The lyrics are charming, and it’s a great chance to show how much you love each other.

36. It Had To Be You – Harry Connick Jr.

This is one of the greatest songs ever. The lyrics are romantic, and it’s a favorite for brides to dance with grooms as the first dance at weddings. An achievement of making Mr. Right realize what a gem they have landed.

37. How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You) – James Taylor

The song’s lyrics commend how it feels to be loved by your partner and the impact they make in one’s life. This song was released in the year 1975 and has been a wedding hit since then.

38. How Long Will I Love You – Ellie Goulding

Mike Scott wrote the song of the Waterboys. The song was initially recorded in 1993 and later re-recorded for Ellie Goulding’s 2013 album Halcyon Days. The song was first released as a single in 2013 and received worldwide recognition.

39. The Best Day of My Life – American Authors

This song is an excellent choice for a first dance. It was nominated in the Best Song category at the iHeartRadio Music Awards, and it won an award for Best Modern Rock Song at the 2014 Billboard Music Awards. The song was initially released as a single in 2013 and later included on American Authors’ debut album, Oh, What a Life, in 2014.

40. Somebody That I Used to Know – Gotye featuring Kimbra

This is one of the most popular wedding songs of all time. The song was the most downloaded single on iTunes in 2011, and it won Best Pop Duo/Group Performance at the 2013 Grammy Awards. The song was initially released as a single in 2011, and it also appears on Gotye’s third studio album, Making Mirrors (2011).

41. We Found Love – Rihanna Featuring Calvin Harris

This song was the first single from Rihanna’s album, Talk That Talk (2011). It reached number one on 29 charts and won the Best Dance Recording award at the 2012 Grammy Awards. The song was written by Calvin Harris, Antony “Anton” Hillian, and Rihanna.

42. The Way You Look Tonight – Frank Sinatra

This song is a classic choice for a first dance. It was initially released in 1936, and it won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1936. Frank Sinatra is a notable artist who has covered this song multiple times. It is a timeless classic that will never go out of style.

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43. Just the Way You Are – Bruno Mars

This song was released in 2010 and reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The single remained at the top of that chart for four weeks. The song received nominations for Record of the Year, Song of the Year, and Best Pop Solo Performance at the 53rd Annual Grammy Awards. The song will be a great wedding song for years to come.

44. The Power of Love – Jennifer Rush

This song was initially released in 1985, and it reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1986. Jennifer Rush wrote the song. It is a beautiful song that will play at weddings for years to come.

45. Always and Forever – Heatwave

This romantic piece was written by Rod Temperton and became a number one hit for his band, Heatwave. Originally the song was intended as an album track, but it was so well received that it was released as a single.

46. Amazed – Lonestar

This song instantly hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and staying there for seven non-consecutive weeks. The song also came number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and was a major hit in Australia, reaching number three.

47. Wonderful Tonight – Eric Clapton

The song was released in 1977 as part of the album Slowhand. The song was written by Eric Clapton while waiting for his then-girlfriend to get ready. The song’s lyrics are a conversation between Clapton and his lover as she is getting ready for their date.

48. Weezer – Take On Me

An interesting pick for your wedding day could be Weezer’s “Take On Me”. Weezer’s cover is a great choice for a modern and contemporary wedding celebration, and can bring joy to the audience and your partner!

49. Marry You – Bruno Mars

This piece by Bruno Mars was released as a single in 2010. The song reached the top ten on multiple charts worldwide, including Australia, Ireland, and New Zealand. The song’s original intention was regret, but fans interpreted it differently and turned it into a wedding song.

50. I’ll Make Love To You – Boyz II Men

This song was released in 1994 for the album Cooley high harmony. The record company had a tough time getting the group to record a follow-up album, and so they took what they recorded for this one, made it better, and released it. The song was a huge hit and sold over four million copies in the US alone, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100.

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51. Love Song – Sara Bareilles

The singer wrote this song, initially for her band, but she chose to release it herself. The song reached number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and was a massive hit across multiple countries, being used for various television shows.

52. Wishing On A Star – Rose Royce

This disco song is a cover. Initially recorded by Rose Marie David for the 1976 album Love Spell, it became an international hit for this American band. The song reached number one in the US and eight other countries, including Australia.

Next: Top disco songs from all time

53. September – Earth, Wind and Fire

We are big fans of Earth, Wind and Fire here at Music Grotto. Their hit song September is a great choice for happy couples looking to have an electric dance at their wedding. We strongly consider this one of the top wedding songs to play for a joyous and beautiful wedding.

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54. Best Part – H.E.R ft. Daniel Caesar

This song is an excellent pick for the first dance at a wedding reception. It is sweet, romantic, and slow enough to give everyone chills. Not only is it a beautiful song, but the lyrics are perfect for newlyweds.

55. Make You Feel My Love – Adele

If you remember the first time that Make You Feel My Love by Adele came on? There was no way to contain your emotions. The lyrics are beautiful, and Adele’s voice is so sweet. It makes anyone cry, whether they want to or not. It is a perfect wedding song. It is slow and makes you feel the love that the bride and groom have for each other.

56. L-O-V-E – Nat King Cole

The song was originally an instrumental that was made into a song. Nat King Cole’s version is the most well-known, and it won a Grammy Award in 1958. In addition to being covered by many famous artists, this song has been featured on television shows and movies. It is a great wedding song, and we suggest that you play it at the reception, as everyone will love it!

57. Beyond – Leon Bridges

The words are sure to make any bride smile. It makes the list of best wedding songs ever. Beyond has a vintage feel with distinctive vocals and instrumentals that help make a memorable wedding. This is a great hit for the bride and groom to dance to, especially if they are looking for alternative or jazz music.

58. I’m In The Mood For Love – Ella Fitzgerald

Most people will agree that the wedding mood is always all about love and this song is a clear example of that. The song is originally from the 30s and was performed by many artists, but Ella Fitzgerald’s recording has always been the greatest. The song has the perfect themes for a wedding.

59. Come Away with Me – Norah Jones

The song depicts a calm and loving atmosphere and has been described as having a “dreamy” and “lullaby” like quality. During the wedding ceremony, it is often used for the bride’s entrance and is typically accompanied by the couple holding each other in a waltz-style dance.

60. From This Moment On – Shania Twain & Bryan White

The Canadian country music singer Shania Twain wrote and recorded this song for her third studio album, Come On Over (1997). It was produced by Lange, who wrote the song together with Twain. The lyrics of this song depict a couple pledging their devotion to each other, and a string orchestra supports the vocals.

61. Tonight I Celebrate My Love – Peabo Bryson & Roberta Flack

This song was written by Phil Galdston, Bill Straw, and Connie Kay. It is a ballad sung from the perspective of one half of a romantic couple, reassuring the other that they look forward to a bright future together. The song’s romantic theme makes it perfect for lovers in any occasion.

62. In Your Eyes – Peter Gabriel

This song was initially written and recorded by Peter Gabriel in the British romantic comedy film, Say Anything (1989). It is about “the feeling of loving someone” and the desire to protect them at all times. The song is great for lovers knowing that they are there for one another and what better occasion to affirm this than in a wedding.

63. The Power of Love – Frankie Goes To Hollywood

Frankie Goes later covered it to Hollywood, who released it as a single in 1984. The song has a bit of controversy but soared the charts clinching the top spot. It has excellent beats for a wedding match.

64. This Magic Moment – The Drifters

This song is like a movie the way it transports you into it’s own universe. It’s almost like you can see a camera filming lovers kissing. We believe you should choose this song for a great wedding day!

65. A Groovy Kind of Love – Phil Collins

The song was part of the album Buster and was released as a single in 1988. The song has been described by author James Arena as an “upbeat tune,” while author Fred Bronson described the song as having a “laid back feel.”

66. When You Love a Woman – Journey

Journey guitarist Neal Schon initially penned this classic tune for his then-girlfriend, now wife. It has since become a wedding staple for couples looking for a swoon-worthy tune to play as they walk down the aisle.

67. Because You Loved Me – Celine Dion

This is another love song from Celine Dion, this time as a dedication to her husband, Rene Angelil. While You Loved Me is the perfect song to play during the ceremony.

68. A Whole New World – Peabo Bryson and Regina Belle

The song is famous for being used in the Disney classic Aladdin. However, you should also note that this song is Peabo Bryson and Regina Belle’s first and only duet to date. It has stood the test of time and will continue to be a great wedding song.

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69. Kisses and Cake – John Powell

Journey guitarist Neal Schon initially penned this classic tune for his then-girlfriend, now wife. It has since become a wedding staple for couples looking for a swoon-worthy tune to play as they walk down the aisle.

70. Brown Eyed Girl – Van Morrison

Some stations banned the song, but that didn’t stop it from becoming one of Van Morrison’s biggest hits. This song is a staple at any wedding and will have people dancing all night long! The lyrics are simple and sweet, and it is a classic song.

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71. You to Me Are Everything – The Real Thing

The song was released in 1976 and reached number one on the U.K. Singles Chart. The song was a massive success throughout Europe and Australia, but it only managed to reach number 96 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1977, where it only stayed on the chart for a week.

72. Love On Top – Beyoncé

The song is perfect for emphasizing what couples need from each other. The lyrics are perfect for the wedding theme of love and desire. It’s no wonder that more than one couple has used “Love On Top” for their first dance at the reception.

73. Happy – Pharrell Williams

The song was composed by N.E.R.D. lead vocalist Pharrell Williams. The song was first released on the Despicable Me Soundtrack back in 2013 and was later included as part of Pharrell’s second studio album in 2013. The song debuted at number 1 on the charts in the U.S. and U.K. and has been a staple among weddings ever since.

74. Step in the Name of Love – R. Kelly

This song is great to dance to at a wedding and will get the guests excited as they try to match the moves of the song. The lyrics also depict a warm message and hence making it happy for a joyous occasion. This is one of the most incredible weddings songs of all time.

75. Don’t Stop Me Now – Queen

This is one of the most upbeat, happy, and exhilarating songs in the world. It is great to dance and sing along with at a wedding reception. The lyrics also show that love can last forever if the partners work hard for it.

76. If I Ain’t Got You – Alicia Keys

This is an excellent song with a strong message since when two people come together, they have each other, and she prioritizes one another. The song has excellent vocals that will have guests listening and paying attention.

77. I Wanna Be Your Lover – Prince

The beats of the song are very catchy and will have guests excited as they dance along. The lyrics are also positive, so it is an excellent song for a wedding reception where people are already happy and excited.