15 of the best first dance songs

When it comes to first dances, a lot of couples have their song that they’ll instinctively go to; you know, that one that will always hold a symbolic, romantic and nostalgic meaning for them. But what if you don’t have a specific song? Don’t worry. The Eleventh Agency is here to help, after all, we’ve successfully planned so many weddings here in Bali that we have these songs playing in our dreams. So let’s raise a glass to newly-weds the world over with our pick of the 15 Top First Dance Wedding Songs.

1. At Last – Etta James

Now this is no surprise entry to the list. A classic blues melody to play at any wedding, this song tells the story of finding that one true love and emotions that come along with it. You might remember Beyonce singing this as Barak and Michelle Obama took their first dance as President and First Lady of the USA.

2. Can’t Help Falling In Love – Elvis Presley

A wedding without The King? Unthinkable! “I Can’t Stop Falling in Love” has become one of Elvis’s most popular and romantic songs. The ballad is all about not being able to resist the feeling of love and falling head over heels for that one person, making it a perfect song for your first dance.

3. Your Song – Elton John

Not only is “Your Song” the ultimate love song but it’s steady beat and guitar-based instrumentals makes it a great first dance song. How can you go last the line “How wonderful life is while you're in the world”?

4. Come Away With Me – Norah Jones

This is the perfect song for those with romantic hearts and two left feet. Its easy beat and soft vocals are sure to make more than a few eyes in the crowd a little misty.

5. Lucky – Jason Mraz Ft. Colbie Caillat

Getting a little more upbeat now, it’s hard for “Lucky” not to pull at some heart strings yet its light-hearted and cheerful tune will get everyone feeling merry. I mean it’s a wedding, if you can’t make your guests cry and be happy at the same time something is wrong.

6. All Of Me – John Legend

As a modern classic, “All of Me” quickly became a favourite for weddings everywhere. John Legend’s smooth voice, the simple piano and with lines like “you’re my end and my beginning” you can’t go wrong.

7. Everything I do – Bryan Adams

First hitting the charts in 1991, this Bryan Adams song quickly became the first dance song for many weddings of the day, but it’s popularity hasn’t waivered. It’s a go to song for many couples and we understand why.

8. You’re My Best Friend – Queen

How about going for a fun, upbeat song and an unforgettable first dance with some Queen. You’re marrying your best friend right? It’s also a great song to set the mood for the dancing to follow.

9. Fly Me To The Moon – Frank Sinatra

No first dance list is complete without Ol’ Blue Eyes himself. For those of you that want to show off your dancing skills this song fits the bill.

10. Happy – Pharrell Williams

Now this funky little number is for those of you that don’t necessarily want to be traditional and have the dance floor to yourselves for your first dance as Husband & Wife. What better way to get everyone up and shaking their booties with you than with a little Pharrell Williams?

11. I Wanna Dance With Somebody – Whitney Houston

What’s an 80’s dance song doing on the list? Well one, it’s fun and upbeat, and two, it’s the perfect song to let your guests know that the seriousness of the ceremony is over and now it’s time to party. And have you heard the lyrics?

12. Time After Time – Cyndi Lauper

This one continues to surprises us, especially with some of our younger couples, but with Cindy Lauper singing with such raw emotion and lyrics that recommit your love for each other it really shouldn’t be a surprise.

13. As Time Goes By – Casablanca

Going back to the classics now, and it’s from one of the most classic movies of all time – Casablanca. It’s smooth, it’s classy, and it’s a great song to waltz around the floor. We can guarantee you’ll get a thumbs up from the grandparents.

14. What a Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong

Everyone knows this song, and some soulful crooning from Louis is a great way to kick off the evening. This song literally portrays how a world with your loved one is wonderful.

15. Unchained Melody – The Righteous Brothers

Singlehandedly the most popular song on our list…..and for good reason. This is the ultimate first dance song. But most don’t end up dancing, they stand in each others arms, listening to the lyrics and staring into each others eyes. We know the tissues need to be on hand as there wont be one dry eye in the house.

A first dance song is as unique and as individual you are. You can use this list as inspiration, add a couple of tunes to your playlist for the night, or you can choose something that fits your style. There is one thing for sure, a first song is guaranteed to get you (and your guests) all up in their feels on your wedding day.