If you're planning a wedding, choosing the right music is key to ensuring your guests have a memorable time. Luckily, there are plenty of wedding reception songs out there that are guaranteed to be a hit with everyone. Whether you're looking for classic dance floor hits to get your guests moving or romantic slow songs for those special moments, we've got you covered. Check out these 10 wedding reception songs that never fail.
When it's time to hit the dance floor, you can't go wrong with these timeless hits:
- I Want to Dance with Somebody by Whitney Houston – This upbeat classic is a must-play for any dance floor.
- September
- Don't Stop ‘Til You Get Enough by Michael Jackson – Michael Jackson's music is always a hit, and this is one of his most danceable tunes.
For those special moments on the dance floor, these romantic songs are perfect:
- At Last by Etta James – This classic song has been the soundtrack to many first dances and never gets old.
- You Are the Best Thing by Ray LaMontagne – This modern classic is a beautiful choice for a slow dance.
- Can't Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley – Elvis's romantic ballad is a timeless choice for a wedding reception slow dance.
Get everyone involved with these upbeat singalong hits:
- Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond – Get everyone singing along to the catchy chorus of this classic hit.
- Livin' on a Prayer by Bon Jovi – This high-energy rock anthem is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Don't Stop Believin' by Journey – This beloved song might be the ultimate singalong hit and will have everyone belting out the chorus.
With these 10 wedding reception songs, you can ensure that your guests have a night to remember. From dance floor classics to sentimental slow songs and group singalong hits, there's something for everyone. So turn up the volume, hit the dance floor, and celebrate your special day with the perfect soundtrack.
Dance Floor Classics
If you want to get everyone up and dancing at your wedding reception, you can't go wrong with dance floor classics. These timeless hits have been getting people moving for years and are sure to be a hit at your reception, no matter what your guests' ages or tastes in music.
When it comes to dance floor classics, it's all about creating a fun and energetic atmosphere. You can keep the party going all night long with these timeless hits.
- September has been featured in several films and TV shows, including “The Simpsons” and “The Internship.”
- The song's catchy chorus and iconic opening line, “Do you remember the 21st night of September?” make it an unforgettable addition to any wedding reception playlist.
I Want to Dance with Somebody
If you want to get everyone on the dance floor, playing Whitney Houston's hit song “I Want to Dance with Somebody” is a surefire way to do it. This upbeat classic has a catchy chorus that's impossible not to sing along to. The energy and enthusiasm of this song are infectious and will have guests of all ages shaking their hips and singing at the top of their lungs. When the trumpet sounds at the beginning of the song, you know it's time to get on the floor and dance.
Whitney Houston's iconic voice and pulsating beats will keep the party going all night long. Whether you're a fan of '80s music or not, you can't deny the appeal of this timeless hit. “I Want to Dance with Somebody” is a must-play at any wedding reception, and it's sure to be a highlight of the night. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to party with Whitney.
- Genre: Pop
- Year: 1987
- Album: Whitney
by Whitney Houston
“I Want to Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston is a song that never fails to get people up and dancing. Its upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics make it a perfect choice for any dance floor. It's a classic '80s hit that still resonates with people today, and everyone knows the chorus, making it an easy song for guests to sing along to.
Not only is this song guaranteed to get the party started, but it's also a feel-good anthem that inspires joy and happiness. When the opening notes of “I Want to Dance with Somebody” start playing, guests will feel the energy in the room shift, and they won't be able to resist getting up and joining in on the fun.
If you're looking for a song to get everyone up and grooving, “I Want to Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston is an absolute must-play. It's a tried and true dance floor classic that has stood the test of time, and it's sure to be a hit at any wedding reception.
I Want to Dance with Somebody by Whitney Houston
What better way to kick off the dance floor than with this classic hit from Whitney Houston? The upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics will have everyone moving and grooving in no time. Whether you're a fan of 80s music or not, I Want to Dance with Somebody is a song that will never fail to get people on their feet.
And it's not just the catchy beat that makes this song a wedding reception staple. The lyrics are also perfect for a celebration of love and happiness – “I wanna feel the heat with somebody, yeah, with somebody who loves me”. So if you want to create a lively and festive atmosphere at your reception, make sure to add I Want to Dance with Somebody to your playlist.
Need help creating your wedding reception playlist? No worries. Use this list of guaranteed hits as a starting point and get ready to dance the night away!
- Don't Stop ‘Til You Get Enough by Michael Jackson
September
If you're looking to create a playlist that will have all of your guests dancing, September should definitely be on the top of your list. It's a timeless classic that has been enjoyed for decades and will continue to be enjoyed for many more.
At Last by Etta James
This beautiful track is a sentimental favorite and one of the most popular slow dance songs at weddings. The soulful, sultry vocals of Etta James combined with the smooth and romantic melody make it the perfect choice for a couple's first dance. Whether it's a classic ballad from the past or a modern favorite, sentimental slow dances are a timeless part of any reception. Another favorite song for the first dance is Ray LaMontagne's “You Are the Best Thing”. With its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, it's sure to tug at the heartstrings of everyone in the room.
For those who want to mix things up a bit, consider playing Elvis Presley's “Can't Help Falling in Love”. This song is a classic that appeals to all generations, and its romantic lyrics make it a perfect choice for a slow dance. With its gentle and soothing melody, it's sure to put everyone in the mood for love.
No matter what your taste in music is, there's no denying that slow dances are a classic and essential part of any wedding reception. They give couples a chance to pause and reflect on their love while celebrating with family and friends. So, whether you choose a classic ballad or a modern hit, make sure to create a special moment that you'll never forget.
Don't Stop ‘Til You Get Enough
If you're looking for a surefire way to get your guests dancing at your wedding reception, “Don't Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” by Michael Jackson is an excellent song choice. Released in 1979, this disco classic has remained a popular dance floor hit for over four decades. With its irresistible beat and catchy chorus, this song is guaranteed to get all generations up and moving.
Michael Jackson's music has a universal appeal that transcends time and space. His phenomenal career as a singer, songwriter, and dancer has left a lasting legacy on the music industry. “Don't Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” showcases Jackson's unique brand of pop-funk sound, which has influenced countless artists in various genres over the years.
Featuring a driving bass line, funky guitar riffs, and infectious horns, “Don't Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” is a fun and upbeat song that will have your guests grooving all night long. Whether you're a fan of the King of Pop or just love to dance, this classic track is a must-play at any wedding reception. So don't hold back, and let the music take control – don't stop 'til you get enough!
by Michael Jackson
There's no denying that Michael Jackson's music is always a hit, and “Don't Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” is no exception. This is one of his most danceable tunes, with its funky beat and catchy lyrics making it the perfect choice for getting the party started on the dance floor.
Released in 1979 as the first single from his album Off the Wall, “Don't Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” spent six weeks at the top of the Billboard charts and earned Jackson his first solo Grammy Award. It has since become a staple at weddings and other events, with its upbeat tempo and infectious energy getting people up and moving.
One of the great things about this song is that it appeals to multiple generations. Older guests will appreciate its nostalgic feel, while younger ones will love its funky groove and catchy chorus. And with its straightforward lyrics, even those who don't know the words can easily get caught up in the rhythm and dance along.
So if you're looking for a surefire hit to get everyone moving at your wedding reception, look no further than “Don't Stop ‘Til You Get Enough” by Michael Jackson. It's a classic that never gets old and is sure to have guests of all ages dancing the night away.
Sentimental Slow Dances
When it comes to romantic slow dances at a wedding reception, there are certain songs that always hit the mark. These tunes create the perfect backdrop for couples to share a special moment on the dance floor, surrounded by family and friends.
One classic song that never gets old is At Last by Etta James. This soulful number has been a first dance favorite for generations and is sure to bring a tear to the eye of even the most stoic guest.
If you're looking for a modern slow dance option, consider You Are the Best Thing by Ray LaMontagne. This beautiful love song has a timeless quality that will resonate with couples of all ages.
And of course, no list of sentimental slow dances would be complete without Can't Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley. This romantic ballad is a classic for a reason and is sure to have couples swaying arm-in-arm.
- At Last by Etta James
- You Are the Best Thing by Ray LaMontagne
- Can't Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley
These songs are just a few examples of the many sentimental slow dance options out there. Whether you prefer classic love songs or modern ballads, there's sure to be a slow dance tune that perfectly captures the magic of your wedding day.
I Want to Dance with Somebody by Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston's iconic song is a surefire way to get people moving on the dance floor. The beat is infectious, the lyrics are uplifting, and the chorus is impossible not to sing along to. Plus, it's a great way to get generations of guests mingling and dancing together, as many people from different ages know and love this classic hit. If you're looking to kick off your party on a high note, be sure to add this song to your wedding reception playlist.
Make sure your DJ or band has a high-quality sound system to really bring out the energy and excitement of this song. You may also want to add some lighting effects, like flashes of bright colors, to create a fun and dynamic atmosphere as everyone dances and sings along. Whether you're a fan of Whitney Houston or not, this is one of those songs that just never gets old and will always be a hit, even years down the line.
At Last
One of the most romantic songs of all time, ‘At Last' by Etta James is a timeless choice for a first dance or slow dance at a wedding reception. Its soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics encapsulate the feeling of finally finding true love and the joy that comes with it.
This classic song has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among couples. Its popularity has been boosted by appearances in films and TV shows, making it a recognizable tune for all generations. The song starts with a slow, gentle piano intro, building up to Etta James' powerful vocals, which are sure to give goosebumps.
‘At Last' is a great choice for a romantic dance, and it's guaranteed to bring couples closer together. The song's tempo also provides ample opportunity for couples to showcase their dance skills and take some stunning photos to capture the moment. It's a song that will be remembered by not just the newlyweds but also all attendees who share in the joy and romance of the special day.
by Etta James
“At Last” by Etta James is a classic song that has stood the test of time. It has been playing at weddings for decades and still remains one of the most popular choices for a first dance. Its soulful melody and romantic lyrics make it the perfect slow dance song for couples. Etta James' powerful vocals will make you feel like you're the only ones in the room as you share a special moment with your partner.
Not only is “At Last” a timeless love song, but it is also a great choice for any wedding reception. It can be played during dinner or as a background song while guests mingle. The song's versatile sound allows it to fit into any part of the reception. It's a great song to play during those quieter moments of the wedding when guests can reflect on the love and beauty of the event.
- If you're looking for a classic and timeless option for your wedding reception, then “At Last” by Etta James is the perfect choice.
- It's a romantic slow dance song that is sure to have guests swaying along with the music.
- You can also play it during dinner or as background music for quieter moments.
At Last by Etta James
For a romantic and sentimental slow dance, At Last by Etta James is a classic choice. This timeless song has been the go-to song for many couples' first dances, and it never fails to set the perfect mood. The slow and sultry melody combined with James' powerful vocals make for a truly unforgettable moment.
Whether you're a fan of old-school romance or simply looking for a slow dance that will make your heart skip a beat, this song is the perfect choice. It's a classic that's stood the test of time, and there's no doubt that it will continue to be a popular choice for wedding receptions for years to come.
As you plan your wedding reception playlist, make sure to include At Last by Etta James. It's a beautiful song that will create a magical moment for you and your partner, while also setting a romantic tone for the rest of the evening.
- Timeless classic
- Sultry melody and powerful vocals
- Unforgettable moment
- Perfect for old-school romance or sentimental slow dance
You Are the Best Thing
If you're looking for a romantic slow dance option, “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne is a perfect choice. With its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics, this modern classic is sure to tug at the heartstrings of everyone in attendance.
The song's simple yet powerful message of devotion and love makes it a perfect fit for any wedding reception. Couples can share a special moment on the dance floor while the rest of the guests look on, caught up in the beauty of the moment.
“You Are the Best Thing” is an example of how a contemporary song can become a classic. Its timeless appeal has made it a popular choice for first dances and slow dances at weddings. This song will never go out of style, and it will always be a great option to set the mood for a memorable moment.
When it comes to creating a wedding playlist, choosing the right songs is essential. You want to create an atmosphere that will make everyone feel welcome, happy, and connected. “You Are the Best Thing” will add a touch of romance to the event, and everyone in attendance will feel the love in the air.
If you're searching for a song that will make your wedding reception unforgettable, “You Are the Best Thing” is an excellent choice. The melody, lyrics, and emotion make it a timeless classic that will continue to be a popular slow dance option for years to come.
by Ray LaMontagne
If you're looking for a romantic slow dance song that's a little more modern, “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne is a perfect choice. With its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, this song never fails to bring couples together on the dance floor.
Whether you're newlyweds or have been together for years, “You Are the Best Thing” is a beautiful way to share a special moment. The song's message of true love and devotion is sure to resonate with guests of all ages, making it a popular choice for wedding receptions.
One of the reasons why “You Are the Best Thing” works so well as a slow dance song is its easy-to-follow rhythm. The song's steady beat and soulful instrumentation create the perfect atmosphere for couples to sway together and soak in the moment.
In addition to being a beautiful choice for a first dance, “You Are the Best Thing” can also be played as a romantic interlude to break up the more upbeat dance floor songs. Whatever your preference, this modern classic is a timeless choice for any wedding reception.
Can't Help Falling in Love
Elvis Presley's “Can't Help Falling in Love” is a timeless classic that has been a popular choice for wedding receptions and first dances for decades. This romantic ballad has a slow tempo, making it perfect for couples who want to share a special moment together on the dance floor.
The song tells of a love that cannot be helped, and the lyrics are perfect for expressing the deep feelings and emotions that come with falling in love. With its beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Can't Help Falling in Love” is a song that will always stand the test of time.
If you're looking for a song to share a romantic moment with your partner at your wedding reception, “Can't Help Falling in Love” is a perfect choice. Whether it's your first dance or just a special moment together on the dance floor, this song is sure to create a magical and unforgettable memory.
by Elvis Presley
It's hard to resist the charm of Elvis Presley's romantic ballad, “Can't Help Falling in Love.” The soothing melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a timeless choice for a slow dance at a wedding reception.
Originally recorded in 1961 for the film Blue Hawaii, the song has since become one of Elvis's most beloved hits. Its popularity has endured for decades and it remains a popular choice for first dances and romantic moments at weddings.
One of the reasons why “Can't Help Falling in Love” is such a great wedding reception song is because of its versatility. The song can be played in its original form or covered by other artists in a variety of genres, from pop to jazz to country.
Whether you're a die-hard Elvis fan or simply appreciate a good love song, “Can't Help Falling in Love” is a beautiful choice for a slow dance at your wedding reception. It's a classic that will never go out of style and is sure to leave a lasting impression on you and your guests.
Group Singalong Songs
When it comes to getting everyone involved in the fun, singalong songs are a surefire way to do it. These upbeat hits get the crowd moving and singing together, creating a memorable moment in any wedding reception.
First up, we have Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond. With its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo, this hit song never fails to get the crowd singing and dancing along. It's a classic that's guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
Next, we have Livin' on a Prayer by Bon Jovi. This high-energy rock anthem will have everyone belting out the lyrics and feeling pumped up on the dance floor. It's a great choice for those who want to inject a bit of rock and roll into their wedding reception.
Finally, there's Don't Stop Believin' by Journey. This beloved song is the ultimate singalong hit and always gets the entire crowd involved. From the opening chords to the iconic chorus, everyone will be belting out this classic tune together.
So, if you want to get everyone involved and create a memorable moment, be sure to include these singalong hits in your wedding reception playlist. With these upbeat tunes, everyone is sure to have a blast and remember your special day for years to come.
To complement the song's uplifting energy, consider incorporating disco ball lighting or colorful mood lighting to create an ambiance that will transport guests back to the 70s dance floor. The rhythm section of the song is perfect for choreographed group dances that will add to the overall fun and excitement of the celebration. Whether you're a lover of classic disco music or not, “September” is a timeless hit that can unite generations and be enjoyed by all. So don't hesitate – add it to your wedding reception playlist today!
Sweet Caroline
Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond is a classic singalong hit that is sure to get everyone involved. This upbeat and catchy tune is perfect for getting people on the dance floor and singing along. With its memorable chorus and easy-to-learn lyrics, Sweet Caroline is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. This song is also a great way to bring people of all ages together, as it's a beloved hit that has stood the test of time.
Neil Diamond's Sweet Caroline was released in 1969 and quickly became a fan-favorite. The song is inspired by Caroline Kennedy, daughter of former United States President John F. Kennedy. Neil Diamond actually performed the song for Caroline at her 50th birthday celebration in 2007, making the song even more special. Sweet Caroline has since been covered by many artists and has been played at countless events around the world.
If you're looking for a song to get your guests singing and dancing, Sweet Caroline is a perfect choice. Whether you're planning a wedding reception or any other celebration, this classic hit is sure to be a hit with your guests. So don't be shy, grab the mic and join in on the fun as everyone sings ‘So good, so good, so good!' at the top of their lungs.
by Neil Diamond
If you want to get everyone on the dance floor and singing along, Neil Diamond's “Sweet Caroline” is the perfect choice. This classic hit has a catchy, upbeat chorus that will have guests of all ages joining in. Whether your guests know all the words or not, they won't be able to resist singing along to “Sweet Caroline”.
For an extra special touch, consider playing the song during a moment when everyone is gathered together, like the cake cutting or bouquet toss. This will create a fun and memorable moment that everyone will cherish.
And don't forget, there are plenty of different ways you can incorporate “Sweet Caroline” into your reception. Create a special dance party with the song, have a singalong with the guests, or play it during the last dance of the night to leave everyone with a wonderful memory.
No matter what you choose, “Sweet Caroline” is a tried and true hit that will have everyone singing and dancing along.
Can't Help Falling in Love by Elvis Presley
Elvis Presley's romantic ballad is a crowd-pleasing hit for any wedding reception. With its iconic melody and timeless lyrics, “Can't Help Falling in Love” has been a favorite slow dance song for generations.
It's the perfect choice for couples looking to share a special moment together on the dance floor. The slow tempo and romantic feel of the song provide the ideal backdrop for a tender embrace and a heartfelt kiss.
While “Can't Help Falling in Love” may be a classic choice, it still manages to feel fresh and contemporary. Its popularity has only grown with time, and it remains a beloved favorite among wedding guests of all ages.
Livin' on a Prayer
If you're looking for an upbeat song that will have everyone dancing and singing along, then “Livin' on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi is the perfect choice. This rock anthem has been a crowd-pleaser since its release in the 1980s, and it's as popular today as it was then.
The song's catchy chorus is impossible to resist, and you'll see people of all ages and backgrounds singing along at your reception. The powerful vocals and energetic guitar riffs will get everyone pumped up and ready to party.
“Livin' on a Prayer” is also a great song to get the entire group involved. Whether you're young or old, a music fan or not, everyone can join in on the chorus and feel a part of the celebration. It's the perfect way to create a fun and memorable moment that everyone will cherish for years to come.
If you're worried about the song being too old or outdated, don't be! With its timeless energy and upbeat tempo, “Livin' on a Prayer” will never go out of style. So turn up the volume and get ready to rock out with this classic hit!
by Bon Jovi
The song “Livin' on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi is the ultimate crowd-pleaser at any wedding reception. With its infectious chorus and high-energy rock beats, it's sure to get everyone up and dancing. This song is a classic that never gets old, and it's been a hit since its release in the 80s.
If you're looking to get the party started and keep the energy high, “Livin' on a Prayer” is the perfect choice. It's a go-to song for DJs and wedding bands alike, and for good reason – it's a song that everyone knows and loves.
- The catchy lyrics and upbeat tempo make it the perfect song to dance to.
- The singalong chorus is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that will have everyone singing along at the top of their lungs.
- The electric guitar riffs and powerful vocals are sure to get hearts pumping and feet moving.
If you want to create an unforgettable party atmosphere at your wedding reception, make sure to include “Livin' on a Prayer” in your playlist. It's a song that will have everyone on their feet, singing and dancing the night away.
I Want to Dance with Somebody by Whitney Houston
When it comes to dance floor classics, it doesn't get much better than Whitney Houston's I Want to Dance with Somebody. This upbeat and catchy tune is a guaranteed hit that will have everyone moving. With its infectious chorus and irresistible rhythm, it's no wonder that this song continues to be a popular choice at weddings and parties.
Another great thing about this song is that it appeals to all ages. Whether you're young or old, everyone knows and loves this classic hit. It's the perfect choice for getting the party started and creating a fun and energetic atmosphere.
So if you're planning a wedding reception and looking for a surefire hit to get everyone on their feet, be sure to add I Want to Dance with Somebody to your playlist. It's a timeless classic that never fails to get people moving and is sure to be a highlight of your special day.
Don't Stop Believin'
The song “Don't Stop Believin'” by Journey is an iconic hit that never fails to get people singing along and dancing. With its catchy melody and uplifting lyrics, it's the perfect choice for any wedding reception. This song has been a favorite since its release in 1981 and has remained popular ever since. It's a true crowd-pleaser that will have everyone on their feet and singing along.
From the unforgettable opening piano riff to the famous chorus, “Don't Stop Believin'” is full of energy and emotion. The lyrics are all about holding onto hope and following your dreams, making it an inspiring and motivational choice for any wedding celebration. Whether you're a die-hard Journey fan or simply love a good singalong hit, this song is sure to bring joy and excitement to your reception.
When it comes to planning the perfect wedding reception, choosing the right music is key. “Don't Stop Believin'” is one of those classic hits that never goes out of style and is sure to be a hit with guests of all ages. So don't hesitate to add it to your playlist and get ready to dance the night away.
by Journey
“Don't Stop Believin'” by Journey is undeniably one of the most famous songs in pop culture, destined to be a classic for years to come. The opening piano chords alone are enough to get people excited, and the catchy chorus is impossible to resist. It's an upbeat song that's perfect for group singalongs at weddings and other celebrations. The song's message is all about believing in yourself and following your dreams, which makes it particularly fitting to play at a wedding reception, where people are celebrating the start of a new chapter in their lives as a couple.
The song has been covered countless times and featured in a variety of films, television shows, and other media. But it's never lost its appeal or its ability to get people singing along at the top of their lungs. It's the ultimate feel-good song that everyone knows, making it a great choice for any wedding reception playlist. Whether you're young or old, a diehard Journey fan or just someone who loves a good singalong, “Don't Stop Believin'” is guaranteed to get you moving and bring a smile to your face.
- The song's message of hope and perseverance is perfect for a wedding reception
- The iconic opening chords and catchy chorus make it an instant crowd-pleaser
- It's a classic that will never go out of style, making it a safe choice for any wedding playlist
- It's a fun and upbeat song that everyone knows, making it perfect for getting people on the dance floor
- The singalong factor is through the roof with this one, and it's impossible to resist joining in on the chorus
