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20 of the Greatest Songs for a First Dance - 2023

The First Dance, more often than not, takes place right after the grand entrance. It may include the wedding party, it might be a choreographed routine, but more than likely it is just the happy couple slowly traversing the dance floor.

On occasion, The First Dance starts the entire chain of dancing events. It is followed by other formal dances like the father-daughter dance, and mother-son dance, and finally ends with a bridal party dance or an invitation for every guest to join the happy couple on the dance floor.

The most important thing to keep in mind is that the musical selection for this dance is very personal and therefore entirely up to the bride and groom to select a song that is special to them. While there are thousands of choices of great love songs and wedding songs, we decided to introduce you to just the best 20 songs from the last few years.

Click the song title to listen on YouTube, or click here for a Spotify Playlist

"At Last" is a timeless and soulful ballad by Etta James, expressing the singer's joy and relief at finding true love after a long and difficult journey. The song's emotive vocals and rich instrumentation have made it a beloved classic and a popular choice for weddings, romantic films, and other occasions celebrating the power of love.

"Can't Help Falling in Love" is a timeless and romantic ballad by Elvis Presley, expressing the singer's deep and abiding affection for his partner. The song's simple yet powerful lyrics, Presley's smooth vocals, and delicate instrumentation make it a beloved classic and a popular choice for weddings, anniversaries, and other special occasions.

"Baby I'm Yours" is a soulful and romantic cover by the Arctic Monkeys, offering a fresh take on the classic 1960s ballad. The song's retro-inspired instrumentation and frontman Alex Turner's emotive vocals make it a standout track and a fan favorite among the band's more tender and introspective work.

"Let's Stay Together" is a smooth and soulful love song by Al Green, expressing the singer's commitment and devotion to his partner. The song's iconic opening melody, Green's silky vocals, and the simple yet memorable lyrics have made it a timeless classic and a favorite among fans of soul and R&B music.

"Just You And I" is a sweet and upbeat love song by Tom Walker, celebrating the bond and connection between two people in a relationship. The song's catchy melody, optimistic lyrics, and Walker's emotive vocals make it a popular choice for weddings, engagement parties, and other romantic occasions.

"Stand By Me" is a soulful and uplifting anthem by Ben E King, celebrating the enduring power of friendship and loyalty. The song's iconic bassline, King's smooth vocals, and the universal message of support and solidarity have made it a beloved classic and a staple of popular culture for decades.

"A Thousand Years" is a heartfelt and romantic ballad by Christina Perri, expressing the singer's enduring love for her partner. The song's emotive lyrics, Perri's powerful vocals, and delicate instrumentation make it a popular choice for weddings, anniversaries, and other special occasions celebrating the beauty and longevity of love.

"Your Song" is a beautiful and timeless love ballad by Elton John, expressing the singer's appreciation and admiration for his partner. The song's simple yet powerful lyrics, John's soulful vocals, and the gentle piano melody have made it a classic and a favorite among fans of romantic music.

"All of Me" is a soulful and heartfelt love song by John Legend, expressing the singer's unconditional love and devotion to his partner. The song's powerful lyrics, Legend's emotive vocals, and delicate piano melody have made it a modern classic and a popular choice for weddings, romantic occasions, and intimate moments between couples.

"Better Half of Me" is a poignant and emotional ballad by Tom Walker, exploring the singer's personal struggles and growth through a relationship. The song's raw lyrics, Walker's soulful vocals, and haunting instrumentation make it a standout track and a favorite among fans of introspective and heartfelt music.

"Can't Take My Eyes Off You" is a classic and upbeat love song by Andy Williams, celebrating the singer's infatuation and adoration for his partner. The song's catchy melody, Williams' smooth vocals, and upbeat orchestration have made it a beloved classic and a staple of romantic music for generations.

"Grow Old with Me" is a touching and sentimental ballad by Tom Odell, expressing the singer's desire for a lasting and meaningful relationship. The song's poignant lyrics, Odell's emotive vocals, and gentle instrumentation create a mood of tenderness and intimacy, making it a popular choice for weddings, anniversaries, and other special moments in a couple's journey together.

"Can't Get Enough of Your Love, Babe" is a timeless and sultry love song by Barry White, expressing the singer's infatuation and passion for his partner. The song's smooth and seductive melody, White's deep and velvety vocals, and the lush orchestration create an atmosphere of romance and sensuality, making it a classic and a favorite among fans of soul and R&B music.

"Say You Won't Let Go" is a heartfelt and romantic ballad by James Arthur, describing the singer's undying love for his partner and his commitment to stay by their side through all the ups and downs of life. The song's emotional lyrics, Arthur's soulful and powerful vocals, and the simple yet beautiful instrumentation have made it a beloved song and a popular choice for weddings and other romantic occasions.

"Chasing Cars" is an emotive and melancholic song by Snow Patrol, describing the singer's longing for a deep and meaningful connection with their partner. The song's simple yet powerful melody, the hauntingly beautiful vocals by lead singer Gary Lightbody, and the evocative lyrics have made it a favorite among fans of alternative rock and a beloved anthem for expressing deep love and longing.

"I Won't Give Up" is a tender and uplifting ballad by Jason Mraz, expressing the singer's unwavering commitment to his partner and his determination to overcome any obstacles in their relationship. The song's poignant lyrics, Mraz's soulful and heartfelt vocals, and the gentle acoustic instrumentation create an atmosphere of hope and resilience, making it a popular choice for weddings and other romantic occasions.

"This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)" is an upbeat and infectious love song by Natalie Cole, celebrating the joy and excitement of a new relationship. The song's catchy melody, Cole's powerful vocals, and energetic instrumentation create a sense of happiness and optimism, making it a classic favorite for weddings and other joyful celebrations.

"Is This Love?" is a reggae classic by Bob Marley, expressing the singer's passionate and unconditional love for his partner. The song's upbeat rhythm, Marley's soulful vocals, and the iconic guitar riff create a sense of joy and positivity, making it a beloved favorite among fans of reggae and love songs.

"Greatest Day" is a catchy and uplifting pop song by Take That, celebrating the joy and wonder of life's most precious moments. The song's soaring chorus, upbeat melody, and positive lyrics create a sense of hope and inspiration, making it a popular choice for special occasions and celebrations.

"Make You Feel My Love" is a heartfelt and emotional ballad by Adele, expressing the depth of love and devotion she feels for her partner. The song's simple yet powerful melody and Adele's soulful vocals create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, making it a beloved favorite among fans of love songs.

Contributor - Josef Schein

DJ/MC Danse Forté Entertainment

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