# Most Popular Wedding Songs > Create the perfect wedding music playlist, from the processional to the reception, with our curated list of songs and tips. Published: 2023-12-07 · Author: Ava-May Rooney In addition to celebrating love and commitment, weddings signal the beginning of a new era in one’s life. What better way to mark this special day than with the [perfect wedding music playlist](https://encoremusicians.com/wedding)?  Music has the power to heighten the sentiment and emotion of your big day and here at Encore Musicians, we help thousands of couples plan the music for their weddings every year. So, as you embark on your wedding planning journey, let’s explore some of the most popular wedding songs, broken down by section and genre.  ## **Wedding Processional Music** ![](../../assets/uploads/most-popular-wedding-music/60118cbbd0156515b59a977ba01a98c3.jpg) The processional is one of the most important moments in a wedding ceremony, marking the bride’s grand entrance and setting the tone for the entire event. Here are some popular processional songs:  **\* “Canon in D” by Johann Pachelbel**  This baroque masterpiece is a timeless and elegant choice for the bride’s processional.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Af372EQLck **\* “Here Comes the Bride” by Richard Wagner**  This grand and majestic orchestral piece is another popular choice for the bride’s entrance.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4sNsGePgs8 **\* “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri**  This romantic and enchanting ballad is a more contemporary option for the bride’s processional.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rtOvBOTyX00 **\* “The Wedding March” by Mendelssohn**  This traditional German march is a classic choice for the bride’s processional. Its lively tempo and cheerful melody will set the tone for a joyous and celebratory occasion. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Oo4z37OUEI **\* “I Will Wait” by Mumford & Sons**  This folk ballad is a heartfelt choice for the bride’s processional with its soft melody and meaningful lyrics expressing the groom’s anticipation and love for the bride. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGKfrgqWcv0 **\* “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley** This iconic pop ballad is a timeless and romantic choice for the bride’s processional. The song’s catchy melody and Elvis’ smooth vocals will make the bride’s entrance truly memorable. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vGJTaP6anOU **\* “All of Me” by John Legend** This soulful and heartfelt ballad is a popular choice for first dances. John Legend’s soulful vocals and the song’s meaningful lyrics will create a lasting memory. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=450p7goxZqg **\* “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran**  This romantic and nostalgic ballad is another popular choice for the first dance.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lp-EO5I60KA **\* “Your Song” by Elton John**  This classic pop ballad is a timeless and romantic choice for the first dance. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GlPlfCy1urI **\* “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong**  This uplifting and optimistic song is a perfect choice for the recessional. Louis Armstrong’s infectious trumpet and the song’s positive message will send the guests off with smiles on their faces. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rBrd_3VMC3c ##  **Signing the Register Music** ![close up of a couple signing the wedding register](../../assets/uploads/most-popular-wedding-music/signingtheregister.jpeg) **\* “Endless Love” by Lionel Richie** Another iconic ballad from the 1980s, “Endless Love” is a classic choice for couples who want to express their unwavering love and devotion to each other.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bAqz0AwLRjk **\* “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles**  This soft and optimistic song is a perfect choice for couples who want to express their joy and happiness as they embark on their new life together.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQetemT1sWc **\* “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston** This iconic ballad is a timeless choice for couples who want to express their eternal love for each other.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3JWTaaS7LdU **\* “My Heart Will Go On” by Céline Dion**  Another iconic song from the 1990s, “My Heart Will Go On” is a classic choice for couples who want to express the enduring power of their love.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bFHsd3o1w0 **\* “At Last” by Etta James:**  This soulful and romantic ballad is a perfect choice for couples who want to express their love and anticipation as they sign the official document of their marriage. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qJU8G7gR_g ## **Wedding Recessional Music**  ![Bagpiper ](../../assets/uploads/most-popular-wedding-music/bagpiper-2.jpg) **\*”Trumpet Voluntary” by Henry Purcell** This Baroque piece is a sophisticated and elegant choice for couples who want to end their ceremony with a touch of class. The song’s rich harmonies and majestic melody will create a grand finale. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MJuXfxwRrPQ **\* “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran** This heartfelt and romantic ballad is a perfect choice for a couple who wants to express their love and commitment to each other as they leave the ceremony.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Vv-BfVoq4g **\* “Happy” by Pharrell Williams**  This upbeat and feel-good anthem is sure to get everyone dancing and celebrating as the couple.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZbZSe6N_BXs **\* “Ode to Joy” from Symphony No. 9 by Ludwig van Beethoven** This stirring and uplifting piece is a perfect choice for couples who want to exit their ceremony with a touch of emotion. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-kcOpyM9cBg **\* “Celebration” by Kool & the Gang**  This classic party song is a must-have for any wedding, and its lively tempo and infectious energy will make the recessional a memorable occasion. It is a surefire way to get the guests pumped up and ready to party. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3GwjfUFyY6M **\* “Viva la Vida” by Coldplay** This anthemic and inspiring song is a perfect choice for couples who want to end their ceremony with a touch of positivity. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dvgZkm1xWPE ##  **First Dance Music** ![](../../assets/uploads/most-popular-wedding-music/wedding-band-myths-worth-it.jpeg) The first dance is a pivotal moment, marking the couple’s first steps as husband and wife. It’s a time to express their love and affection for each other through the power of music. Here are some timeless first-dance classics: **\* “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley** This iconic ballad has been a go-to first dance song for decades, capturing the essence of love and romance. Elvis’s smooth vocals and the song’s romantic lyrics make it a perfect choice for couples who want to express their deep love for one another. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vGJTaP6anOU **\* “Everything I Do” by Bryan Adams** This heartfelt pop ballad is a popular choice for first dances due to its romantic lyrics and catchy melody. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y0pdQU87dc8 **\* “The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra** This classic jazz ballad is a timeless choice for first dances due to its romantic lyrics and elegant arrangement. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9ZGKALMMuc **\* “Marry You” by Bruno Mars** This upbeat and energetic song is a fun and contemporary option for couples who want to inject some joy and spontaneity into their first dance.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dElRVQFqj-k **\* “Hallelujah” by Leonard Cohen** This classic folk song is a powerful and moving choice for first dances due to its religious themes and emotional impact. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YrLk4vdY28Q **\* “All My Life” by Foo Fighters** This song is a great, unique choice for a couple who wants to express their unwavering love for each other.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xQ04WbgI9rg **\*  “Somewhere (There’s a Place for Us)” from West Side Story** This classic love song from a classic musical is a heartfelt and romantic choice for first dances. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sSlLNSWAXpo **\* “Runnin’ Down a Dream” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers**  This catchy and nostalgic song is a classic choice for a first dance. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y1D3a5eDJIs ## **Father-Daughter Wedding Music** ![father of the bride and bride dancing ](../../assets/uploads/most-popular-wedding-music/daddydaughterdance7.jpg) The father-daughter dance is a time-honoured tradition in many weddings, a cherished moment of tenderness and gratitude shared between a father and his daughter. Here are some popular father-daughter dance songs to get you inspired:  **\* “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts** This heartwarming ballad expresses a father’s dreams and aspirations for his daughter. Rascal Flatts’ soaring vocals and the song’s uplifting message make it a perfect choice for this special moment. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NSWTZllisl0 **\* “I Loved Her First” by Heartland** This playful and lighthearted ballad expresses a father’s playful teasing of his son, as his son falls in love for the first time. Heartland’s catchy melody and the song’s humorous lyrics make it a fun and memorable choice for this special dance. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pg8Z69B6RFQ **\* “I’ll Be” by Edwin McCain**  This gentle and reassuring ballad captures the essence of a father’s enduring love for his daughter. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5qrTmNDZ-nc **\* “You’ll Be in My Heart”  by Phil Collins**  This uplifting and inspiring ballad expresses a father’s unwavering love for his daughter, even when they are apart.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w0ZHlp6atUQ **\* “When She Loved Me” by Randy Newman** This tender and poignant ballad captures the bittersweet emotions of a father’s love for his daughter as she grows up. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZlmJdyxZ4M **\* “I Will Remember You (Theme from The Notebook)” by Celine Dion** This hauntingly beautiful ballad expresses the lasting power of love, even through separation and loss. Celine Dion’s powerful vocals and the song’s poignant lyrics make it a perfect choice for this special dance. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R8amlbhwmAI **\* “Forever and Always (You Belong to Me)” by Carrie Underwood** This romantic and empowering ballad expresses a daughter’s love for her father and her gratitude for his unwavering support. Carrie Underwood’s soaring vocals and the song’s positive message make it a perfect choice for this special dance. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lmAi_qJoPbU **\* “When You Say My Name” by The Rembrandts**  This nostalgic and sweet ballad captures the essence of a father’s love for his daughter, from the moment she was born. The Rembrandts’ catchy melody and the song’s heartfelt lyrics make it a perfect choice for this special dance. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S8PNXgLhkT0 ## **Mother-Son Wedding Music** ![](../../assets/uploads/most-popular-wedding-music/vintage-wedding-bands-dancing.jpg) The mother-son dance is a cherished tradition in many weddings, a moment of special connection and love shared between a mother and her son. Here are some popular mother-son dance songs:  **\* “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion**  This iconic ballad expresses a mother’s unwavering love for her son, even after he has grown up and moved on with his life.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2RnxZnubCM **\* “The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra** This classic romantic ballad expresses a mother’s admiration and pride for her son as he prepares to embark on his new life. Frank Sinatra’s smooth vocals and the song’s elegant melody make it a perfect choice for this special dance. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h9ZGKALMMuc **\* “My Girl” by The Temptations** This soulful and catchy ballad expresses a mother’s love and support for her son, through thick and thin.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eepLY8J4E6c **\* “Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler** This heartfelt and empowering ballad expresses a mother’s gratitude for her son and her belief in his potential.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0iAzMRKFX3c **\* “You’ll Never Walk Alone” from Carousel by Rogers and Hammerstein** This inspirational and uplifting ballad expresses a mother’s unwavering support and encouragement for her son.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGni8I3c0O0 **\* “For the First Time” by Lifehouse**  This tender and heartfelt ballad expresses the special bond between a mother and her son, as he grows older and begins to experience life on his own.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J0YvWQNWEJA **\* “Home” by Phillip Phillips** This inspiring and uplifting ballad expresses a son’s gratitude for his mother and his appreciation for the love and support she has given him throughout his life. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HoRkntoHkIE **\* “You’re My Everything” by Barry Manilow**  This romantic and enduring ballad expresses a son’s love and admiration for his mother, who has always been there for him, through thick and thin.  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tB54XUhA9_w ## **Wedding Reception Music** ![Wedding Dance](../../assets/uploads/most-popular-wedding-music/wedding-dance-2.jpg) \* **“Bohemian Rhapsody” by Queen** This epic and theatrical song is a true crowd-pleaser, with its catchy melody, soaring vocals, and multiple sections. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJ9rUzIMcZQ **\* “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey**  This anthemic and motivational song is sure to get everyone pumped up and ready to party. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1k8craCGpgs **\* “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars** This funky and infectious song is a surefire way to get the dance floor moving. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPf0YbXqDm0 **\* “Dancing Queen” by ABBA**  This classic and fun song is sure to bring back some good memories and get everyone dancing. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xFrGuyw1V8s **\* “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond** This singalong-worthy song is always a hit at weddings and parties. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4F_RCWVoL4s **\* “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor**  This empowering and uplifting song is sure to give everyone the confidence to dance their hearts out. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6dYWe1c3OyU **\* “Jump” by Van Halen** This high-energy and rock anthem is sure to get everyone on their feet and cheering. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SwYN7mTi6HM **\* “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers**  This upbeat and energetic song is sure to get everyone moving and grooving. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGdGFtwCNBE **\* “Toxic” by Britney Spears**  This catchy and danceable song is sure to have everyone singing along and dancing the night away. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LOZuxwVk7TU ## **Weddings Music, by Genre**  ![Wedding Ceremony Music Harpist](../../assets/uploads/most-popular-wedding-music/services-harp-music-wedding-001.jpg) ### **Soul and R\&B Wedding Music** **\* “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IC5PL0XImjw **\* “Endless Love” by Lionel Richie and Diana Ross** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Bwwo7ctG10 **\* “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” by Natalie Cole** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbaoKL1Ei0c **\* “Kiss Me” by Sixpence None the Richer** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jnq9wPDoDKg **\* “All About That Bass” by Meghan Trainor** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7PCkvCPvDXk **\* “Marry You” by Bruno Mars** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dElRVQFqj-k **\* “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Vv-BfVoq4g **\* “You Are the Reason” by Calum Scott** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShZ978fBl6Y **\* “Say You Won’t Let Go” by James Arthur** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0yW7w8F2TVA ### **Country Wedding Music** **\* “From This Moment On” by Shania Twain** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-Lp2uC_1lg **\* “Speechless” by Dan + Shay** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7UoP9ABJXGE **\* “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aJxrX42WcjQ **\* “Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4zAThXFOy2c **\* “Marry Me” by Thomas Rhett** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_IwENcMPOA **\* “God Gave Me You” by Blake Shelton** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nCf2PoTuh4Q ### **Jazz and Swing Wedding Music** **\* “Cheek to Cheek” by Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=20iOlPwz0J0 **\* “Fly Me to the Moon” by Frank Sinatra** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZEcqHA7dbwM **\* “Someone to Watch Over Me” by Ella Fitzgerald** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Wc8oNLKrgY **\* “It Had to Be You” by Harry Connick Jr.** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UnQOfPwZfs **\* “Moon River” by Audrey Hepburn** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0BfUDyvdTSE ### **Latin** **Wedding Music** **\* “Bésame Mucho” by Consuelo Velázquez** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MY0fuEfBmD4 **\* “La Bamba” by Ritchie Valens** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Coy8Hoa1DNw **\* “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dr_GAJZviR0 **\* “Livin’ La Vida Loca” by Ricky Martin** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CN5hQOI__10 **\* “Macarena” by Los del Río** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zWaymcVmJ-A **\* “Tequila” by The Champs** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hswHOEQfj8 **\* “Sabor a Mí” by Álvaro Carrillo** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_MGhcaT1HSM **\* “Oye Como Va” by Carlos Santana** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J7ATTjg7tpE **\* “La Vida Es Un Carnaval” by Celia Cruz** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbBm1Y8J1bE **\* “Cielito Lindo” by Jorge Negrete** https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rbBm1Y8J1bE ## **Final thoughts**  Encore Musicians is here to help you create the perfect soundtrack for your wedding day. With our extensive selection of musicians, we can provide all the songs you love and create an unbeatable atmosphere. Whether you’re looking for a traditional orchestra, a live [party band](https://encoremusicians.com/hire/party-bands), or a soulful [singer](https://encoremusicians.com/hire/singers), we have the perfect talent for your special day. Check out our [collection of talented wedding musicians](https://encoremusicians.com/wedding) who can bring your favourite songs to life.