With wedding season around the corner, Encore Musicians, the UK’s largest wedding entertainment marketplace, has delved into their data to predict the hottest trends in wedding band music for 2024.
Based on an analysis of over 2,300 song requests from newlyweds in 2023, Encore Musicians paints a vibrant picture of what couples will be dancing to this year.
2023 Trends and 2024 Predictions for Wedding Band Music:
- Nostalgia Reigns Supreme
- 2023: Last year, data revealed a strong preference for songs from the 2008-2017 era, reflecting the coming-of-age years for many couples tying the knot.
- 2024 Prediction: This trend is expected to continue in 2024, with couples likely to gravitate towards music that evokes cherished memories and resonates with their personal love stories. Expect to hear a resurgence of popular tracks from the late 2000s and early 2010s alongside timeless classics.
- Ed Sheeran’s Enduring Appeal
- 2023: Ed Sheeran dominated the scene in 2023, claiming the title of both most popular artist and most requested first dance song with his iconic ballad “Perfect.”
- 2024 Prediction: While Ed Sheeran’s popularity is undeniable, we may see a slight shift in his dominance as couples explore a wider range of artists for their special day. However, his music is still likely to be a popular choice, particularly for romantic moments like the first dance.
3. The Power of Timeless Classics
- 2023: Queen emerged as the second most popular artist, with their energetic anthems proving perfect for lively receptions. Classic love songs like Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling in Love” also remained popular choices for first dances.
- 2024 Prediction: The enduring appeal of timeless classics is here to stay. Expect to hear iconic artists like Queen, ABBA, and Elvis Presley continue to grace wedding day playlists and reception dance floors in 2024.
Other Trends in Wedding Band Music
Above we explored the overarching trends shaping wedding band music in 2024, based on Encore Musicians’ data analysis. Now, let’s delve into specific song and artist predictions that are likely to set the dance floor alight this wedding season:
- Rising Stars & Genre-Bending Blends
Look out for rising stars like Giveon and Tems, whose soulful vocals and contemporary R&B sound are gaining traction.
Genre-bending artists like Doja Cat and Olivia Rodrigo might also find their way onto wedding playlists, with their ability to seamlessly blend pop, R&B, and alternative influences. We also see a rise in requests for Motown bands who can sing old-school classics, as well as, modern hits.
- Reimagined Classics & Modern Love Songs
Expect to hear fresh takes on classic love songs by artists like Harry Styles and Dua Lipa, who often infuse their music with vintage influences.
Modern love songs from artists like Dermot Kennedy and Lewis Capaldi are likely to resonate with couples seeking heartfelt and relatable lyrics.
- Throwback Hits & Party Anthems:
Popular tracks from the late 2000s and early 2010s by artists like Lady Gaga, Maroon 5, and Black Eyed Peas are predicted to make a comeback, bringing a touch of nostalgia to the dance floor
Upbeat party anthems from Bruno Mars, Mark Ronson, and Calvin Harris are sure to keep guests moving throughout the night.
- Regional & International Influences
Don’t be surprised to hear a sprinkling of regional and international music choices, reflecting the rise of global artists in the top music charts of 2023. Latin music giants like Bad Bunny and J Balvin might make an appearance, alongside K-Pop hits of Bollywood classics, depending on the couple’s preferences.
- Artist Tributes & Themed Sets:
Themed sets or tributes to iconic artists like Queen, ABBA, or Michael Jackson can add a unique touch to the celebration. Another option is to consider incorporating live acoustic sets or roaming musicians during cocktail hour or the ceremony for a more intimate and personalised feel.
Encore’s Top Wedding Bands
Encore Musicians has the largest selections of live wedding bands in the UK. See below some of our top wedding music bands in the UK for the 2024 wedding season.
The Covered is an energetic, multi-award-winning wedding band that specialises in thrilling, dance-floor-filling pop, rock, soul, and funk hits from all decades. They also offer a 6 to 8-person lineup and are flexible with requests so you can have the wedding playlist of your dreams!
Kids at The Back is one of the most varied wedding bands around, with a repertoire of over 500 songs ranging from rock and pop classics to funk and jazz standards.
Rebels and Records’ diverse musical background creates a unique blend of catchy pop, driving rock, timeless Motown and soul, backed by years of live performances and professional studio recording. Individually, the band members have secured airtime on national radio stations, received critical acclaim and played in some of the world’s best venues, such as the iconic Abbey Road Studios.
Award-winning, lively, high-energy wedding band Upbeat Street consistently provides a warm, attentive level of service to ensure that every event is one that you and your guests will remember.
Along with both female and male vocals, this gifted ensemble also has experience in a variety of musical genres, including pop, rock, indy, disco, jazz, soul/r&b, and musical theatre.
Formed in 2012, The Cheers, is a five-piece wedding band that features lead vocals from both male and female singers. The band offers various line ups to suit any wedding reception venue – from the traditional four-piece group featuring drums, bass, and electric guitar for male or female vocals to the powerful eight-piece featuring four vocalists and the sultry sound of a saxophone.
A female-fronted wedding band with a lot of R&B, Hip-Hop, Pop, and Soul in their set list, Indigo Delight specialises on urban vibes. The band will work the crowd to guarantee a filled dance floor throughout the evening. They understand that every wedding is unique and will attempt to meet all customer requests to the letter.
As seen on The Voice. Professional 4-piece soul/pop/R&b and Motown covers band that tours regularly with great artists, including Olly Murs.
The band currently hold many residencies across central London live music venues such as Boisdale, Quaglinos, The Arts Club – Mayfair, 100 Wardour Street and countless bars/pubs and clubs.
Find the perfect wedding band for you
Remember, these are just predictions, and the beauty of your wedding music lies in choosing songs that hold special meaning for you and your partner. Encore Musicians boasts a diverse roster of wedding bands for hire across various genres and eras, ensuring you book a wedding band that will make your special day, even more special.
If you have any questions about hiring a wedding band check our Wedding Band Hire Guide where we answer all the frequently asked questions or speak to one of our experts today.