Whether your wedding is an extravagant and glam affair or a more humble event, your reception playlist can make or break the experience for your guests.
Below are the best wedding songs to get everyone on the dance floor – guaranteed!
“Levitating” by Dua Lipa Ft DaBaby
Song Year: 2020
Dua Lipa’s signature alto tones layered with a catchy dance beat and DaBaby’s rhymes make this song a must-play for every wedding after party.
Your guests won’t be able to resist dancing to this hit from the first beat!
“Mr. Brightside” by The Killers
Song Year: 2004
You know a song is iconic when it stays on the charts almost two decades after its initial release. Despite its lyrical content (which describes a failing relationship due to infidelity), “Mr. Brightside” continues to get airplay at everything from sporting events to weddings.
Wedding guests will rush to the dance floor as soon as the song starts – and wait until you hear the crowd belt out the lyrics!
“Shut Up and Dance” by Walk The Moon
Song Year: 2014
Alt-pop group Walk The Moon released “Shut Up and Dance” in 2014, and the hit has been inescapable since. Besides, what better way to get your loved ones on the floor than telling them to shut up and dance?
The lyrics describe living in the moment and embracing the now – ideal for a post-ceremony celebration.
“I Wanna Dance With Somebody” by Whitney Houston
Song Year: 1987
This timeless Whitney Houston is one of the most requested songs at weddings. Her incomparable voice and matchless energy make “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” a joyful song for all occasions.
The song is inspired by single people worldwide looking for that special one to love and cherish. Try playing this after tossing the bouquet!
“Adore You” by Harry Styles
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yezDEWako8U
Song Year: 2019
Arguably one of the most prolific artists of the 2020s thus far, Harry Styles released “Adore You” in 2019, and it’s now become a wedding staple. The almost syrupy-sweet lyrics by Styles and the danceable beat make it irresistible.
Some couples have even learned the dance from the music video for an extra touch!
“Love Shack” by The B-52s
Song Year: 1989
Despite its 80s release date, “Love Shack” by The B-52s remains one of the most timeless pop hits for all ages. The groovy, psychedelic melody with the kitschy lyrics and spoken-word segments are sure to have your guests getting down!
“Home” by Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros
Song Year: 2009
Perfect for travel-savvy newlyweds or bohemian-themed weddings, “Home” features a romantic duo speaking back and forth about their affections and how their loved one always makes them feel at home.
Quirky lyrics, easy-to-dance-to-beat, and banjo-laden melodies make this indie darling one of the best wedding songs ever.
“Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift
Song Year: 2012
This 2012 tune from Taylor’s “1989” album has a carefree attitude and exudes fun. The beat will have everyone off their feet and grooving – without a care in the world!
“Shake It Off” is also an excellent option for those looking to have clean, non-explicit songs at their reception.
“Poker Face” by Lady Gaga
Song Year: 2008
“Poker Face” is one of those songs that never truly goes out of fashion. Even nearly 15 years after its release, wedding parties and audiences everywhere continue to get down whenever this song hits the speakers.
“Bad Romance” by Lady Gaga
Song Year: 2009
Another Lady Gaga classic, “Bad Romance,” centers on an infatuation that turns obsessive – but in the catchiest, most charming way possible. The beat is quick but straightforward, and your guests won’t be able to resist stepping onto the floor.
If you want to take it one step further, try getting the wedding party to learn the dance from the music video!
“Juice” by Lizzo
Song Year: 2019
If you want your wedding guests to flock to the dance floor and show some self-love, you can’t go wrong with “Juice” by Lizzo. The retro-funk beat and lyrics made for singing are ideal for breaking it down all night long.
This song is perfect for later on in the evening when people are in the mood to groove!
“Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PIb6AZdTr-A
Song Year: 1983
Upbeat, bold, and timeless, “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” is the ultimate wedding party song – and even works well for karaoke! The pop beat blended with Lauper’s signature vocals will bring dead crowds to life.
This song is another hit that suits the bouquet-throwing ceremony or presenting bridesmaids.
“You Make My Dreams” by Hall & Oates
Song Year: 1980
Beloved for its classic beat and charming lyrics, “You Make My Dreams” is one of the finest love songs ever. The tune suits multiple dance types (especially if your guests want to swing dance) and generally lightens the mood.
Guaranteed to put a smile on every partygoer’s face, “You Make My Dreams” is a tried-and-true hit for all ages.
“Can’t Hold Us” by Macklemore and Ryan Lewis
Song Year: 2011
This catchy Macklemore tune is a surefire way to get everyone moving. The inspiring, cheerful lyrics and the hip-hop beat are perfect for dancing the night away.
“Can’t Hold Us” is an excellent family-friendly wedding song that your guests won’t be able to resist.
“You’ve Got The Love” by Florence + The Machine
Song Year: 2008
Another indie wedding hit, “You’ve Got The Love,” by Florence + The Machine, is a classic love song with unique instrumentals and Welch’s famous sweeping vocals. Ideal for a wedding with its lyrics about devotion and lasting through tough times, the song will have everyone dancing with their loved ones.
“Rather Be” by Clean Bandit Feat. Jess Glynne
Song Year: 2013
“Rather Be” mixes EDM sounds with pure pop vocals, easy-to-memorize lyrics, and the theme that there’s no place better than next to their partner. This Clean Bandit tune is one of the few nearly-perfect wedding songs.
Everyone will love grooving to this on the dance floor, and its expletive-free lyrics work for all audiences. It’s an excellent choice for getting a dead crowd moving.
“Happy” by Pharrell Williams
Song Year: 2013
“Happy” was seemingly everywhere in 2013 – you simply couldn’t escape it! Its retro-sounding vocals and instrumentals bring a sense of nostalgia during every listen and never fail to lift a mood.
It’s a soulful, feel-good song that teaches you to choose happiness even when life is full of problems – just as a newlywed couple does at a wedding.
“Come On Eileen” by Dexy’s Midnight Runners
Song Year: 1982
Laden with fiddles and cheeky lyrics (although the accent is so thick, you may not be able to decipher what he’s saying – but the song is so catchy, most people don’t mind!). “Come On, Eileen” is a wedding classic that suits everything from swing dancing to solo grooving.
The speed-up-and-slow-down nature of the tune will have guests on their toes and having the time of their lives.
“Move Your Feet” by Junior Senior
Song Year: 2002
Fans of the early 2000s video game Dance Dance Revolution may recognize “Move Your Feet” as one of the more popular hits on the playlist, but the tune doesn’t just work for beating your high score – it also suits wedding celebrations!
The call-and-response vocals and the infectious beat make it impossible to ignore, while the lyrics tell the listeners to move their feet and feel united. It’s the ultimate wedding dance crowd-pleaser!
“24K Magic” by Bruno Mars
Song Year: 2016
Undoubtedly, Bruno Mars is one of the most prolific pop icons of the past decade. His vintage-sounding beats and soulful voice never go out of style, and Grammy winner “24K Magic” is no exception.
The feel-good lyrics will have everyone moving and create an upbeat vibe perfect for your wedding party.
“I Believe In A Thing Called Love” by The Darkness
Song Year: 2003
This rock-inspired tune by The Darkness is an unexpected, kitschy, and surprisingly lovey-dovey song that always manages to get a crowd going. “I Believe In A Thing Called Love” is a must-have for newlyweds that love alternative music but still want to play danceable music at their reception.
Be warned – this song is an earworm! Your guests will be singing this for weeks after your wedding!
“This Must Be The Place (Naive Melody)” by Talking Heads
Song Year: 1983
Singer David Byrne stated this song is deeply personal – and the lyrics, although a bit off-kilter, feel raw and genuine without being depressing. The melodies are upbeat, tech-inspired, and fast, while the crooning vocals sing about their loved one feeling at home.
“This Must Be The Place” is a terrific wedding song for vintage-inspired weddings or couples looking for a unique tune for their guests to enjoy. One of the primary lyrics (“never for money/always for love”) sets the tone for a long and prospering relationship.
“Wannabe” by The Spice Girls
Song Year: 1996
“Wannabe” is an evergreen classic and the first hit single for the Spice Girls. The lyrics center on putting friendships above relationships and tells the would-be lover to be friends with her friends if he wants the relationship to work.
While the lyrics may not seem suitable for a wedding, your guests will be on the floor in seconds when this song comes on!
“Everybody” by Backstreet Boys
Song Year: 1997
The Backstreet Boys were one of the biggest bands of the 90s and early 2000s – and “Everybody” is one of the main reasons why! Powerful pop beats and slightly egotistical lyrics collide to form the perfect recipe for a pop smash hit (and wedding song).
“Bye Bye Bye” by N’Sync
Song Year: 2000
Another 2000s boy band banger, “Bye Bye Bye,” is a breakup song that somehow manages to be one of the most popular wedding songs ever.
The lyrics in Bye Bye Bye talk about a guy who has reached his limit with his girl’s antics and wants to get out of the relationship – pretty much the opposite of the emotions present at a wedding! Yet, the danceable beat and lyrics create a high-energy dance floor your guests will never forget.
“Electric Love” by Børns
Song Year: 2015
“Electric Love” is a dreamy, synthy alt-pop hit with unique and powerful vocals. The song goes from slow and lucid to quick and beat-heavy during the chorus, making it ideal for an energetic crowd.
The song describes a partner as lightning in a bottle and as sweet as candy, with love so powerful it’s electrifying.
“Primadonna” by Marina & The Diamonds
Song Year: 2012
Sassy, bold, and just plain fun, “Primadonna” may be about a girl who wants the world and does not necessarily need love, but it still makes for a danceable wedding banger. The instrumentals are pure dance-pop at its finest, and the alto-toned vocals will have everyone talking.
This song is dramatic and glamorous, ideal for a royalty-worthy wedding and extravagant soirees.
“Chandelier” by Sia
Song Year: 2014
If you want to start a sing-along with your wedding guests, you can’t get much better than “Chandelier.” The 2014 Sia hit talks about swinging from chandeliers, living like tomorrow doesn’t exist, and dancing the night away.
This song works well for partying hard but can also suit slow dancing or a mid-celebration tune.
“Yeah” by Usher, Ludacris, and Lil Jon
Song Year: 2004
Almost everyone recognizes this Usher classic within the first second of the song. “Yeah” hit the charts in 2004 and became an instant wedding dance hit. The smooth R & B sounds from Usher blended with the rap portion from Ludacris, and Lil Jon’s unforgettable ad-libs make it one of the most fun songs you can play at your wedding!
“Love On Top” by Beyonce
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ob7vObnFUJc
Song Year: 2011
“Love On Top” is a Beyonce staple and one of the most romantic wedding songs that still have danceability. Funky brass instrumentals, powerhouse vocals, and lovey-dovey lyrics make this smash single from the album “4” a must-have for any wedding playlist.
“The Sound” by The 1975
Song Year: 2016
British alt-rock band The 1975 released “The Sound” as one of the first singles from their second album (“I Like It When You Sleep…”), and it quickly became one of their top tunes. The cheeky, high-energy lyrics and the orchestra-synth sounds make it unique but still easy to groove to.
If you have 1975 fans on your guest list, play this song while changing the lights in the room to pink – it’ll be a winner!
“Paper Planes” by M.I.A.
Song Year: 2007
Iconic for its sound effects and memorable lyrics, “Paper Planes” by M.I.A. may be an unexpected wedding dance song, but guests everywhere will get down to the hip-hop beat and sing along.
M.I.A. has an almost monotone voice but in the best way – and “Paper Planes” makes for some excellent dancing at your reception.
“Jump Around” by House of Pain
Song Year: 1992
If you need to get everyone hyped up during your reception, “Jump Around” is guaranteed to get the job done. As one of the top 90s hip-hop jams and with an insanely infectious chorus, people everywhere can’t resist flocking to the floor when the DJ plays it.
This song works well for groomsmen as a walk-out anthem – perfect for starting the evening on a high note!
“Dancing Queen” by ABBA
Song Year: 1976
While iconic Swedish band ABBA has had several hits over the years, you can’t beat “Dancing Queen” for its recognizable lyrics and upbeat melodies. Wedding parties of all ages and nearly every wedding theme can work with this song, and it’s sure to get everyone moving.
“Raise Your Glass” by P!nk
Song Year: 2010
Self-love is the best love – so blast this song at your wedding and watch your guests feel themselves with champagne in hand. The lyrics celebrate being unique, marching to the beat of your drum, and dancing like nobody’s watching.
“I Love It” by Icona Pop Feat. Charli XCX
Song Year: 2012
Slightly nonsensical, but one of the finest songs possibly ever released for dancing, “I Love It” gets the party started. Its high-energy synths and reckless lyrics were practically made for the dance floor – and will no doubt have everyone rushing the floor to boogie.
“You Can’t Touch This” by MC Hammer
Song Year: 1990
Guaranteed to have every 90s kid show off their typewriter skills on the dance floor, “You Can’t Touch This” is an iconic hip-hop song with signature dance moves. The fun-loving lyrics and jazzy beats will have every foot in the room tapping!
“Gasolina” by Daddy Yankee
Song Year: 2010
Daddy Yankee may have retired, but this song will always remain one of his greatest. “Gasolina” is insanely catchy (even if you can’t tell what he’s saying). Everyone knows the first few beats of the tune, and it’s a certified wedding banger that your entire guest list will surely enjoy.
“Every Time We Touch” by Cascada (Electric Version)
Song Year: 2006
“Every Time We Touch” by Cascada is essentially pop royalty. The danceable synths with her heavenly voice layered over top are perfect for getting down at a wedding.
The song is about feeling love at the fullest and experiencing so much passion that even the slightest touch makes you feel invincible. Pretty well fitting for newlyweds!
“I Gotta Feeling” by Black Eyed Peas
Song Year: 2009
Weddings are supposed to be the happiest day of your life – and this 2009 Black Eyed Peas tune is about living life to the fullest and embracing the present, making it an ideal choice for a wedding reception.
“Uptown Funk” by Bruno Mars
Song Year: 2014
Despite being released almost 10 years ago, “Uptown Funk” remains one of the most-played pop songs ever. With vibrant brassy instrumentals and Bruno Mars crooning confident lyrics, this incredibly danceable tune is instantly recognizable by nearly everyone. Even the wallflowers at your wedding will join the crowd when this comes on!
“Crazy in Love” by Beyonce ft Jay-Z
Song Year: 2003
“Crazy In Love” features an iconic couple, Beyonce and Jay-Z, joining forces to create one of the best songs of the 2000s.
Ideal for a surprising first dance or just to get the crowd pumped, your wedding guests will love hearing this nostalgic-yet-timeless hit and attempting their best Beyonce moves.
“Cha Cha Slide” by DJ Casper
Song Year: 2000
This 2000s line-dancing hit takes a hip-hop turn to a usually country-laden genre and continues to get airplay at nearly every event.
The “Cha Cha Slide” is perfect for warming up the crowd, as it tells everyone what to do during the song, and the movements aren’t overly complex.
“Party Rock Anthem” by LMFAO ft Lauren Bennett and GoonRock
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQ6zr6kCPj8
Song Year: 2011
Are you ready to party? LMFAO launched “Party Rock Anthem” in 2011, and it quickly rose to fame for its unique lyrics and signature “every day I’m shuffling” line.
While the song may not make much sense, it’s still a banger for wedding receptions and usually has everyone partying in seconds.
“Moves Like Jagger” by Maroon 5 ft Christina Aguilera
Song Year: 2010
“Moves Like Jagger” pays homage to the singer’s iconic dance moves and features a verse from pop legend Christina Aguilera, making it an instant classic for weddings and dancing the night away.
The fast-paced melodies and memorable lyrics will have everyone showing off their best Mick Jagger impressions.
“Mambo No.5” by Lou Bega
Song Year: 1999
Lou Bega sampled the original song by Perez Prado, but his take is the more recognized version.
“Mambo No.5” talks about his love for several women whose names feature in the hit track. While a wedding means dedicating yourself to one person, it’s an upbeat tune that most people find irresistible.
“Man! I Feel Like A Woman” by Shania Twain
Song Year: 1999
This Shania Twain cover is about letting go and not caring what anyone thinks, making it an excellent feature of your wedding playlist. Even those that dislike country music adore this tune for its sassy tone and catchy beat.
“Man! I Feel Like A Woman” is a great pick for throwing the bouquet and other festivities.
“Roses” by Outkast
Song Year: 2003
Like most Outkast songs, “Roses” may appear as an upbeat love song, but the lyrics discuss someone the speaker doesn’t like. However, the melodies are so catchy and infectious that it makes an excellent song for dancing – and you’ll probably get a few laughs out of it along the way.
“Work It” by Missy Elliott
Song Year: 2002
This Missy Elliott gamechanger will surely get your guests working it! “Work It” is a hip-hop masterpiece with clever lyrics and a smooth, crisp beat that you can’t help but groove to.
That said, you may want to save this song for when the kids go home – it’s a bit adult for young ones.
“Genie in a Bottle” by Christina Aguilera
Song Year: 1999
Pop sensation Christina Aguilera took the 90s and early 2000s by storm, and “Genie In A Bottle” remains one of her most successful hits to date. The pure-pop sound and subtle-but-suggestive lyrics make it perfect for a wedding reception – especially during the bouquet throwing or traditional wedding games.
“Get Into It (Yuh)” by Doja Cat
Song Year: 2021
“Get Into It” by pop and rap princess Doja Cat is a clubby hit perfect for wedding guests who want to shake it all night long. Although it may not be suited for every audience, its catchy lyrics and beat will get the crowd lit!
This song best suits a young crowd that knows how to party.
“The Macarena” by Los del Rio (Bayside Boys Remix)
Song Year: 1993
“The Macarena” is one of the best wedding songs for dancing – and produced one of the most popular dances of the 90s and beyond.
Even if you aren’t sure what the words mean, “The Macarena” is an easy dance that almost everyone knows or can learn, making it excellent for every age and guest.
“Bad Guy” by Billie Eilish
Song Year: 2019
Despite its grim lyrics, this Billie Eilish song is danceable and fun to listen to – and guaranteed to have your younger wedding guests singing every word.
The swirling beat and her drowsy-sounding vocals make “Bad Guy” a unique choice for a reception, but it somehow works!
“Gettin’ Jiggy Wit It” by Will Smith
Song Year: 1997
Will Smith holds the distinction of winning an Oscar and a Grammy, and this 90s jam is almost as legendary as he is! The sleek flows and smooth instrumentals moves make this track an excellent pick for getting down on the dance floor.
“Footloose” by Kenny Loggins
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltrMfT4Qz5Y
Song Year: 1984
“Footloose” is one of those 80s songs that will live on forever as a wedding banger – and for good reason. The high-energy bop is family-friendly and somehow manages to get everyone moving (even those that may prefer clubbier tracks).
The song is about letting go and enjoying life to the fullest, a hopeful message for the newlyweds.
“Africa” by Toto
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FTQbiNvZqaY
Song Year: 1982
Africa is an incredibly nostalgic song, a blast from the past with an interesting storyline about a man who had never set foot in Africa – but wrote one of the greatest songs about the continent.
However, young adults launched the tune back into circulation, and it now gets almost as much recognition as it did upon release. This song works well for weddings because most people know it, and guests can sing and dance along to the soothing 80s beat.
“Sugar Sugar” by the Archies
Song Year: 1969
This song is an all-time wedding favorite from the 60s, expressing pure and genuine love between two people. The tune is sugary-sweet and perfect for those newlyweds that can’t get enough of one another.
The simple lyrics talk about a man’s affection for his girl, describing her as his ‘sugar’ and ‘candy girl’ – all figurative expressions for something sweet. It’s an oldies song for seniors (and young ones!) to jive to.
“L-O-V-E” by Nat King Cole
Song Year: 1964
L-O-V-E is the quintessential wedding song, perfect in every way. The sonorous voice of Nat King Cole continues to serenade wedding guests over a century after his passing.
This song works well for every wedding theme, type, and crowd – it’s a classic and deserves a spot on any wedding dance playlist.
“Come Fly With Me” by Frank Sinatra
Song Year: 1957
Sinatra is the only man that can make you long for a time you never experienced. A wedding isn’t complete without at least one of his iconic crooning songs on the playlist.
Timeless lyrics, soulful vocals, and jazzy instrumentals suit newlyweds flawlessly and make every listener feel a little more glamorous.
“Wobble” by V.I.C
Song Year: 2008
A party isn’t complete without this song blasting over the speakers. “Wobble” has an easy dance accompaniment and a straightforward beat that everyone can jam to.
The fastest way to awaken a less-than-enthusiastic crowd is to start playing the “Wobble”. It’s a wedding reception staple that gets the guests running to the front of the dance floor.
“Celebration” by Kool & The Gang
Song Year: 1980
What better song to celebrate the happy couple with than “Celebration” by Kool & The Gang?
It’s a song that instantly puts a smile on your face, no matter who you are or where you come from. The family-friendly lyrics and unforgettable instrumentals bring the funk and the party to any dance floor.
Top Wedding Songs for Dancing, Final Thoughts
The best wedding songs are back-to-back hit tracks that get the guests on their feet and on the dance floor. These songs can make or break a wedding and must have something for everyone.
It’s no small thing to commit to a partner for life, so your playlist should reflect the passion, fun, and romance of a wedding – and ensure your guests have the night of their lives!