A Romantic Playlist for Your Perfect Day
When it comes to weddings, there are few moments more tender and memorable than the first dance. It’s that magical point when the rest of the world fades away, and two people celebrate the beginning of their forever together. Over the past decade, many songs have captured the essence of love, creating the perfect backdrop for this intimate moment. In this article, we’re going to dive into the most popular first dance songs from the past ten years and explore what makes each of them so special. Whether you’re planning your own wedding or simply a lover of beautiful music, let these songs inspire you.
“Perfect” by Ed Sheeran
It seems impossible to mention wedding songs without Ed Sheeran popping up. “Perfect” has become an anthem for couples since its release in 2017. It’s easy to see why: the lyrics describe a love that feels genuine and everlasting. With lines like “I found a love to carry more than just my secrets”, Sheeran paints a picture of devotion that strikes a chord with so many. Its melody is both simple and enchanting, making it easy for couples to sway along as if they are the only two in the room. The song’s sincerity and timeless feel make it a staple for modern weddings.
“All of Me” by John Legend
Released in 2013, “All of Me” is a love letter set to music. John Legend wrote this song for his wife, Chrissy Teigen, and you can feel the real emotion embedded in every lyric. It’s a testament to embracing someone fully, flaws and all, with lyrics like “Love your curves and all your edges, all your perfect imperfections.” The combination of heartfelt lyrics and Legend’s soulful voice makes this song a popular choice for a deeply personal first dance. It’s perfect for couples who want to express unconditional love in its rawest form.
“Say You Won’t Let Go” by James Arthur
James Arthur’s “Say You Won’t Let Go” tells the story of a love that grows and evolves, from the first date to the dream of growing old together. Released in 2016, it quickly became a favorite for couples who wanted to convey the sense of a shared future. Its acoustic vibe adds a touch of simplicity, making the song feel intimate and authentic. It’s for those who want to tell a story with their dance—one that speaks of a love that is present, enduring, and optimistic.
“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
Although released in 2011, “A Thousand Years” remained a staple for weddings throughout the 2010s, partly due to its inclusion in the Twilight series. But beyond its pop culture roots, the song has a timeless quality that makes it resonate deeply. The lyrics speak of waiting patiently for the right love—a sentiment that many couples relate to. “I have loved you for a thousand years, I’ll love you for a thousand more” is a line that feels almost eternal, capturing the essence of love that transcends time.
“You Are the Reason” by Calum Scott & Leona Lewis
This beautiful duet, released in 2018, is filled with poignant lyrics about overcoming obstacles for love. “You Are the Reason” is a declaration of how much one person means to another, emphasizing the lengths one would go to keep the other safe and happy. The tender harmonies between Calum Scott and Leona Lewis add depth to the song, creating an emotional, moving experience that many couples find ideal for their first dance.
“Tenerife Sea” by Ed Sheeran
Another Ed Sheeran classic that couples adore, “Tenerife Sea” is a softer, more acoustic tune compared to “Perfect.” Released in 2014, it has a magical quality, evoking the feeling of being completely enchanted by your partner. With lines like “Should this be the last thing I see, I want you to know it’s enough for me”, the song perfectly encapsulates the feeling of being overwhelmed by love. It’s ideal for couples looking for a first dance that’s understated, yet incredibly romantic.
“Die a Happy Man” by Thomas Rhett
For couples with a love for country music, Thomas Rhett’s “Die a Happy Man” has been a favorite since its release in 2015. The song is a simple, heartfelt declaration of love, where Rhett sings about how the love of his life is all he really needs to be happy. Its laid-back, country vibe makes it perfect for couples looking for something down-to-earth, but still incredibly emotional. It’s about the little things that make love so fulfilling—a sentiment that resonates with many.
“Lover” by Taylor Swift
Released in 2019, “Lover” has quickly become a modern wedding classic. The lyrics are beautifully nostalgic, touching on the desire to make a lifelong commitment. “Can I go where you go? Can we always be this close forever and ever?” speaks directly to the heart of what marriage is about—wanting to share every moment, big or small, with the person you love. The gentle waltz rhythm of the song also makes it a wonderful choice for a romantic first dance.
“Speechless” by Dan + Shay
“Speechless,” released in 2018, is inspired by the overwhelming feeling of seeing your partner on your wedding day. The lyrics describe that moment when words fail because the love you feel is just too powerful. Dan + Shay’s harmonies and the soft, melodic tune make it a perfect backdrop for a first dance. It captures the magic of that very moment when everything else falls away, and it’s just you and your partner, lost in each other’s eyes.
“Beyond” by Leon Bridges
Leon Bridges’ “Beyond,” released in 2018, has a soulful, timeless quality that makes it stand out. The lyrics convey the excitement of finding someone who might just be “the one,” and the hope that this love will last forever. With its smooth, heartfelt vibe, “Beyond” creates an atmosphere of genuine romance, making it a favorite for couples who want something classic yet contemporary for their first dance.
“Better Together” by Jack Johnson
Jack Johnson’s “Better Together” has been a favorite for couples who want a relaxed, feel-good vibe for their first dance. Although it was released before the last decade, it continued to be a popular choice throughout the 2010s. The song’s simplicity and charm make it perfect for couples who want their first dance to feel less like a performance and more like a private moment shared with everyone they love.
“Yours” by Russell Dickerson
Released in 2017, “Yours” is an emotional country ballad that has quickly become a popular choice for weddings. Russell Dickerson sings about how his life changed for the better after meeting his partner, and the lyrics are filled with heartfelt declarations that many couples relate to. It’s an uplifting, joyful song that’s perfect for celebrating the journey of finding your soulmate.
What Makes These Songs So Popular?
There’s a reason these songs have resonated with so many couples over the past decade—they all speak to the universality of love. Whether it’s the promise of being there through thick and thin, the excitement of new love, or the comfort of a lifelong partnership, each of these songs captures a different facet of what it means to love and be loved. They’re relatable, emotional, and beautifully composed, making them perfect for such a meaningful moment.
Another common thread is authenticity. Many of these songs were written by artists who were inspired by their own relationships, which is perhaps why they feel so genuine. When couples choose their first dance song, they want something that speaks to their own love story, and these tracks do just that—they tell a story that feels real, intimate, and deeply personal.
Choosing the Perfect Song for Your First Dance
Ultimately, the perfect first dance song is one that feels right for you as a couple. Whether you gravitate towards the grand, sweeping romance of “Perfect,” the soulful simplicity of “Beyond,” or the heartfelt authenticity of “Die a Happy Man,” what matters most is that the song reflects your relationship. Your first dance is a moment to celebrate your unique love story, and the music you choose should be a reflection of that.
So take your time, listen to these songs, and imagine yourselves dancing to each one. Which one makes you smile the most? Which one brings a tear to your eye? That’s the one. And when you find it, hold onto it tightly—because that song will forever be the soundtrack to one of the happiest moments of your life.