Weddings are as diverse as the people getting married. That makes it both fun and challenging to build a reception playlist that reflects the unique personalities, appeals to all ages, and — most importantly — gets everyone on the dance floor.
These days it's easy to hunt down the perfect track from any decade. Whether you’re looking to create a specific atmosphere or prefer an eclectic mix of genres, the options are practically endless, so let's narrow it down a little with 30 perfect wedding songs.
Co-written by the legendary musical couple, this song fills the room with its theme of irresistible love and attraction. The pair even played it at their wedding.
Weddings are always a cause for celebration. This timeless disco track had religious inspiration, but it works perfectly for any party.
Are you looking for a captivating first-dance song? This ode to long-term love has the British singer-songwriter pouring his heart out.
This uplifting dance number describes the euphoria of realizing there’s nowhere better to be and no one you’d rather be with.
Sometimes you need a ‘70s classic to get everyone moving. This one has the bonus of being about finding a soul mate.
For a rock edge to your wedding theme, this is a suitably raucous song that will get your guests dancing like there’s no tomorrow.
This light-hearted, upbeat track about marital expectations was written "just for fun”. Its doo-wop rhythm is impossible to resist jumping around to.
Such is this ballad’s enduring appeal that The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge asked Ellie Goulding to sing her version when they got married.
If ever there was a dance song suitable for all ages of wedding guests, it's this one. "Happy" conveys the universal joy of living in the moment.
No party is complete without what is arguably the greatest track Amy Winehouse ever recorded. Originally by indie band The Zutons, her version is bold, wistful, and a great sing-along.
“What next?” is something this ‘90s hip-house song dares to ask. No doubt it’s a pressing question for many newlyweds too, but when the music’s this good you can just dance those cares away.
This evocative tribute to spontaneity, romance, and "dancing juice" will work well at any wedding reception.
The band's show-stopping version of the ‘80s Candi Staton classic showcases the awesome healing power of love.
This is a tough but sweet, blues-inspired '60s track that will likely lead to enthusiastic dancing from all generations.
David and Victoria Beckham loved this stylish version of the jazz standard so much they had it played at their wedding.
The writers behind this fabulous '80s hit said it was about the search for a partner for “the dance of life.”
This high-energy pop song was inspired by the wife of one of its co-writers not being able to recognize her own beauty. It's catchy enough to get your guests bouncing and singing along.
This contemporary disco track flawlessly captures the moment where you’re so into someone you feel like your feet have left the ground.
Inspired by the band’s time spent playing in a cabin, the carefree, party feel of this song will soon get people grooving.
Getting married doesn’t mean you have to hand in your indie fan credentials. This track is enjoyably chaotic and evokes a time when people’s eyes often met across crowded rooms.
Written by Sia and popularised by Rihanna, who described it as “hopeful,” this anthem is a tribute to perfect love, as well as being fantastic fun to dance to.
Although it was recorded back in 1987, the dreamy theme of being so drawn to someone you want to spend every moment with them is as relevant as ever.
Full of promise, this pop-rock hit was inspired by the lead singer's girlfriend’s attempt to get him out of his head and living in the moment.
The anarchic feel of this track and its theme of love at first sight make it perfect for the wedding of two rock lovers.
Shannen Doherty and Kurt Iswarienko chose this timeless and sophisticated love song for their 2011 wedding.
Do you remember that exciting feeling of waiting for someone to call? This energetic pop track might take you both back to the early days of your relationship.
A rare example of a song that inspires the exact opposite of its lyrics, this up-tempo number has a retro disco vibe that guests of all ages will adore.
This quirky indie track celebrates how our uniqueness makes us lovable. It’s great for a slightly offbeat wedding atmosphere.
When writing this song about love between people from different backgrounds, Joel was inspired by not just one, but two of his girlfriends.
If you don’t mind wiping away happy tears during your first dance, try Adele’s majestic Bob Dylan cover version. Reese Witherspoon and Jim Toth chose the original for their wedding.