the top ten list
top ten first-dance songs
First, let’s get one thing out of the way: ladies, this is one time where classic really is the best. You want something everyone can mist-up to, relate to, and want to dance to. And the latest techno track that you and your beloved totally rock at the club is not going to cut it with your grandfather who flew in from Akron. But we guarantee that these Top Ten choices will please everybody, especially you!
One, by U2
There’s just something…yearning. Edgy. Sexy, if you will—about Bono’s voice, and this ode to monogamy and living with the one you love transcends the usual pop offerings to earn it a spot as a true Top Ten.
Wonderful Tonight, by Eric Clapton
Clapton certainly knows how to catch the ladies (and keep them), and this song has been responsible for patching up more than one massive fight…as well as setting couples off on a lifetime journey together.
Sea of Love, by the Honey Drippers
This mood piece is the perfect slow dance to start the rest of your lives to—it’s got sentiment, it’s got verve and it’s got ear-worm-worthy staying power in your head. The ideal “our song.”
Have I Told You Lately, by Van Morrison
We love Van Morrison’s soulful style, playful lyrics and catchy back beats (Brown-Eyed Girl is also a great wedding choice, but it’s a bit boppy for first-song material). Don’t tell anyone we said it, but this is one of our absolute favorite choices.
Come Away With Me, by Norah Jones
This song is the ultimate girlie “please love me” song, and it’s an awesome choice for those looking for something a bit different, but with timeless appeal. Maybe it’s in the blood—Nora’s dad Ravi Shankar is a renowned sitar player who has laid down addictive beats a’plenty in his day. Photo by Versluis Photography
The Way You Look Tonight, by Frank Sinatra
This is the Mack Daddy of first songs—clean, classic and enough to make you cry…in a good way. Unless your band is truly, awesomely swingy, though, play the original: it’s worth it.
It Had to Be You, by Harry Connick, Jr.
This song is the perfect choice for declaring your love, and it’s swift and snappy enough to keep you moving around the floor at a fast clip so that even Aunt Myrtle, all the way across the room, will be able to check you out.
Fly Me to the Moon, by Frank Sinatra
Another classic tune that everyone from older relatives to drop-dead cool teens love. (It’s Frank, after all—who doesn’t think he’s cool?) If you’ve been practicing some new swing moves, this is a good number to break them out for, because it’s got a great beat.
Unforgettable, by Nat King Cole
A slow, sweet song that makes everyone remember what they felt like on their magical day. The version with Nat and daughter Natalie also makes an ideal daddy-daughter dance song, guaranteed to make ‘em weep.