Frequently Asked Questions Answered

Wedding Music Planning Questions

Some wedding songs have stood the test of time and remain favorites across generations. Classics like “At Last” by Etta James, “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers, and “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley continue to be chosen for ceremonies and first dances. Modern favorites include “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran and “All of Me” by John Legend. These songs remain popular because of their heartfelt lyrics and timeless melodies that resonate with couples and guests alike.

At My Wedding Songs, we curate updated lists of the most requested songs at weddings by DJs, ensuring you always have access to both timeless classics and trending hits.

See our list of the greatest wedding songs.

For your ceremony, you’ll typically need 4–6 songs: one for seating (prelude), one for the wedding party entrance, one for the bride’s entrance, one or two for special moments (like unity candle or communion), and one for the recessional. For the reception, plan for 4–5 hours of music. A professional DJ usually plays 15–20 songs per hour, so you’ll need about 80–100 songs to cover everything.

Of course, you don’t have to select every track yourself. Many couples provide a “must-play list” of 20–30 favorites plus a “do-not-play list,” and let the DJ handle the rest.

Some songs, while popular, may not fit the joyful, romantic atmosphere of a wedding. Avoid breakup songs like “Every Breath You Take” by The Police (often mistaken as a love song), or tunes with overly sad or explicit lyrics. Also, think twice before including songs that might offend certain guests, like those with heavy profanity.

That said, it’s personal! If a song has special meaning to you, it belongs. Just remember: your do-not-play list is just as important as your must-play list.

See our list of do-not-play wedding songs.

Walking down the aisle is one of the most emotional moments of the day. Traditional favorites include “Canon in D” by Pachelbel and “Bridal Chorus” by Wagner. Modern couples often choose “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri or an acoustic cover of their favorite love song. Instrumental or piano versions are also popular for creating a romantic, timeless feel.

The key is to choose a song that matches your personality and pace—it should feel comfortable and meaningful as you make your entrance.

See our list of processional songs.

The processional song is played while the wedding party and the bride walk down the aisle, usually slower, emotional, and romantic. The recessional song is played when the couple exits after being pronounced married—it’s celebratory, upbeat, and joyful.

Think of it this way: the processional sets the tone of anticipation and romance, while the recessional bursts with energy and celebration. “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)” by Stevie Wonder is a perfect recessional pick!

The first dance is your moment to shine as a couple. Timeless classics like “At Last” by Etta James or “Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole & Natalie Cole are always popular. Modern couples often pick “Perfect” by Ed Sheeran or “Speechless” by Dan + Shay.

Choose a song that reflects your love story—whether it’s romantic, soulful, or playful. If the lyrics mean something special to you, guests will feel it too.

See our list of first dance songs.

This dance is all about love, gratitude, and family. Some classic choices include “My Girl” by The Temptations, “Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder, and “Butterfly Kisses” by Bob Carlisle. Modern options like “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack or “You’ll Be in My Heart” by Phil Collins are heartfelt and timeless.

Ultimately, the best song is one that captures your unique bond. Many dads and daughters even pick a fun, upbeat tune to surprise guests with a choreographed routine.

See our list of father-figure songs.

Your last dance should leave guests with unforgettable memories. Romantic choices include “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” from Dirty Dancing or “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey. Some couples prefer to end on a high-energy party track like “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon or “We Found Love” by Rihanna.

Think about the mood you want to create—romantic farewell or dance-floor explosion—and let your last song set the tone.

See our list of last dance songs.

If you want to channel Studio 54 vibes, disco classics always pack the dance floor. “Stayin’ Alive” by the Bee Gees, “Le Freak” by Chic, and “Don’t Stop ’Til You Get Enough” by Michael Jackson are guaranteed hits. Disco adds fun, nostalgia, and irresistible grooves to your reception.

You can even create a themed disco set for 15–20 minutes during your party—it’ll have every generation dancing together.

See our list of the best disco songs.

For smooth, laid-back vibes, yacht rock is perfect during cocktails. Favorites include “What a Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers, “Brandy (You’re a Fine Girl)” by Looking Glass, and “Sailing” by Christopher Cross.

Yacht rock blends romance, nostalgia, and easy-listening grooves—ideal for mingling and setting a fun, classy tone before the dance floor opens.

See our list of the best yacht rock songs.

Your DJ is both a music curator and a crowd manager. The best approach is to give them a must-play list of your favorites, a do-not-play list for songs you dislike, and let them fill in the rest. DJs read the crowd in real-time, adjusting tempo and genre to keep energy high.

Communicate your vision—whether you want a classy, elegant night, or an all-out party—and trust their expertise. Collaboration is key to making the night flow seamlessly.

Yes, always. The do-not-play list protects your event from awkward or unwanted moments. Common entries include line dances like the “Chicken Dance” or breakup songs that feel out of place at a wedding.

Giving your DJ clear boundaries ensures your playlist feels authentic to you and avoids “cringe” moments on the dance floor.

Absolutely! Many couples have live musicians for the ceremony and cocktails, then switch to a DJ for the reception. You can even have a live band for part of the night and let the DJ take over later.

This hybrid approach gives you the romance of live music with the energy and variety of a DJ, keeping your wedding dynamic and memorable.

Company Questions

Yes. Please visit our Bookstore to see all of our published wedding music planners.

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No.  Legally, we cannot sell music due to copyright laws.

However, you can listen to songs on the My Wedding Songs Spotify profile.