Top Father and Daughter Dance Songs
Updated on March 12, 2023 | Written by Matthew Campbell (Editor of My Wedding Songs and wedding DJ)
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The most special moment in a father’s life is his daughter’s wedding, second only to the day she was born.
Father daughter dance songs celebrate this beautiful bond between the bride and her dad.
The Father Daughter Dance or the Daddy-Daughter Dance is formally the dance between the father of the bride and the bride herself.
The bride should choose one of her favorite tunes to act as the father-daughter dance song that has a special meaning between them.
Top 10 New Father Daughter Songs
- “When God Made You My Father” by Riley Roth (Country – 2022)
- “Good Hands” by Kylie Morgan (Country – 2022)
- “Good Hands” by Johnny and Heidi (Country – 2022)
- “Daddy’s Girl” by Channing Gillespie (Christian – 2022)
- “Daughter” by Ben Rector (Pop – 2022)
- “Moments into Memories” by Will Dempsey (Country – 2022)
- “Tell Me Twice” by Chayce Beckham (Country – 2022)
- “Like My Father” by Jax (Pop – 2021)
- “You’ll Always Be My Baby” by Alan Jackson (Country – 2021)
- “She’s Somebody’s Daughter” by Drew Baldridge (Country – 2021)
Top Trending Father Daughter Tracks
- “My Little Girl” by Tim McGraw
- “I Loved Her First” by Heartland
- “My Girl” by Temptations
- “Butterfly Kisses” by Bob Carlisle
- “Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder
- “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts
- “This Dance” by Scott Thomas Laughridge
- “What A Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong
- “Stealing Cinderella” by Chuck Wicks
- “Cinderella” by Steven Chapman Curtis
Spotify Father Daughter Playlist
Want the NEW and TRENDING songs for romance and fun?
What are popular father and daughter dance songs by genre?
The songs we’ve chosen tell a story about the love between a dad and a daughter. The songs can be dedicated to dad from daughter or to daughter from dad.
Wedding vendors commonly call the dance between a dad and his daughter the father-daughter dance which is formal.
In a less formal title, it can be called the dad-daughter dance. When you think about it, how many daughters call their male parent father over dad?
You can change the name to a dad-daughter dance!
You will enjoy a list of the most popular and unique father daughter dance songs for your reception.
Every couple’s music tastes are different.
Thus, I selected father-daughter dance songs that include many different eras and music styles.
Rock
Story Of Love – Bon Jovi
Released in 2020, Genre: Rock
A song from the perspective of your father being proud of his daughter.
Lovable Lyrics: “From the day you arrive, ’til you walk, ’til you run / There is nothing but pride, there is nothing but love”
Walk With You – Edwin McCain
Released in 2010, Genre: Rock
A loving song about a father loving his child and how blessed he is.
Lovable Lyrics: “I’ll take this slow sweet walk with you / You’ll let go of my hand to say I do / He will discover just how blessed a life can be / I know ’cause all those years ago / Your mom handed you to me”
Gracie – Ben Folds
Released in 2005, Genre: Rock
Your daughter’s name doesn’t have to be Gracie to appreciate this song of a dad dancing with his daughter on his toes and loving her.
Lovable Lyrics: “And there will always be a part of me / Nobody else is ever gonna see but you and me / My little girl”
Daughters – John Mayer
Released in 2004, Genre: Rock
The song is a push for fathers to raise their daughters right and they learn how to love from their dads.
Lovable Lyrics: “So fathers be good to your daughters / Daughters will love like you do”
Sweet Child O’ Mine – Sheryl Crow
Released in 1998, Genre: Rock
A slower cover of the song made famous by Guns ‘N’ Roses.
Lovable Lyrics: “Oh, oh oh oh sweet child o’ mine / Ohh, sweet love of mine”
Wildflowers – Tom Petty
Released in 1994, Genre: Rock
The song describes a story of a man loving someone and he wants her to be happy and free.
Lovable Lyrics: “You belong among the wildflowers / You belong in a boat out at sea / You belong with your love on your arm / You belong somewhere you feel free”
Sweet Child O’ Mine – Guns N’ Roses
Released in 1988, Genre: Rock
Even though the song is a love song between a couple, for classic rock fans this could be your daddy-daughter song.
Lovable Lyrics: “She takes me away to that special place / And if I stare too long, I’d probably break down and cry / Whoa, oh, oh / Sweet child o’ mine”
Forever Young – Rod Stewart
Released in 1988, Genre: Rock
The song was written as a dedication from Stewart to his kids.
Lovable Lyrics: “May good fortune be with you / May your guiding light be strong / Build a stairway to Heaven / With a prince or a vagabond”
Landslide – Fleetwood Mac
Released in 1975, Genre: Rock
Stevie Nicks wrote the song about her love romance as well as her relationship with her father. Other song covers include The Chicks and Boyce Avenue.
Lovable Lyrics: “‘Cause I’ve built my life around you / But time makes you bolder / Even children get older / And I’m getting older too”
Do you have a stepdad and looking for a stepdad and stepdaughter song? Check out our list of stepdad and stepdaughter songs for a dance at your wedding.
Folk
Forever Young – Andrea von Kampen
Released in 2019, Genre: Folk
A folk cover of the Rod Stewart song that is an endearing dedication to his kids.
Lovable Lyrics: “Oh let it come true / Forever young / I want to be forever young”
Father Daughter Dance – Craig Cardiff
Released in 2018, Genre: Folk
A song about a father loving his daughter and dancing a special dance together.
Lovable Lyrics: “Oh daughter, know we’re always here / I love you more / Then all the way / Past Florida, China, The United States”
The Old Man & His Daughter – Kaitlin Huwe
Released in 2018, Genre: Folk
A song about a father teaching his daughter to work hard and find love that makes her happy.
Lovable Lyrics: “The Old Man told his Daughter, You must grow to be smarter / than all the ones before you so that you can set them free / The Daughter said, Yes, Father, I’ll
rise up and work harder / I will meet the day and find the way I’d like to lead.”
Promise You’ll Stay – Joshua Creek
Released in 2016, Genre: Folk
A song about a dad’s daughter getting married and watching her growing up and hoping she stays part of his life.
Lovable Lyrics: “From your first laugh to your first love / I stood by and watched you with pride / A fairy princess, a ballerina, today you’re a bride”
Daughter – Loudon Wainwright III
Released in 2007, Genre: Folk
A mid-tempo song about from the dad’s perspective and being there for her.
Lovable Lyrics: “That’s my daughter in the water / I lost every time I fought her / Yeah, I lost every time”
Sweet Pea – Amos Lee
Released in 2006, Genre: Folk
A fun dad-daughter song and how much he loves her.
Lovable Lyrics: “Hey, sweet pea / Apple of my eye / Don’t know when, and I don’t know why / But you’re the only reason I keep on coming home”
Father And Daughter – Paul Simon
Released in 2002, Genre: Folk
A mid-tempo song about how much a dad loves his daughter.
Lovable Lyrics: “As long as one and one is two / Ooh ooh / There could never be a father / Love his daughter more than I love you”
If you have selected a father-daughter dance, don’t forget about the groom! Plan a mother-son dance with a special song.
Country
What is a good father-daughter country song?
The best modern country father daughter dance song is “My Little Girl” by Tim McGraw from the movie Flicka. If your dad is more into classic country, a popular selection is “Daddy’s Hands” by Holly Dunn.
Good Hands – Kylie Morgan
Released in 2022, Genre: Country
A song was specifically written by a daughter for her dance with her dad and lyrics that support their relationship.
Lovable Lyrics: “And he only sees the best in me, even when it’s hard to find / He’s a good man / I’m in good hands”
Moments into Memories – Will Dempsey
Released in 2022, Genre: Country
A song from the dad’s point of view of watching his little girl grow up and cherishing the moments.
Lovable Lyrics: “But then you find those moments you live for / Give anything for just a minute more / I wish time will take its time turn these / Moments into memories”
Never Give You Away – Greg Stielstra Productions
Released in 2022, Genre: Country
A song made specifically for a father-daughter dance and a dedication from a dad to his daughter on her wedding day.
Lovable Lyrics: “and I gave you the courage to fly / ’cause I always had your back”
When God Made You My Father – Riley Roth
Released in 2022, Genre: Country
A song from the perspective of the daughter loving her daddy and how lucky she is to have him.
Lovable Lyrics: “No place where I don’t feel your love / You say I’m the gift that heaven gave you / But daddy I’m the lucky one”
Good Hands – Johnny and Heidi
Released in 2022, Genre: Country
A special song of a daughter appreciating her dad and the love he gave her.
Lovable Lyrics: “Lookin’ back now it’s easy to see that / You’re the reason I am, and have always been in / Good hands”
Tell Me Twice – Chayce Beckham
Released in 2022, Genre: Country
A song that Beckham wrote as a dedication to his mom and learning from her.
Lovable Lyrics: “Say you know how it goes / After every low comes a high that’s life / You better hold on and hold on tight / But you don’t have to tell me twice”
You’ll Always Be My Baby (Written for Daughters’ Weddings) – Alan Jackson
Released in 2021, Genre: Country
A song that Jackson wrote specifically for his daughters’ weddings and how each will always be the love of his life.
Lovable Lyrics: “No matter where you are / You’ll always be my baby / Forever in my heart”
She’s Somebody’s Daughter (The Wedding Version) – Drew Baldridge
Released in 2021, Genre: Country
A song from the view of an outsider telling a story about a daughter and father loving relationship.
Lovable Lyrics: “She’s somebody’s daughter / She’s somebody’s everything / She’s somebody’s little girl”
Half the Man – Jennifer Smestad
Released in 2020, Genre: Country
A song from the daughter’s view that she better find a man that is half as good as her daddy.
Lovable Lyrics: “Daddy set the bar real high / Showed me what a real man looks like / It’s gonna take one to fill those shoes / In his eyes, nothing less will do”
Prettiest Girl in the World – Logan Mize
Released in 2020, Genre: Country
A song describing a love of a father and his daughter.
Lovable Lyrics: “In my wildest dreams I’d never’ve guessed / I’d be the one holdin’ the prettiest girl in the world”
Dads and Daughters – MaRynn Taylor
Released in 2020, Genre: Country
A song from the daughter’s view and a special bond between dads and daughters.
Lovable Lyrics: “Like boats and water, they’re meant for each other / Through wind and the waves, they’ll sail away from the storm / And make it to shore / There’s nothing
stronger than a love / between dads and daughters”
The Man Who Loves You the Most – Zac Brown Band
Released in 2020, Genre: Country
A dedication song from a dad to his daughter that he will always love her.
Lovable Lyrics: “On your wedding night, I’ll raise a toast / Hope he understands / I’ll always be the man who loves you the most”
For My Daughter – Kane Brown
Released in 2019, Genre: Country
A song from a father’s perspective who didn’t have a good relationship with his dad but will be sure to be there for his child.
Lovable Lyrics: “Well, I guess that’s up to me / Yeah, I grew up without a dad / I’m gonna be the best one I can be”
Dance With My Daughter – Jason Blaine
Released in 2016, Genre: Country
A song made for a father and daughter to dance and be happy for their special dance together.
Lovable Lyrics: “Gonna dance with my daughter / Spin her around under the lights / ‘Cause I’m just a father / Making the most of this moment in time”
Daddy’s Little Girl – The Shires
Released in 2016, Genre: Country
The title says it all. A daughter wrapped around her daddy’s finger – forever.
Lovable Lyrics: “He said, “You can be anything you want to in this great big world” / But I’m always gonna be daddy’s little girl”
Humble And Kind – Tim McGraw
Released in 2015, Genre: Country
A generic song from a parent to a child wishing that all their hopes and dreams come true.
Lovable Lyrics: “When the work you put in is realized / Let yourself feel the pride but / Always stay humble and kind”
I’ll Be Your Man (Song For A Daughter) – Zac Brown Band
Released in 2015, Genre: Country
A cha cha style song from a dad wishing his daughter well but realizing that he will always be there for her.
Lovable Lyrics: “There was a time when I thought I knew love / Until you came into this world / Time keeps on flying / But your always gonna be my baby girl”
Daddy – Abby Anderson
Released in 2014, Genre: Country
A song from the daughter’s view that she found her life partner and told her daddy about her lover.
Lovable Lyrics: “He’s my shoulder to cry on, he’s my best friend / Oh, and daddy, he loves me just like you”
Daddy Dance With Me – Krystal Keith
Released in 2013, Genre: Country
A song telling a story about a daughter always loving her daddy and never letting go.
Lovable Lyrics: “Daddy dance with me / I want you to see the woman I’ve become / Daddy don’t let go / I want you to know I’ll always need your love”
You Can Let Go – Crystal Shawanda
Released in 2008, Genre: Country
A song about a daughter that has grown up and getting married and that it’s time to let go.
Lovable Lyrics: “It’s still a little bit scary / But I want you to know / I’ll be ok now, daddy / You can let go”
It Won’t Be Like This For Long – Darius Rucker
Released in 2008, Genre: Country
A song describing getting through growing pains and how you will get through the tough times from a dad to his daughter.
Lovable Lyrics: “One day soon we’ll look back laughin’ / At the week we brought her home / This phase is gonna fly by / So baby just hold on / It won’t be like this for long”
Ready, Set, Don’t Go – Billy Ray Cyrus feat. Miley Cyrus
Released in 2007, Genre: Country
A song featured on Hannah Montana about a daughter leaving home but her dad s happy to see her grow up but is sad at the same time.
Lovable Lyrics: “She’s waitin’ on my blessings / Before she hits that open road / But baby get ready, get set, don’t go”
Stealing Cinderella – Chuck Wicks
Released in 2007, Genre: Country
A love story of a dad raising his daughter and stealing a special dance with his daughter.
Lovable Lyrics: “Dancing with her dad and looking up at him / If he gives me a hard time / I can’t blame the fella / I’m the one who’s stealing Cinderella”
I Loved Her First – Heartland
Released in 2006, Genre: Country
A song from a dad’s perspective that even though the groom loves his new wife, her daddy loved her first and always.
Lovable Lyrics: “And I prayed that she’d find you someday / But it’s still hard to give her away / I loved her first”
My Wish – Rascal Flatts
Released in 2006, Genre: Country
“My Wish” is a very popular song selected for the father-daughter dance because a Dad can offer a special dedication to his daughter wishing that all of her dreams come true.
Lovable Lyrics: “I hope you never look back, but ya never forget / All the ones who love you, in the place you left / I hope you always forgive, and you never regret / And you help somebody every chance you get”
My Little Girl – Tim McGraw
Released in 2006, Genre: Country
The most popular dance song on the list! A song about a dad letting his daughter go to her new life but to him, she will always be his little girl.
Lovable Lyrics: “Go on, take on this whole world / But to me you know you’ll always be / My little girl”
There Goes My Life – Kenny Chesney
Released in 2003, Genre: Country
A song about a father seeing his daughter growing up and then becoming her own woman.
Lovable Lyrics: “Draggin’ that teddy bear, sleep tight / Blue eyes and bouncin’ curls / He smiles / There goes my life”
Then They Do – Trace Adkins
Released in 2003, Genre: Country
A song about a father seeing his daughter growing up and then becoming her own woman.
Lovable Lyrics: “Can’t believe how much you miss / All they do / And all they did / You want all the dreams they’ve dreamed of to come true / Then they do”
There You’ll Be – Faith Hill
Released in 2001, Genre: Country
A song reminding each other that you will always be there for them.
Lovable Lyrics: “For all my life / I’ll keep a part of you with me / And everywhere I am there you’ll be”
I Hope You Dance – Lee Ann Womack
Released in 2000, Genre: Country
A song about a parent hoping that their child lived out their dreams and reaches their goals.
Lovable Lyrics: “Whenever one door closes I hope one more opens / Promise me that you’ll give faith a fighting chance / And when you get the choice to sit it out or dance / I hope you dance”
If your father will not be at your wedding, you can always choose to have your father-in-law step in for a dance. If you have a brother, you can also choose to have a brother-sister dance in place of the father-daughter dance.
Pop
Daughter – Ben Rector
Released in 2022, Genre: Pop
A song about being a dad and his daughter growing up.
Lovable Lyrics: “‘Cause I got a daughter now / And she is everything to me / I got a daughter now / And suddenly I cry at movies”
You’ll Be in My Heart – Brent Morgan
Released in 2021, Genre: Pop
A cover of the Phil Collins song featured in the Disney movie Tarzan that tells of caring for another and holding the relationship special.
Lovable Lyrics: “‘No matter what they say / Yes, you’ll be in my heart / Always”
Grow As We Go – Mat and Savanna Shaw, The Piano Guys
Released in 2021, Genre: Pop
A cover of the Ben Platt song about a growing relationship. The music video features Mat Shaw and his daughter along with the Piano Guys and their daughters.
Lovable Lyrics: “‘I don’t know how this river runs / But I’d like the company through every twist and turn”
Call My Name – Lukas Graham
Released in 2021, Genre: Pop
A song about always being there for someone.
Lovable Lyrics: “‘Don’t matter when or where / Just know that I’ll be right there / Call my name”
Like My Father – Jax
Released in 2021, Genre: Pop
A song about a daughter wanting the kind of love that her parents have.
Lovable Lyrics: “‘I need a man who loves me like / My father loves my mom”
We’re Gonna Miss These Days – Dave Barnes
Released in 2020, Genre: Pop
A song about trying to enjoy every day as your child grows up as they don’t last forever.
Lovable Lyrics: “‘Forgive me for forgetting / The season we’re in / It’s just sometimes I miss us / Like we were before this
Time to Let Me Go – Quixotic Sound
Released in 2020, Genre: Pop
This a song from the daughter’s point of view letter her parents know that it is time to let her fly and make her own mistakes.
Lovable Lyrics: “‘You’ll be there when I call / That much I know / But it’s time to let me go”
First Man – Camila Cabello
Released in 2019, Genre: Pop
A song Cabello wrote about the first man that loved her – her daddy.
Lovable Lyrics: “‘You held me so tight / Now someone else can / But you were the first man that really loved me”
You’ll Always Be My Hero – Ashley Marina
Released in 2018, Genre: Pop
A special song about a daughter praising her father and how much he means to her.
Lovable Lyrics: “‘Keep us safe, safe and secure / You’ll always be my hero, forever I’ll be yours”
Forever Now – Michael Bublé
Released in 2018, Genre: Pop
A song about a dad loving his child and how proud he is.
Lovable Lyrics: “‘No matter what you do / I’m forever proud of you / I love you forever now”
Beautiful Memory – Scott Keo
Released in 2018, Genre: Pop
A song about a daughter’s wedding day and her special day with her dad.
Lovable Lyrics: “‘I never thought that this dance would come / You brighten(ed) my life, brighter than the sun / You’re beautiful, in every single way / And now it’s so bittersweet, giving you away”
This Dance – Scott Thomas Laughridge
Released in 2018, Genre: Pop
A song that was specifically written for a father-daughter dance on her wedding day.
Lovable Lyrics: “‘And This Dance is more than just a dance, It gives me one more chance / to show the world how proud I am of you, and as we dance / Dance around this room like we did when you were two / My little girl, This Dance is just for You”
Not All Heroes Wear Capes – Owl City
Released in 2017, Genre: Pop
A special song from a child to their dad and how thankful and appreciative how he was there.
Lovable Lyrics: “‘He’s my Superman / Some folks don’t believe in heroes / ‘Cause they haven’t met my dad”
One Call Away – Charlie Puth
Released in 2015, Genre: Pop
A song about always being there no matter what.
Lovable Lyrics: “Superman got nothing on me / I’m only one call away / When you’re weak I’ll be strong / I’m gonna keep holding on”
Fathers & Daughters – Michael Bolton
Released in 2015, Genre: Pop
A dedication song from a dad to his daughter wishing her the best and will always be there.
Lovable Lyrics: “‘Into this world / Come with a heart that’s open wide / And the best of this life / Is all I ever want for you”
You’re My Hero – Wedding Music Central
Released in 2012, Genre: Pop
A song about a father always being there and how lucky the daughter is to have him in her life.
Lovable Lyrics: “You’re my hero / And ’cause you’re my Dad / I’m twice as blessed and lucky to be me”
Never Alone – Jim Brickman Feat. Lady Antebellum
Released in 2010, Genre: Pop
A song about letting your child go but also saying that you will always be there for support.
Lovable Lyrics: “Smile more than grumble / And know when you stumble / You’re never alone”
You Raise Me Up – Josh Groban
Released in 2002, Genre: Pop
A song about a parent showing a child how to survive the world and be there.
Lovable Lyrics: “You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains / You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas / I am strong when I am on your shoulders”
A Song For My Daughter – Ray Allaire
Released in 2000, Genre: Pop
A dedication song from a father to his daughter and how proud he is of her and wishes her well in her new life.
Lovable Lyrics: “So I wish you every happiness / And the blessings of this day / And I hope the love I’ve given you / Will forever be your guide”
You’ll Be In My Heart – Phil Collins
Released in 1999, Genre: Pop
A song that tells of caring for another and holding the relationship special.
Lovable Lyrics: “‘Cause you’ll be in my heart / Yes, you’ll be in my heart / From this day on / Now and forever more”
Butterfly Kisses – Bob Carlisle
Released in 1997, Genre: Pop
A song about a daughter getting married and their relationship on her wedding day. (Be sure to edit for a shorter version – 5 minutes is a bit long)
Lovable Lyrics: “She’ll change her name today / She’ll make a promise and I’ll give her away”
Because You Loved Me – Celine Dion
Released in 1996, Genre: Pop
A song that gives thanks for believing in you and being grateful for supporting and loving you.
Lovable Lyrics: “You gave me faith ’cause you believed / I’m everything I am / Because you loved me”
Wind Beneath My Wings – Bette Midler
Released in 1988, Genre: Pop
A song about giving thanks to someone who has helped you get to where you are today.
Lovable Lyrics: “I want you to know I know the truth, of course, I know it / I would be nothing without you”
Tiny Dancer – Elton John
Released in 1971, Genre: Pop
If the bride took dancing lessons like ballet, then this song will be fitting.
Lovable Lyrics: “You must’ve seen her / Dancing in the sand / And now she’s in me / Always with me / Tiny dancer in my hand”
What A Wonderful World – Louis Armstrong
Released in 1967, Genre: Pop
A classic parent-child dance song at weddings that are not too mushy but captures the bond between father and daughter.
Lovable Lyrics: “I hear babies cry, I watch them grow / They’ll learn much more / Than I’ll ever know / And I think to myself / What a wonderful world”
Dancing with your parents at your wedding may be important to you as the wedding couple. Another important dance is your first dance. This is the first dance as a married couple. See our list of popular and unique first dance songs.
R&B
Like My Daddy – Lenasia Tyson
Released in 2018, Genre: R&B
A song about a daughter who looks up to her daddy and wants to be like him.
Lovable Lyrics: “I just want to be just like my daddy”
Right by You (For Luna) – John Legend
Released in 2016, Genre: R&B
A song Legend wrote with the birth of his first child and daughter, Luna.
Lovable Lyrics: “And know that I will be there, yeah, I will be there /No, I swear that I will, yeah, I promise I will / Little girl”
Babyfather – Sade
Released in 2010, Genre: R&B
A song about a father that is there for his child – forever.
Lovable Lyrics: “For you child / For you, he’s the best he can be / Oh child don’t you know / Your daddy love come with a lifetime guarantee”
Your Joy – Chrisette Michele
Released in 2007, Genre: R&B
A dedication for a daughter to her father celebrating their love for each other.
Lovable Lyrics: “No one can compare to the way my eyes fit in yours / You’ll always be my father, oh / And I’ll always be your joy”
Footprints in the Sand – Leona Lewis
Released in 2007, Genre: R&B
A song about being there and believing in your child and being thankful.
Lovable Lyrics: “The first time ever I saw your face / I thought the sun rose in your eyes / And the moon and the stars were the gifts you gave”
Daddy – Beyonce
Released in 2003, Genre: R&B
The song is a tribute to your daddy and wanting your future husband and child to possess qualities similar to your daddy’s.
Lovable Lyrics: “I want my husband to be like my daddy / There is no one else like my daddy / And I thank you”
Dance With My Father – Luther Vandross
Released in 2003, Genre: R&B
The song is a tribute to a father who has passed but could be about appreciating your father right in front of you.
Lovable Lyrics: “Another walk, another dance with him / I’d play a song that would never ever end / How I’d love, love, love to dance with my father again”
Wind Beneath My Wings – Eddie & Gerald LeVert
Released in 1995, Genre: R&B
A cover of Bette Midler’s song about giving thanks to someone who has helped you get to where you are today.
Lovable Lyrics: “Did you ever know that you’re my hero / If you didn’t, I’m telling you now daddy, daddy / You’re everything I would like to be”
Hero – Mariah Carey
Released in 1993, Genre: R&B
The song puts someone on a pedestal and shows how dear they are to you – so much so they are your hero.
Lovable Lyrics: “Look inside you and be strong / And you’ll finally see the truth / That a hero lies in you”
Unforgettable – Nat King Cole & Natalie Cole
Released in 1991, Genre: R&B
The original song was reworked by Natalie to be a duet with her father Nat and shows how they think that each is incredible.
Lovable Lyrics: “That’s why darling it’s incredible / That someone so unforgettable / Thinks that I am unforgettable too”
Ballerina Girl – Lionel Richie
Released in 1986, Genre: R&B
If the bride took ballet lessons growing up, this is a perfect father-daughter dance song.
Lovable Lyrics: “Ballerina Girl / You are so lovely / I can see in you / My dreams come true”
Shining Star – The Manhattans
Released in 1980, Genre: R&B
A song about being proud and loving someone forever.
Lovable Lyrics: “Honey be, right here where you are / Until my dying day, ahh yeah / Honey you, you, you are my shining star”
Lovely Day – Bill Withers
Released in 1977, Genre: R&B
A mid-tempo song not lovey-dovey and describes your wedding day.
Lovable Lyrics: “Then I look at you / And the world’s alright with me / Just one look at you / And I know it’s gonna be / A lovely day”
Isn’t She Lovely – Stevie Wonder
Released in 1976, Genre: R&B
A song from a dad telling the world how beautiful his daughter is and lucky he is.
Lovable Lyrics: “I can’t believe what God has done / Through us, He’s given life to one / But isn’t she lovely made from love?”
Your Daddy Loves You – Gil Scott-Heron
Released in 1974, Genre: R&B
A special dedication from a father to his daughter and professing his love for her.
Lovable Lyrics: “Your daddy loves you / Your daddy loves his girl”
You Are The Sunshine Of My Life – Stevie Wonder
Released in 1972, Genre: R&B
Another Wonder song that lets the world know that he loves you and will always be there for you.
Lovable Lyrics: “You are the apple of my eye (love has joined us) / Forever you’ll stay in my heart”
You’re A Big Girl Now – The Stylistics
Released in 1971, Genre: R&B
A coming-of-age song and how a daughter is growing up and is now on her own.
Lovable Lyrics: “You’re a big girl now / No more daddy’s little girl”
I’ll Be There – Jackson 5
Released in 1969, Genre: R&B
A song about being there for you no matter the circumstances.
Lovable Lyrics: “With an unselfish love that respects you / Just call my name / And I’ll be there”
My Girl – The Temptations
Released in 1964, Genre: R&B
The second most popular song on this list for the father-daughter dance. A mid-tempo song for a happy dance.
Lovable Lyrics: “I’ve got a sweeter song / Than the birds in the trees / Well, I guess you’d say / What can make me feel this way / My girl”
Stand By Me – Ben E. King
Released in 1961, Genre: R&B
A song about supporting someone and letting them know that everything will be OK as long as they are there.
Lovable Lyrics: “I won’t cry, I won’t cry / No, I won’t shed a tear / Just as long as you stand, stand by me”
Christian
Daddy’s Girl – Channing Gillespie
Released in 2022, Genre: Christian
A song showing a daughter how much she means to her daddy.
Lovable Lyrics: “You will always be / Daddy’s Girl / No matter what life brings”
Cinderella – Steven Curtis Chapman
Released in 2007, Genre: Christian
A song metaphorically means the king can dance with his princess before the prince whisks her away.
Lovable Lyrics: “So I will dance with Cinderella / While she is here in my arms / ‘Cause I know something the prince never knew / Oh, I will dance with Cinderella”
You’re My Little Girl – Go Fish
Released in 2006, Genre: Christian
An acapella song dedication from a dad to his daughter lets her know he will always be there no matter what.
Lovable Lyrics: “All you need to do is call Me / I’ll be there for you / ‘Cause you’re My little girl”
Find Your Wings – Mark Harris
Released in 2005, Genre: Christian
A song from a parent to a child hoping they find their way in life.
Lovable Lyrics: “May there be many moments / That make your life so sweet / Oh, but more than memories / I pray that God would fill your heart with dreams”
Other
My Father’s Daughter – Olivia Vedder, Eddie Vedder, Glen Hansard
Released in 2021, Genre: Indie
A song from a daughter to her dad that no matter what she will be there for him.
Lovable Lyrics: “I am my father’s daughter / Come hell or high water / Never gonna leave him”
Letter To My Daughter – Quando Rondo
Released in 2020, Genre: Hip Hop
A song about a dad dedicating his life to his daughter.
Lovable Lyrics: “When I walk inside the door, she gon’ know it’s me / I’ma tell her ’bout the days they ain’t notice me / I can feel you and you know I’m you’re Jodeci”
Over The Rainbow – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
Released in 1990, Genre: World
A song about hope and believing that all of your dreams will come true.
Lovable Lyrics: “Somewhere over the rainbow / Bluebirds fly / And the dreams that you dream of / Dreams really do come true”
Three Little Birds – Bob Marley
Released in 1977, Genre: Reggae
A song about being happy and leaving your troubles behind.
Lovable Lyrics: “Three little birds / Pitched by my doorstep / Singin’ sweet songs / Of melodies pure and true”
The Way You Look Tonight – Frank Sinatra
Released in 1964, Genre: Jazz
A classic song from one of the Rat Pack that could be interpreted as adoration and love from a father to a daughter.
Lovable Lyrics: “There is nothing for me but to love you / And the way you look tonight”
Do you have a favorite father-daughter dance song, not on our list? Please share it below so that we can add your song!
Enjoy our podcast about the Father-Daughter Dance songs!
What if I have a stepdad for the father daughter dance?
Remember, this is your wedding and you can honor the people that matter to you most in the way that makes sense to you.
Couples, if you have more than one father in your life, one can tap the other on the shoulder in the middle of the dance so you can dance with both of them. We’ve even seen this happen with one biological dad and two step-fathers.
Or, choose two father daughter wedding songs and reserve a special dance for each of your fathers. That way you can choose a song for each man, that will fit his personality and be representative of your relationship.
Talk to your professional wedding coordinator and DJ so they can take it into account.
What is the traditional order of dances at a wedding reception?
The typical order of the formal dances during a wedding reception is
- First Dance
- Father-Daughter Dance
- Mother-Son Dance
- Wedding Party Dance
What if I don’t have a father?
It could feel awkward if your new spouse dances with their mom and you don’t have a dad. It’s okay.
If you do not have a father, a common substitute is a father figure or even your brother would make a very nice gesture. Then, you can have a special brother bride song.
This also goes for same-sex couples. You can honor the parent of your choosing with each dance. Your wedding is for you — as a new couple.
Who picks out the song for the father-daughter dance?
The bride selects the song to dance to with her father on her wedding day. However, the song should reflect their relationship such as a song highlighting a moment in their life or lyrics that describe their relationship.
What is a good father-and-daughter song?
A good father-and-daughter song is one that describes your relationship. If the father did not have a great relationship with his own father, then “For My Daughter” by Kane Brown would fit.
If you have a loving relationship, then “My Little Girl” by Tim McGraw is perfect.
Who does the bride dance with if a father is deceased?
If you have a father who passed away before your wedding day, check out this song. “Would Have Loved Her” by Chris Bandi is a special dedication song.
Brides can also have a family member fill in such as their mother, brother, uncle, or aunt. You can get more dad dedication suggestions on our memorial songs list.
What can I do instead of father-daughter dance at my wedding?
If you do not want to dance with your father on your wedding day, then a popular alternative is to have a mother-daughter dance.
Other options include a honeymoon dance (similar to the money dance) and also a selfie dance (guests can get selfies with the wedding couple).
Do you dance with your dad at your wedding?
Historically, the bride danced with her father as a final farewell before her new life with her husband. In the 1990s through the 2000s brides typically danced with their fathers immediately following the first dance.
However, in recent years, more and more brides are choosing to only have one formal dance, the first dance, and get to the dance party as quickly as possible.
So, it is up to you if you wish to have the father-daughter dance or not.
Does the father daughter dance have to be serious?
Absolutely not! The point of the father daughter dance is to honor your relationship. If you have a history of goofing off, then make your dance a fun one!
A lot of people choose funny songs instead of serious father daughter songs. This gives the dance a light-hearted feel.
And if you can’t decide on what song to use, you can always choose an instrumental number such as a jazz tune, classical or modern waltz, or contemporary dance music.
The most important thing is to not rush your decision. You can even discuss it with your father or the man you will dance with if you like.
It can be super fun to make the song a surprise and see his reaction (be sure to tell the photographer and videographer to look for it).
How long should a father-daughter dance be?
When planning the father daughter dance, select a song around 2 minutes in length to prevent any awkward moments of trying to get off the dance floor (unless you have a choreographed dance).
The DJ can also create a shortened version of any song you think is a bit too long.
What is a parents’ dance at a wedding?
The traditional parents’ dances at a wedding are when the bride dances with her father and the groom dances with his mother. These are known as the father-daughter dance and mother-son dance.
If their parents are unable to attend, relatives can step in for the dance.
I don’t want too many formal dances
Hey if the step-parent situation is complicated or slightly adversarial, you can always skip it. Or, keep it to a minimum.
Some couples combine the father daughter dance with the mother-son dance into just one song to dance.
In this case, a wedding couple should agree on a song that is memorable to everyone involved. There are plenty of songs that are ambiguous enough to allow for both the bride and the groom to dance with their parental figures.
Whatever helps you celebrate your special day the best is what you should do.
The songs aren’t required to be about a daddy giving away his little girl (especially if you’re down with the patriarchy, right?).
They don’t even have to be about a father or a daughter! They can simply be songs about love, dedication, or even something silly.
Interesting fact: The only song performed by a father daughter combo to chart as a Top 10 song on Billboard is Frank Sinatra and Nancy Sinatra’s “Somethin’ Stupid“.
Father Daughter Song Dedications
Dad and daughter songs can also be commonly used as dedication songs to honor that special bond.
A dad can dedicate a song to his daughter for events like her birth, special birthday (sweet sixteen), teaching her how to dance as a little girl, and also as a dad’s dedication to his daughter at her wedding.
Daughters can also dedicate songs to their dad in special moments such as at their wedding, his retirement party, and special dances at school events. Daughters can dedicate some of the above songs to not only dads but also those who have filled the role like the song “He Didn’t Have To Be” by Brad Paisley.
Daddy-Daughter Dance Songs
Another need for dad and daughter songs is for the special Daddy-Daughter dances that schools host. The night usually includes dinner, too.
It is time for your dad to take his best suit to the dry cleaners. He can also take you shopping (yay!) for a new dress to wear for the Daddy-Daughter date night.
About
Wedding Music Expert
Meet Matthew (Matt) Campbell, the passionate wedding DJ and music expert behind My Wedding Songs. With years of experience in the industry and a keen ear for the latest trends, Matt knows just what it takes to create the perfect soundtrack for your special day. From classic love ballads to upbeat party anthems, his articles are jam-packed with insider tips and top recommendations that will have you and your guests on your feet all night long.
But Matt isn’t just a music aficionado – he’s also an active member of wedding planning and DJ communities online, sharing his expertise and learning from other professionals along the way. When he’s not helping couples plan their dream weddings, you can find Matt exploring new destinations with his wife or sipping his favorite beer. Whatever your musical tastes or wedding style, Matt is your go-to resource for creating an unforgettable celebration. Read Full Bio.
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