Modern Waltz Songs Every Wedding DJ Should Know

The Waltz is experiencing a massive “cool-factor” revival in 2026. While it remains the gold standard for elegance, the modern Waltz has traded the ballroom floor for the “Enchanted Forest” and “Industrial Chic” venue.

For a DJ, the 3/4 (or 6/8) time signature is a powerful tool to shift the room’s energy from a standard 4-beat sway to a sophisticated, rotating glide. Whether it’s a choreographed first dance to a Taylor Swift anthem or a sentimental parent dance to a Noah Kahan deep cut, these selections ensure the Waltz feels fresh, relevant, and deeply emotional.

DJ Tip: Identifying the Waltz in 2026

• The “Lyrical Waltz”: Many modern hits aren’t traditional “ballroom” tracks but feature a heavy triple-meter feel. Listen for the “ONE-two-three, ONE-two-three” pulse.
• The Indie-Folk Surge: 2025 and 2026 have seen a rise in “Stomp and Holler” waltzes. These are perfect for rustic weddings where the couple wants a Waltz rhythm but a “Mumford” vibe.
• Cinematic Openers: Use orchestral “Pop-Waltz” covers (like Vitamin String Quartet) for the processional to establish a high-end, regency-inspired atmosphere before the ceremony even begins.

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Modern Waltz Songs Every Wedding DJ Should Know

DJ Tip: When to Feature a Waltz

• Special Requests: Some couples practice a choreographed waltz. Be ready with 3/4 songs they’ll love.
• First Dance: A waltz sets an elegant tone early in the evening.
• Parent Dances: Slow waltzes can highlight generational connections.
• Dinner or Late Night: Subtle waltz rhythms keep energy romantic but relaxed.

If you’re spinning the first dance, remind your couple to rehearse in the dress. It’s the best way to test comfort for turns and tempo.

Modern Waltz Wedding Songs for DJs

Featured Picks

• Could I Have This Dance – Anne Murray
• Come Away With Me – Norah Jones
• Moon River – Frank Ocean
• Tenerife Sea – Ed Sheeran
• You and Me – Lifehouse

This Is You and Me – David Miskit, Ari Hest (2024)

Soft rock/country blend, written as a wedding waltz dedicated to the artist’s wife – a natural fit for first dances.

Ridiculous, how much I love you.

Teach Me To Dance – Taylor Hicks (2023)

Soulful and literal, an invitation to step onto the floor with love and confidence.

Teach me to dance
Please, let me try
With you I could do it, with you I could fly

Tennessee Waltz – Watkins Family Hour (2022)

Perfect for storytelling moments or as a transition from a parent dance into the couple’s dance.

I remember the night and the Tennessee Waltz
Now I know just how much I have lost
Yes, I lost my little darling on the night they were playing

Danced All Night Long – William Beckmann (2022)

Country charm meets romantic rhythm – great for mid-tempo floor resets.

So we danced
We danced all night long
We romanced song after song

Montana Waltz – Corb Lund (2022)

For rustic or Western weddings, a cowboy-and-bride love story set to a gentle waltz.

Well she knew the deep snow
Would soon bring him down
She’s long gone with her cowboy
All for the love of a cowboy

Glory of True Love – Wade Bowen (2021)

A heartfelt country-folk tune celebrating long-lasting love. Perfect for mature couples or anniversary-style slow dances. Adds depth and warmth to any romantic set.

Touch the moon and stars above
But old faithful’s just a fountain
Compared to the glory of true love

I’ve Made Up My Mind to Give Myself to You – Bob Dylan (2020)

Vintage-sounding and poetic – ideal for older couples or music-savvy newlyweds who want something classic yet unexpected. Pairs well with candlelight dinner sets.

No one ever told me, it’s just something I knew
I’ve made up my mind to give myself to you

Waltz in the Dark – Matt Nakoa (2019)

A dreamy, cinematic waltz that works beautifully for first dances. The tempo is forgiving for couples who’ve practiced a slow turn but aren’t seasoned dancers.

And I want you so
But let’s take it slow
‘Cause there’s nothing I’d rather do
Than waltz in the dark with you

Rockin’ Years – Porter Union (2018)

An overlooked gem for country weddings. Lyrics about standing by each other through the years make this a strong choice for parent or anniversary dances.

And if you’ll hold me tight when you love me
That’s all I’ll ask of you
And I’ll stand by you through our rockin’ years

Heart Like A Wheel – Eric Church (2018)

Modern country grit meets romantic lyricism. A great bridge song between slow dances and more upbeat country tracks – keeps the vibe emotional but cool.

I got a heart like a wheel, baby, let’s go
Get in this heart like a wheel and baby, let’s roll

Moon River – Frank Ocean (2018)

A haunting R&B reinterpretation of the classic. For DJs aiming for a contemporary, stylish take on timeless romance. Great late-night closer.

Moon river wider than a mile
Crossin’ in style someday
My dream maker
Heartbreaker
Wherever you’re going I’m going the same

You Are The Reason – Calum Scott & Leona Lewis (2017)

.A soaring ballad that’s become a go-to for couples wanting a modern waltz. Excellent for first dances or spotlight moments—clean, cinematic production.

I’d climb every mountain
And swim every ocean
Just to be with you

Perfect – Ed Sheeran (2017)

Still one of the most requested wedding waltz tracks. Universally recognized, easy to dance to, and hits the emotional peak every DJ needs for a first-dance moment.

When I saw you in that dress, looking so beautiful
I don’t deserve this, darling, you look perfect tonight

From The Ground Up – Dan + Shay (2016)

Storytelling country waltz about building a life together. A must-have for rustic or Southern weddings – pairs perfectly with candlelit receptions or barn venues.

And we’ll build this love from the ground up
For worse or for better
And I will be all you need

How Long Will I Love You – Ellie Goulding (2013)

Simple and elegant. Great for couples wanting a modern pop waltz that’s short and sweet. Ideal filler between slower dances.

How long will I give to you
As long as I live through you
However long you say

I Won’t Give Up – Jason Mraz (2012)

Mid-tempo pop-folk track that doubles as a waltz. Works beautifully for couples who prefer a slightly less traditional feel without losing emotional weight.

I won’t give up on us
Even if the skies get rough
I’m giving you all my love
I’m still looking up

The Only Exception – Paramore (2010)

For younger couples wanting something with an indie edge. Slightly faster tempo but works as a dramatic sway moment – especially with moody lighting.

And that was the day that I promised
I’d never sing of love if it does not exist
But, darling
You are the only exception

You and Me – Lifehouse (2005)

A staple in early-2000s wedding playlists. Great transitional track between dinner and dancing; romantic but radio-familiar to most guests.

And it’s you and me and all of the people
And I don’t know why I can’t keep my eyes off of you

Come Away With Me – Norah Jones (2001)

Soft, jazzy, and timeless. Ideal for cocktail hours, dinner sets, or first dances where couples want subtle elegance without over-production.

Come away with me and we’ll kiss
On a mountaintop
Come away with me
And I’ll never stop loving you

Iris – Goo Goo Dolls (1998)

A ‘90s rock classic that couples still request. Emotional and cinematic, especially effective as a later-evening slow dance when nostalgia peaks.

And all I can taste is this moment
And all I can breathe is your life

I’ll Be – Edwin McCain (1997)

One of the most iconic slow-dance tracks ever recorded. Works for first dances or finales; an emotional, guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

I’ll be your cryin’ shoulder
I’ll be love suicide
I’ll be better when I’m older
I’ll be the greatest fan of your life

Kiss From A Rose – Seal (1994)

Lush orchestration and soaring vocals make it a perfect choice for dramatic first dances or evening slow-downs. Adds a touch of sophistication to R&B-leaning weddings.

Baby, I compare you to a kiss from a rose on the grey
Ooh, the more I get of you, the stranger it feels

Fade Into You – Mazzy Star (1993)

Dreamy, atmospheric, and ideal for moody receptions or alt/indie-style weddings. A waltz-like flow that captivates the room without commanding it.

You put your hands into your head
And then its smiles cover your heart
Fade into you

Other Slow Waltz Songs – DJ Pointers

• “Skyfall” – Adele. Works well during dinner or for sophisticated first dances.
• “Lasso the Moon” – Art Garfunkel. Romantic and nostalgic; great for mature guests.
• “Rainbow Connection” – Karen Carpenter. Sweet and whimsical for parent dances.
• “Something in Red” – Tara Hutton. Adds a dramatic storytelling element to your slower sets.

Do you have a favorite waltz song? Please share your song below in the comments.

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