1966 Wedding Songs: The Peak of Soul and the Evolution of Rock

1966 was a landmark year for music, delivering a perfect mix of high-energy dance tracks and deeply sentimental ballads that still anchor wedding playlists today. This was the year Motown dominated the airwaves with The Temptations and The Supremes, while rock icons like The Beach Boys and The Beatles began pushing the boundaries of what a “pop song” could be. Whether you are looking for a soulful first dance or a rock anthem to ignite the dance floor, 1966 has a classic for every moment.

Essential 1966 Wedding Moments

• The Soulful First Dance: “When a Man Loves a Woman” by Percy Sledge. This was Sledge’s debut single, and it went straight to #1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the R&B charts. Its raw emotion and powerful delivery make it one of the most requested classic first dance songs of all time.
• The Ultimate Dance Floor Starter: “Ain’t Too Proud to Beg” by The Temptations. This track marked a major shift for the group, moving to producer Norman Whitfield to capture a grittier, high-energy sound. It spent eight weeks at #1 on the R&B charts and remains a mandatory track for getting guests of all generations moving.
• The Sophisticated Spotlight: “God Only Knows” by The Beach Boys. Often ranked as one of the greatest songs of all time, this 1966 masterpiece was revolutionary for its complex arrangements and use of “God” in a pop title. It’s a perfect choice for a sophisticated first dance or a sentimental cake-cutting moment.
• The High-Energy Sing-Along: “I’m a Believer” by The Monkees. Written by Neil Diamond, this track topped the charts for seven weeks in 1966. Thanks to its catchy hook and a second life in the movie Shrek, it is a guaranteed hit for group sing-alongs during the reception.

Expert DJ Tips for a 1966 Set

• The Motown Double-Play: 1966 gave us two of the biggest Motown hits ever: “Reach Out I’ll Be There” by the Four Tops and “You Can’t Hurry Love” by The Supremes. Playing these back-to-back is a foolproof way to maintain a high-energy, “feel-good” atmosphere during the dancing set.
• The “Young” Soul Connection: For a high-energy rock vibe, play “Gimme Some Lovin’” by the Spencer Davis Group. The powerful, soulful voice on the track belongs to a then-18-year-old Steve Winwood. It’s an “igniter” track that works perfectly for grand entrances or high-energy floor moments.
• The Beach Boys “Ritardando”: When playing “Wouldn’t It Be Nice,” keep in mind it uses a ritardando (a gradual slowing of tempo), a rarity in pop music. It’s a great piece of trivia for a music-loving couple and adds a unique rhythmic flair to their spotlight moment.
• The Sir Mack Rice Connection: Wilson Pickett’s “Mustang Sally” was written by his former bandmate Sir Mack Rice. While it’s a legendary party song, its rebirth in the 1991 film The Commitments ensures that even younger guests will recognize and dance to it.

Best 1966 Wedding Songs

(You’re My) Soul and Inspiration – The Righteous Brothers

Released in February 1966 on the album Soul and Inspiration

Few musical partnerships were stronger than that formed by The Righteous Brothers, and Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield soared to the top of the charts with this song in 1966. It became a concert favorite and also one of the most popular wedding song choices that can be used in many different ways.

You’re my soul and my heart’s inspiration
You’re all I got to get me by

Good Lovin’ – The Young Rascals

Released in February 1966 on the album The Young Rascals

Dance tunes were a trademark of The Young Rascals, and this song has been included on many wedding reception playlists. It appeals to couples of all ages, and it will give both young and old wedding guests something to share on the dance floor.

Now gimme that good, good lovin’
(Good love) All I need is love

When a Man Loves a Woman – Percy Sledge

Released in March 1966 on the album When a Man Loves a Woman

Percy Sledge is known for this passionate musical description of a man’s love for his new bride, and there is also a more modern version by Michael Bolton. This Sledge original is one that many newlyweds like to have played as a part in the modern wedding processional.

He’d give up all his comforts
And sleep out in the rain
If she said that’s the way, it ought to be

Cherish – The Association

Released in August 1966 on the album And Then… Along Comes the Association

Iconic is one word that describes this 1966 hit by The Association, a song that embraces themes of gratitude and devotion between couples. It will work best at your wedding as the song for the first dance with your new spouse, but it can also be used for the cutting of the wedding cake.

You don’t know how many times I’ve wished that I could
Mold you into someone who could
Cherish me as much as I cherish you

Beauty Is Only Skin Deep – The Temptations

Released in August 1966 on the album Away We a Go-Go

David Ruffin of The Temptations takes the lead on this song about true love, the kind of love that goes beyond physical beauty to touch the soul. The song is a good reminder that the beauty inside is what matters most, so play it before the wedding as your guests are seated.

A pretty face maybe some guys taste
But I’ll take lovin’ in it’s place

I’m a Believer – The Monkees

Released in November 1966 on the album More of the Monkees

The Monkees can add a touch of fun to your wedding reception when you play this hit from one of the original boy bands of the 1960s. It is an upbeat tune that everyone remembers, and it even has an instrumental that inspired a unique dance move that your wedding guests will recall.

I’m in love, I’m a believer
I couldn’t leave her if I tried

With a Girl Like You – The Troggs

Released in July 1966 on the album With a Girl Like You

Music by The Troggs can be a little on the harder side when it comes to 1966 wedding song choices, but this one is often chosen as a special dedication from the groom to the bride. Use it for the lighter moments of a wedding celebration such as the send-off at the end of the party.

Girl, why should it be that you don’t notice me?
Can I dance with you?

Loving You Is Sweeter Than Ever – The Four Tops

Released in 1966 on the album On Top

Smooth harmonies and lyrics of love are what define the soulful music of The Four Tops, and you’ll want to include this song as a reminder that you have embarked upon a lifetime of commitment with your new spouse. Many couples like to have it played after the happy couple has been joined at the altar.

I said, I built my world around you
I’m so thankful that I found you

In the Arms of Love – Andy Williams

Released in August 1966 on the album In the Arms of Love

Andy Williams was one of the most popular recording artists of the 1960s, and much of that popularity can be credited to love ballads like this top hit. Any song by Williams will fit the most solemn parts of a wedding ceremony, and you can also use this one during the wedding recessional.

The day has died away, let’s find a hideaway
And share the promise of a new tomorrow

Try a Little Tenderness – Otis Redding

Released in November 1966 on the album Try a Little Tenderness – Otis Redding

Otis Redding talks about the need for a young woman to be cared for by her new spouse in this 1966 wedding song classic. There are few songs better for a first dance between the newlyweds, but the song can also be used at the midway point of the wedding reception before the speeches begin.

Try, try a little tenderness, yeah
Watch her groove
You got to know what to do

Love Letters – Elvis Presley

Released in June 1966, Paradise on the album Hawaiian Style Soundtrack

The career of Elvis Presley was embarking upon a new phase in 1966 as the King of Rock and Roll began to reinvent himself through a Las Vegas residency. There are still many fans of Elvis today who want to include his music in their wedding, and this would be one of the better choices.

I kiss the name that you sign
And darling, then, I read again right from the start, ooh, yes
Love letters straight all the way from your heart

Happy To Be With You – Johnny Cash

Released in October 1966 on the album Happiness Is You

The Man in Black Johnny Cash knew a thing or two about lasting love, and perhaps this song was inspired by his own partner June Carter. It can serve as a modern-day dedication to the blushing bride when added to the DJ’s wedding reception choices.

Love you yes I do and I’m happy to be with you
Happy to be with you happy to be with you

Get Ready – The Temptations

Released in February 1966 on the album Gettin’ Ready

1966 was another strong year for The Temptations with hits like this one, an upbeat dance number that features the smooth tenor of Eddie Kendricks. Playing music from this legendary Motown group during a wedding reception is sure to bring smiles and joy to all involved.

I’m gonna try to make you love me too
So get ready, so get ready ’cause here I come

Got to Get You Into My Life – The Beatles

Released in August 1966 on the album Revolver

The Beatles were still riding the wave of the British Invasion when they released this song in 1966, one of the most poignant selections from their large collection of hits. The song is used by modern couples as a part of the wedding processional, usually being played as the wedding party makes an entrance.

Oh, you were meant to be near me
Oh, I really want for you to hear me
Say we’ll be together every day

Sit Down, I Think I Love You – Buffalo Springfield

Released in December 1966 on the album Buffalo Springfield

Those couples who have a fondness for classic rock will want to add this song from Buffalo Springfield to their wedding day choices. It should be used for reception dancing in most cases, but more adventurous couples can also choose it for the recessional.

You want to know
What they say about the bird in my hand
And that’s why I ain’t leaving without you

I’m Ready For Love – Martha and the Vandellas

Released in October 1966

Martha and the Vandellas are always great choices when it comes to dancing music, and this one will spice up your own party with a great beat and meaningful lyrics. Play it at a time during your own reception when everyone needs a chance to get up on their feet and move.

Your wonderful, sweet, sweet love
Right now I’m ready for love

It Takes Two – Marvin Gaye and Kim Weston

Released in December 1966 on the album Take Two

The entire point of this song is the importance of finding a lifelong partner, and Marvin Gaye along with Kim Weston made the tune a big hit in 1966. This is a song that should spotlight you and your partner, so set it aside for a special wedding reception dance.

It takes two, baby
Me and you, just takes two

Warm & Tender Love – Percy Sledge

Released in 1966 on the album Warm & Tender Soul

The legendary Percy Sledge made an entire career of amazing love ballads like this one, and its modern feel is still relevant for newlyweds today. It is a very nice song to end the night as you and your spouse head off to your honeymoon together.

For I loved you for a long, long time
Darling please say you’ll be mine

Wedding Songs of 1966 Spotify Playlist

Celebrating weddings of 1966. Where were you and what was happening?

If you were one of the weddings in 1966

Congratulations on your wedding of 1966. You share your anniversary with the following events.

Music Highlights of 1966

• Grammy’s Song of 1966: Michelle – Paul McCartney and John Lennon
• Sgt. Barry Sadler – The Ballad Of The Green Berets
• The Association – Cherish
• Tommy James & The Shondells – Hanky Panky
• Mamas & The Papas – Monday, Monday
• The Rolling Stones – Paint It, Black
• The Lovin’ Spoonful – Summer In The City
• The Troggs – Wild Thing
• The New Vaudeville Band – Winchester Cathedral
• The Supremes – You Can’t Hurry Love
• The Righteous Brothers – (You’re My) Soul And Inspiration
• Lou Christie – Lightnin’ Strikes
• Petula Clark – My Love
• Nancy Sinatra – These Boots Are Made For Walkin’
• The Righteous Brothers – (You’re My) Soul And Inspiration
• Percy Sledge – When A Man Loves A Woman
• Frank Sinatra – Strangers In The Night
• The Beatles – Paperback Writer
• Donovan – Sunshine Superman
• The Monkees – Last Train To Clarksville
• ? (Question Mark) & The Mysterians – 96 Tears
• The Four Tops – Reach Out I’ll Be There
• Johnny Rivers – Poor Side Of Town
• The Beach Boys – Good Vibrations
• The Supremes – You Keep Me Hangin’ On
• The Monkees – I’m A Believer

Celebrity Weddings of 1966

• Chad Everett wed Shelby Grant
• George Harrison wed Pattie Boyd
• Barry Gibb wed Maureen Bates
• Tyne Daly married Georg Stanford Brown
• Donald Sutherland wed Shirley Douglas

News Highlights of 1966

• The first docking in space is achieved by Gemini 8 astronauts Neil Armstrong and David Scott.
• The first artificial pump in a patient’s heart is implanted by Dr. Michael De Bakey
• Outside Paris, the wedding of Sophia Loren and Carlo Ponti.
• In Las Vegas, the famous wedding of Frank Sinatra and Mia Farrow.
• Fashion Model Twiggy popularizes the miniskirt.

1966 Sports Champions

• Baltimore Orioles win the World Series over the Los Angeles Dodgers.
• Super Bowl I – Green Bay Packers won 35-10 over the Kansas City Chiefs.
• Boston Celtics win the NBA Title over the Los Angeles Lakers.
• Monreal Canadiens win the Stanley Cup over the Detroit Red Wings.

Entertainment Highlights of 1966

• Best Picture: The Sound of Music: Robert Wise
• Best Actor: Lee Marvin – Cat Ballou
• Best Actress: Julie Christie – Darling

Top Television Shows

• The Andy Griffith Show, Beverly Hillbillies, Bewitched, Bonanza, Daktari, Gomer Pyle U.S.M.C., Green Acres, The Jackie Gleason Show, The Lucy Show, The Red Skelton Hour

Learn more about 1966 on Wikipedia. Thank you for visiting our page – weddings of 1966.

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