Best Wedding Songs of 2016 for 24K Magic
Many girls dream about their wedding day their whole lives! The music you play at your wedding reception should reflect both the bride and groom’s personalities. Finding music that sets the tone for your big day can be a daunting task!
Here is a list of the wedding songs of 2016.
Spotify Playlist Wedding Songs of 2016
Best 2016 Wedding Songs
2016 was a good year for wedding songs in many different musical genres. From the country sounds of Tim McGraw and Maren Morris to the modern pop vibe of Bruno Mars, there is something for everyone on our list of the best 2016 wedding songs. You can use them in parts of your ceremony, or you can have the DJ turn them up at the reception.
Cheap Thrills – Sia Featuring Sean Paul
Released in February 2016 on the album This Is Acting
True love is not about money or possessions, and that is exactly the sentiment of this Sia tune that features some help from Sean Paul. You can have all the cheap thrills you want by adding this to the wedding reception playlist and watching everyone hit the dance floor.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
As long as I can feel the beat
I don’t need no money
As long as I keep dancing
24K Magic – Bruno Mars
Released in October 2016 on the album 24K Magic
The Hawaiian-born Bruno Mars scored another huge hit with this dance number, a song that finds favor with audiences young and old. You might want to consider using it as the song to get the wedding reception party started.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Players only, come on
Put your pinky rings up to the moon
Girls, what y’all trying to do?
Twenty four karat magic in the air
Head to toe so player
This Is What You Came For – Calvin Harris featuring Rihanna
Released in April 2016 on the album This Is What You Came For
Calvin Harris has become a true R&B presence and this song featuring a little help from Rihanna showcases the strengths of Harris as a performer. It combines a strong beat with catchy lyrics that make people want to sing along, and that is just the type of music you want to have played at your wedding. Makes for a great dance floor filler too!
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Baby, this is what you came for
Lightning strikes every time she moves
And everybody’s watching her
But she’s looking at you
Closer – The Chainsmokers featuring Halsey
Released in July 2016 on the album EP Collage
One of the most popular 2016 wedding song choices is “Closer” by The Chainsmokers featuring Halsey, a song that embraces the current trend of using guest artists on recordings. The song is lyrically complex, but it has a message many modern newlyweds can appreciate.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
You look as good as the day I met you
I forget just why I left you, I was insane
Stay and play that Blink-182 song
From The Ground Up – Dan + Shay
Released in February 2016 on the album Obsessed
Dan + Shay represents the new country sound that is taking over the airwaves and music streaming services, and that sound is what makes this tune from 2016 a nice wedding choice. You can play any song by Dan + Shay at your wedding, but this one and others like “Speechless” are made for the processional.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
And we’ll build this love from the ground up
For worse or for better
And I will be all you need
Into You – Ariana Grande
Released on May 6, 2016 on the album Dangerous Woman
Ariana Grande scores two selections on this list of 2016 wedding songs, and this one has a stronger love ballad feel than the other choice. You could use this song in a number of ways, but most couples have it played while the guests are filing in before the bridal party enters the chapel.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
A little less conversation, and
A little more touch my body
‘Cause I’m so into you
One Dance – Drake
Released in April 2016 on the album Views
Here is the song that you need for the first dance between you and your new spouse, a tune from Drake that features Wizkid & Kyla. Put this one on and join your partner for a first dance that all of your wedding guests will long remember.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
And that’s why I need a one dance
Got a Hennessy in my hand
One more time before I go
Humble And Kind – Tim McGraw
Released in January 2016 on the album Damn Country Music
Few qualities are more important than the ones referenced in this song by Tim McGraw, one of the true legends of country music. Some couples choose this as a wedding song because it sets the appropriate vibe, and lets everyone know that the couple is aware of their personal values.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Hold the door, say please, say thank you
Don’t steal, don’t cheat, and don’t lie
I know you got mountains to climb but
Always stay humble and kind
Handclap – Fitz & The Tantrums
Released in March 2016 on the album Fitz and The Tantrums
Get the party rolling with this song from Fitz & The Tantrums, a lively 2016 wedding dance tune. The song encourages participation, so you might want to play it during the middle portion of your wedding reception when the energy starts to fade.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
‘Cause you don’t even know
I can make your hands clap
Said I can make your hands clap
Say You Won’t Let Go – James Arthur
Released in September 2016 on the album Back from the Edge
Some music chosen for weddings needs to be soulful and sentimental, and the lyrics of this song from James Arthur meet those requirements. It is a song that was made for the most tender moments on the wedding day between the wedding couple.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I knew I loved you then
But you’d never know
‘Cause I played it cool when I was scared of letting go
I know I needed you
But I never showed
But I wanna stay with you until we’re grey and old
If you love wedding songs. See our list of wedding hits for the past sixty years.
Can’t Stop The Feeling! – Justin Timberlake
Released in May 2016 on the album Trolls Soundtrack
Justin Timberlake was selling out big arenas in 2016 on the back of this song and a few others, a tune that reflects J.T. at his best. Music by Justin Timberlake is straight-up dance music, so have the DJ add it to your wedding day mix.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I can’t take my eyes up off it, moving so phenomenally
You gone like the way we rock it, so don’t stop
Dangerous Woman – Ariana Grande
Released in March 2016 on the album Dangerous Woman
There is something about Ariana Grande that is a little bit dangerous and forbidden, sort of like this hit song from 2016 which can be an empowering song for women. Brides have found creative ways to use the song such as a spotlight dance with all the bridesmaids, or it can be shared with the entire reception crowd. A great song for the bouquet tosses too!
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Nothing to prove and I’m bulletproof and
Know what I’m doing
The way we’re movin’ like introducing
Us to a new thing
H.O.L.Y. – Florida Georgia Line
Released in April 2016 on the album Dig Your Roots
Florida Georgia Line has produced award-winning country hits year after year since they made their debut, but a few like this one stand out as wedding choices. Don’t be surprised to discover that some modern brides have chosen this song for the formal recessional.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
You’re holy, holy, holy, holy
I’m high on loving you, high on loving you
Formation – Beyoncé
Released on February 6, 2016 on the album Lemonade
You are probably wondering how this controversial song from Beyoncé could be considered a 2016 wedding choice, but it is often heard at wedding receptions for young couples. It is very possible that you’ll find your wedding guests on the dance floor when this song from Bey hits the speakers.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I see it, I want it, I stunt, yellow-bone it
I dream it, I work hard, I grind ’til I own it
80s Mercedes – Maren Morris
Released in June 2016 on the album Hero
Maren Morris has two songs on our list of wedding music suggestions, and both of them helped to launch the career of the Texas songstress. Morris will appeal to millennial brides with this song, a fond look back at the attitudes of the 1990s.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Got them Ray-Ban shades pretty in pink
Call me old school but hey
I’m a nineties baby
In my eighties Mercedes
American Country Love Song – Jake Owen
Released in March 2016 on the album American Love
Jake Owen keeps it simple and directs with this self-titled love song, and many brides raised in the country will surely relate to the lyrics. There aren’t too many songs that are better suited for introducing the new couple to their wedding reception guests.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
It’s one last kiss in the driveway
Hey radio DJ, can you play that song that she loves
So I can turn it up, and maybe turn her on
An American country love song
My Church – Maren Morris
Released in January 2016 on the album Hero
This was the country hit that truly made Maren Morris a country star, a wholesome tune that reflects small-town country values. It should be used by newlyweds who want to retain a spiritual influence in their wedding song choices.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I find my soul revival
Singing every single verse
Yeah I guess that’s my church
I Met a Girl – William Michael Morgan
Released in September 201 on the album Vinyl
Of course, you did, and look where that meeting has taken you. You can play this song by William Michael Morgan as a special dedication to her on your wedding day, and she will know how life-changing that moment was when you saw one another for the very first time.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I met a girl with crazy shoes and baby blues
The way she moves is changing my whole world
I met a girl
Nobody – Selena Gomez
Released in October 2015 carryover on the album Revival Deluxe Edition
This song has a slow sultry feel to it. The lyrics evoke images of the perfect relationship. This song would make a perfect first dance for a couple that likes to keep things slow.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
No kiss, no lips, no feel, no rush
Can you keep me high, I swear no one
Can love me like you do, can love me like you do, no
Sweetest Devotion – Adele
Released in November 2015 carryover on the album 25
Adele is the queen of all things soulful. While this song isn’t the best for dancing, you could easily use it during a photo slideshow or during a transition period.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I’m heading straight for you
You will only be eternally
The one that I belong to
The prior year had lots of songs too. See the list of top 2015 wedding songs.
Love On The Brain – Rihanna
Released in January 2016 on the album Anti
In this Rihanna homage to Aretha Franklin, we find a tempo that would be perfect for a simple waltz or slow tango. The voice and tone are reminiscent of the 1960s lounge number. It’s both casual and sophisticated at the same time.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Baby you got me like ah, woo, ah
Don’t you stop loving me
Don’t quit loving me
Just start loving me
Footprints – Sia
Released in January 2016 on the album This Is Acting
Sia is one of the hottest artists on the charts for 2016. Her music is perfect for a modern and chic wedding. This would also be a perfect song for a father-daughter dance.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
You had never left my side
Picked me up when I thought I would die
You helped me and I was fine
Hopeless Romantic – Meghan Trainor
Released in May 2016 on the album Thank You
Meghan Trainor put out one of the best albums of the year in 2016. Her song Hopeless Romantic tells the story of a girl, who envisions a storybook picture of love, looking for her soul mate.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Not giving up
Cause I deserve to find my own
I can feel it in my bones
Yes, I know you’re somewhere close
Giving me hope
Starving – Hailee Steinfeld & Grey
Released in July 2016 on the album Starving
This song is upbeat and fast-paced. It would be a great pick me up when your party starts to wind down. The song also features Zedd, who has created some of the best party beats of 2016.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
By the way, right away, you do things to my body
I didn’t know that I was starving till I tasted you
Stars – Alessia Cara
Released in November 2015 carryover on the album Know-It-All
Alessia Cara is a fairly new name; however, she has a phenomenal voice. This song has a great tempo, and the lyrics are sweet.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
See, I need you and baby I need to
Let down my guard and give you my scars
Open up my heart
We could be stars
Let Me Love You – DJ Snake (Feat. Justin Bieber)
Released in August 2016 on the album Encore
This fast-paced song is invigorating. Dancers among your guests will love this rhythm. The beat of the song is catchy, and the lyrics present a great message.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Don’t you give up, nah-nah-nah
I won’t give up, nah-nah-nah
Let me love you
Luv – Tory Lanez
Released in June 2016 on the album I Told You
Tory Lanez isn’t a well-known hip-hop artist, but his contemporary rap style will win over any fan of the genre. This song would be a great way to end the perfect night.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Everyone falls in love sometimes
I don’t know ’bout you but it ain’t a crime
Neefi let me love you, love you, love you for long time baby
Death of a Bachelor – Panic! At the Disco
Released in January 2016 on the album Panic! at the Disco
This could offer some comedic relief for your new groom. The song contains surprisingly romantic lyrics but still doesn’t seem to take itself too seriously.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
The death of a bachelor
Oh oh
Seems so fitting for
Happily ever after
Die a Happy Man – Thomas Rhett
Released in September 2015 carryover on the album Tangled Up
There isn’t a country song right now that can compete with this song in the romance department. Thomas Rhett’s deep crooning vocals will make all of your female guests melt in their seats.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
If I never get to see the Northern Lights
Or if I never get to see the Eiffel Tower at night
Oh, if all I got is your hand in my hand
Baby, I could die a happy man
My Kind of Girl – Michael Bublé
Released in October 2016 on the album Nobody but Me
Michael Bublé’s modern take on the Frank Sinatra style is perfect for lovers of the oldies. Bublé makes it possible for you to enjoy classic style with a modern flair!
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
With eyes like an angel’s eyes
And a smile like a kind of pearl
To my mind, she’s my kind of girl
Next, see a list of the top 2017 wedding songs.
I Don’t Mind – Joseph
Released in August 2016 on the album I’m Alone, No You’re Not
Haunting is the best way to describe the harmonies of this sisterly trio. Their folksy style and slow melodies are perfect for anyone who enjoys the alternative genre.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I will love you anyway with all your demons in the way
Nothing can keep us apart
I walk through walls into your heart
Still Falling For You – Ellie Goulding
Released in August 2016 on the album Bridget Jones’s Baby Soundtrack
Ellie Goulding has been turning out pop hits for years now. This dance tune is no exception.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Beautiful mind
Your heart got a story with mine
Your heart got me hurting at times
Your heart gave me new kind of highs
Whether your style is more country or soulful, there are music options out there to make your big day special. From pop to hip-hop to alternative rock, this list of songs is diverse enough to please any wedding guest. It’s important to remember that your wedding playlist should really reflect who you are as both individuals and as a couple. Let your personality shine, and the most important day of your life will be amazing.
We also want to give you a list of popular new party songs that will fill dance floors in 2016. The worst song to play is the song that no one knows. The songs listed below will be known by people who listen to the top 40 charts.
We’re not specifically going after club music, rave songs, hoedowns, keggers, weddings, or birthday parties. We are trying to satisfy the mass public while keeping the majority happy with a few songs that everyone would enjoy.
Popular Party Hits from 2016
House Party – Sam Hunt
Released in 2015, Genre: Country
My House – Flo Rida
Released in 2015, Genre: Hip Hop
Cake By The Ocean – DNCE
Released in 2015, Genre: Disco
Same Old Love – Selena Gomez
Released in 2015, Genre: Pop
What Do You Mean? – Justin Bieber
Released in 2015, Genre: Pop
Burning House – Cam
Released in 2015, Genre: Country
Confident – Demi Lovato
Released in 2015, Genre: Pop
I Love This Life – LOCASH
Released in 2015, Genre: Country
Keep going with a list of the top 2018 wedding songs.
Uptown Funk – Mark Ronson featuring Bruno Mars
Released in 2014, Genre: Funk
Watch Me – Silentó
Released in 2015, Genre: Rap
Happy – Pharrell Williams
Released in 2014, Genre: Soul
Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran
Released in 2014, Genre: Pop Rock
Hotline Bling – Drake
Released in 2015, Genre: R&B
Strip It Down – Luke Bryan
Released in 2015, Genre: Country
Lean On – Major Lazer (feat. MØ & DJ Snake)
Released in 2015, Genre: Dance
Can’t Feel My Face – The Weeknd
Released in 2015, Genre: Pop
Love Me Like You Do – Ellie Goulding
Released in 2015, Genre: Pop
Shake It Off – Taylor Swift
Released in 2014, Genre: Pop
Don’t stop now. See a list of the top 2019 wedding songs.
Stay A Little Longer – Brothers Osborne
Released in 2015, Genre: Country
Like I’m Gonna Lose You – Meghan Trainor feat. John Legend
Released in 2015, Genre: Soul
Fight Song – Rachel Platten
Released in 2015, Genre: Pop
Honey, I’m Good – Andy Grammer
Released in 2015, Genre: Pop Rock
Stitches – Shawn Mendes
Released in 2015, Genre: Pop
Antidote – Travis Scott
Released in 2015, Genre: Hip Hop
Break On Me – Keith Urban
Released in 2015, Genre: Country
On My Mind – Ellie Goulding
Released in 2015, Genre: Pop
As new songs become popular, we will try and update our new party songs periodically. In case we miss out on a new song for the end of 2015 or through 2016, please do comment below. Do you have a party song that should be added?
Have a favorite wedding song of 2016? Share the song below in the comments!
