New Book: The Wedding Music Canon. 1,875 Songs, 1950s-2010s.
Matthew Campbell is a seasoned wedding DJ and the founder of My Wedding Songs. With a passion for music and a career spanning hundreds of weddings, he has an insider’s perspective on what truly makes a wedding day special. Matthew’s curated playlists and expert insights are a trusted resource for couples seeking music that not only fits their personal style but also creates a timeless memory.
Justin Timberlake has spent decades perfecting the art of the wedding-ready hit. Whether you want to “bring sexy back” to your reception or share a heartfelt moment inspired by lifelong commitment, JT’s discography provides a sophisticated, modern soundtrack for every part of your celebration. From his early solo debut to his most recent 2024 releases,…
Whether you’re looking for a soulful first dance or a high-energy track to pack the floor, Justin Bieber’s catalog offers a versatile range of hits for every wedding moment. With a massive social media following and a collection of Billboard #1s, Bieber’s music resonates across generations of guests, providing everything from romantic acoustic ballads to…
Whether you’re planning a high-end cocktail hour or a romantic dinner set, jazz music provides the perfect “vibe” to keep your guests engaged without being a “snoozefest”. From the legendary vocals of Frank Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald to the modern, viral sounds of Laufey, jazz is a versatile genre that spans generations. As an experienced…
Instrumental music is the secret to adding a layer of class and intimacy to your wedding ceremony and reception. Far from being “boring,” modern instrumental covers of popular hits, from The Piano Guys to Vitamin String Quartet, bring a fresh, recognizable energy to traditional moments. Whether you’re dreaming of a delicate violin processional or a…
Heart is much more than just a “classic rock” band; they are the architects of some of the most emotionally charged anthems in music history. Since forming in 1973, sisters Ann and Nancy Wilson have influenced the Seattle rock scene and beyond, amassing twenty Top 40 hits that span genres from heavy metal to adult…
The garter placement is the lighthearted transition where the winner of the garter toss places the garter onto the winner of the bouquet toss. While less “risque” than the removal, it’s a prime photo opportunity that thrives on the right musical energy. As an experienced wedding DJ, I’ve curated this list to help you find…
Fleetwood Mac remains one of the most iconic bands in rock history, defined by the perfect harmony of Stevie Nicks’ raspy vocals, Christine McVie’s husky tones, and Lindsey Buckingham’s legendary guitar work. Their music explores the complexities of love with a depth that few artists can match. Whether you want the upbeat magic of “Everywhere”…
It’s not just a phase, it’s the soundtrack to your big day! As an experienced wedding DJ, I’ve seen firsthand how pop-punk and emo anthems can transform a reception from a standard party into an unforgettable, high-energy event. Popular artists of this genre, like My Chemical Romance, Fall Out Boy, and Paramore, offer a unique…
Elvis Presley remains a titan of wedding music, with his tracks still reigning supreme on modern playlists. From his induction into four Halls of Fame to his status as the “King of Rock and Roll,” Elvis’s emotional delivery and iconic sound make his songs perfect for everything from the processional to the reception party. The…
As an experienced wedding DJ, I have assembled this definitive list of songs to skip on your big day. While some of these tracks are chart-topping hits, their lyrical content—ranging from stalking and divorce to “gold digging”—can quickly kill the romantic vibe of a ceremony or reception. Use this guide to ensure your playlist only…
If you want to start the party at your reception, disco is your “last chance” to get everyone moving. As an experienced wedding DJ, I have curated this list based on song meanings and streaming popularity to ensure your dance floor stays packed. From 1970s classics to modern “disco revival” hits, these songs are guaranteed…
Selecting music for a church wedding requires a balance of personal style and respect for sacred traditions. Before finalizing your playlist, it is essential to speak with your officiant about the specific rules of your house of worship. Whether your ceremony features a majestic pipe organ or a contemporary band, the right music will elevate…
Cher’s career is a masterclass in evolution. From her early days as half of Sonny & Cher to her status as a global dance-pop icon, she has produced a catalog of hits that suit every wedding taste. Whether you are looking for a powerful 80s rock ballad for your first dance or a high-energy 90s…
Boyce Avenue has built a global following by reimagining the world’s most popular songs with a soulful, acoustic touch. With hundreds of millions of views on YouTube, they have become the “go-to” artists for couples who love a specific pop hit but want a softer, more intimate version for their ceremony or first dance. Whether…
The Bee Gees “ruled the world” during the disco era, but their influence on wedding playlists spans decades of romantic ballads and dance floor essentials. From the tight harmonies of the 1960s to the legendary soundtrack of Saturday Night Fever, which turned every reception into a party, the Bee Gees provide a timeless soundtrack for modern…
2018 was a phenomenal year for music that truly “crossed over” genres, providing some of the most versatile wedding songs of the decade. It was the year that Dan + Shay gave us the ultimate “speechless” moment and Leon Bridges perfected modern soul with “Beyond”. Whether you want a celebrity-endorsed ballad for your walk down…
2015 was a landmark year for wedding music, offering a “nice mixture” of genres that kept every part of the day feeling fresh. It was the year that Chris Stapleton brought “Tennessee Whiskey” back into the mainstream and Maroon 5 gave us the ultimate wedding-crashing anthem with “Sugar”. Whether you are looking for a soulful…
The 2010s was the decade of the “super-ballad.” It was an era where singer-songwriters like Ed Sheeran, Christina Perri, and John Legend created timeless melodies that immediately became the new gold standard for first dances. From the soaring piano melodies to the rise of heartfelt “indie-folk” crossovers, 2010s love songs offer a level of intimacy…
1993 was a landmark year for music that defined the modern wedding reception. It was the year that R&B vocal groups like SWV and Toni Braxton perfected the art of the love song, while dance music went global with tracks like “What Is Love.” From the laid-back “G-Funk” vibes of Snoop Dogg to the soaring…
1987 was a powerhouse year that delivered some of the most iconic, award-winning hits still played at weddings today. From Whitney Houston’s record-breaking dance tracks to George Harrison’s solo resurgence, this year offers a perfect mix of high-energy party starters and smooth R&B ballads. Whether you are looking for a Grammy-winning anthem to pack the…
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