Classic Rock Love Songs: Timeless Anthems for Your Wedding

Classic Rock isn’t just about stadium-sized guitar solos; it’s the home of some of the most enduring love stories ever told through music. From the gentle folk-rock of Fleetwood Mac to the powerhouse ballads of Aerosmith, classic rock love songs provide a “modern vintage” feel that resonates with every generation. Whether you’re looking for a ceremony processional or a high-energy reception “igniter,” these 60 tracks are the gold standard for a rock-infused wedding.

Essential Classic Rock Moments

• The “I Do” Standard: “Songbird” by Fleetwood Mac. Released in 1977, this Christine McVie masterpiece is the definition of “less is more.” Its delicate piano and sincere lyrics make it one of the most popular ceremony songs for classic rock fans.
• The Epic First Dance: “Faithfully” by Journey. As I noted in my 1980s book, this 1983 power ballad is the ultimate vow of devotion. Its soaring chorus and heartfelt lyrics about standing by your partner “faithfully” make it a top-tier choice for a first dance.
• The High-Energy Floor-Filler: “You Really Got Me” by The Kinks. Looking to jumpstart the party? This 1964 classic is pure adrenaline. As mentioned in my 1960s book, its revolutionary power chords helped pave the way for hard rock, and it remains a guaranteed “party starter”.
• The Sentimental Closer: “Wild Horses” by The Rolling Stones. This 1971 country-rock ballad is about a love so strong that even “wild horses” couldn’t pull the narrator away. It’s an incredibly meaningful choice for a final slow dance of the night.

Expert DJ Tips for a Classic Rock Set

• The “Say Anything” Connection: When you play Peter Gabriel’s “In Your Eyes,” mention its iconic 80s movie legacy. It’s a great way to connect with guests who remember the era of boomboxes and grand romantic gestures.
• The “Phased” Groove Trivia: If you play “Africa” by Toto, mention that drummer Jeff Porcaro used a “Phased Shuffled Groove” to create that unique, layered drum sound. It’s a fun fact that music enthusiasts in the crowd will appreciate.
• The “Lennon-McCartney” Standard: When selecting Beatles tracks, don’t overlook “Something.” Frank Sinatra famously called it “the greatest love song of the last fifty years,” making it a perfect recommendation for a first dance or a sweet slow set.
• The “McDonalized” Yacht Rock: 1970s classic rock often blends into “Yacht Rock.” Use tracks like The Doobie Brothers’ “Minute by Minute” (co-written by Michael McDonald) to bridge the gap between high-energy rock and smooth cocktail hour vibes.

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Top 10 Trending

1. “Wish You Were Here” by Pink Floyd (1975)
2. “Crazy On You” by Heart (1975)
3. “What I Like About You” by The Romantics (1980)
4. “Your Love” by The Outfield (1985)
5. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” by Eurythmics (1983)
6. “I Want To Know What Love Is” by Foreigner (1984)
7. “I’m On Fire” by Bruce Springsteen (1984)
8. “Faithfully” by Journey (1983)
9. “High on You” by Survivor (1984)
10. “Crimson and Clover” by Joan Jett & the Blackhearts (1981)

Song Ideas by Wedding Moments & Vibe

Ceremony Songs

Sentimental, romantic, or meaningful lyrics songs for your I Do’s.

• All I Want Is You – U2
• Crazy Love – Van Morrison
• Have I Told You Lately – Van Morrison
• More Than Words – Extreme
• Songbird – Fleetwood Mac
• Time In A Bottle – Jim Croce

First Dance Songs

Romantic and Intimate tracks for the newlyweds spotlight dance.

• All My Love – Led Zeppelin
• Always – Bon Jovi
• Everything I Do I Do It For You – Bryan Adams
• Faithfully – Journey
• Joy of My Life – John Fogerty
• Just the Way You Are – Billy Joel
• Lady – Styx
• Love of a Lifetime – Firehouse
• Maybe I’m Amazed – Paul McCartney
• Nothing Else Matters – Metallica
• The Search Is Over – Survivor

Reception (Slow Dances)

Emotional and slow-tempo songs for all guests that are couples.

• Baby, I Love Your Way – Peter Frampton
• Can’t Fight This Feeling – REO Speedwagon
• Colour My World – Chicago
• Every Rose Has Its Thorn – Poison
• Home Sweet Home – Mötley Crüe
• Hysteria – Def Leppard
• I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing – Aerosmith
• I Want To Know What Love Is – Foreigner
• Love Of My Life – Queen
• Love Song – Tesla
• Love Will Keep Us Alive – Eagles
• Still Loving You – Scorpions
• The Air That I Breathe – The Hollies
• Waiting for a Girl Like You – Foreigner
• Wonderful Tonight – Eric Clapton
• Your Song – Elton John

Reception (Uplifting or Mid-Tempo)

A list of songs to paly as guests arrive at the reception and for cocktail hour or a lively dinner.

• And I Love Her – The Beatles
• Be My Baby – The Ronettes
• Dance With Me – Orleans
• Everywhere – Fleetwood Mac
• Feel Like Makin’ Love – Bad Company
• Fields Of Gold – Sting
• Follow Me Follow You – Genesis
• Friday I’m In Love – The Cure
• God Only Knows – The Beach Boys
• Jack & Diane – John Cougar
• Just Like Heaven – The Cure
• Love Walks In – Van Halen
• Never Tear Us Apart – INXS
• Something – The Beatles
• Suite: Judy Blue Eyes – Crosby, Stills & Nash
• To Be With You – Mr. Big
• Total Eclipse Of The Heart – Bonnie Tyler
• With Your Love – Jefferson Starship

Party or Dancing (High-Energy, Fun)

A list of hits to play to let everyone know it’s time to party!

• Crazy On You – Heart
• Gimme All Your Lovin’ – ZZ Top
• How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved by You) – James Taylor
• I Want You To Want Me – Cheap Trick
• If You Want My Love – Cheap Trick
• Just What I Needed – The Cars
• Let My Love Open The Door – Pete Townshend
• Let’s Go Crazy – Prince & the Revolution
• Light My Fire – The Doors
• More Than a Feeling – Boston
• Pride and Joy – Stevie Ray Vaughan
• Roxanne – The Police
• Under Pressure – Queen & David Bowie
• What I Like About You – The Romantics
• Whole Lotta Love – Led Zeppelin
• You Really Got Me – The Kinks

Ending the Night

Memorable and sentimental closing songs.

• Babe – Styx
• Don’t Dream It’s Over – Crowded House
• In Your Eyes – Peter Gabriel
• Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now – Starship
• The Best Of My Love – Eagles
• We’ve Got Tonight – Bob Seger
• Wild Horses – The Rolling Stones
• You Ain’t Seen Nothing Yet – Bachman-Turner Overdrive

DJs! Plan Classic Rock Wedding Songs by BPM and Key

(Click on the Song, Artist, Key and BPM table columns for sorting)

*BPM and key pulled from SongData.io

Spotify Classic Rock Playlist

I hope you enjoyed my list of classic rock love songs for a special date night, wedding first dance, or special dedication. If you have a favorite, please share your song below!