15+ Best Elton John Wedding Songs: Timeless Ballads & Modern Duets
Elton John’s music is characterized by its incredible piano melodies and lyrics that speak to the heart of the human experience. Whether you’re looking for a formal first dance or a nostalgic sing-along, Elton’s catalog is an essential resource for creating a sophisticated and memorable atmosphere.
- Ceremony & First Dance: Pure, lyrical expressions of love and wonder.
- Parent Dances: Touching tributes to growth, protection, and legacy.
- Cocktail & Reception: Upbeat hits and modern remixes that keep the energy high.
Spotlight Moments: First Dances & Ceremony
- The Absolute Classic: “Your Song” – 1970. This is the quintessential first dance song. Its humble, sincere message—“How wonderful life is while you’re in the world”—is one of the most beautiful sentiments in music history. It works perfectly for a First Dance or a Parent-Child dance.
- The Cinematic Masterpiece: “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” – 1994. Winner of the Academy Award for Best Original Song, this track is a premier choice for a First Dance. It captures a sense of peace and “perfect harmony” that is ideal for a romantic wedding moment.
- The Breath-Taking Ballad: “Something About The Way You Look Tonight” – 1997. This song is a masterclass in romance. It’s perfect for a Processional or a very elegant First Dance. The lyrics focus entirely on the beauty of the partner in that specific moment.
- The Modern Twist: “Cold Heart (PNAU Remix)” (with Dua Lipa) – 2021. For couples who want a touch of Elton with a modern, danceable edge, this remix is a massive hit. It’s perfect for the transition from dinner to the dance floor.
- The Devotion Song: “The One” – 1992. A powerful, sweeping ballad about finally finding the person you’ve been searching for. It’s a great choice for an emotional Recessional or First Dance.
Parent Dances & Atmosphere
- The Father-Daughter Favorite: “Tiny Dancer” – 1972. While not a traditional “love song,” the imagery of a “ballerina” dancing has made this a top choice for Father-Daughter dances. It’s nostalgic, beautiful, and a great sing-along for guests.
- The Growth Tribute: “Blessed” – 1995. This is one of the best songs for a Parent-Child dance. It speaks to walking with someone, watching them grow, and recognizing how “blessed” you are to have them in your life.
- The Duet Classic: “True Love” (with Kiki Dee) – 1995. A sweet, mid-tempo cover of the Cole Porter classic. It’s lighthearted and works well for a Cake Cutting or as a background track during dinner.
- The Hopeful Recessional: “Circle of Life” – 1994. For a truly grand exit from the ceremony, nothing beats the opening notes of this track. it represents the beginning of a new chapter and the “faith and love” that move us all.
- The Friendship Anthem: “Friends” – 1971. A great choice for a Wedding Party introduction or to honor the friends who helped you get to the altar.
DJ Expert Tips: Mastering the Elton Vibe
- The “Live” Factor: Elton John’s live recordings often have a different energy. If you’re looking for a more “concert” feel for your reception, check out his live versions of “Bennie and the Jets” or “Rocket Man.”
- The “Dua Lipa” Bridge: Use “Cold Heart” or “Hold Me Closer” (with Britney Spears) to introduce Elton’s sound to the younger crowd before playing his 70s classics.
- Mixing with the Icons: Elton John mixes perfectly with Billy Joel, Fleetwood Mac, and Queen. If you’re building a “Classic Legend” set, Elton is your cornerstone.

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Elton John Highest-Charting Billboard Hits
U.S. Adult Contemporary
- #1 Daniel, 1973
- #1 Don’t Go Breaking My Heart (with Kiki Dee), 1976
- #1 Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word, 1976
- #1 Mama Can’t Buy You Love, 1979
- #1 Little Jeannie, 1980
- #1 Blue Eyes, 1982
- #1 I Don’t Wanna Go on with You Like That, 1988
- #1 Healing Hands, 1989
- #1 You Gotta Love Someone, 1990
- #1 Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me (with George Michael), 1990
- #1 The One, 1992
- #1 Simple Life, 1993
- #1 Can You Feel the Love Tonight, 1994
- #1 Believe, 1995
- #1 Blessed, 1995
- #1 Something About the Way You Look Tonight, 1997
- #1 Something About the Way You Look Tonight/Candle in the Wind 1997, 1997
- #2 I Guess That’s Why They Call It the Blues, 1983
- #2 Sad Songs (Say So Much), 1984
- #2 Candle in the Wind, 1987
- #2 Club at the End of the Street, 1990
- #2 The Last Song, 1992
- #2 Circle of Life, 1994
- #2 Written in the Stars (with LeAnn Rimes), 1999
- #3 Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me, 1974
- #3 Nikita, 1985
- #3 Sacrifice, 1989
- #4 A Word in Spanish, 1988
- #4 You Can Make History (Young Again), 1996
- #5 Recover Your Soul, 1998
- #5 Someday Out of the Blue, 2000
- #6 Honky Cat, 1972
- #6 I Want Love, 2001
- #7 Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, 1973
- #7 Answer in the Sky, 2004
- #9 Your Song, 1970
Wedding Songs
Looking for cocktail hour music or songs to play as guests enter the wedding reception?
- In 2021 John collaborated with Dua Lipa on the “Cold Heart – PNAU Remix)” hit song. He also collaborated with Britney Spears on “Hold Me Closer” in 2021.
Something About The Way You Look Tonight
Released in 1997 on the album The Big Picture
Did you know the song was released as a double single with Candle In the Wind?
And I can’t describe
But it’s something about the way you look tonight
Takes my breath away
True Love (duet with Kiki Dee)
Released in 1995 on the album Love Songs Compilation Album
For you and I have a guardian angel
On high, with nothing to do
But to give to you as you give to me
Love forever, true
Blessed
Released in 1995 on the album Made in England
Makes for a great parent-child dance.
To walk with you and watch you grow
And know that you’re blessed
Can You Feel The Love Tonight
Released in 1994 on the album The Lion King Soundtrack
The song is one of Disney’s classic love songs of all time expressing the love between Simba and Nala.
Can you feel the love tonight?
The peace the evening brings
The world, for once, in perfect harmony
Circle of Life
Released in 1994 on the album The Lion King Soundtrack
It’s the circle of life
And it moves us all
Through despair and hope
Through faith and love
The One
Released in 1992 on the album The One
You’re all I’ve ever needed
Baby you’re the one
Tiny Dancer
Released in 1972 on the album Madman Across the Water
Makes for a great Father-Daughter dance.
Ballerina, you must have seen her dancing in the sand
And now she’s in me, always with me, tiny dancer in my hand
Friends
Released in 1971 on the album Friends Soundtrack
With a friend at hand you will see the light
If your friends are there, then everything’s all right
Your Song
Released in 1970 on the album Elton John
Did you know the song was originally released by the band Three Dog Night? “Your Song” is the perfect formal dance song for a parent dance or as a first dance.
I hope you don’t mind
That I put down in words
How wonderful life is while you’re in the world
Elton John Spotify Playlist
Do you have a favorite Elton John song? Please share your song below in the comments!
