You can never go wrong with picking a classic song for the first dance at your wedding. After all, Frank Sinatra, Etta James, Marvin Gaye, and the Temptations have kicked off many a long-lasting love story. But if you’re looking for a fresh Southern spin on the tradition, we’ve got you covered. Whether you want a tear-jerker or a toe-tapper, here are sixteen of our favorite first-dance songs.
“Islands in the Stream”
Dolly Parton and Kenny Rogers
It’s only fitting for an iconic partnership to begin under the care of such an iconic duo. And while this song may be a karaoke classic, we’d argue it’s an inspired choice for the first dance, which tends to be slow and saccharine. You’re sure to prime the dance floor as guests sing and shimmy along.
“Beyond”
Leon Bridges
You can’t go wrong with any tune by the Fort Worth crooner Leon Bridges (he could probably make the ABC’s sound romantic), but “Beyond” is a standout love song for the ages.
“That’s Where It’s At”
Sam Cooke
Bridges is often compared to Sam Cooke, the soul icon from Clarksdale, Mississippi. The opening lyrics to one of Cooke’s lesser (but loveliest) hits capture the moment perfectly: “Lights turned way down low, music soft and slow, with someone you love so.”
“Rainbow Connection”
Willie Nelson
Though Kermit the Frog may have sung this first—and his version is pretty hard to beat—Willie Nelson’s 2001 cover is a tear-jerking ode to the tenderness and sacredness of connectivity.
“Crowded Table”
The Highwomen
This heartfelt anthem by the female country supergroup the Highwomen sets the tone for a strong marriage marked by resilience and belonging.
“Love Is the Key”
Cedric Burnside
We dare you to listen to Cedric Burnside’s soulful voice and smooth guitar riffs without moving your feet.
“In Spite of Ourselves”
John Prine and Iris DeMent
At the risk of shocking a grandparent or two with the cheeky lyrics, this song—originally written for the star-studded 2001 movie Daddy and Them (starring Prine, Billy Bob Thornton, Laura Dern, and Andy Griffith, among other icons)—describes untidy, everyday love, which against all odds really is the big door prize.
“Are You Ready to Love Me?”
The War and Treaty
Tanya and Michael Trotter aren’t just talking the talk: Their soulful harmonies and explosive chemistry on this feel-good belter are the fruit of a lasting marriage itself.
“Space and Time”
S.G. Goodman
Released on her debut album in 2020, this waltzing melody—topped by Goodman’s signature vibrato—has a simple yet profound message and is perfect for swaying on the dance floor with the one you love.
“Carolina in My Mind”
James Taylor
This all-timer may celebrate the Tarheel State—and is already a go-to for UNC grads everywhere—but we’d argue it’s a fit for anyone whose newly minted spouse feels like home.
“Power of Two”
Indigo Girls
This folk-rock favorite reiterates how much better life can be when you go through it with someone you love.
“Love Is Light”
Yola
Yola’s clear, captivating voice on this track from her debut album celebrates the magic of falling in love, with a beat that rises throughout the song, landing on a pace that’s perfect for an upbeat slow dance.
“Banks”
NEEDTOBREATHE
The chorus of NEEDTOBREATHE’S power ballad is a mantra for what makes a marriage truly stand the test of time.
“Can’t Do Much”
Waxahatchee
This song is a buoyant ode to young love and a clear reiteration of the idea that it really is ’til death do us part.
“Swept Away”
The Avett Brothers
Appearing in their jukebox Broadway musical of the same name, this song is perfect for, as the lyrics say, “whirling” and “twirling” across the dance floor—both in the original and the “sentimental version” of the track, which paints a softer picture of love.
“Tupelo Honey”
Van Morrison
The Northern Irish singer-songwriter pays homage to the treasured honey that can only be found in the Okefenokee Swamp and the Apalachicola River Basin in South Georgia and North Florida. Just make sure the band plays a condensed version (the full song is nearly seven minutes long!).
