Top 10 First Dance Songs Of 2016

Choosing the first dance song for your wedding can be a difficult decision, but it doesn't have to be! Many of our wedding bands are happy to learn your first dance song free of charge. Some clients prefer an acoustic version of their favourite song for a more relaxed start to the evening's entertainment, while others choose a guaranteed floor filler to get their party started. If your band aren't able to arrange your song to suit their line up, or if you'd rather hear the original version, don't worry! They'll be happy to play it for you through their PA system.

To inspire you, we've made a list of the top 10 songs chosen by our clients in 2016.

1. Thinking Out Loud - Ed Sheeran

Winner of Song Of The Year at The Grammys in 2016, this number 1 single from Ed Sheeran is a guaranteed crowd pleaser. The lyrics are perfect for a first dance song, and it's easy to slow dance to. If you need any inspiration for some new moves, just watch Ed's video for this one! Check out this version by one of our acoustic guitarist/vocalists, Steve C.

2. All Of Me - John Legend

Despite only making it to number 2 in the UK charts, this track was a massive hit, and hugely popular amongst the newlyweds of Britain. The romantic lyrics and passionate vocal from John Legend make this the ultimate slow dance song. Click here to listen to one of our most popular bands, Agent Smith, play it.

3. A Thousand Years - Christina Perri

Featured in The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1, A Thousand Years was American singer-songwriter Christina Perri's second big UK hit, following Jar Of Hearts, and a very popular choice for weddings this year.

4. At Last - Etta James

This Etta James classic will never go out of style. Timeless lyrics and stunning vocals make this a firm first dance favourite that will be on this list for years to come. Our piano vocalist Amelia plays this beautifully; find it in the audio player on her profile.

5. Shut Up And Dance - Walk The Moon

This upbeat floor filler will have all your friends and family itching to join you and your partner on the dancefloor, so if you're nervous about all eyes being on you during the first dance, a song like this might help take the pressure off. Check out this video to hear Radio Frenzy's version of Shut Up And Dance.

6. Grow Old With Me - Tom Odell

A fantastic sentiment and a great song from Tom Odell to start your married lives with. Don't worry, our bands will be happy to perform the clean version for you if you prefer!

7. I Won't Give Up - Jason Mraz

This one has replaced a first dance favourite from previous years by Jason Mraz, I'm Yours. The lyrics are very well suited for this moment of your big day; "I won't give up on us, even if the skies get rough".

8. Only Love - Ben Howard

The fourth single from Ben Howard, Only Love, was his first big hit, making it to number 9 in the UK Singles Chart. His unique vocals and powerful lyrics have so far made Only Love a very popular choice for newlyweds! Devonshire band The Breaks recently recorded a version of this one; click here to listen.

9. Tenerife Sea - Ed Sheeran

A slightly more obscure choice from Ed Sheeran; Tenerife Sea is an unreleased track from his 2014 album, x. This song made it into the UK Top 100, peaking at 62, despite the fact it has never been released as a single.

10. Let's Stay Together - Al Green

Originally released in 1971, and ranked the 60th greatest song of all time by Rolling Stone Magazine, a classic upbeat love song like this will never age. Easy to dance to, well-known and fun, this one won't let you down during your first dance! You can listen to South East band The Decoders' version of this on their profile.

Your first dance is a great opportunity for you to share a special moment with your spouse and your guests. You could choose a song that represents your relationship or has a special meaning to you and your fiancé, or simply a song you both love! Previous favourites have included Better Together by Jack Johnson, Just The Way You Are by Bruno Mars, Higher and Higher by Jackie Wilson and Wonderful Tonight by Eric Clapton.

If you're nervous, speak to your band on the day and ask them to make an announcement after the first chorus inviting your guests to join you on the dancefloor. This way, the spotlight will be on you for a shorter amount of time without taking away from your special moment. If you want to put on more of a show, find a choreographer to teach you a routine!