most popular journey wedding songs

20 Of The Best Journey Wedding Songs for Your Special Day

One of the world’s best-selling bands of all time, Journey has been a major name in the Rock music genre for decades. Since its inception in the early 1970s, the band has had no shortage of chart-dominating hits.

They have also crooned some of the most memorable and enjoyable love songs in the genre. And if you are gunning for some rock flavor on your wedding playlist, what better serenade for all in attendance than the magnificent sounds of Journey? 

In this article, we are going to show you the top 20 journey wedding songs that will bring that musical magic to your event. 

Top Journey Wedding Songs to Try

After over four decades of their career, the Journey crew are still serenading us with their splendid art. As such, some of the songs here will be fairly recent ones. But without further ado, let’s get to the journey songs. 

You will also love these other wedding songs:

• Spanish Father-Daughter Wedding Songs
• Cliche Wedding Songs to Avoid
• Fleetwood Mac Wedding Songs

1. Faithfully

Memorable lyrics: /Restless hearts, sleep alone tonight/ Sendin’ all my love along the wire/ 

Released in 1983 as part of the band’s album ‘Frontiers,’ ‘Faithfully’ is a powerful love song that was a strong couples’ favorite in the 80s. It was written by the band’s keyboardist, Jonathan Cain, who says he did it in a moment of exceptional inspiration. It’s a marvelous song to play for first dances. 

2. Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)

Memorable lyrics: / Here we stand/ Worlds apart, hearts broken in two, two, two/

The upbeat tempo and pace of this song make it the perfect song to play when you wish to keep the mood lively and celebratory.

What is more, its infectious beats and catchy lyrics make you want to sing along, making it the perfect song to pull out when everyone has had their fill of slow dance songs.  

3.  Don’t Stop Believin’

Memorable lyrics: / Just a small town girl/ Livin’ in a lonely world/ 

‘Don’t Stop Believing’ is one of Journey’s most iconic and beloved songs ever. It’s played at all kinds of events, from birthdays and anniversaries to wedding ceremonies and even bridal showers.

The song’s uncanny knack for getting people to let loose and just have fun makes it perfect for your wedding dance time playlist. 

4. Open Arms

Memorable lyrics: / Softly you whisper/ You’re so sincere/ How could our love be so blind?/ 

Talk about the perfect song for an intermission between dance times. ‘Open Arms’ is a sweeping, gentle rock ballad that is ideal for playing in the background as everyone catches their breaths, chats around, has a drink, and enjoys some special moments with other guests. And afterward, it’s straight back to the dance floor. 

5.  Anyway You Want it

Memorable lyrics: / She loves to move/ She loves to groove/ She loves the lovin’ things/ 

This song is one of the most popular dance numbers by Journey, and it’s loved by music lovers,  both young and old. It’s a lively, dance-worthy song sure to hit the right chords with couples who appreciate humor and are willing not to take themselves too seriously. 

6. Wheel in the Sky

Memorable lyrics: / Haven’t been home in a year or more/ I hope she holds on a little longer/ 

This is one of those songs with such melodies that keep audiences captivated and in the spirit of the moment. It’s the perfect mid-tempo number to keep your guests in a steady, not-too-lively mood—just the right mood for some mingling around between major segments of the event. 

7. Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’

Memorable lyrics: / Lovin’, touchin’, squeezin’ each other/ When I’m alone all by myself/ 

Steve Perry is on the vocals as usual, and the song is simply marvelous. Admittedly, the lyrics of the song don’t lend themselves easily to a wedding environment, and that’s why it’s best tried at a themed wedding, such as a gothic-themed one.

8. Stone in Love

Memorable lyrics: / In the heat with a blue jean girl/ Burning love comes once in a lifetime/ 

If you want to add some charm to your wedding, this edgy, quintessential 80s rock song should definitely be on your playlist. It’s perfect first for dance moments, as it has a proven track record as a body shaker.

It’s also the most splendid song to play while you and your spouse are introduced as a couple for the first time. 

9. When You Love a Woman

Memorable lyrics: / When you love a woman/ You see your world inside her eyes/ 

This 1996 song from Journey best hits album  ‘Trial by Fire’ is one of the most romantic Journey wedding songs ever released. It’s a dreamy track that expresses the elation of finding that special girl that you want to spend your life with.

Its passionate vocals and splendid instrumentals make it a great song for wedding first dances. 

Memorable lyrics: / When the lights go down in the City/ And the sun shines on the bay/ Ooh, I wanna be there in my City, oh/ 

This is another one of those mid-tempo Journey wedding songs that will make a splendid addition to your wedding playlist.

It’s a versatile tune, so you can use it for almost any part of the wedding event; however, it’s particularly ideal for cocktail or mingle periods. Additionally, it’s also a perfect song to play near the close of the wedding, as it’s great for helping guests wind down for the day.  

11. Who’s Crying Now

Memorable lyrics: / The taste of bittersweet/ Love will survive somehow, somewhere/ 

As the title already indicates, this is not a particularly joyous or celebratory love song. However, its deep and heartfelt lyrics reflect upon the love and the enduring longing for a lover, even after they’ve gone their separate ways. It works well as a reflective first dance song. 

12. Why Can’t This Night Go On Forever

Memorable lyrics: /Lost in twilight/ The memories/ Precious moments, you and me/ 

This song is ideal for first dances at a wedding, especially due to its tempo. It’s also potentially one of the most underrated songs by this band, with its great instrumentals and Steve Perry’s fantastic bit at the end.

The song expresses the desire to stay with the one you love and share some more precious memories. 

13. Only the Young

Memorable lyrics: / Shadows of a golden age/ A generation waits for dawn/ Brave carry on/ 

‘Only the Young’ is not a love song, but its upbeat tempo and great lyrics make it splendid for dance time. The lyrics talk about the young coming into their own, with the future open before them and full of promise. It portrays the feeling that two young lovers about to start a life together can relate to. 

14. Message of Love

Memorable lyrics: / Baby can you hear me/ Can you hear me callin’/ Baby can you hear my/ Message of love/ 

This is another timeless number from Journey, released in 1996. The song is the soft rock type, and it’s a song of longing and desire. It has a fast tempo, making it ideal for dance time, and it’s also great for retro-themed weddings. 

15. Happy to Give

Memorable lyrics: / Shadows fall, after the hurt is gone/ Through it all, we love and we lose/ 

Part of the album ‘Raised on a Radio,’ this song has some very deep and reflective lyrics. In addition, its tempo is just the right stuff for a relatively mid-pace dance between bride and groom. The lyrics express the fact that we all deserve to be with someone who loves and adores us. And even though we lose love, we also find it again. 

16. After All These Years

Memorable lyrics: / A faded wedding photograph/ You and me in our first dance/ 

What makes this song so romantic and so good as a wedding song is the perspective from which the lyrics emerge.

The song is from the perspective of a lover who looks back on all the years they have spent with their better half, remarking on the journey so far and marveling at how time has not diminished their bond. 

17. With Your Love

Memorable lyrics: / On this day… To be standing here with you/ There’s no doubt… I know this love is true/ 

This Journey masterpiece exhibits the band’s regular big production size, and it contains marvelous piano melodies and spacey guitar rhythms trickling in the background. The song has such quality that it can be enjoyed by all, regardless of their music preference. 

18. Send Her My Love 

Memorable lyrics: / Send her my love/ Memories remain/ Send her my love/ Roses never fade/ 

This song is simply a musical masterpiece, with its emotionally charged lyrics and touching, rangy vocals.

The song blends the unique Journey vibe that characterizes all the band’s tracks with soothing, slow jam qualities, and that’s why many consider it one of the best songs by Journey. You want to try this song for a memorable first dance.

19. Girl Can’t Help It

Memorable lyrics: / The girl can’t help it, she needs more/ He hasn’t found what he’s lookin’ for/ 

This 1986 Journey song is another timeless number that you can use for a lively dance. Steve Perry pulls off the vocals in a way that only he can, and he delivers the powerful lyrics in a way that makes it hard to resist moving your body to the beat. 

20. Chain Reaction

Memorable lyrics: / I bet you, she’s the one/ Who helped you, come undone/ Those changes/ She put you through/ 

The lyrics of this song render a testimony to how loving someone changes us, for better or worse. The song was released as part of the band’s 1983 album, and it quickly became a radio hit. It’s an upbeat number that will absolutely kill it as a fast-tempo dance song at your wedding.

Journey is one of those iconic bands with a long history of iconic songs, and where wedding music is concerned, they have very great options for you to try out. These are our picks for the best ones out there, but we would also recommend that you explore a bit.

The list of tracks in this band’s discography is extensive, and you will find no shortage of great Journey wedding songs for your event. 

Is the Journey band still together?

The line-up of the band has changed a bit, especially with the exit of Steve Perry, but it’s still making music right now. 

Who are the current members of the band?

The current members of the Journey band are Neal Schon (lead guitarist), Ross Valory (bassist), Jonathan Cain (keyboards and rhythm guitar), Deen Castronovo (drums, percussion), and Arnel Pineda (lead vocals). 

Are non-romantic Journey songs good for use in weddings?

Songs don’t necessarily have to be romantic to be on a wedding playlist, although it’s ideal that they should be. Journey songs like ‘Only the Young’ still work if you play them at specific periods of the event. 

Serena & Dominic are a married couple and parents to 3 wonderful children. They plan weddings, run multiple small businesses, and curate wedding events.

By giving you everything you need to make your dream wedding attainable, you can eliminate stress, get the ‘wedding glow,’ and focus on spending this rocking day with the person you adore. Discover their podcast for more information

20 Of The Best Lionel Richie Wedding Songs For Your Special Day

29 most romantic lana del rey wedding songs for your big day, leave a comment.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Love You Wedding

An online wedding planning resource for couples. Our content focuses on every aspect of planning your big day, from “Yes!” to “I Do.”

Get in touch for any inquiries.

[email protected]

2481 Milford Rd, E. Stroudsburg PA 18301

973-903-5079

© 2024 Love You Wedding •

17 Best Popular Journey Love Songs of All Time, Ranked, Youtube Lyrics

Are you a fan of Journey band and can’t help but swoon over their romantic ballads? Here is the top Best Popular Journey Love Songs of All Time.

From heart-wrenching lyrics to soul-stirring melodies, these love songs have stood the test of time and continue to make our hearts skip a beat.

So get ready to journey through the best love songs by one of the greatest bands ever. Let’s dive in!

1. I’ll Be Alright Without You

“I’ll Be Alright Without You” by Journey is a timeless classic that showcases the band’s ability to combine powerful vocals with heart-wrenching lyrics.

As one of the best love songs by Journey, it captures the raw, emotional journey of moving on from a past relationship and finding strength in being alone.

The song beautifully conveys that even though love may have ended, life continues, and you can still thrive without your significant other.

2. With Your Love

“With Your Love” is a heartfelt and passionate love song by the American rock band Journey.

From their album “Captured,” this beautiful ballad showcases the band’s exceptional musical talents with powerful vocals, captivating guitar riffs, and moving lyrics.

The song speaks of an intense love that can conquer all fears and doubts.

It tells the story of two people who have found solace in each other’s arms, with lyrics like “When I’m lost in love, I find myself in you.”

3. When You Love a Woman

“When You Love a Woman” by Journey is undoubtedly one of the best love songs this iconic band has created. Released in 1996, it quickly became a couple’s favorite.

The song eloquently captures the essence of romantic love – the gentle yet powerful emotions, the vulnerability, and the sheer joy of being in love .

Steve Perry’s soulful vocals and Jonathan Cain’s heartfelt lyrics beautifully convey the depth of feelings experienced when you’re genuinely in love.

4. Send Her My Love

“Send Her My Love” by Journey is a classic love ballad that continues to captivate listeners with its heartfelt lyrics and powerful melodies.

Released in 1983, the song is a timeless reminder of the power and depth of true love.

The band’s signature blend of rock , pop, and soul can be heard throughout the song, making it a unique representation of their sound.

Lead singer Steve Perry’s smooth and expressive vocals perfectly convey the longing and yearning expressed in each verse.

5. Don’t Stop Believin’

“Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of millions since its release in 1981.

This upbeat and powerful love song has become an anthem for holding on to hope and never giving up on love.

The catchy chorus, “Don’t stop believin’, hold on to that feeling,” encourages listeners to believe in love even when times are tough.

The lyrics tell the story of two young people from different worlds who share a chance encounter and decide to leap faith into the unknown world of love.

6. Any Way You Want It

“Any Way You Want It” by Journey is a timeless classic that continues to capture the hearts of music lovers worldwide.

Released in 1980, this upbeat and catchy anthem has become one of the most beloved love songs by the iconic rock band.

With its infectious melodies, soaring vocals, and heartfelt lyrics, it’s no wonder “Any Way You Want It” remains a fan favorite even after four decades.

The song tells a simple yet powerful message about unconditional love and accepting someone for who they are – flaws and all.

7. Wheel in the Sky

“Wheel in the Sky” by Journey is a perfect blend of powerful vocals, soul-stirring music, and heartfelt lyrics that will take you on an emotional journey.

This classic rock ballad has captured the hearts of listeners since its release in 1978 and continues to be one of the most beloved songs by the band.

The soaring vocals of Steve Perry, combined with intricate guitar riffs and melodic piano, create a mesmerizing sound that is hard to resist.

The words chronicle the longing for love while on a never-ending journey, creating a bittersweet nostalgia for listeners.

8. Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’

“Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’ ” by Journey is a legendary love song that has captured hearts and fueled countless romances since its release in 1979.

With its catchy chorus and soulful melodies, this ballad tells the story of a tumultuous relationship filled with passion and pain.

The lyrics are raw and emotional, painting a vivid picture of a couple struggling to hold on to their love amidst the chaos of their disagreements.

Journey’s lead singer, Steve Perry, delivers an unforgettable vocal performance that perfectly captures the depth of emotion in the song.

“Lights” by Journey is a classic love song that has stood the test of time. It captures the feeling of being in love and how it can light up your world.

The iconic guitar intro and Steve Perry’s soulful vocals make this song instantly recognizable and loved by fans worldwide.

The lyrics paint a picture of two people falling deeply in love and losing themselves in each other’s light.

As the chorus goes, “When the lights go down in the city, And the sun shines on the bay, I want to be there in my city,” it evokes a sense of longing and a desire to be with one’s significant other no matter where they are.

10. Who’s Crying Now

“Who’s Crying Now” by Journey is a timeless love song that has captured the hearts of listeners for decades.

Its soulful lyrics and powerful vocals make it a must-listen for any true music lover.

The song tells the story of a relationship on the brink of falling apart, with both partners unsure of where they stand.

But amidst the uncertainty, there is still hope as they wonder who will be the first to shed tears and ultimately give in to their feelings.

The soaring guitar riffs and intense drum beats add more emotion to this heart-wrenching ballad.

11. Girl Can’t Help It

“Girl Can’t Help It” is a popular love song by the iconic American rock band Journey.

Released in 1986, it quickly became a fan favorite and remains a classic.

The upbeat tempo and smooth vocals lure listeners in, while the heartfelt lyrics tell the story of a woman who can’t resist falling in love.

The song perfectly represents Journey’s signature sound, with catchy guitar riffs and powerful vocals that make you want to dance along.

12. Open Arms

“Open Arms” by Journey is a timeless love song that has captured the hearts of listeners worldwide.

From its beautiful melody to its heartfelt lyrics, it perfectly encapsulates the feeling of being deeply in love and wanting to embrace someone with open arms.

The soaring vocals of lead singer Steve Perry, paired with the soft guitar riffs and gentle piano accompaniment, create an ethereal and romantic atmosphere that makes this song unforgettable.

It’s no wonder that “Open Arms” has become one of Journey’s most famous songs, beloved by fans for over four decades.

13. Faithfully

“Faithfully” by Journey is one of the most iconic love songs ever. Released in 1983, it became a fan favorite and remains popular for weddings and romantic events.

The song tells the story of a musician constantly on the road, touring and performing for his fans.

Despite the distance and constant travel, he remains faithful to his loved one back home.

The lyrics beautifully capture the sacrifices and struggles that come with being in a long-distance relationship but also highlight the unwavering devotion and love between two people.

14. Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)

“Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)” by the iconic rock band Journey is a timeless love song that has captured hearts and stood the test of time.

With its upbeat tempo, soulful vocals, and heartfelt lyrics, this song perfectly encapsulates the pain and longing of two people going their separate ways in a relationship.

The powerful chorus of “We could last forever, but now we’re worlds apart” resonates with anyone who has experienced a heartbreaking breakup or distance in a once-loving relationship.

Each verse paints a vivid picture of the struggles and sacrifices one makes for love while showcasing the hope that remains amidst the pain.

15. Suzanne

“Suzanne” by Journey is a beautiful and timeless love song that captures the essence of true love.

The heartfelt lyrics speak of a deep and enduring love for someone special, making it the perfect soundtrack for any romantic occasion.

The way lead singer Steve Perry pours his heart out in every line will give you goosebumps, while the musical music takes you through the highs and lows of love.

Whether you’re in the early stages of a relationship or have been with your significant other for years, “Suzanne” will resonate with you.

16. Stone In Love

“Stone In Love” by Journey is a timeless love song that captures the essence of falling head over heels in love.

The beautifully written lyrics convey the intense emotions one experiences when smitten with someone special.

The band’s lead vocalist, Steve Perry, sings about how love can feel like a never-ending story, with each verse painting a vivid picture of longing and desire.

This classic rock ballad is a must-listen for anyone who has ever been deeply in love.

17. Only the Young

“Only the Young” by Journey is an incredible love song that captivates the hearts of listeners with its soulful lyrics and beautiful melody.

The band’s signature sound and lead singer Steve Perry’s powerful vocals create perfect emotional and uplifting harmony.

The song speaks about young love and the strength it brings to overcome any obstacle. It encourages the listener to hold on to hope even when things seem uncertain because love knows no bounds.

About Journey (band)

Journey is an American rock band that originated in San Francisco in 1973.

Composed of members Neal Schon, Ross Valory, Gregg Rolie, Aynsley Dunbar, and George Tickner, the band quickly gained popularity with their unique blend of progressive rock and pop music.

However, it was not until the addition of lead singer Steve Perry in 1977 that Journey rose to fame.

With Perry’s powerful vocals and the band’s catchy hooks and ballads, they became one of the top-selling artists of the 1980s.

Hits such as “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” and “Any Way You Want It” cemented their place in music history.

Despite several lineup changes, Journey has continued to tour and release new music, garnering a dedicated fanbase worldwide.

How many top 10 hits does Journey have?

You may wonder how many top 10 hits this legendary Journey band has.

Well, let me tell you that Journey has a total of nine top 10 hits on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

These include classics such as “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Open Arms,” “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart),” and “Who’s Crying Now.”

Additionally, their album “Escape” became their first and only number-one album on the Billboard charts.

What is Journey’s signature song?

Journey’s signature song is undoubtedly their chart-topping hit, “Don’t Stop Believin’.”

Released in 1981 on their album Escape, this iconic rock anthem has become a staple in popular culture and a favorite among fans.

Its catchy chorus and uplifting lyrics continue to be a go-to song for road trips, karaoke nights, and wedding playlists.

The song tells the story of a small-town girl and city boy who longs for something more, encouraging listeners to never give up on their dreams.

What is Journey’s best-selling song?

With numerous hit songs under their belt, it may be hard to determine which stands above the rest as their best-selling song.

However, according to Billboard charts and sales data, “Don’t Stop Believin’” is undoubtedly Journey’s best-selling track.

Released in 1981, this timeless anthem gained immense popularity through its appearance in popular TV shows and movies such as Glee and The Sopranos.

What is Journey’s biggest-selling album?

Journey’s biggest-selling album is the 1981 release, “Escape.”

This was their seventh studio album and included some of their most iconic songs, such as “Don’t Stop Believin’,” which has become a timeless anthem for generations.

The album also featured hits like “Open Arms” and “Who’s Crying Now,” both highly successful singles.

“Escape” reached number one on the Billboard 200 chart and stayed there for six weeks, making it their most successful album.

It has sold over 12 million copies worldwide and continues to be a fan favorite, with its blend of arena rock and power ballads that showcase Journey’s signature sound.

Is Journey a 70s or 80s band?

Journey, one of the most iconic rock bands in history, has been a topic of debate among fans regarding which decade they genuinely belong to – the 70s or the 80s.

Formed in San Francisco in 1973, Journey rose to fame with their distinctive blend of melodic rock and progressive elements.

Their early albums, such as “Infinity” and “Evolution,” were released in the late 70s and showcased their signature sound that would become their trademark.

However, it was not until the early 80s that Journey reached the pinnacle of success with hit singles like “Don’t Stop Believin'” and “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart).”

With Steve Perry’s powerful vocals and Neal Schon’s electrifying guitar solos, Journey dominated the airwaves throughout the 80s, cementing their place as one of the greatest bands ever.

So is Journey a ’70s or ’80s band?

The answer lies somewhere between both decades, as they have left an indelible mark on both eras with their timeless music that continues to inspire generations even today.

Whether you prefer their earlier hits or their chart-topping anthems from the 80s, there’s no denying that Journey is a band that transcends time and will forever remain a beloved part of rock history.

Journey is a band that has touched the hearts of millions with their heartfelt and timeless love songs.

From “Open Arms” to “Faithfully,” these songs resonate with listeners of all ages, making them some of the best love songs in music history.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic ballad or an upbeat anthem, Journey has it all.

So go ahead and add these songs to your playlist, and let the magic of Journey’s music fill your heart with love and happiness.

Thank you for reading our list of the best love songs by Journey! Keep on singing along and spreading the love with their beautiful music.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The 10 best Journey songs

Let's face it, AOR just wouldn't have been the same without them – here are Journey's ten best tracks

For many, Journey are the band who define AOR better than anyone else. Their catalogue glitters with unforgettable anthems, which not only contain massive choruses, but also the sort of musicianship you might expect from a band who began life as jazz rock instrumentalists before embracing the melodic rock style for which they’re renowned. We've gone through the band's back catalogue and hand-picked their 10 finest moments.

10. Girl Can’t Help It (1986)

After taking a break from the band to work on his solo album Street Talk , vocalist Steve Perry was persuaded to return to the fold for 1986's Raised On Radio album. While the production shows a clear-cut influence of the times, Perry’s vocals shine as brightly as ever, while Jonathan Cain’s smooth keyboards complement Neal Schon ’s edgy guitar stride.

9. Faithfully (1983)

This is the way Journey explained the problems of trying to carry on a relationship while out on the road touring. One of the stand-out tracks from 1983's Frontiers , Faithfully has a soft lilt that exposes an emptiness. However, this is augmented by the lush rhythm and the way that Steve Perry croons his way through without ever wallowing in over emotional hyperbole. A power ballad in the best Journey tradition.

8. Lovin, Touchin’, Squeezin’ (1979)

Anyone who thinks that Journey aren’t capable of anything other than slushy ballads really should check out Lovin, Touchin’, Squeezin’ from 1979's Evolution album. It has a funk groove, and while the tempo is very much of the balladic kind, Neal Schon stabs through with some electrifying moments. What’s more, Steve Perry’s vocals soar impressively to ensure maximum dramatic impact. One of the highlights on Evolution .

7. Lights (1978)

The opening song from 1978's Infinity record – the album that introduced Steve Perry to the world, and also put the band’s new-found melodic style on display for the very first time. It’s easy to tell why American radio fell in love with Journey at this point in time. The music is filled with commercial astuteness, the harmonies are sublime and the whole timbre of Lights is evocative and stylish. This oozes the sort of class that would become the norm for Journey in the coming years.

6. Who’s Cryin’ Now (1981)

Who’s Cryin’ Now begins with an unvarnished piano piece from Jonathan Cain, on which Steve Perry builds his rich tone. And Ross Vallory provides some tasteful bass lines, to underline the whole feel of the song. This is the type of track that accentuates Perry’s love for great soul singers, while it also showcases the way in which Journey stood apart from all the huge selling AOR masters, and why Escape is regarded as the classic Journey album.

• Inside AOR, the most under-appreciated sub-genre of all time
• The 40 Best AOR Vocalists Of All-Time: 10-1
• The Top 10 Essential 80s AOR Albums

5. Stone In Love (1981)

The fact this song opens up with shards of Neal Schon's guitar riffing proves that Journey were always prepared to give full weight to the heavier side of their talent. And Steve Perry also comes across with a lot more power than you might expect. This is a song where Journey never forget about the melody, but also give free rein to a rocky vibe. It also accentuates that Escape was always far more than just a collection of power ballads.

Classic Rock Newsletter

Sign up below to get the latest from Classic Rock, plus exclusive special offers, direct to your inbox!

4. Any Way You Want It (1980)

It may seem odd, but this song was actually inspired by Thin Lizzy , with whom Journey had toured a couple of years before recording the Departure album in 1980. But when you dig down and analyse the way in which the vocals are constructed, and the interchange between the instruments, then the influence becomes a lot clearer. There’s a gliding feel to the guitar parts that does feel like it is Thin Lizzy influenced, and Steve Perry adopts a storytelling style that is close to the Phil Lynott approach – and the whole feel suits Journey superbly.

3. Wheel In The Sky (1978)

Wheel In The Sky was co-written by Robert Fleischman, the band’s original choice of vocalist when they moved into a more commercial direction. However, when Fleischman didn’t work out and was replaced by Steve Perry, the song was thankfully retained. It starts with a flashing guitar groove, through which Perry cuts with a vibrant performance. In some ways, this is a basic live performance from the band, bringing a heavier dynamic to bear, but this fitted right into the whole feel of Infinity , and showed Journey could pound with the best.

2. Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) (1983)

After the enormous success of the Escape album, how did the band choose to open up their next album Frontiers ? With a powerhouse rocker than fitted right into an era where AOR was beginning to become a little less reliant on studio technology and celebrated talent. Of course, the rich production is evident here, but what makes the song work superbly is that way Jonathan Cain, Steve Perry and Neal Schon intertwine. There’s a buoyancy in Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) that tells of a band who are really playing off of each other’s strengths. The result is undeniably passionate.

1. Don’t Stop Believin’ (1981)

Is there anyone on the planet who does not know this song? It has got to be one of the most exposed tracks over the past two decades or so. And, because it’s so well known, it’s very easy to lose sight of just why this is so popular. Because Don’t Stop Believin’ is a peerless example of musical genius. Everything about it is simply perfect – the musicality, the vocals, the simple structure, the insistent melody… hell, this is not just Journey’s best song, it’s one of the truly landmark moments of the 80s.

Malcolm Dome had an illustrious and celebrated career which stretched back to working for  Record Mirror  magazine in the late 70s and  Metal Fury  in the early 80s before joining  Kerrang!  at its launch in 1981. His first book,  Encyclopedia Metallica , published in 1981, may have been the inspiration for the name of a certain band formed that same year. Dome is also credited with inventing the term "thrash metal" while writing about the  Anthrax  song  Metal Thrashing Mad  in 1984. With the launch of Classic Rock magazine in 1998 he became involved with that title, sister magazine Metal Hammer, and was a contributor to Prog magazine since its inception in 2009. He died in 2021 . 

“Are these your questions?” When Smashing Pumpkins frontman Billy Corgan interviewed Nick Cave for MTV at Lollapalooza 1994, it did not go well

"We're the bastards": listen to Mötley Crüe's spidery comeback single Dogs Of War

Here are the 12 best new metal songs you need to hear this week

Most Popular

• 300 Best Wedding Songs for Each Moment of your Wedding Day

Explore a curated collection of songs for every moment, from the ceremony to the reception, make sure each part of your special day is filled with music and emotion.

An epic event like your wedding day calls for an equally epic playlist—from the moment you walk down the aisle to when you and your guests fill the reception dance floor, your music sets the tone for the day’s events. But with countless classic hits, chart toppers, and love anthems to choose from, picking the best wedding songs can feel overwhelming.

If you’ve been to your fair share of weddings, you’re probably familiar with the number one wedding song—the romantic ballad All of Me by John Legend—along with some of these popular wedding songs:

Thinking Out Loud — Ed Sheeran A Thousand Years — Christina Perri At Last — Etta James Marry Me — Train Can’t Help Falling in Love — Elvis Presley

But if you’re looking for a deeper dive into some musical inspiration, we’ve compiled the best wedding songs for every moment of the big day—from the ceremony and cocktail hour to your first dance and reception. We’ve also included the best wedding songs by genre to align with music tastes of all kinds!

Table of Contents

Wedding Songs by Activity

• Songs for the Bachelor Party

Songs to Get Ready To

Cocktail hour songs, wedding processional songs, songs to walk down the aisle to, wedding ceremony songs, wedding recessional songs, wedding party entrance songs, newlywed entrance songs, first dance songs, parent dance songs, reception songs to dance to.

Wedding Songs by Genre

Modern Wedding Songs

Country wedding songs, christian wedding songs.

• R&B Wedding Songs

Classic Wedding Songs

Fun wedding songs, indie wedding songs.

• Gospel Wedding Songs

Best Wedding Songs by Activity

Your wedding day will include a variety of different moments and activities , each calling for its own type of music (ie. you wouldn't use the same tunes from your getting ready playlist for your wedding processional music!). Browse the list below for the best wedding songs for every moment of your big day, from walking down the aisle to the best reception songs to dance to.

Songs for the Bachelor/Bachelorette Party

This might be a pre-wedding activity, but an epic bash like your bachelor or bachelorette party calls for an equally epic playlist. Head straight to Zola’s Ultimate Bach Party playlist on Spotify to listen to our carefully curated picks, or dive into the following song ideas for some extra inspiration.

Curated Zola picks on Spotify: Ultimate Bach Party

• First Class — Jack Harlow
• Ferrari — James Hype
• Work — Rihanna
• Sorry — Justin Bieber
• Me, Myself & I — G-Eazy
• Roses — The Chainsmokers
• Hands to Myself — Selena Gomez
• Fast Car — Jonas Blue
• Stay — Kygo
• My House — Flo Rida
• Bang My Head — David Guetta
• Sugar — Robin Shulz
• Lean On — Major Lazer
• I’M ON ONE — Drake
• All My Friends — Snakehips
• On My Mind — Ellie Goulding
• Where Are Ü Now — Jack Ü
• How Deep Is Your Love — Calvin Harris
• The Sound — The 1975
• Middle — DJ Snake
• Love Myself — Hailee Steinfeld
• Be Right There — Diplo
• Focus — Ariana Grande
• Desperado — Rihanna
• Waiting for Love — Avicii

The morning of your wedding is filled with excitement and anticipation, which calls for the perfect playlist to help shake off any jitters and set the tone for the day ahead. This mix of upbeat hits and nostalgic love anthems spans all decades and genres, and is sure to keep spirits high all morning long!

• Marry You — Bruno Mars
• The Cure — Lady Gaga
• A Moment Like This — Leona Lewis
• Chapel of Love — The Dixie Cups
• Love On Top — Beyoncé
• Levitating — Dua Lipa ft. DaBaby
• It Wasn’t Me — Shaggy ft. Rik Rok
• Shut Up and Dance — Walk the Moon
• Love Story — Taylor Swift
• Run the World (Girls) — Beyoncé
• Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! — ABBA
• These Words — Natasha Bedingfield
• All You Need Is Love — The Beatles
• We Found Love — Rihanna ft. Calvin Harris
• Oh, Pretty Woman — Roy Orbison
• You’ve Got the Love — Florence + The Machine
• Rather Be — Clean Bandit ft. Jess Glynne
• I Do — Colbie Caillat
• Respect — Aretha Franklin
• Baila Conmigo — Selena Gomez
• Love Yourself — Justin Bieber
• Ain’t No Other Man — Christina Aguilera
• Anywhere — Rita Ora
• I Say A Little Prayer — Aretha Franklin
• White Wedding — Billy Idol

The wedding processional marks the beginning of the ceremony, when your family members, wedding parties, and/or flower girls and ring bearers make their way down the aisle. If you’ll have background music playing as guests are arriving, you’ll want to clearly differentiate your processional music as a signal that the wedding is beginning.

Whether you choose a traditional hymn or your favorite pop tune, your processional music is entirely up to you—browse Zola’s curated Spotify playlist or choose from our selection of soft instrumentals and upbeat, whimsical tunes below.

Curated Zola picks on Spotify: Processional Songs

• Canon in D (Pachelbel’s Canon) — Brooklyn Duo
• Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World — Israel Kamakawiwo'ole
• A Thousand Years (Christina Perri) — The Piano Guys
• A Day Without Rain — Enya
• Marry Me — United Guitar Players
• Feels Like Home — Edwina Hayes
• Can’t Help Falling in Love (Elvis Presley) — Vitamin String Quartet
• A Million Dreams (The Greatest Showman) — Taylor Davis
• XO (Beyoncé) — Midnite String Quartet
• Beyond — Leon Bridges
• Here Comes the Sun — The Beatles
• Butterflies — Kacey Musgraves
• Sea of Love — Cat Power
• Largo (From “Xerxes”) — Handel
• Higher Love — James Vincent McMorrow
• Begin Again — Piano Tribute Players
• Thinking Out Loud (Ed Sheeran) — Vesislava
• Can’t Take My Eyes Off You — Trio Comodo
• All I Want Is You (U2) — Bridesmaids Quartet
• Light My Fire — Threeds
• First Day of My Life — Bright Eyes
• Collide — Tiana Major9
• We Could Happen — AJ Rafael
• Hoppípolla — Sigur Rós
• This Feeling — Alabama Shakes

The song you walk down the aisle to sets the tone for your special day, and is an opportunity to choose something personal and meaningful to both you and your partner. While you might choose to keep your processional music the same for walking down the aisle, many couples prefer to select a different tune for the aisle moment. Check out our collection of romantic and uplifting songs that are sure to tug on heartstrings and make this moment a special one.

• Bridal Chorus — Richard Wagner
• All of Me (John Legend) — Daniel Jang
• Hallelujah — Vitamin String Quartet
• Can’t Help Falling in Love — Haley Reinhart
• Wedding March — Mendelssohn
• Despacito (Luis Fonsi) — Brooklyn Duo
• A Sky Full of Stars — The Piano Guys
• Amazing Grace — Bridesmaids Quartet
• Come Away With Me — Vitamin String Quartet
• Forever — Josh Vietti

There are countless opportunities to set the mood with music on your wedding day, and the wedding ceremony itself is one of them! While some couples prefer to cut the music once they’re joined together at the altar, some opt to play soft instrumental music during the ceremony to add more depth to the moment. Find some of our favorite instrumental tunes for your ceremony below.

• The Secret Wedding (From “Braveheart”) — David Arkenstone ft. Kathleen Fisher
• Hampshire — Adrian Johnston
• Wedding — Frederic Chopin
• Sicilienne — Maria Theresia von Paradis
• The Meeting — John Powell
• Attraversiamo — Dario Marianelli
• Your Song — United Guitar Players
• Have I Told You Lately That I Love You — United Guitar Players
• Rhythm of Love — Bridesmaids Quartet
• And I Love Her — George Martin

Your wedding recessional—otherwise known as your wedding exit—is the moment when you and your partner walk back down the aisle as newlyweds, followed by the wedding party and guests. Your recessional song selection should reflect the joy and excitement of what just took place and set the tone for the reception to follow. Browse our list of celebratory tunes to make your grand exit with!

• Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours) — Stevie Wonder
• Ain’t No Mountain High Enough — Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
• Accidentally In Love — Counting Crows
• For Once in My Life — Stevie Wonder
• Crazy Little Thing Called Love — Queen
• Wedding Day — Bee Gees
• My Sweet Lord — George Harrison
• Adore You — Harry Styles
• Happy — Pharell Williams
• Treasure — Bruno Mars
• Outro — M83
• We Go Together — John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John (Greece)
• Walking On a Dream — Empire of the Sun
• Beautiful Day — U2
• Never Going Back Again — Fleetwood Mac

If you’re hosting a cocktail hour—the roughly hour-long break between the ceremony and the reception—a feel-good playlist that primes your guests for the party to come is a must. Keep your song choices light and uplifting for guests to enjoy while they mingle, and save the high-energy dance tunes until you hit the dance floor.

Curated Zola picks on Spotify: Cocktail Hour Songs

• Here Comes the Sun — Nina Simone
• Home — Edward Sharpe and The Magnetic Zeros
• Stubborn Love — The Lumineers
• Easy Living — Billie Holiday
• Lucky — Jason Mraz ft. Colbie Caillat
• Sway — Michael Bublé
• Rhythm of Love — Plain White T’s
• Fever — Peggy Lee
• I Feel It Coming — The Weeknd ft. Daft Punk
• Let’s Fall In Love — Diana Krall
• At Last — Etta James
• The Way You Look Tonight — Tony Bennett
• Love Like This — Natasha Bedingfield
• Red Dirt Road — Brooks & Dunn
• Misty — Johnny Mathis

Your guests will be looking forward to the reception once the ceremony and cocktail hour conclude, and what better way to kick things off than with a few epic entrance songs? Your wedding party entrance song calls for high-energy, celebratory tunes—here are some of our favorites.

• Can’t Stop the Feeling — Justin Timberlake
• Take Me Out — Franz Ferdinand
• I Bet You Look Good On the Dancefloor — Arctic Monkeys
• Hey Ya! — OutKast
• I Gotta Feeling — The Black Eyed Peas
• Firework — Katy Perry
• Raise Your Glass — P!nk
• Sugar — Maroon 5
• Just Dance — Lady Gaga
• Dynamite — Tai Cruz

A moment like your first official appearance as newlyweds calls for the perfect entrance song. Whether you go for something loud and goofy or romantic and special, the following songs are guaranteed to make your reception kickoff memorable.

• Love Me Like You Do — Ellie Goulding
• Rollercoaster — Bleachers
• SexyBack — Justin Timberlake
• Everything Is Awesome — Tegan and Sara
• Starving — Hailee Steinfeld
• Let’s Get It Started — The Black Eyed Peas
• 24K Magic — Bruno Mars
• On Top of the World — Imagine Dragons
• Bring Em Out — T.I. ft Swizz Beatz
• Seeing Stars — Børns

You might be dancing in front of a crowd, but your first dance song should be one that’s personal to you and your partner. Keep reading for more of our favorite picks.

Curated Zola picks on Spotify: First Dance Songs

• Thinking Out Loud — Ed Sheeran
• You Are the Best Thing — Ray LaMontagne
• Can’t Help Falling in Love — Elvis Presley
• Sweetest Devotion — Adele
• I Will — The Beatles
• It Had to be You — Dooley Wilson
• Sparks — Coldplay
• Stay In My Corner — The Arcs
• The Best Is Yet to Come — Frank Sinatra
• You’re My Best Friend — Queen

Parent dances are an incredibly touching moment of the wedding day, but choosing the right song can be tough. It helps to reflect on your relationship with the parent you’ll be dancing with—what matters most is choosing a song that represents the bond you share. Browse our picks for sweet and sentimental songs below.

Curated Zola picks on Spotify: Parent Dance Songs

• What a Wonderful World — Louis Armstrong
• Your Song — Elton John
• Gracie — Ben Folds
• Brown Eyed Girl — Van Morrison
• Isn’t She Lovely — Stevie Wonder
• It’s For My Dad — Nancy Sinatra
• My Wish — Rascal Flatts
• Stand By Me — Ben E. King
• A Song For Mama — Boyz II Men
• I Hope You Dance — Lee Ann Womack

Your wedding reception playlist requires a balance of what you and your partner love and what your guests will enjoy, too. Regardless of what you choose, one thing’s for sure—they should make you want to dance! Our Songs for the Dance Floor playlist features songs that Zola couples have told us makes them want to get down, and the list below offers some extra inspiration.

Curated Zola picks on Spotify: Songs for the Dance Floor

• I Wanna Dance with Somebody — Whitney Houston
• Lose Control — Missy Elliot
• Suavemente — Elvis Crespo
• On the Floor — Jennifer Lopez ft. Pitbull
• My Girl — The Temptations
• Play That Funky Music — Wild Cherry
• This Is What You Came For — Rhianna ft. Calvin Harris
• Havana — Camila Cabello ft. Young Thug
• Billie Jean — Michael Jackson
• Boogie Shoes — KC & The Sunshine Band
• Forever — Chris Brown
• Footloose — Kenny Loggins
• Uptown Funk — Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
• Shake It Off — Taylor Swift
• Yeah! — Usher

Best Wedding Songs by Genre

The best songs for your wedding day are those that represent your relationship with your partner and are close to both of your hearts. Instead of confining yourself to tradition or what you think you “should” include, curate your playlist based on your unique tastes. No matter what type of music you fancy, use our list of the best wedding songs by genre to tailor your playlist to what you and your partner love most.

• Sunflower — Post Malone
• Lover — Taylor Swift
• Sweet Creature — Harry Styles
• Let’s Shut Up & Dance — Jason Derulo
• Boom Clap — Charli XCX
• Born To Be Yours — Imagine Dragons ft. Kygo
• Can’t Feel My Face — The Weeknd
• One Kiss — Calvin Harris ft. Dua Lipa
• A Sky Full of Stars — Coldplay
• Heatstroke — Calvin Harris ft. Young Thug, Pharrell Williams, and Ariana Grande
• Coloring Outside the Lines — MisterWives
• 10,000 Hours — Dan + Shay, Justin Bieber
• Million Miles — Kody West
• Pretty Heart — Parker McCollum
• That’s the Way Love Goes — Merle Haggard
• Looking for Love — Johnny Lee
• Friends in Low Places — Garth Brooks
• Wagon Wheel — Darius Rucker
• Honey Bee — Blake Shelton
• Tennessee Whiskey — Chris Stapleton
• Country Girl (Shake It For Me) — Luke Bryan
• Better Together — Luke Combs
• Rhinestone Cowboy — Glen Campbell
• The Chair — George Strait
• Don’t Take Her She’s All I Got — Tracy Byrd
• You Look So Good in Love — Merle Haggard
• She Won’t Be Lonely Long — Clay Walker
• God Gave Me You — Dave Barnes
• Always Only You — Josh Wilson
• Commitment — Sanctus Real
• You Say — Lauren Daigle
• When I Say I Do — Matthew West
• Hold Me — Jamie Grace ft. TobyMac
• Till I Found You — Phil Wickham
• You Love Me Anyway — Sidewalk Prophets
• Butterfly Kisses — Bob Carlisle
• Hundred More Years — Francesca Battistelli
• Good Day for Marrying You — Dave Barnes
• The Heart — NEEDTOBREATHE
• The King is Coming — Newsboys
• Made to Love — TobyMac
• I Promise (Wedding Song) — CeCe Winans

R&B/Soul Wedding Songs

• Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You — Lauryn Hill
• Let’s Get married — Jagged Edge
• Sweet Love — Anita Baker
• I Can’t Do Without You — George Jackson
• If I Ain’t Got You — Alicia Keys
• Make You Feel My Love — Adele
• Ain’t Nobody — Chaka Khan, Rufus
• Let’s Stay Together — Al Green
• That’s How Strong My Love Is — Otis Redding
• I Believe in You and Me — Whitney Houston
• Lovely Day — Bill Withers
• Rich Girl — Lake Street Dive
• You Sexy Thing — Hot Chocolate
• Lovey Dovey Kinda Lovin’ — Brenton Wood
• Just the Two of Us — Grover Washington, Jr. ft. Bill Withers
• Stayin’ Alive — Bee Gees
• Don’t Stop Believin’ — Journey
• Boogie Nights — Heatwave
• Love Train — The O’Jays
• Love Shack — The B-52’s
• September — Earth, Wind & Fire
• Sweet Caroline — Neil Diamond
• I Want You Back — Jackson 5
• We Are Family — Sister Sledge
• This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) — Natalie Cole
• Better Together — Jack Johnson
• Happy — Pharrell Williams
• Superstition — Stevie Wonder
• Party Rock Anthem — LMFAO ft. Lauren Bennett
• Chained to the Rhythm — Katy Perry
• Groove Is in the Heart — Deee-Lite
• Moves Like Jagger — Maroon 5 ft. Christina Aguilera
• Good Feeling — Flo Rida
• Crazy — Gnarles Barkley
• We Are Young — Fun. ft. Janelle Monáe
• Get Lucky — Daft Punk ft. Pharrell Williams
• Last Friday Night — Katy Perry
• Doo Wop (That Thing) — Lauryn Hill
• Raspberry Beret — Prince
• I Feel For You — Chaka Khan
• You Should Be Dancing (Saturday Night Fever soundtrack) — Bee Gees
• Got to Get You Into My Life — Earth, Wind & Fire
• Theme From Shaft (Remastered) — Isaac Hayes
• Fade Into You — Mazzy Star
• Sweetest Thing on This Side of Heaven — Papa Bear & His Cubs
• In My Baby’s Arms — The California Honeydrops
• Coming Home — Leon Bridges
• Still Together — Mac DeMarco
• Baby — Ariel Pink
• My Kind of Woman — Mac DeMarco
• Feels Like Heaven — Ariel Pink
• Best to You — Blood Orange
• Dreams — The Cranberries
• Skinny Love — Bon Iver
• Strawberry Swing — Frank Ocean
• Still Into You — Paramore
• 1901 — Phoenix
• Electric Feel — MGMT

Rock Wedding Songs

• Fell in Love With a Girl — The White Stripes
• (You Gotta) Fight For Your Right (To Party) — Beastie Boys
• Howlin’ For You — The Black Keys
• With or Without You — U2
• Our Love — Gary Clark Jr.
• Sweet Child O’ Mine — Guns N’ Roses
• Uh-Oh, Love Comes to Town — Talking Heads
• Nothing Else Matters — Metallica
• Start Me Up — Rolling Stones
• You Shook Me All Night Long — AC/DC
• Should I Stay Or Should I Go — The Clash
• Can’t Stop — Red Hot Chili Peppers
• Jump — Van Halen
• Bitch, I Love You — Black Joe Lewis & The Honeybears
• Dancing in the Dark — Bruce Springsteen

Curating the perfect wedding playlist might feel daunting, but try to have fun with it! Focus on filling your playlist with songs that represent your unique love story and relationship. Now that you’ve got 300 songs to work with, we’re confident you’ll find something you love.

Even more answers

• 159 Best Wedding Party Entrance Songs to Get the Party Started
• How to DJ Your Own Wedding
• How Much Does a Live Wedding Band Cost?
• How to Choose Your Wedding DJ
• 50 Questions to Ask Wedding DJs and Bands Before Booking
• How to Choose Between a Wedding Band or DJ
• 63 Mother-Son Dance Songs for Your Wedding Reception
• Wedding DJ Checklist
• 77 Unique Wedding Ideas to Make Your Day Unforgettable
• 105 Father-Daughter Dance Songs Ideas for Your Wedding Day
• Top 10 Wedding Recessional Songs

Find even more wedding ideas, inspo, tips, and tricks

We’ve got wedding planning advice on everything from save the dates to wedding cakes.

Getting engaged

Wedding planning 101.

• Real weddings
• Creating a budget
• Wedding websites
• Wedding planning tools
• Wedding planning questions
• Wedding decorations
• Wedding day

Wedding trends

• First Look Reports

Venues & vendors

• Wedding venues
• Photos & video
• Food & catering
• Florists & flowers
• Bands, DJs & music
• Cakes & desserts
• Bar & beverages

Invites & paper

• Save the dates
• Invitations
• Day-of paper

Registry & gifts

• Wedding registry basics
• Wedding gifts

Parties & events

• Engagement party
• Wedding shower
• Bachelorette party
• Bachelor party

Fashion & beauty

• Wedding Hair & makeup
• Wedding dresses
• Shoes & accessories
• Wedding attire
• Honeymoon planning
• Honeymoon destinations

Relationship advice

• Newly engaged couples
• Newlywed couples
• Anniversaries
• News & culture

Zola behind the scenes

• Sweepstakes
• Inside Zola

Top 10 Journey Songs – What Is Your Favorite Wedding Song?

• November 4, 2021

Share This Post

Fun fact: Journey has some of the best wedding songs. They are an American rock band, but they rock weddings. Formed in San Francisco in 1973 by former members of Santana, the band has had 19 Top 40 singles in the US. They are second in that aspect without a Billboard Hot 100 Number 1 single behind Electric Light Orchestra . Today, we will look at some of the best Journey songs.

Hopefully, we include some of your favorite Journey songs on the list. The group was formed by Steve Miller Band and Fruminous Bandersnatch in 1973. They had their biggest commercial success from 1978 to 1987 , when Steve Perry was their lead vocalist. During that period, they released their most popular song, Don’t Stop Believin’. In 2009, that song became the top-selling track in iTunes history.

They have five gold and platinum albums and reached RIAA Diamond certification 15 times. We said before they have 19 Top 40 singles in the US.

They have a reputation of being one of America’s most beloved and sometimes hated commercial rock bands. So far, they have sold more than 48 million albums in the US, making them a Top 30 best-selling brand. Their worldwide sales have reached 80 million records.

In 2017 , the band got inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, including lead singer Steve Perry. Current members of the band include Neal Schon as lead guitar, Ross Valory at bass, Jonathan Cain at keyboards and rhythm guitar, Deen Castronovo at drums, and Arnel Pineda as lead vocals.

The Secret To Journey’s Success

There are many elements that we can say contributed to the success of the rock band. But number one is the chemistry between band members. Neal Schon and vocalist Steve Perry combined their talents into one of the most successful rock bands.

To this day, Schon remains one of the greatest rock guitarists to ever pick up an instrument. And Perry is a unique vocalist.

They have one of the largest library of songs played on the radio today and for special events like weddings.

Perry and Schon played to each other’s strengths in their writing and that made the band successful. With that in mind, here is our list of best Journey songs.

Don’t Stop Believin’

You cannot start a list of popular songs by Journey without their biggest hit. Every time this great song comes on the radio, people start rocking. Very few songs can achieve that legendary and iconic status.

You can never get tired of listening to Don’t Stop Believin’ . It is a motivational and inspirational song at the same time. The song is a great example of a rock ballad with a fuse of hard rock. Add in the soulful skills at guitar of Neal Schon, and you have a winner.

The song has made a number of popular culture appearances. For example, it plays in the final episode of The Sopranos, it was adapted by the television series Glee, Family Guy cast sang it, and more. It was also adopted as the unofficial anthem of the 2005 Chicago White Sox and 2010 San Francisco Giants World Series championship teams.

During the Covid-19 pandemic, the song was used as an anthem for patients who were being discharged from New York-Presbyterian Queens Hospital.

Lovin,’ Touchin,’ Squeezin’

The song made it to their Evolution album in 1979 . For this song, Steve Perry drew inspiration from Sam Cooke , one of his biggest influences.

Perry borrowed elements from Nothing Can Change this Love for the song. And he got a perfect balance between soulful pop vocals and Schon’s heavy rock guitar.

The song was the group’s first Top 20 hit. It begins with a bass-infused drum beat, which is then quickly joined by guitar and lush piano chords.

For the majority of the second half of the song, Journey takes inspiration from the great song by The Beatles , Hey Jude . The Na Na Na section makes an appearance here as well.

If you are looking for a song to play at your wedding, you can never go wrong with Faithfully. The lyrics “Oh girl you stand by me, I am forever yours, faithfully” , have been played at many weddings. Released in 1983 from the album Frontiers, the song is the most heartfelt song ever written.

Many people call it their favorite song on earth. It is a song that starts out slow and then reaches a climax at the end.

Many fans consider it the best song ever made by Journey. Yes, Don’t Stop Believin’ is their most popular song, but Faithfully has to be their best . And with Steve Perry’s voice, this song can touch your heart and rip it apart.

Fun fact: Bryan Adams wrote Heaven inspired by Faithfully. Prince called Cain to check whether he thought Purple Rain sounded too similar to the track.

Any Way You Want It

This is the opening song of the album Departure. It is an immense and feel-good track. The band often uses the song to close its shows and concerts.

At the center of the hard rock track, fans hear a call and response between vocals and guitar, an absolute pleasure for the ears.

Even fans who do not know a thing about Journey have heard this song. And that is because the song has been featured in many movies, TV shows, and commercials.

Separate Ways

We love this song from the Worlds Apart album. It is a song you will love turning way up and sing. You can never get sick of this song. Many fans love it only because of Steve’s voice. They go as far as saying they would never listen to it without Steve’s voice.

Separate Ways make you stop and actually listen to the song and lyric. You can always think of someone special in your life while listening to the song. It is a universal song that has managed to reach the human spirit.

The song is great from start to finish.

This song made it to the Escape album in 1981. Fun fact: Jonathan Cain pitched the melody idea for the song while he was a member of The Babys. Yet, singer John Waite thought it was too sentimental and shut it down.

Even Journey members thought the song is too sentimental. Schon believed it was too light for their group. But despite opposition, Perry and Cain pushed for the song and they recorded it. Open Arms reached Number 2 on the Billboard chart. It remained there for six weeks.

Today, Open Arms is a cultural touchstone.

Who’s Crying Now

As one of the more successful Journey songs, Who’s Crying Now peaked at Number 4 in the US. And in the UK, it remains the highest-charting Journey single.

The soulful piece has a simple piano riff at its heart. Perry wrote the song’s chorus going to the house of Cain during a storm. Once he came there, Cain had a few suggestions and changes.

You can tell by the instrumental that it was inspired by a storm. Moody and bitter, the song has a catchy piano hook but is not particularly joyful.

Fun fact: this was the first Journey song to feature Cain. Before that, he was a member of The Babys.

Wheel In The Sky

You have to love this song for one simple fact, Steve Perry’s voice. It is crystal in this song. This song is from the early years of Steve Perry’s career in Journey and his voice was virgin perfect.

The lyrics are amazing as well. It remains one of the most awesome songs by the band. And the intro is just amazing.

It is also one of the early Journey singles to find traction at rock ratio.

Feeling That Way

In the beginning, this song was an instrumental titled Velvet Curtain . Keyboardist Gregg Rolie and drummer Aynsley Dunbar wrote it before adding words and changing it to Please Let Me Stay.

But the song remained in a box until Perry joined the band. He wrote some additional material and the band recorded the track. Perry and Role shared the lead vocals on this song.

The song from the Infinity album in 1978 usually goes with Any Time. The group pairs the two songs together for concert shows.

Let’s finish the list with one of the first Journey singles to feature Steve Perry. It is a soft rock ballad. Fun fact: it started as a minor hit, reaching only Number 68 on the charts.

Today, many fans consider it one of the signature tracks by Journey. Among the many Journey tracks, this one is a mainstay of classic rock stations and sports events.

It is an ode to San Francisco, the city where the band started its journey. The band makes a lot of references to the beauty of the city and its bay. Fun fact: Steve Perry originally wrote the track about Los Angeles. He then realized it would serve San Francisco better and tweaked it together with Schon.

Subscribe To Our Newsletter

Get updates and learn from the best, more to explore.

Famous Failures – Get Your Motivation And Inspiration Up

Michael Jordan once said, “I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. Twenty-six times I’ve been trusted to take

Famous Jehovah’s Witnesses – Learn The Celebrities Believing In The End Of The World

The list of famous Jehovah’s Witnesses might surprise you. It is long and there are some celebrities out there that you haven’t thought about. The

90 years of expert advice and inspiration, for every couple.

• Engagement Rings
• Wedding Bands
• Celebrity Weddings & News
• Wedding Planning
• Destination Wedding
• Invitations & Stationery
• Wedding Décor
• Flowers & Bouquets
• Food & Drink
• Wedding Cakes
• Photography
• Wedding Dresses
• Bridesmaid Dresses
• Makeup & Hair
• Accessories
• Groom Style
• Wedding Party Attire
• Wedding Guest Attire
• Bridal Fashion Week
• Skincare & Wellness
• Engagement Party
• Bridal Shower
• Bachelorette Party
• Rehearsal Dinner
• Registry Tips
• Anniversary Gifts
• Wedding Favors
• Friends & Family
• Marriage Proposal Ideas
• Married Life
• Love & Dating
• The Brides Team
• Editorial Guidelines
• Editorial Policy
• Terms of Use and Policies
• Privacy Policy
• Overview Cover Story Anika Noni Rose and Jason Dirden’s Colorful Los Angeles Wedding
• Anika and Jason's Wedding Playlist
• How an Artist Chooses Music for Her Big Day
• Our Favorite Celebrity First Dance Songs
• The Great Debate: Is a Band or DJ Right for You?
• How Much Does It Cost to Hire Wedding Musicians?
• Wedding Music Packages, Decoded
• Expert Advice on Hiring Musicians for All Parts of Your Wedding
• How to Choose Music Based on Your Wedding Style
• What Musicians Really Want You to Know About Big-Day Music
• Set Your Band or DJ Up for Success With These Tips
• Your Guide to Curating the Ultimate Reception Playlist
• 10 Cultural Wedding Music Moments and Dances
• How to Choose Music That Every Guest Will Love
• What to Know About Silent Discos and Other Fun Music Experiences
• How to Transition Music from Reception to After-Party
• These Are the Most Requested Wedding Reception Songs
• 75 Incredible First Dance Songs
• The Most Popular Wedding Songs by Year
• Our Editors' Favorite and Least Favorite Wedding Songs
• Wedding Ideas & Advice
• Wedding Music

A Look Back at the Most Popular Wedding Songs by Year

From 1960 to 2022, these hits are guaranteed to tug at your heartstrings.

Despite countless classics that top the charts, there are several songs that get etched in history as romantic masterpieces . Think back to the first time you heard Aerosmith's "Don't Want to Miss a Thing" or how you felt when Whitney Houston's "I Will Always Love You" first played on the radio. These records not only represent an era of timeless hits, but also sparked a generation of unforgettable wedding music we all know and love. Today, romantic tracks have moved past the formula of soft ballads, and can now be heard in a variety of genres like indie, pop, and more upbeat R&B tunes . Regardless of the song's tempo, though, it's the lyrics that truly make a song memorable and worthy to be played on a couple's special day. Just look at the last 62 years of hits, and you'll find evidence of lyrics of love sprinkled throughout almost every wedding day celebration.

Whether it's for your first dance or a special moment at the reception , there are hundreds of tracks to choose from when selecting a wedding-worthy record. So ahead, here's a list of the top wedding songs—from 1960 to 2022—that will tug at your heartstring and make for an unforgettable night .

2022: "Late Night Talking," by Harry Styles

Lyrics of Love: "We've been doin' all this late night talkin'/'Bout anythin' you want until the mornin'/Now you're in my life/I can't get you off my mind"

2021: "10,000 Hours," by Justin Bieber and Dan + Shay

Lyrics of Love : "I'd spend ten thousand hours and ten thousand more/Oh, if that's what it takes to learn that sweet heart of yours/And I might never get there, but I'm gonna try"

2020: "Conversations in the Dark," by John Legend and Lindsey Stirling

Lyrics of Love : "When no one seems to notice/And your days, they seem so hard/My darling, you should know this/My love is everywhere you are"

2019: "Sucker," by Jonas Brothers

Lyrics of Love : "We go together/Better than birds of a feather, you and me/We change the weather, yeah"

2018: "Speechless," by Dan + Shay

Lyrics of Love : "Starin' at you, standin' there, in that dress/What it's doin' to me, ain't a secret/'Cause watchin' you is all that I can do/And I'm speechless"

2017: "Perfect," by Ed Sheeran

Lyrics of Love : "I found a love for me/Oh darling, just dive right in and follow my lead/Well, I found a girl, beautiful and sweet/Oh, I never knew you were the someone waiting for me"

2016: "Can't Stop the Feeling!," by Justin Timberlake

Lyrics of Love : "Ooh, it's something magical/It's in the air, it's in my blood, it's rushin' on (rushin' on)"

2015: "Sugar," by Maroon 5

Lyrics of Love : "Yeah you show me good loving, make it alright/Need a little sweetness in my life"

2014: "Thinking Out Loud," by Ed Sheeran

Lyrics of Love : "And darling I will be loving you 'til we're 70/And baby my heart could still fall as hard at 23"

2013: "All of Me," by John Legend

Lyrics of Love : "Cause all of me/Loves all of you/Love your curves and all your edges/All your perfect imperfections"

2012: "Ho Hey," by The Lumineers

Lyrics of Love : "I belong with you, you belong with me/You're my sweetheart"

2011: “A Thousand Years,” by Christina Perri

Lyrics of Love : "I have loved you for a thousand years/I'll love you for a thousand more"

2010: "Just the Way You Are," by Bruno Mars

Lyrics of Love : "When I see your face/There's not a thing that I would change/'Cause you're amazing/Just the way you are"

2009: "I Gotta Feeling," by The Black Eyed Peas

Lyrics of Love : "Tonight's the night (hey), let's live it up (let's live it up)"

2008: "I'm Yours," by Jason Mraz

Lyrics of Love : "But I won't hesitate no more, no more/It cannot wait, I'm yours"

2007: “Everything,” by Michael Bublé

Lyrics of Love : "It's you, it's you, you make me sing/You're every line, you're every word, you're everything"

2006: "For You I Will (Confidence)," by Teddy Geiger

Lyrics of Love : "Oh, I'm gonna muster every ounce of confidence I have/And cannonball into the water/I'm gonna muster every ounce of confidence I have/For you, I will"

2005: "We Belong Together," by Mariah Carey

Lyrics of Love : "When you left I lost a part of me/It’s still so hard to believe/Come back baby, please/Cause we belong together"

2004: "If I Ain't Got You," by Alicia Keys

Lyrics of Love : "Some people want it all/But I don't want nothing at all/If it ain't you, baby"

2003: "Crazy in Love," by Beyoncé and Jay Z

Lyrics of Love : "I look and stare so deep in your eyes/I touch on you more and more every time"

2002: "A Moment Like This," by Kelly Clarkson

Lyrics of Love : "Can't we make this dream last forever?/And I'll cherish all the love we share"

2001: "Hero," by Enrique Iglesias

Lyrics of Love : "I can be your hero, baby/I can kiss away the pain/I will stand by you forever/You can take my very breath away"

2000: "By Your Side," by Sade

Lyrics of Love : "Oh, when you're cold/I'll be there/Hold you tight to me/Oh, when/you're low/I'll be there/By your side, baby"

1999: "Amazed," by Lonestar

Lyrics of Love : "Baby, when you touch me/I can feel how much you love me/And it just blows me away"

1998: "Don't Want to Miss a Thing," by Aerosmith

Lyrics of Love : "I could spend my life in this sweet surrender/I could stay lost in this moment forever/Every moment spent with you is a moment I treasure"

1997: "I'll Be," by Edwin McCain

Lyrics of Love : "And tell me that we belong together/And dress it up with the trappings of love"

1996: "Because You Loved Me," by Celine Dion

Lyrics of Love : "You were always there for me/The tender wind that carried me/A light in the dark shining your love into my life"

1995: "Kiss from a Rose," by Seal

Lyrics of Love : "Yes, I compare you to a kiss from a rose on the gray/Ooh, the more I get of you, the stranger it feels, yeah"

1994: "Endless Love," by Luther Vandross and Mariah Carey

Lyrics of Love : "I want to share/All my love with you/No one else will do"

1993: "The Power of Love," by Celine Dion

Lyrics of Love : "Lost is how I'm feeling lying in your arms/When the world outside's too much to take/That all ends when I'm with you"

1992: "I Will Always Love You," by Whitney Houston

Lyrics of Love : "Darling, I love you/I'll always love you"

1991: "Save the Best for Last," by Vanessa Williams

Lyrics of Love : "And now we're standing face to face/Isn't this world a crazy place?"

1990: "More Than Words," by Extreme

Lyrics of Love : "All you have to do is close your eyes/And just reach out your hands/And touch me/Hold me close don't ever let me go"

1989: "If You Asked Me To," by Patti LaBelle

Lyrics of Love : "To you baby/I need you now/Ask me to and I'll do anything/For you baby"

1988: "Giving You the Best That I Got," by Anita Baker

Lyrics of Love : "I hope you see that you can lean on me/And together we can calm a stormy sea"

1987: "(I've Had) The Time of My Life," by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes

Lyrics of Love : "I've been waiting for so long/Now I've finally found someone"

1986: "Greatest Love of All," by Whitney Houston

Lyrics of Love : "Because the greatest love of all/Is happening to me"

1985: "You Are My Lady," by Freddie Jackson

Lyrics of Love : "Everything I need and more/You are my lady/You're all I'm living for/You are my lady (my love)/You're everything I need/You are my lady/You're all I'm living for"

1984: "I Want to Know What Love Is," by Foreigner

Lyrics of Love : "I wanna know what love is/I want you to show me/I wanna feel what love is/I know you can show me"

1983: "Stuck on You," by Lionel Richie

Lyrics of Love : "I'm stuck on you/I've got this feeling down deep in my soul that I just can't lose"

1982: "Up Where We Belong," by Joe Cocker and Jennifer Warnes

Lyrics of Love : "Love lifts us up where we belong/Far from the world below/Up where the clear winds blow"

1981: "Endless Love," by Lionel Richie and Diana Ross

Lyrics of Love : "Two hearts/Two hearts that beat as one/Our lives have just begun"

1980: “The Biggest Part of Me,” by Ambrosia

Lyrics of Love : "You changed my life/You made it bright/And I'll be a savior to you/For the rest of my life"

1979: "You're the Only One," by Dolly Parton

Lyrics of Love : "You're the only one darlin'/They'll never be anyone else but you/I love you so much/You are my love, you've become my life"

1978: "Three Times a Lady," by Commodores

Lyrics of Love : "When we are together, the moments I cherish/With every beat of my heart/To touch you, to hold you, to feel you, to need you/There's nothing to keep us apart"

1977: "Wonderful Tonight," by Eric Clapton

Lyrics of Love : "I feel wonderful/Because I see the love light in your eyes/And the wonder of it all/Is that you just don't realize how much I love you"

1976: "Always and Forever," by Heatwave

Lyrics of Love : "Always and forever/Each moment with you/Is just like a dream to me/That somehow came true, yeah"

1975: "This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)," by Natalie Cole

Lyrics of Love : "Loving you is some kind of wonderful/Because you showed me just how much you care"

1974: "You Are So Beautiful," by Joe Cocker

Lyrics of Love : "You're everything I hoped for/You're everything I need/You are so beautiful/To me"

1973: "Just You 'n' Me," by Chicago

Lyrics of Love : "Just you and me/Simple and free/Baby you're everything I've ever dreamed of"

1972: "You Are the Sunshine of My Life," by Stevie Wonder

Lyrics of Love : "You are the sunshine of my life/That's why I'll always stay around/You are the apple of my eye/Forever you'll stay in my heart"

1971: "I Feel the Earth Move," by Carole King

Lyrics of Love : "I feel the earth/Move/Under my feet/I feel the sky tumbling down/I feel my heart start to trembling/Whenever (you're around)"

1970: "Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours)," by Stevie Wonder

Lyrics of Love : "Ooh baby, here I am/Signed, sealed, delivered, I'm yours"

1969: "The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face," by Roberta Flack

Lyrics of Love : "The first time ever I saw your face/I thought the sun rose in your eyes"

1968: "You're All I Need to Get By," by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell

Lyrics of Love : "You're all I need to get by/Like the sweet morning dew, I took one look at you/And it was plain to see/You were my destiny"

1967: "Can't Take My Eyes Off You," by Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

Lyrics of Love : "You're just too good to be true/Can't take my eyes off of you/You'd be like Heaven to touch/I wanna hold you so much"

1966: "When a Man Loves a Woman," by Percy Sledge

Lyrics of Love : "When a man loves a woman/Can't keep his mind on nothin' else/He'd trade the world/For the good thing he's found"

1965: "Unchained Melody," by The Righteous Brothers

Lyrics of Love : "Woah, my love, my darling/I've hungered for your touch/A long, lonely time"

1964: "Be My Baby," by The Ronettes

Lyrics of Love : "I'll make you happy, baby, just wait and see/For every kiss you give me, I'll give you three"

1963: "Do You Want to Know a Secret," by The Beatles

Lyrics of Love : "You'll never know how much I really love you/You'll never know how much I really care"

1962: "Bring It on Home to Me," by Sam Cooke

Lyrics of Love : "Baby, bring it to me/Bring your sweet loving/Bring it on home to me"

1961: "Can't Help Falling in Love," by Elvis Presley

Lyrics of Love : "Take my hand/Take my whole life too/For I can't help falling in love with you"

1960: "At Last," by Etta James

Lyrics of Love : "At last/My love has come along/My lonely days are over/And life is like a song"

Related Stories

50 Fun Karaoke Songs to Sing at Your Wedding Reception or After-Party

100 Unforgettable Last-Dance Songs to End Your Wedding

95 Country Wedding Songs That Are All About Love

90 R&B Wedding Songs to Play at Your Reception

25 Justin Bieber Love Songs to Play at Your Wedding

103 Upbeat Love Songs Guaranteed to Rock Your Wedding Reception

85 Incredible First Dance Songs for Your Wedding

33 Old-School Love Songs for a Nostalgic Wedding Experience

100 Songs About Marriage to Add to Your Wedding Playlist

65 Mellow Wedding Prelude Songs to Play Before Your Ceremony

64 Best Christian Love Songs for Your Wedding

65 Best Songs to Play for Your Reception's Anniversary Dance

70 Songs That Make the Perfect Soundtrack for Your Wedding Video

The 80 Most Romantic Wedding Songs of All Time

31 Unique Bridal Processional Songs That Sum Up This Major Moment

79 Wedding Slow Dance Songs to Make the Moment Extraordinary

The Best Journey Songs Of All Time

What is Journey's biggest hit? Here are the best Journey songs of all time, ranked by fans everywhere. Journey are indisputably known as one of the greatest rock bands to ever walk the Earth, with former lead singer Steve Perry even crowned "the voice" by many industry moguls. Established in San Francisco, CA, in 1973, Journey has sold out countless concert tours worldwide throughout their five decade career. The arena rock band's legendary music and unparalleled performance style ultimately led to their Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2017. Some of Journey's top songs include "Don't Stop Believin'" ( Escape , 1981), "Any Way You Want It" ( Departure , 1980), "Lights" ( Infinity , 1978), "Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" ( Frontiers , 1983), and "Wheel In The Sky" ( Infinity , 1978).

From their new and latest music to their older popular songs, this Journey playlist features all of their greatest hits, according to the fans. Do your favorite Journey songs crack the top 10? Vote up the best songs by Journey, and don't forget to show their underrated tracks love as well.

Don't Stop Believin'

Best Lyrics:

Strangers waiting Up and down the boulevard Their shadows searching in the night Streetlights, people Living just to find emotion Hiding somewhere in the night

Stone in Love

In the heat with a blue jean girl Burning love comes once in a lifetime She found me singing by the rail road tracks Took me home, we danced by the moonlight

Those summer nights are calling Stone in love Can't help myself, I'm falling

Feeling That Way

Opened my eyes to a new kind of way All the good times that you saved Are you feeling You feeling that way too Or am I just Am I just a fool

Wheel in the Sky

Winter is here again, oh lord Haven't been home in a year or more I hope she holds on a little longer Sent a letter on a long summer day Made of silver, not of clay I've been runnin' down this dusty road

Wheel in the sky keeps on turnin' I don't know where I'll be tomorrow

And being apart ain't easy on this love affair Two strangers learn to fall in love again I get the joy of rediscovering you Oh girl, you stand by me I'm forever yours, faithfully

Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)

Someday, love will find you Break those chains that bind you One night will remind you How we touched and went our separate ways

If he ever hurts you True love won't desert you You know I still love you Though we touched and went our separate ways

When the lights go down in the City And the sun shines on the bay Ooh, I wanna be there in my City, oh Oh, oh, oh

Any Way You Want It

She said, any way you want it That's the way you need it Any way you want it

I was alone I never knew What good love could do Ooh, then we touched Then we sang About the lovin' things

Send Her My Love

Callin' out your name I'm dreamin' Reflections of a face I'm seein' It's her voice That keeps on haunting me

Send her, send her my love Roses never fade Memories remain

Who's Crying Now

One love, feeds the fire One heart, burns desire I wonder who's crying now? Two hearts, born to run Who'll be the lonely one? I wonder who's crying now?

Only the Young

Shadows of a golden age A generation waits for dawn Brave carry on Bold and the strong

Only the young can say They're free to fly away Sharing the same desire Burnin' like wildfire

Ask The Lonely

You've got some fascination With you high expectations This love is your obsession Your heart, your past possession Let down your defenses Won't be up to the one who cares

Still They Ride

Spinning 'round, in a spell It's hard to leave this carousel 'Round and 'round And 'round and 'round

Still they ride, on wheels of fire They rule the night Still they ride, the strong will survive Chasing thunder

Touchin', Lovin', Squeezin'

It won't be long, yes, till you're alone When your lover, oh, he hasn't come home 'Cause he's lovin' who he's touchin', he's squeezin' another

He's tearin' you apart Ooh, every day, every day

Just The Same Way

Take a chance now the timing's right. You're free to leave the key to my life. Stay with me. Won't you stay the night, In the mornin' feelin' fine, yeah.

That's the same way you love me. 

Girl Can't Help It

If he could hold her, so close in his arms again If she could show him The letter her heart forgot to send why They're livin' dreams on their own Ooh they'll never stop running

The girl can't help it, she needs more He hasn't found what he's lookin' for They're still standing in the rain He can't help it, and she's just that way

Be Good To Yourself

Runnin' out of self-control Gettin' close to an overload Up against a no win situation Shoulder to shoulder, push and shove I'm hangin' up my boxin' gloves I'm ready for a long vacation

Be good to yourself when, nobody else will Oh be good to yourself You're walkin' a high-wire, caught in a crossfire

I'll Be Alright Without You

I'll be alright without you Oh love's an empty face, I can't replace (You don't need it) People wonderin' why we broke apart The great pretender here I go again These things I do (It's all because of you) I'll keep holdin' but I'll try (Try not to think of you)

Mother, Father

Through bitter tears And wounded years, those ties Of blood were strong So much to say, those yesterdays So now don't you turn away.

Hey, mother, father, sister Hey, come back, tryin', believein' Hey, mother, father, dreamer

The Party's Over (Hopelessly In Love)

So I will tell you this, Our love is in a fix. Just what more can I do. When I'm hopelessly in love with you?

When You Love A Woman

When you love a woman You see your world inside her eyes When you love a woman (Well) You know she's standing by your side A joy that lasts forever There's a band of gold that shines Waiting somewhere, oh, yeah

After The Fall

But a head strong stubborn man Only works it out the best he can Valentines he never sent There's not enough time he's a working man

Can't stop falling Heartaches calling Finds you after the fall

I see your face at the movies I hear your voice on the radio You're making love on the silver screen I want you more than you will ever know Temptation...Infatuation

Suzanne, don't walk away

Why Can't This Night Go On Forever

Lost in twilight, the memories Precious moments, you and me We've been old friends, all through the years Picture postcards, sharing tears

What's in our hearts, there's never time, to say Need you tonight, lover don't fade away I've seen your city lights As I walk away Why can't this night...go on forever

After All These Years

A faded wedding photograph You and me in our first dance Our eyes are closed We're lost in one sweet embrace Since those days the world has changed But our love remains the same God knows we've had our share of saving grace

Where Were You

I didn't know what the hell was goin' on, Someday you're gonna break. So don't try to get yourself straight, You're just a little too late.

• Classic Rock

16 Pros Share Their Favorite Wedding Songs of All Time

Searching for top wedding songs? Read our article to find the list with popular wedding songs straight from planning pros!

Mo Davis Photography

On the laundry list of things you need to plan ahead for in preparation for your big day, one major to-do is choosing your music set list . In addition to hiring your DJ or band, it’s crucial that you go over the songs they plan to play for you on your wedding day. In fact, Farah Saint-Jean of Spectacular Affairs, LLC , in New York City believes music to be one of the most important aspects in setting the mood for a wedding celebration. For this reason, she recommends that the couple not only carefully select their music pros, but provide him or her with a song list that holds special meaning for their relationship or some of the best wedding songs of all time, as well as a list of music that should not be played. “The wrong music can ruin the wedding reception,” she warns.  

Jodi R.R. Smith, owner of Mannersmith Etiquette Consulting , in Marblehead, Massachusetts, agrees that music plays a major role—and recommends songs to match the ages of your guests. “You could play a few from the '50s for your grandmother, a few from the '60s and '70s for your great aunts and uncles, a few from the '80s for their kids, some from the 90s and 00s for your aunts and uncles, and present day for your friends and cousins,” she says. “Everyone should be included and everyone should hear a song that resonates so much that they want to get up and dance.”

When meeting with your DJ to plan song selections, be clear in your vision and expectations. Lindsey Sachs of COLLECTIVE/by Sachs  in Boulder, Colorado and Minneapolis  recommends asking how many songs are reasonable to play given your reception duration so you have a better understanding of how your top picks may be mixed with their selections. “Your music pros may also ask if you’re open to accepting guests requests,” she says. “If so, know that the number of songs played from your list may take a back seat to accommodate.”

To give you some inspiration, we asked wedding planners to share, in their view, the best wedding songs of all time.

First Dance: "For Once In My Life" by Stevie Wonder

“I'm biased since this was my wedding song, however, the reason it's my favorite is because the lyrics are exactly how my husband and I feel about each other,” says Danielle Rothweiler of Rothweiler Event Design in Verona, New Jersey. “I think it's really important to pick a song that you and your partner can relate to instead of selecting something trendy.”

First Dance: “For You” by Kenny Latimore

“This is a timeless song that basically expresses one lover’s dedication to the other and evokes emotions of love, gratitude and joy,” says Farah Saint-Jean of Spectacular Affairs, LLC In New York. “It is simply beautiful.”

First Dance: “I Only Have Eyes For You” by The Flamingos

“This is an unexpected first dance song that has some added interest because of the minor keys it incorporates,” says Kate Lerman of Chicago Vintage Weddings in Chicago. “You also can't go wrong dancing to it!” 

Cocktail Hour: "Feeling Good" by Michael Buble

“The uplifting nature of this song makes me sing out loud every time,” says Lindsey Sachs of COLLECTIVE/by Sachs in Boulder, Colorado. “And, just like a new day, your wedding day is the epitome of the line ‘it's a new dawn, it's a new day, it's a new life...and I'm feeling good.’ This song is a beautiful addition to cocktail hour , dinner, or your first dance. When considering the best wedding songs of all time, I think of including songs that most everyone will know, but may not hear that often.”

First Dance: “ Let's Stay Together” by Al Green

“The lyrics are meaningful and unique and opens the doors to a lifetime of love and happiness,” says Amy Katz of Amy Katz Events in New York City. “Also, the tempo is perfect and uplifting!”

Grand Entrance Song: “Lovely Day” by Bill Withers

“This top wedding song is fun and lively to begin with, and easy to dance to!” says Patti Hasting of P.Hasting Design and Event Planning in Columbus, Georgia. “The line, ‘Then I Look at you and the world’s alright with me,’ should be your mantra of how your marriage should be !”

First Dance: “At Last” by Etta James

“It is a classic song that depicts the excitement of finding your true love at its finest,” says Carine Saint-Jean of Spectacular Affairs, LLC in New York. “ ‘At last, my love has come along my lonely days are over and life is like a song.’ Those lyrics speak to my soul and so many other people’s souls and it’s such a popular wedding song because it transcends time as this song is older than I am but it resonates with both young and old alike .”

First Dance: “Whatever It Is” by Zach Brown Band

“This was my first dance song and it talks about the person you love just having that ‘thing,’ the ‘whatever it is’ that draws you to them,” says Amber Anderson of Heavenly Day Events in Austin, Texas. 

Processional Song: “Can't Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley

“This top wedding song reminds me of my grandparents dancing together,” says Katelyn Stanis of Wedding Words in Brooklyn, New York. “They were happily married for 61 years. Hearing such a classic and romantic song reminds me of what weddings are all about: true love, family, and legacy.” 

Slow Dance Song: “Make You Feel My Love” by Adele

“Adele's voice is like rocks in a river, strong, fixed, eternal,” says Nahid Farhoud of Nahid's Global Events in San Diego, California. “This song brings back lots of memories.”

Crowd Pleaser: “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” by Whitney Houston

“This song spans across multiple generations and is relatable to practically every wedding guest out there!” says Jen Avey of DestinationWeddings  in Wayland, Massachusetts. “It's energizing and high tempo, but not overplayed or too cheesy . It's one of the best wedding songs because it's a constant crowd pleaser; something everyone can sing along to and keep everyone's energy levels up !”

First Dance Song: "You & Me Song" by The Wannadies

“I love it because it was my wedding song, but, I also love it because it's real,” says Jamie Chang of Mango Muse Events in Los Altos, California. “The relationship between two people is you and me. And most of the time, it's not all romantic or like the movies. It's about being a team. It's about choosing each other every day. It's the silly things, the fights, the simple things like watching TV and still it's you and me.” 

First Dance Song: “You for Me” by Johnny Gill

“This is one of the best wedding songs because it resonates with literally everyone,” says Joanna Sheppard of ValiaRose Events in Birmingham, Alabama. “It tells how the two people were living their lives alone and the universe aligned the couple to meet and fall in love. From that moment, dreams came true and they never wanted to separate.”

Last Dance Song: “Don't Stop Believin'” by Journey

“It's such a fun way to end the night ,” says Lindsey Nickel at Lovely Day Events in Napa, California. “Most of the guests know the words, they gather around to sing and dance together. It's a classic song that a lot of people know, so it gets them on the dance floor.”

Recessional Song: “Bittersweet Symphony” by The Verve

“Love this song for the recessional to an on-site ceremony,” says Alexis Eliopoulos O'Mara of Unique Weddings by Alexis in Boston, Massachusetts. “ It's modern, but love the variety of instruments in the song.”

First Dance: “Perfect Duet” by Ed Sheeran feat Beyoncé

“The song is literally PERFECT!” says Kimberly Lehman of  Love, Laughter & Elegance  in Massillon, Ohio. “With the vocals of both Ed and Beyonce singing their words of love. I think it’s perfect for a first dance wedding song.”

Processional Song: “Kissing You” by Des'ree

“I have loved this song for over 20 years,” says Ashley Espinal of Dulce Dreams Events in Ozone Park, New York. “It is powerful yet romantic and has this beautiful sense of longing and desire. It evokes so many different emotions all surrounded by love! I had a quartet play this song as I walked down the aisle , and it was truly overwhelming. I've seen several other couples play this song in different versions and during different times in their celebrations. It is always a tear jerker!”

Related WeddingWire Articles

• Manage Account

Best 30 Wedding Songs of All Time

These classics and deep-cuts are sure to have guests swooning, grooving and acting foolish on the dance floor.

By Kenneth Partridge

Kenneth Partridge

• Share this article on Facebook
• Share this article on Twitter
• Share this article on Flipboard
• Share this article on Pinit
• + additional share options added
• Share this article on Tumblr
• Share this article on Reddit
• Share this article on Linkedin
• Share this article on Whatsapp
• Share this article on Email
• Print this article
• Share this article on Comment

When two people manage to find each other in this cruel, confusing world and decide to spend the rest of their lives together, it’s truly a cause for celebration. That means music and dancing—but you can’t just throw your phone on shuffle or hire the first DJ who quotes a decent price. A well-curated wedding playlist offers just the right mix of smooth romantic ballads and straight-up bangers. The party should ebb and flow, and you need something for everyone—single ladies very much included.

What follows are 30 time-tested wedding favorites that will have guests swooning, grooving and acting foolish on the dance floor. In addition to usual suspects like Prince, The Isley Brothers, Kool & The Gang and Earth, Wind & Fire, the list features songs by mopey indie rockers, jittery CBGB alumni, kooky Southern New Wave icons, genre-blurring rappers, country-pop crossover goddesses and the King of Rock n’ Roll. Black Eyed Peas make an appearance, too. And just for good measure, there’s a Bob Dylan cover and a tune from a blockbuster tween vampire movie.

The selected songs span the ’50s to the present day, so nobody’s cranky grandma or surly teenage cousin is going to feel left out. While these 30 selections represent a decent start, they’re probably not enough to carry you all the way from the aisle to the afterparty. Consider these songs as idea starters—inspiration for the kind of killer wedding mix that’ll have friends and family reminiscing about your nuptials for years to come.

Prince and the Revolution, "Kiss"

There’s not much to this smoochy 1986 chart-topper, which Prince nearly gave away to the Minneapolis band Mazarati. It’s mostly just drum-machine thumps and shrieking, pleading vocals, with the Purple One’s tasty guitar licks adding extra spice. And yet that’s more than enough to get folks up and strutting with Dynasty -grade attitude. Listen here .

The Isley Brothers, “Shout Pts. 1 & 2”

After three minutes of sweating to this 1959 R&B rave-up, everyone in the reception hall shimmies down to the floor, Animal House style. When the crouching becomes almost unbearable, the track reverses course—“A little bit louder now!”—and the Isleys blow the roof off the joint one more time. Weddings without “Shout” are actually void in some states. Listen here .

Black Eyed Peas, "I Gotta Feeling"

YouTube is filled with videos of couples and their wedding parties performing elaborate dance routines to this once-ubiquitous 2009 jam. And for good reason. With its relentless beat and simple, positive message—“Tonight’s gonna be a good night”—“I Gotta Feeling” is a song everyone can get behind, regardless of how they feel about Black Eyed Peas. Listen here .

Outkast, “Hey Ya!”

“Y’all don’t wanna hear me,” sings André 3000 in the second verse of this universally beloved 2003 fusion of hip-hop and indie-rock. “You just wanna dance.” He’s right about that: “Hey Ya!” is a song about couples staying together long past the point they’ve fallen out of love. Lyrically, it’s maybe the worst song you could play at a wedding. Musically, it ranks among the very best. Listen here .

Beyoncé, “Single Ladies (Put a Ring On It)"

Bouquet tossing got a whole lot more interesting when Beyoncé dropped this 2008 smash. The sassy self-worth anthem and instant wedding staple makes unwed women the belles of the ball for three glorious minutes. At no point in the party will the dancing be fiercer. Listen here .

The Beatles, "Twist and Shout"

John Lennon famously blew his voice out recording this 1963 cover of a tune popularized by The Isley Brothers the previous year. His raspy enthusiasm goes a long way toward selling the track, as do Ringo’s sturdy backbeat and Paul and George’s backing whooooos . But “Twist and Shout” ultimately works because virtually everyone, regardless of dancing ability, is capable of doing the two things Lennon commands in the title phrase. Listen here .

Sister Sledge, "We Are Family"

Written and produced by Chic founders Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards, two of the funkiest people who ever lived, Sister Sledge’s 1979 hit “We Are Family” is a great excuse to put aside petty grievances and boogie alongside aunts, uncles, cousins, grandparents, and anyone else you’re bound to by blood or law. Edwards’ bass is the tie that binds. Listen here .

Kool & The Gang, “Celebration"

Saxophonist and arranger Ronald Bell got the idea for this 1980 chart-topper by reading the Quran in a hotel room. He discovered a passage about angels celebrating the creation of man, and he wanted to give the world a joyful song that captured that feeling. Given that “Celebration” gets played at absolutely every wedding and New Year’s Eve party worth attending, it’s safe to say Bell succeeded. Listen here .

The Jackson 5, "I Want You Back"

The Jackson 5’s 1969 breakthrough is one of the most sampled songs in history, and with all due respect to Michael and his brothers, who exude superhuman levels of sweetness and charm, that’s largely down to the bass groove played by Motown session ace Wilton Felder. This funk-pop plea for reconciliation never fails to light up a room. Listen here .

Cyndi Lauper, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun"

Originally written by a dude named Robert Hazard and transformed into a feminist New Wave 1983 chart-burner by Cyndi Lauper, “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” is a statement of joy and power that invites all female-identifying persons to walk in the sun. And form conga lines. Listen here .

Talking Heads, “This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)"

“Home is where I want to be,” sings David Byrne on this uncommonly earnest 1983 declaration of love from Talking Heads. “But I guess I’m already there.” Although some of the other lyrics are a bit more oblique, this quirky, funky earworm evokes the cozy feeling that comes with finding someone you’re excited to grow old with. Listen here .

Luther Vandross, “Here and Now"

The chorus of this pillowy 1989 R&B slow jam reads exactly like wedding vows: “Here and now/ I promise to love faithfully.” Everything about the song suggests flowing curtains and candlelight, and Luther’s voice is pure butter. The funky little break at 3:32 ensures that nobody drifts off into blissful slumber. Listen here .

Shania Twain, “You’re Still the One"

Never mind the fact that Shania Twain and famed producer Mutt Lange, who co-wrote this gorgeous 1997 country-pop ballad about their own marriage, split up in 2008. The lyrics came from a real place, and “You’re Still the One” remains one of the all-time great odes to fidelity and stability. This one goes out to both newlyweds and old couples still beating the odds. Listen here .

Bright Eyes, “First Day of My Life"

Just when you think this 2005 indie love ballad is getting a little too starry-eyed, Conor Oberst drops some heavy pragmatism: “I’d rather be working for a paycheck than waiting to win the lottery.” In other words, relationships are hard work, but the rewards—the happiness and sense of purpose Oberst warbles about elsewhere in the song—make it worth the effort. Pay attention, newlyweds. Listen here .

The B-52’s, “Love Shack"

With early hits like “Rock Lobster,” The B-52’s became America’s leading dance band for artsy New Wave kids. “Love Shack,” from the 1989 comeback album Cosmic Thing , brought their kitschy, campy rock ‘n’ roll sound mainstream. It’s an audience-participation number, and the bit where everyone yells “Tin roof, rusted!” is usually more fun than any of the wedding speeches. Listen here .

Sade, "By Your Side"

Inspired by the romantic reggae variant known as lovers rock, “By Your Side” is a sensual R&B slow-burner about sticking with your partner no matter what. For all her mysterious allure, Sade Adu sings this ride-or-die anthem with plainspoken sincerity. Even the DJ is bound to get chills. Listen here .

Alicia Keys, "No One"

“It’s full force, classical yet vintage, desperate yet triumphant,” Alicia Keys said of this 2007 stunner in a Billboard interview. “I want people to feel my soul.” Mission accomplished. With its head-nodding beat and utterly unforgettable hook, “No One” makes finding true love feel like climbing Mt. Everest. Listen here .

Kacey Musgraves, "Butterflies"

The emotional centerpiece of Kacey Musgraves’ Grammy-winning Golden Hour , “Butterflies” captures the warm glow and nervous excitement of new love. For anyone in the reception hall who’s lost those lovin’ feelings, this twinkling county-soul gem will provide a welcome reminder. Listen here .

Etta James, "At Last"

Although it was initially performed by big-band titan Glenn Miller in 1941, “At Last” will forever belong to Etta James. On her soaring 1960 rendition, the R&B legend overpowers the stately string arrangement with pure molten exuberance. James is serving up joy and relief, a cocktail more potent than anything the bartender is pouring. Listen here .

John Legend, "All of Me"

As evidenced by its nearly 2 billion Spotify streams, “All of Me” has been played at a lot of weddings. John Legend himself performed the exultant piano ballad in 2013 when he and model Chrissy Teigen—the inspiration behind the lyrics—tied the knot in Italy. It’s the perfect song about embracing imperfections. Listen here .

Al Green, "Let's Stay Together"

It supposedly took Al Green a mere 10 minutes to write the lyrics for this chart-topping 1972 soul masterwork. The best part is the third verse, where he tries to understand why the heck people bother breaking up when they’re only going to get back together again. “I just can’t seeeeee,” Green sings, letting his falsetto suggest the sweet alternative every couple is hoping for. Listen here .

Adele, "Make You Feel My Love"

There’s no beating the Bob Dylan original, a tender statement of devotion from a guy who sounds like he’s been out in the rain all night. Adele’s brilliant 2008 cover sands off the rough edges and therefore works better for wedding slow dances. That said, Alvin & The Chipmunks could sing it and still bring the house down. Listen here .

Whitney Houston, “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)"

This 1987 dance-pop masterpiece describes the search for a soulmate. But thanks to Whitney’s ecstatic delivery and the music’s bubblegum bounce, “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” doubles as a celebration of fleeting pleasures and surrendering to the almighty beat. Everyone can relate; nobody can resist. Listen here . 

Aretha Franklin, "I Say a Little Prayer"

The Aretha Franklin and Dionne Warwick recordings of this sophisticated late-’60s Burt Bacharach/Hal David soul-pop delight will class up any wedding. Diana King’s reggae version from the soundtrack to My Best Friend’s Wedding —the film that cemented this song as a wedding standard—is also fantastic. Just make sure you pick one. Listen here .

Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars, “Uptown Funk”

The best ’80s-funk song of 2015 recalls classics by The Gap Band, Morris Day and The Time, and Zapp, among many others. Still, Mark Ronson and Bruno Mars manage to create a timeless dance-floor destroyer that transcends mere pastiche and earns a permanent place in the wedding canon. Don’t believe it? Just watch. Listen here .

Elvis Presley, "Can’t Help Falling In Love"

The 1961 Elvis flick Blue Hawaii isn’t exactly Citizen Kane . However, the soundtrack did yield one of the most enduring love songs of the 20th century. “Can’t Help Falling In Love” pairs the King’s luxurious crooning with lyrics that are way more poetic than they needed to be. Some things are meant to be. Listen here .

Natalie Cole, "This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)"

Natalie Cole’s doozy of a 1975 debut single is nothing short of prophecy. “This will be an ever-lasting love,” she predicts as the piano player and horn section compete to see who can sound giddier. It all comes to a head at the “hugging and squeezing and kissing and pleasing” part, where the track achieves liftoff. Listen here .

Christina Perri, "A Thousand Years"

Nobody knows more about love than vampires. When they say forever, they mean forever. Pop singer-songwriter Christina Perri skillfully puts herself in the shoes of the undead on this epic ballad from 2011’s ​​The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1 soundtrack. As more Twihards get hitched, “A Thousand Years” is bound to become immortal on the wedding scene. Listen here .

Earth, Wind & Fire, “September"

September is one of the most popular months to get married, but this frothy 1978 disco-funk mood-elevator is a must-spin for wedding DJs all year long. Lyrically, “September” is all about remembering a perfect evening when everyone was in love and dancing like mad. As it turns out, these types of nights are way more likely to occur when “September” is playing. Listen here .

ABBA, "Dancing Queen"

Effervescent yet vaguely melancholy, with a descending piano line that burrows right into your soul, “Dancing Queen” is an immaculate piece of pop music. The lyrics describe a girl who’s young and beautiful and in the mood to groove. Everyone is that girl when “Dancing Queen” hits. Listen here .

Get weekly rundowns straight to your inbox

Want to know what everyone in the music business is talking about?

Get in the know on.

Billboard is a part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2024 Billboard Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

optional screen reader

Charts expand charts menu.

• Billboard Hot 100™
• Billboard 200™
• Hits Of The World™
• TikTok Billboard Top 50
• Song Breaker
• Year-End Charts
• Decade-End Charts

Music Expand music menu

• R&B/Hip-Hop

Culture Expand culture menu

Media expand media menu, business expand business menu.

• Business News
• Record Labels
• View All Pro

Pro Tools Expand pro-tools menu

• Songwriters & Producers
• Artist Index
• Royalty Calculator
• Market Watch
• Industry Events Calendar

Billboard Español Expand billboard-espanol menu

• Cultura y Entretenimiento

Honda Music Expand honda-music menu

20 Best Journey Songs of All Time, Ranked

Posted: April 25, 2024 | Last updated: April 25, 2024

The Top 20 Journey Songs, Ranked

20. “walks like a lady”.

• Album: Departure
• Hot 100 Peak Position: 32

"Walks Like a Lady,” released in 1980 as part of the album "Departure," is a classic rock anthem known for its energetic guitar riffs and soulful message. With its driving rhythm and Steve Perry's strong vocals, the song describes the magnetic power and complexities of women.

19. “After The Fall”

• Album: Frontiers
• Hot 100 Peak Position: 23

"After the Fall" is a poignant ballad exploring post-breakup emotions. It spent 12 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100’s Chart! Steve Perry's emotive vocals convey themes of heartbreak, reflection, and resilience. The song dives into the aftermath of a relationship, portraying vulnerability and eventual strength, showcasing Journey's emotional depth and melodic prowess.

18. “Still They Ride”

• Album: Escape
• Hot 100 Peak Position: 19

This song tells the story of perseverance and determination in the face of adversity. With its melodic hooks and Steve Perry's impassioned vocals, the song chronicles the journey of individuals overcoming challenges, and holding onto hope despite the odds. It's a testament to resilience and the human spirit's ability to endure hardships.

17. "Suzanne"

Album: Raised on Radio

• Hot 100 Peak Position: 17

"Suzanne" is a heartfelt ballad expressing longing and devotion. Steve Perry's soulful vocals convey a man’s deep affection for Suzanne, a woman he can’t have. The song captures the essence of romantic yearning, evoking emotions of love and longing with its melodic arrangement and poignant lyrics.

16. “Be Good to Yourself”

• Hot 100 Peak Position: 9

"Be Good to Yourself" made its way to the top 10 of the Billboard Top 100 list for a reason– it’s an uplifting anthem about self-care! With its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, the song encourages listeners to prioritize their well-being and pursue their dreams, serving as a reminder to cherish oneself amidst society’s challenges.

15. “Send Her My Love”

"Send Her My Love" is a poignant ballad about longing and regret. Penned by band members Steve Perry, Jonathan Cain, and Neal Schon, the song reflects on a lost love, with the vocalist stating that the girl he loved “needed so much more” than he could give. It’s based on a teenage breakup that Cain experienced– ouch!

14. “Girl Can’t Help It”

This rock anthem celebrates the irresistible allure of a captivating woman. With its infectious rhythm and catchy hooks, the lyrics embody the bittersweet love of a couple who return to each other after a breakup. The man in the song has a “fire in his eyes” for the woman who just can’t help the fact that she needs more.

13. “I’ll Be Alright Without You”

Hot 100 Peak Position: 14

The aftermath of a breakup is discussed in "I'll Be Alright Without You.” The song's lyrics suggest a sense of resignation and acceptance, with the protagonist acknowledging the pain of separation but also expressing determination to move forward and find solace in independence. This heartfelt ballad that resonates with those experiencing the end of a relationship.

12. "Only the Young"

• Album: Vision Quest

"Only the Young" reflects on the resilience of youth and the pursuit of dreams. The first person to hear the song after its creation was 16-year-old Journey fan Kenny Sykaluk through the Make-A-Wish Foundation, one day before his untimely death. It conveys a message of hope and perseverance, urging young listeners to stay strong in the face of challenges.

11. “Stone in Love”

Possessing one of Journey’s many Platinum awards, “Stone in Love” describes the feeling of falling in love, likening it to being “stoned,” or intoxicated by love. The song captures the excitement, passion, and energy of newfound, summer romance. It's a celebration of the joy and thrill that young love brings!

10. “When You Love a Woman”

• Album: Trial by Fire
• Hot 100 Peak Position: 12

"When You Love a Woman" is a tender ballad exploring the depth of love and the commitment it entails. The song delves into the complexities of relationships, emphasizing the importance of communication, understanding, and cherishing each other's presence. It conveys a heartfelt message about the transformative power of love and the willingness to overcome obstacles together.

• Album: Infinity
• Hot 100 Peak Position: 68

“Lights” was one of the first songs that Steve Perry wrote for Journey. Originally written about Los Angeles, Perry eventually changed the lyrics to be about San Franciso. Interpretations suggest it's a reflection on returning home after being gone, capturing the sense of belonging and comfort found in familiar surroundings. This song eventually became a staple on every “Oldies” radio station.

8. “Wheel in the Sky”

• Hot 100 Peak Position: 57

This song was the first Journey song to ever make the Hot 100 list– and for good reason! The lyrics stem from a poem that bass player Ross Valory’s wife, Diane, wrote about the longing she felt for her husband while he was on tour. Valory then revamped the poem to be about missing Diane while on the road, reflected in the lyrics: “Haven’t been home in a year or more, I hope she holds on a little longer.” How sweet!

7. “Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin'”

• Album: Evolution
• Hot 100 Peak Position: 16

This song describes the heartbreak and confusion that comes with being cheated on, with the song’s first lines being “You make me weep and wanna die.” Inspired by Steve Perry’s life, this blues-esque rock anthem convey the depth of infidelity and the turmoil it causes.

6. “Who’s Crying Now”

Hot 100 Peak Position: 4

This chart topper is a poignant ballad featuring Steve Perry's emotive vocals and Neal Schon's melodic guitar. Lyrically, it discusses the complexities of a troubled relationship, with the protagonist pondering who bears the most pain amidst the turmoil, resonating with listeners seeking solace in heartfelt music.

5. “Any Way You Want It”

"Any Way You Want It" is a feel good anthem released in 1980. It's known for its infectious energy, catchy guitar riffs, and memorable chorus. The song expresses a sense of freedom and spontaneity in love, with the protagonist proclaiming their willingness to adapt to their partner's every whim.

4. “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)”

• Hot 100 Peak Position: 8

"Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)" is characterized by its energetic rhythm, catchy synthesizer riff, and Steve Perry's powerful vocals.The song speaks about the end of a relationship and the emotional fallout. The song became a signature hit for Journey, known for its memorable hook and anthemic quality.

3. “Open Arms”

• Hot 100 Peak Position: 2

This chart topper camped out on the #2 spot of the Billboard Hot 100’s list for a shocking 6 weeks! The lyrics detail the efforts to reignite a relationship between two people who have drifted apart. The singer says, “now I come to you, with open arms, nothing to hide, believe what I say.” A sweet power ballad, this song welcomes listeners with open arms.

3. “Faithfully”

"Faithfully" is a power ballad that explores the challenges and rewards of life on the road for a touring musician. Written by Jonathan Cain, it reflects on the sacrifices made in pursuit of a dream, particularly the strain it places on relationships. Steve Perry's emotive vocals convey the longing for connection despite physical distance, making it a timeless anthem of devotion and dedication.

1. “Don’t Stop Believin'”

The most iconic Journey song, “Don’t Stop Believin’” hasn’t stopped gracing the airways since its release in 1981. This song shot up to the 9th postion on the Top 100s list and stayed on the Billboard 200’s list for 700 weeks! The biggest song of all time, it has sold a stunning 20 million units.

More for You

Megan Fox Signs With UTA

Trump campaign accused of breaking federal law by hiding millions in legal payments

The most dangerous state to drive in in the US, according to data—plus, see where your state ranks

John Jacob Astor IV was one of the richest men in the world when he died on the Titanic. Here's a look at his life.

People Who Don’t Show Empathy Usually Have These 18 Traits

Red and Rover by Brian Basset

I Lost 100lbs by Following 4 Rules

Scientists claim people with this blood type more likely to have early stroke

What 50 music icons looked like at the very start of their careers

Average US annual salary by age revealed – see how you compare

Factbox-Who are the mega-rich donors backing Trump?

My late aunt gave her husband a life tenancy in her home — but her attorney won’t even let us see the will. Is this a bad sign?

At 43, I’ve finally learned how to love my size 16 curves

Blood pressure is best lowered by 2 exercises, study finds

Photo of 'rape is resistance' flyer predates pro-Palestinian camp at Columbia | Fact check

25 legendary musicians you might not know were LGBTQ+

Scientists have discovered the maximum age a human can live to

I’m a Bank Teller: 3 Times You Should Never Ask For $100 Bills at the Bank

Map reveals best places to live in the US if nuclear war breaks out

The Lord Of The Rings: The War Of The Rohirrim – Release Date, Cast, Plot, And More Info

The Best Upbeat Wedding Songs for Every Moment of Your Big Day

Wedding planning can be full of ups and downs, but picking your favorite songs for your special day is amongst the most fun parts of the entire process. While narrowing down your options can be tricky, there are dozens—if not hundreds—of options to choose from. We recommend selecting a slew of upbeat wedding songs to ensure your guests have a fun-filled night complete with plenty of singing and dancing.

With all this in mind, we've rounded up the best upbeat wedding songs—conveniently broken down by category to make things easier than ever. Keep reading for our top picks to share with your wedding DJ or live band .

Upbeat Wedding Recessional Songs

Upbeat wedding entrance songs for the reception, upbeat first dance wedding songs, upbeat parent dance wedding songs, upbeat wedding reception songs, upbeat last dance wedding songs, upbeat wedding reception exit songs.

The recessional song is the first tune you'll hear as a married couple (hooray!), so it's worth choosing one that's fun and memorable. From Stevie Wonder to Taylor Swift , these upbeat wedding recessional songs are sure to get the party started.

1. "This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)" by Natalie Cole

Lyrics you'll love: "Loving you is some kind of wonderful.Because you showed me just how much you care/You've given me the thrill of a lifetime/And made me believe you've got more thrills to spare, oh/This will be an everlasting love"

2. "You Make My Dreams Come True" by Hall & Oates

Lyrics you'll love: "Twist and shout my way out and wrap yourself around me/'Cause I ain't the way you found me and I'll never be the same"

3. "On Top of the World" by Imagine Dragons

Lyrics you'll love: "Been dreaming of this since a child/I'm on top of the world"

4. "Paper Rings" by Taylor Swift

Lyrics you'll love: "I like shiny things, but I'd marry you with paper rings/Uh huh, that's right/Darling, you're the one I want"

5. "Signed, Sealed, Delivered I'm Yours," by Stevie Wonder

Lyrics you'll love: "Ooh baby, here I am/Signed, sealed, delivered, I'm yours, I'm yours"

6. "I'm Gonna Be (500 Miles)," by The Proclaimers

Lyrics you'll love: "And I would roll 500 miles/And I would roll 500 more/Just to be the man who rolls a thousand miles/To fall down at your door"

7. "Happy," by Pharrell Williams

Lyrics you'll love: "Clap along if you feel like a room without a roof/(Because I'm happy)/Clap along if you feel like happiness is the truth/(Because I'm happy)"

Congrats, you're officially married! Now, it's time to kick off the main event—AKA the wedding reception—but first, you'll need to select some epic upbeat wedding entrance songs . Fortunately, these picks will wow your new spouse, your wedding party and, well, everyone else in the crowd!

Upbeat Wedding Entrance Songs for Parents

8. "Party Rock Anthem," by LMFAO

Lyrics you'll love: "Party rock is in the house tonight/Everybody just have a good time"

9. "I Got a Feeling," by the Black Eyed Peas

Lyrics you'll love: "I got a feeling/That tonight's gonna be a good night"

10. "Let's Get Loud," by Jennifer Lopez

Lyrics you'll love: "Let's get loud, let's get loud/Turn the music up, let's do it/C'mon, people, let's get loud, let's get loud"

11. "Celebration," by Kool & the Gang

Lyrics you'll love: "There's a party goin' on right here/A celebration to last throughout the years/So bring your good times and your laughter too/We gonna celebrate your party with you"

12. "We Are Family," by Sister Sledge

Lyrics you'll love : "We are family/Get up everybody and sing"

Upbeat Wedding Party Entrance Songs

13. "Can't Stop the Feeling!" by Justin Timberlake

Lyrics you'll love : "Nothin' I can see but you when you dance, dance, dance/Feel a good, good creepin' up on you/So just dance, dance, dance, come on"

14. "Don't Stop The Music," by Rihanna

Lyrics you'll love : "Let's escape into the music/DJ, let it play/I just can't refuse it/Like the way you do this/Keep on rockin' to it/Please don't stop the, please don't stop the music"

15. "Just Dance," by Lady Gaga

Lyrics you'll love : "Just dance/Gonna be okay, da-da-doo-doot-n/Just dance/Spin that record, babe"

16. "I'm Coming Out," by Diana Ross

Get your party started

Lyrics you'll love : "I'm coming out/I want the world to know/Got to let it show"

17. "Don't Stop Me Now," by Queen

Lyrics you'll love: "Tonight I'm gonna have myself a real good time/I feel alive"

Upbeat Reception Entrance Songs for the Couple

18. "Best Day of My Life," by American Authors

Lyrics you'll love : "This is gonna be, this is gonna be, this is gonna be/The best day of my life/Everything is looking up, everybody up now/This is gonna be the best day of my life"

19. "Feel This Moment," by Pitbull (ft. Christina Aguilera)

Lyrics you'll love: "I just wanna feel this moment"

20. "Marry You," by Bruno Mars

Lyrics you'll love: "It's a beautiful night, we're looking for something dumb to do/Hey baby, I think I wanna marry you"

21. "Shut Up and Dance," by Walk the Moon

Lyrics you'll love: "Oh don't you dare look back/Just keep your eyes on me/I said you're holding back/She said shut up and dance with me"

22. "Stuck in the Middle With You," by Stealers Wheel

Lyrics you'll love: "Yes I'm stuck in the middle with you/And I'm wondering what it is I should do/It's so hard to keep this smile from my face/Losing control, yeah I'm all over the place"

For your first dance as a married couple , consider picking a song that's as fun and vibrant as you are. Searching for some inspiration? We've got you covered with a handful of upbeat selections, from popular picks from Beyoncé to nostalgia-inducing '80s hits .

23. "We Found Love," by Rihanna (ft. Calvin Harris)

Lyrics you'll love: "Shine a light through an open door/Love and life I will divide/Turn away 'cause I need you more/Feel the heartbeat in my mind"

24. "Never Gonna Give You Up," by Rick Astley

Lyrics you'll love: "Never gonna give you up/Never gonna let you down/Never gonna run around and desert you/Never gonna make you cry/Never gonna say goodbye"

25. "Still Into You," by Paramore

Lyrics you'll love: "Let 'em wonder how we got this far/'Cause I don't really need to wonder at all/Yeah, after all this time, I'm still into you"

26. "Fine By Me" by Andy Grammer

Lyrics you'll love: "But I'm staring at you now, there's no one else around/I'm thinking you're the girl for me/I'm just saying it's fine by me if you never leave/And we can live like this forever, it's fine by me"

27. "Come and Get Your Love," by Redbone

Lyrics you'll love: "And you're mine, and you look so divine/Come and get your love"

28. "Crazy in Love," by Beyoncé

Lyrics you'll love: "Looking so crazy, your love's/Got me looking, got me looking so crazy in love"

29. "Hooked on a Feeling," by Blue Suede

Lyrics you'll love: "I'm hooked on a feeling/I'm high on believing/That you're in love with me/Lips as sweet as candy/It's taste is on my mind"

30. "Let My Love Open the Door," Pete Townshend

Lyrics you'll love: "Let my love open the door/To your heart"

Dancing with your parent during your wedding reception is one of the most special moments of the big day, so you want to make sure you pick a wonderful song to accompany the beautiful memory. Ahead, our favorite songs for your mother-daughter , father-daughter or mother-son dance.

31. "Wind Beneath My Wings," by Bette Midler

Lyrics you'll love: "Did you ever know that you're my hero/And everything I would like to be?/I can fly higher than an eagle/For you are the wind beneath my wings"

32. "You're My Best Friend," by Queen

Lyrics you'll love: "You're my sunshine and I want you to know/That my feelings are true/I really love you/Oh, you're my best friend"

33. "Always Be My Baby," by Mariah Carey

Lyrics you'll love: "No you'll always be a part of me/I'm part of you indefinitely"

34. "How Sweet It Is (to Be Loved by You)," by James Taylor

Lyrics you'll love: "But you brighten up for me all of my days/With a love so sweet in so many ways"

35. "You've Got a Friend," by Carole King

Lyrics you'll love: "You just call out my name/And you know, wherever I am/I'll come runnin'/To see you again/Winter, spring, summer or fall/All you have to do is call/And I'll be there"

36. "Sweet Child O' Mine," by Guns N' Roses

Lyrics you'll love: "Whoa, oh, oh/Sweet child o' mine"

Picking the perfect playlist for your wedding reception can be tricky, especially if your guests have different tastes in music. However, we're here to help: These upbeat wedding reception songs —including some timeless classics!—will keep the party going all night long.

37. "Don't Stop Believing" by Journey

Lyrics you'll love: "Don't stop believin'/Hold on to that feelin'"

38. "Love On Top," by Beyoncé

Lyrics you'll love: "Baby, it's you/You're the one I love/You're the one I need/You're the only one I see"

39. "I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)," by Whitney Houston

Lyrics you'll love: "Oh, I wanna dance with somebody/I wanna feel the heat with somebody/Yeah, I wanna dance with somebody/With somebody who loves me"

40. "Feel So Close," by Calvin Harris

Lyrics you'll love: "I feel so close to you right now/It's a force field/I wear my heart upon my sleeve, like a big deal/Your love pours down on me/Surround me like a waterfall/And there's no stopping us right now/I feel so close to you right now"

41. "24K Magic," by Bruno Mars

Lyrics you'll love: "Twenty four karat magic in the air/Head to toe so player"

42. "Good Time" by Owl City and Carly Rae Jepsen

Lyrics you'll love: "We don't even have to try/It's always a good time"

43. "Late Night Talking," by Harry Styles

Lyrics you'll love: "If you're feelin' down/I just wanna make you happier, baby/Wish I was around/I just wanna make you happier, baby"

44. "Dancing in the Moonlight," by Toploader

Lyrics you'll love: "Dancin' in the moonlight/Everybody's feelin' warm and bright/It's such a fine and natural sight/Everybody's dancin' in the moonlight"

45. "September," by Earth, Wind & Fire

Lyrics you'll love: "Our hearts were ringin'/In the key that our souls were singin'/As we danced in the night, remember"

Just because the big day is winding down doesn't mean the fun stops (yet). Instead, go out with a bang by playing one of these terrific tunes, which make the perfect upbeat last dance wedding song .

46. "Last Dance," Donna Summer

Lyrics you'll love: "Let's dance this last dance tonight"

47. "You Shook Me All Night Long," by ACDC

Lyrics you'll love: "'Cause the walls start shaking, the Earth was quaking/My mind was aching and we were making it/And you shook me all night long"

48. "I Don't Want To Miss A Thing," by Aerosmith

Lyrics you'll love: "Don't want to close my eyes/I don't want to fall asleep/'Cause I'd miss you baby/And I don't want to miss a thing/'Cause even when I dream of you/The sweetest dream will never do"

49. "Uptown Funk," by Mark Ronson (ft. Bruno Mars)

Lyrics you'll love: "Saturday night and we in the spot/Don't believe me, just watch, come on"

50. "Shout," by The Isley Brothers

Lyrics you'll love: "You know you make me wanna (Shout!)/Kick my heels up and (Shout!)/Throw my hands up and (Shout!)/Throw my head back and (Shout!)/Come on now (Shout!)"

51. "(I've Had) The Time of My Life," by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes

Lyrics you'll love: "Now I've had the time of my life/No, I never felt like this before/Yes I swear, it's the truth/And I owe it all to you"

While your wedding day may be coming to an end, you can expect a whole lot of love, laughter and happy memories ahead as a married couple! For this reason, we recommend picking an upbeat wedding reception exit song that conveys all things exciting and high-energy.

52. "My Universe," by Coldplay

Lyrics you'll love: " You (you), you are (you are) my universe/And I (I) just want (just want) to put you first"

53. "Closing Time," by Semisonic

Lyrics you'll love: "So, gather up your jackets, move it to the exits/I hope you have found a friend/Closing time, every new beginning/Comes from some other beginning's end, yeah"

54. " Livin' on a Prayer," by Bon Jovi

Lyrics you'll love: "We'll give it a shot/Woah, we're half way there/Woah, livin' on a prayer/Take my hand, we'll make it I swear"

55. "Good Life" by OneRepublic

Lyrics you'll love: "This has gotta be the good life/This could really be a good life, good life/I say oh, got this feeling that you can't fight/Like this city is on fire tonight/This could really be a good life"

56. "Levitating," by Dua Lipa

Lyrics you'll love: "I got you, moonlight, you're my starlight/I need you all night, come on, dance with me/I'm levitating"

57. "All You Need Is Love," by The Beatles

Lyrics you'll love: "Nothing you can make that can't be made/No one you can save that can't be saved/Nothing you can do, but you can learn how to be you in time/It's easy/All you need is love"

Top 150 Wedding Ceremony Songs

Your wedding ceremony sets the tone for the entire day which is why the wedding ceremony songs you choose are so important.

Over the last few years, Encore Musicians has helped thousands of couples make their wedding music dreams a reality. Our national network of professional musicians provides high-quality, tailored wedding entertainment to suit your needs.

As such, we’ve become experts at finding couples the perfect songs for walking down the aisle to. So whether you want Ed Sheeran, Frank Sinatra or Taylor Swift, we have your covered. Below are our top 150 wedding ceremony songs, broken down by genres, so you can find the right song for you.

Need more general advice on planning your wedding music? Read our  Ultimate Guide to Hiring Wedding Musicians  

Table of Contents

Most Popular Wedding Ceremony Songs

These wedding songs are the ones that everyone asks for. And that happens for a reason! They are perfectly suited to a wedding and everyone loves them!

• At Last – Etta James
• Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran
• Rule the World – Take That
• Dreams Come True – Westlife
• Canon In D Major – Johann Pachelbel
• All of Me – John Legend
• ‘Spring’ from ‘The Four Seasons – Violin Concerto In e Major – Antonio Vivaldi
• After All Is Said and Done – Beyoncé & Marc Nelson
• Perfect – Ed Sheeran
• Amazed – Lonestar
• Endless Love – Lionel Richie & Diana Ross
• Can You Feel the Love Tonight – Elton John
• A Thousand Years – Christina Perri
• Canon In F – The O’Neill Brothers
• Halo – Beyoncé
• Come Away With Me – Norah Jones
• Recessional – Trumpet Tune – Purcell
• Make You Feel My Love – Adele
• Love You More – JLS

Best Wedding Ceremony Songs

In our expert opinion, these are the best songs for your wedding playlist. They always lighten the atmosphere and get everyone excited for your big day!

• Gravity – Embrace
• You Are The Best Thing – Ray Montagne
• When You Love a Woman – Journey
• Better Together – Jack Johnson
• I Won’t Give Up – Jason Mraz
• Amazing Day – Coldplay
• Chanson de Matin ( Piano ) – Edward Elgar
• All I Want Is You – Barry Louis Polisar
• Everything – Michael Buble
• All Of Me – John Legend
• The Best of Me – Cliff Richard
• If I Fall to Your Heart – Derwent Hannon
• Here and Now – Luther Vandross
• First Day of My Life – Bright Eyes

Modern Wedding Ceremony Songs

No wedding is complete without some up-to-date music to keep your elderly relatives awake and disgruntled!

• Everybody’s Free (To Feel Good) – Quindon Tarver
• Be Mine – David Gray
• Have You Ever – Westlife
• Songbird – Oasis
• How Long Will I Love You – Ellie Goulding
• On This Day – David Pomeranz
• From This Moment On – Shania Twain & Bryan White
• Always – Bon Jovi
• (There Is) No Greater Love – Amy Winehouse
• The Luckiest – Ben Folds
• Helena – My Chemical Romance Piano Tribute
• This I Promise You – Ronan Keating
• Feels Like Home – Edwina Hayes
• Any Other Name – Original – Thomas Newman

Christian Wedding Ceremony Songs

Check out this selection of Christian songs that would work perfectly during your wedding ceremony. What better way to celebrate a marriage than your favourite Christian music!

• Everything – TobyMac
• Because of Your Love – Tim Hughes
• This Is Love – For King & Country
• Girl of My Dreams – Brandon Heath
• How Great Thou Art – Carrie Underwood
• The Prayer – Josh Groban and Charlotte Church
• This Is Amazing Grace – Phil Wickham
• God Only Knows – The Beach Boys
• Wedding Song (There Is Love) – Peter, Paul & Mary
• I Will Wait – Mumford And Sons
• Good Day For Marrying You – Dave Barnes
• Here Is Love – Matt Redman
• Love Never Fails – Brandon Heath
• Bless The Broke Road – Rascal Flatts
• Shackles (Praise You) – Mary Mary
• Whole World In His Hands – Tim Hughes
• When God Made You – Newsong
• When I Say I Do – Matthew West
• Something in Your Eyes – Shonlock
• Best Day Of My Life – American Authors

Acoustic Wedding Ceremony Songs

Who doesn’t love an acoustic cover of your favourite romantic wedding songs… This selection of acoustic wedding songs will sort you out right away if you’re stuck for a choice!

• Such Great Heights – Iron & Wine
• Just The Way You Are – Anthem Lights
• Lego House – Hearts & Colors
• Wild Horses – The Sundays
• Perfect – Gardiner Sisters ft. Peter Hollens
• Lovesong – Colin & Caroline
• Can’t Help Falling In Love – Ingrid Michaelson
• Never Gonna Give You Up – Alex Cornell
• Cheerleader – Suzan & Freek
• Crazy In Love – Daniela Andrade
• Yellow – Caroline Pennell
• Sugar – Ebony Day ft. Jake Coco
• Love Me Like You Do – Beth
• Every Breath You Take – Aaron Krause ft. Liza Anne
• You’ve Got A Friend – Joanna Wang
• Make You Feel My Love – ortoPilot
• 2U – Landon Austin and Chelsea Hpe
• I Believe In A Thing Called Love – Branches
• Here Comes The Sun – Imaginary Future
• Malibu – Maygen Lacey
• All Of Me – Jessi Malay
• (Everything I Do) I Do It For You – Grace Grundy
• You’ve Got A Friend In Me – Sleeping At Last

R&B Wedding Ceremony Songs

Want to have an 80s inspired wedding, why not? This handpicked selection of classics will get all your friends and family feeling suitably lovey-dovey…

• When I First Saw You – Jamie Foxx featuring Beyonce
• Stay With You – John Legend
• Build Me Up Buttercup – The Foundations
• Exceptional – Babyface
• Share My Life – Kem
• I Gotta Be – Jagged Edge
• I Wanna Be Your Lover – Prince
• Never Too Much – Luther Vandross
• A Couple of Forevers – Christette Michele
• Caught Up in the Rapture – Anita Baker
• Happily Ever After – Case
• If I Ever Fall in Love (Acapella) – Shai
• Thinkin Bout You – Frank Ocean
• Always and Forever – Heatwave
• All My Life – K-Ci & JoJo
• Let’s Stay Together – Al Green
• I Found Love – Bebe and Cece Winans
• Here And Now – Luther Vandross
• All This Love – DeBarge

Pre Wedding Ceremony Songs

Get everyone excited before the big entrance with this selection of romantic songs perfectly suited for before your wedding ceremony.

• Circle of Life (From “The Lion King”) – Lebo M & Carmen Twillie
• All I Ask of You (Phantom of the Opera) – Wedding Music
• A Groovy Kind of Love – Phil Collins
• Can’t Help Falling In Love – Elvis Presley
• Bridal Chorus – Richard Wagner
• Can’t Hold Us Down (feat. Lil’ Kim) – Christina Aguilera
• Glasgow Love Theme – Craig Armstrong
• Chopin – Nocturne – Ballet Dance Company
• The Way You Look Tonight – Tony Bennett
• Prelude from Te Deum – The Raglan Baroque Players
• Bella’s Lullaby – Carter Burwell, Dan Redfeld and Elizabeth Hedman
• (They Long to Be) Close to You – Carpenters
• She Is Love – Oasis
• Moon River – Frank Sinatra
• The Secret Wedding (From “Braveheart”) – David Arkenstone
• Falling In Love With You Again – Imelda May
• Love Is All Around – Wet Wet Wet

After Wedding Ceremony Songs

What better way to send you off to the wedding reception of your dreams than some of your favourite bangers…

• Londonderry Air (Various Covers)
• No One – Alicia Keys
• Four Seasons – Summer III Presto – Antonio Vivaldi
• Wagner Bridal Chorus – Wagner
• Somewhere Over The Rainbow/What A Wonderful World – Israel Kamakawiwo’ole
• I’m Kissing You – Des’ree
• “Ode to Joy” from Symphony No. 9 – Beethoven
• The Book of Love – Peter Gabriel
• On the Wings of Love – Vitamin String Quartet
• You’ll Never Walk Alone (Carousel) – Rodgers & Hammerstein
• Canon in D Major – Pachelbel Orchestra
• Always On My Mind – Willie Nelson
• Kisses and Cake – John Powell
• My Lover’s Prayer – Otis Redding
• Let’s Get Married – The Proclaimers
• Just the Way You Are – Bruno Mars
• I Knew I Loved You – Savage Garden
• Claire De Lune – Claude Debussy

Share this:

• Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window)
• Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window)

Matt Venvell

Matt is a recent Music Graduate of Oxford University. He now splits his time between being a freelance drummer/percussionist and a content writer. In between these, Matt loves to learn about how the world works, enjoys the outdoors, and is always looking for more music recommendations.

You may also like

Wedding party songs.

Choosing wedding party songs can be overwhelming. With so many options out there, finding the right song for each moment of your wedding that will fit with your tastes as a couple can feel impossible.  Here at Encore...

Indie Love Songs Playlist

Few genres in music capture the essence of love as well as indie music. Indie love songs have captured generations of star-crossed lovers with their intricate melodies, poetic lyrics, and soul-stirring harmonies. So if...

Wedding Rock Songs

So, you’re a couple who doesn’t want a snooze-fest of a wedding reception. You want your guests to be rocking out, air-guitaring, and maybe even creating a moshpit on the dance floor. Well, you need a...

Looking for musicians?

Encore is the fastest and easiest way to find the perfect musician or band for any occasion.

• 1 Tell us about your event
• 2 Relevant musicians are instantly alerted
• 3 Available performers respond with tailored quotes

Help centre

• Saxophonists
• Acoustic Guitarists
• Electric Violinists
• Singing Guitarists
• Singing Pianists
• Steel Drummers
• Wedding Bands
• Function & Cover Bands
• Ceilidh Bands
• Acoustic Duos
• DJs with Live Musicians
• Mariachi Bands
• Motown Bands
• Mumford & Sons Bands
• Party Bands
• Roaming Bands
• Swing & Jive Bands
• Brass Bands
• Steel Drum Bands
• String Quartets
• Wedding DJs
• Festival Bands
• Function Bands
• Indie Bands
• Luxury Showbands
• String Duos
• A capella Groups
• Wedding Entertainers
• Tribute Bands
• Folk-rock Bands
• Swing Bands
• Christmas & NYE

Jon Bon Jovi talks new song 'Kiss the Bride' he wrote for daughter Stephanie's wedding

The rocker wrote a song titled "Kiss the Bride" for his daughter's special day.

Jon Bon Jovi has a surprise in store for his daughter Stephanie Bongiovi on her wedding day.

The rock legend, 62, said Thursday on "Good Morning America" that he has written a song for his eldest child and only daughter with longtime wife Dorothea Hurley, in honor of her upcoming nuptials.

Bon Jovi also noted that Stephanie Bongiovi, 30, hasn't yet heard the song, titled "Kiss the Bride."

"There's a song on the record that I wrote for my baby," he said. "I wrote this one for Steph."

MORE: What to know about Jon Bon Jovi's 4 kids

But will he sing the song at his daughter's wedding?

"If I can get through it," he said, smiling.

Editor’s Picks

Jon Bon Jovi talks son's engagement to Millie Bobby Brown and future of his own career

Bon Jovi announces new album, 'Forever,' releases new single 'Legendary'

Bon Jovi’s story will be explored in docuseries, 'Thank You, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story'

Stephanie Bongiovi's wedding isn't the only one coming up for Bon Jovi's family, as two of his and Hurley's sons, Jesse Bongiovi, 29, and Jake Bongiovi, 21, are also set to wed.

Jake Bongiovi is engaged to "Stranger Things" actress Millie Bobby Brown, and Bon Jovi teased that they will walk down the aisle "in the near future."

The "It's My Life" singer is celebrating his 35th wedding anniversary with his wife this year, and on Thursday spoke about the key to a lasting relationship.

MORE: Jon Bon Jovi reflects on life as a rock and roll star: 'It was pretty good'

"The magic for me has just been growing together with Dorothea," he gushed. "Every day is a challenge and change, but if you're growing together, hopefully things will work out."

In addition to Stephanie, Jesse and Jake Bongiovi, Bon Jovi and Hurley are also parents to son Romeo Bongiovi, 20.

Tune in for the primetime special "Michael Strahan x Jon Bon Jovi: Halfway There" on Sunday, April 28 at 10 p.m. ET on ABC, streaming the next day on Hulu.

Catch the rocker's four-part docuseries "Thank you, Goodnight: The Bon Jovi Story," celebrating the 40th anniversary of his band, when it begins streaming on Hulu on April 26.

Top Stories

Judge upholds disqualification of challenger to judge in Trump’s Georgia election interference case

• Apr 26, 2:43 PM

3 big takeaways from Day 8 of Trump's hush money trial

• Apr 26, 6:00 PM

In Howard Stern interview, Biden says he's 'happy' to debate Trump

• Apr 26, 3:09 PM

Planning for potential presidential transition underway as Biden administration kicks it off

• Apr 26, 4:03 PM

Ex-official told investigators Trump had 'no standing declassification order'

• Apr 25, 6:55 PM

ABC News Live

24/7 coverage of breaking news and live events