Jam Hot's Top 10 First Dance Songs
A wedding first dance is a rather lovely and poignant tradition. Dating back to the grand ballrooms of days gone by, the guests of honour (Royalty if present) took to the floor to be the first to commence the dancing for the evening. At a wedding, the guests of honour are of course the newlyweds, so they perform their chosen song whilst their friends and family look on, before joining them on the dance floor to kick off the party.
At modern weddings, there are no ‘rules’ as such for this beautiful moment - some couples choose upbeat songs to perform a pre-choreographed showstopper, while others choose modern or traditional ballads to sway gently until the wedding photographer has taken the necessary photos and the guests are invited onto the dance floor. No matter your style - the song you choose is still an important decision. Jam Hot include a bespoke version of your first dance if you choose to take them up on it. Played live for you by the band, you will be treated to a unique, astonishing rendition that will become a treasured memory from your wedding day.
If you need a little inspiration on what to choose - here are 10 of Jam Hots’ favourite first dance songs of all time.
1 - At Last - Etta James
This exquisite song was originally written in 1941 by Mack Gordon and Harry Warren. In 1960, the stunning R&B singer Etta James took it, and the rest is history. Although both Celine Dion and Beyoncé have also recorded the song, it’s Etta James' version that most of us still know and love today.
2 - All Of Me - John Legend
Written by American singer/songwriter John Legend as a dedication to his wife Chrissy Teigan - this iconic number was first aired in the states in 2013. In 2014 it knocked Pharrell Williams’ ‘Happy' off the top spot, by reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100. The gorgeous melody and lyrics still makes this song a hugely popular choice for couples.
3 - Perfect - Ed Sheeran
Written in 2017 by British singer/songwriter Ed Sheeran, this sublime ballad reached number one in 18 countries including England, America, New Zealand, Canada, Ireland and Australia. Two further stunning renditions were released, both every bit as captivating as the original. ‘Perfect Duet’ featuring Beyoncé was released on 1st December 2017, and ‘Perfect Symphony’ with Italian tenor Andrea Boccelli not long after on the 15th December. Both the lyrics and gorgeous sentiment of this song makes all 3 versions appealing to many couples.
4 - A Thousand Years - Christina Perri
This stunning song was written and recorded for 'The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn - Part 1’ in 2011. It’s huge popularity was not only due to the film franchise, it’s also an arresting song in its own right. Beautiful lyrics and a gorgeous arrangement draw couples to the song, and since a second version featuring a duet with Steve Kazee was released for the following Twilight film, both renditions are still chosen frequently.
5 - This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) - Natalie Cole
Released on Natalie Cole’s debut album in April 1975, this timeless hit was written by Marvin Yancy and Chuck Jackson. Natalie Cole won 2 Grammy Awards with the song, and it’s not hard to see why it struck favour both in the US and in Britain. Featuring perfect lyrics and a catchy melody, this happy song is still widely chosen by couples who want an alternative to the classic ballad for their first dance.
6 - Let’s Stay Together - Al Green
This chart-topper was released in 1971 by American born Al Green. With 16 weeks at the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100, this classic has since been ranked the 60th greatest song of all time by Rolling Stones Magazine, out of the 500 songs featured. Several artists have recorded covers, with the most well-known version being performed by the wonderful Tina Turner. This brilliant number has everyone signing along, and the sentiment is perfect for your first dance song.
7 - Can’t Help Falling In Love - Elvis Presley
Recorded in 1961, this charming ballad was based on a popular French love song called ‘Plaisir d’amour’ composed by Jean-Paul-Égide Martini. Featured in Elvis Presley’s film ‘Blue Hawaii’, 'Can’t Help Falling In Love' hit number on in the British charts in 1962. Covered by artists such as Bob Dylan and UB40, the song has remained relevant and widely performed across the decades.
8 - Your Song - Elton John
Still a classic, 'Your Song' was written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin in 1970, and was recorded in London. It was originally intended as the B-Side to another song, but was preferred by Radio DJ’s and so took the top spot. Although the song has remained ever popular, it was given a further boost in 2010 when Ellie Goulding covered it, and her version was used as the John Lewis Christmas Advert for that year. The beguiling lyrics speak of not having much to give except a song that has been written for a loved one - a cute sentiment, and still a favoured choice for newlyweds today.
9 - How Long Will I Love You - Ellie Goulding
This song is effective in its relative simplicity. Soft, sweet vocals and beautifully meaningful lyrics make for an elegant ballad that isn’t too dramatic or fussy. Originally written and performed by folk-rock band ’The Waterboys’ in 1990, Ellie Goulding covered it in 2013 and it was subsequently included in the film soundtrack to ‘About Time’, also in 2013.
10 - I’m Yours - Jason Mraz
Although written in 2005 as a demo to promote his second studio album, American born Jason Mraz didn’t include ‘I’m Yours’ until his third album. This well-loved song was his first single to be released on its own. Having already been performing it live during his concerts, by the time it truly came into the public domain it was already a firm favourite for his fans. The witty lyrics, magnetic tune and charming guitar pattern makes for a sunny sound, and remains to be widely played.
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