Choosing a first dance wedding song can be a difficult task. With a plethora of musical genres, artists, and what seems like endless options out there, it can be hard to imagine which song will suit the happy occasion.
Many couples may opt for a smooth jazz number or a country ballad as the soundtrack for their first dance together as newlyweds. Others may choose a more traditional love song, or perhaps a tune that is a unique and personal reflection of their journey as a couple.
If you’re still trying to decide what song will be your opening number, why not take a look at the list below? Songs from these classic movies could be the perfect accompaniment to your special moment!
Shallow – Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper
A Star is Born (2018)
An instant modern classic upon its release in 2018, A Star is Born is a tragic story rooted in love, life, and, lastly, music. It depicts Gaga’s Ally and Cooper’s Jackson Maine as they explore the nuances of their relationship amidst the rise and fall of tragic stardom. Set against the backdrop of a modern-day musical journey in California, the movie is a perfect ode to the 1954 and 1976 versions.
Contrary to its title, ‘Shallow’ certainly isn’t lacking in depth! The lyrics are imbued with raw emotion, and are sung in a perfect harmony of Gaga’s rising vocals and Cooper’s deeper tones. ‘Shallow’ may be just the perfect song for couples who express themselves openly and wear their hearts on their sleeve!
City of Stars – Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone
La La Land (2016)
Much like A Star is Born, La La Land, released in 2016, is a realistic depiction of a modern love story. Mia (Emma Stone) and Sebastian (Ryan Gosling) find themselves lost in the artistic abyss, but they bond over their shared love of the arts and their experiences of trying to make it in Hollywood. The music from the movie takes its inspiration from iconic Hollywood Musicals, famous for their jazzy tones.
‘City of Stars’ is a standout song from the movie and it’s not hard to see why. A soft piano melody takes us through a journey of hazy moments and the ups and downs of love, and it’s complemented by the voices of Gosling and Stone. This is the perfect song for a couple to remind us that, through the ‘smokescreen’ formed by the stresses and strains of organizing your wedding day, love always shines.
La Vie En Rose – Louis Armstrong
WALL-E (2008)
WALL-E stands out amongst modern animated movies for its artistic take on consumerism and the effects of this over the wider trajectory of humanity. While this subjectivity can be a little bit heavy, through the eyes of WALL-E, we are immersed in a world full of hope, wonder, and regeneration.
Louis Armstrong’s unmistakable and sweet rendition of ‘La Vie En Rose’ is perfectly in sync with the events on screen — with scenes of WALL-E and EVE fumbling through the remnants of a world lost to time. A classic song like this would perfectly complement an off-kilter couple who prefer a unique sound for their special dance.
Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley
Lilo & Stitch (2002)
Although technically performed by the group A* Teens for the soundtrack, the original is the superior version. The influence of Elvis Presley on the Disney movie Lilo and Stitch fits perfectly in tandem with the backdrop of Hawaii and the premise of building an unconventional family.
A true classic chosen by many couples for their first dance, this Elvis hit should always be considered for the big day!
Bella Notte – George Givot
Lady and the Tramp (1955)
Finally, it would be hard to complete this list without mentioning the beloved film Lady and the Tramp. Taken from the iconic, spaghetti-eating scene, the song ‘Bella Notte’ truly needs no further introduction.
Translating to ‘Beautiful Night,’ this song makes a classic but sweet choice for your first dance, especially if you have live accompaniment.
Whether you’re looking for a touch of classical jazz or a modern pop ballad, movies can provide just the inspiration you need for that all-important wedding playlist! You may be hesitant to go down this route; however, you may just find the song that you both are looking for — the song that is a personal expression of your love!
Niamh works as a Team Lead in Customer Care and has a background in both English and History. Her go-to books are always anything crime related. In her spare time, she loves to write, read, and hang out with friends. She can usually be found daydreaming about her favorite snacks or secretly watching ahead on all of her top TV shows.
