The Best Country First Dance Songs for Your Wedding

There are many different ways to choose a country first dance song for your wedding reception. Do you choose a timeless classic from someone like George Strait, Willie Nelson or Reba McEntire? Do you choose something more contemporary country from artists like Dan + Shay, Blake Shelton or Chris Stapleton? Should you choose something super slow or maybe a song with a little country bounce to it?

Wedding first dances are a beautiful moment between a newly married couple and a chance for them to share their love with friends and family. For country-themed weddings, choosing the right first dance song can enhance this moment even further.

Here are some of the best country first dance songs to help make your wedding day even more special. As with anything else pertaining to your wedding, these songs are suggestions based on years of experience. Listen to our Spotify playlist of country first dance songs at the bottom of this page and choose a song that feels right for you and your partner-to-be.

Timeless Classics

“I Cross My Heart” by George Strait

This classic love song has been a popular first dance choice for country weddings for decades. The song’s lyrics, which express a love that will last a lifetime, make it a perfect choice for a country first dance.

“Always On My Mind” by Willie Nelson

This classic was originally recorded by Brenda Lee (of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” fame) in 1972 and was first made a hit by Elvis Presley in that same year. Willie gave the beautiful lyrics a country twang in 1982 and it’s been a popular country first dance song ever since. Give it a listen and see if it speaks to you.

“Amazed” by Lonestar

Released in 1999, the songwriters explained that “Our feelings for each other just started coming out…” and you can very much tell while listening to this super popular country first dance song. “Amazed” is one of those rare crossover songs that appeals to everyone – not just country music lovers.

“When You Say Nothing At All” by Alison Krauss and Union Station

This sweet song tells of non-verbal clues as to how much the singer’s interpretation of her partner’s love for her. “The smile on your face lets me know that you need me. There’s a truth in your eyes sayin’ you’ll never leave me” If you choose this song for your first dance, you may want to make sure the parent’s table has plenty of tissues.

Country Duets

“It’s Your Love” by Tim McGraw and Faith Hill

Real-life love birds Tim McGraw and Faith Hill delivered a powerhouse of a duet with this song. Yet another crossover hit that appeals to everyone, the lyrics are sweet and they convey true love to one another.

“Remind Me” by Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood

If you had a long relationship and/or engagement, this song may be for you. The singers speak of all of the great things in their relationship over the years and asking each other to “Remind Me” of those times.

“Thank God” by Kane Brown and Katelyn Brown

This newer song (2022) is a husband-wife duet love song. The song has a major appreciation theme. If you and your partner have been through a lot and are thankful to have found one another, give this song a listen.

“Nobody But You” by Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani

This duet is another one about appreciation for what you’ve found with your partner. They sing of not wanting to waste any more time in their life. It has a driving, powerful chorus.

Contemporary Hits

“Beautiful Crazy” by Luke Combs

This great slow ballad’s chorus packs a punch. The singer describes how his partner has blown him away and how he feels about her.

“A Simple Song” by Chris Stapleton

Just as the title says, this is a stripped-down love song that tells of life’s ups and downs but the singer loves his simple life. It’s certainly not for everyone, but it just may click for you and yours.

“History in the Making” by Darius Rucker

This powerful love song tells of how the singer feels about his relationship. He sings about all of the sweet memories he and his partner are making now and in the future.

Upbeat and Fun

“All to Myself” by Dan + Shay

This song is for those who aren’t looking for a super slow first dance song. “All to Myself” has great dynamics. The verses are sweet and slow (ish) and then the chorus brings the tempo up.

“Die a Happy Man” by Thomas Rhett

“Oh if all I got is your hand in my hand, baby I could die a happy man.” That is what this bouncy, popular country first dance song is all about. It’s not too deep, but it conveys just the right feels.

“Your Man” by Josh Turner

“Your Man” is not too slow and not too fast. Baritone crooner Josh Turner tells it like it is (“Baby, lock the door and turn the lights down low”) in this song. There would be no doubt in his partner’s mind just how he feels. It’s a great forecast to the wedding night after all of the pressures of the day are behind you.

Slow and Sentimental

“God Gave Me You” by Blake Shelton

This slow and sentimental song is a great choice for a wedding first dance. The lyrics express gratitude for finding love and a commitment to spending a lifetime together, making it a perfect choice for a country wedding.

“From This Moment On” by Shania Twain

This beautiful and emotional song is a popular choice for a country first dance. The lyrics express a love and commitment that will last a lifetime, making it a perfect choice for a country-themed wedding. Plus, you just can’t go wrong with Shania as your choice.

“Speechless” by Dan + Shay

This instant classic has sweet and powerful lyrics that are perfect for the love of a newlywed couple dancing for the first time since they took their vows. If you are looking for a more current sound, “Speechless” is a good choice.

In Conclusion

Choosing the right first dance song for your country-themed wedding can enhance the special moment between you and your spouse. Whether you choose a classic, contemporary hit, upbeat and fun, or slow and sentimental song, make sure it reflects your love and commitment to each other.

Here’s our full inspirational list of songs:

Last Updated: February, 2023