Songs for dancing at weddings are for celebrating. One of the best ways to get everyone on the dance floor is to have a killer playlist. But with so many different ages, musical tastes, and cultural backgrounds, finding the right songs to get everyone moving can be a challenge. Luckily, there are a few classic tunes and newer hits that are sure to get even the most reluctant dancer up and moving.
There are, of course, thousands of great dance songs. With our experience as Wedding DJs, we limited this list to songs that get everyone on their feet – young or old. These are the songs that we know get a good dancing crowd to move, no matter what. Songs that make people scream from the other room. Yeah, those types of songs.
To be sure, everything depends on your guests. There have been wedding receptions where the guests were a little older and more subdued. That’s when we’d hit them with “In The Mood” or “Rock Around The Clock.” Of course there are literally thousands of great dance songs. These are a group of songs from some different genres and ages for you to peruse through. Hopefully, it will give you inspiration for your specific wedding reception.
These are songs that still fill the dance floor at most weddings. For inspiration on songs for other parts of your wedding, take a look at The Best 147 Song Playlist For Your Entire Wedding. Enjoy and let us know at the bottom of the page if you have ideas or questions. We’d love to hear from you!
Get everyone on the dance floor with these songs for dancing
“I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston
This classic ’80s hit is a surefire way to get everyone on the dance floor. The upbeat tempo and catchy chorus will have even the most reluctant dancers tapping their toes and singing along. This song still stands up all these years later. Whitney’s voice will never go out of style.
“Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
This one became an instant classic. It has become a staple at weddings, and for good reason. The funky bassline and infectious chorus are practically irresistible.
“Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon
Another more recent modern classic, “Shut Up and Dance” has been a go-to wedding song since its release in 2014. The upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it perfect for dancing, and the lyrics are a fun and lighthearted nod to the joy of falling in love.
“I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas
This upbeat dance track was a massive hit when it was released in 2009, and it’s still a crowd-pleaser today. The catchy chorus and energetic beat are perfect for getting people up and moving, and the song’s positive message is perfect for celebrating a new marriage. Since the song was released, it has become a multi-generational hit.
“September” by Earth, Wind & Fire
This classic funk/disco hit is a must-play at any wedding. The infectious groove and catchy chorus are impossible to resist, and the song’s timeless sound will appeal to guests of all ages. Just try listening to it. You can’t sit still!
Songs for dancing aren’t necessarily for every crowd
As we said at the beginning, we would choose most of these songs depending on the guests in front of us. Some of these would do great at one wedding and not so great at another. You must know the crowd to choose.
“Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake
This upbeat pop hit was released in 2016 and has been a popular wedding song ever since. The catchy chorus and danceable beat make it perfect for getting everyone up and moving, and the upbeat lyrics are a great match for the joyful atmosphere of a wedding.
“SexyBack” by Justin Timberlake
We can’t have a list of irresistible dance songs without Justin’s other hit, “SexyBack.” We don’t typically include songs with questionable lyrics, but this one is tame compared to today’s top dance songs. To be on the safe side, you’ll want to check it out yourself.
“Wannabe” by Spice Girls
This song can surprise people – which is, of course, our plan. Even if your guests weren’t fans of the Spice Girls, the beat will get them onto the dance floor anyway. You’ll notice that girls of a specific age know all the words…and all of the dance moves.
“Celebration” by Kool & The Gang
As far as songs to dance to are concerned, you can’t beat “Celebration.” Not only is it a great dance tune, but the lyrics are also absolutely perfect for a wedding reception. It’s been played since the 1980s, so there’s not a soul who doesn’t know the words.
“Hey Ya!” by OutKast
OutKast is known for super funky dance songs. This one is their most popular one – by far. The beat and the music along with the singing gets people moving towards the dance floor.
“Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift
Taylor has many, many pop hits, but this one spoke to people in a big way. It’s a masterpiece in the fun, dancing tune category. It exploded onto the charts when it was released and it remains as popular as ever at wedding receptions.
“Kiss” by Prince
The “purple one” nailed it with this song. Along with the funky guitar stylings of Wendy Melvoin – an original member of The Revolution. You just can’t stop dancing to this style of song. It is one of Prince’s less controversial pop songs and it’s still loved by everyone.
“Yeah!” by Usher
If no one runs to the dance floor when this song starts, they aren’t going to dance the rest of the evening. After all of the wedding festivities are over and it’s time to dance the night away, this song is one of the very best to kick the rest of the night into dancing gear, for sure.
“Footloose” by Kenny Loggins
This classic ’80s hit is a great choice for a wedding dance party. The upbeat tempo and catchy chorus will have everyone tapping their toes, and the song’s fun and lighthearted lyrics are perfect for celebrating the joy of a wedding. It’s not necessarily the song to kick off the dancing evening to – especially for younger guests – but it’s a great way to switch gears to some 80s music.
“Dancing Queen” by ABBA
This disco classic is always a crowd-pleaser at weddings. The upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it perfect for dancing, and the song’s timeless sound will appeal to guests of all ages. Plus, who doesn’t love a little ABBA?
“Happy” by Pharrell Williams
This upbeat pop hit was a massive hit in 2014, and it’s still a popular choice for wedding playlists. The catchy chorus and feel-good lyrics make it perfect for celebrating a new marriage, and the upbeat tempo is sure to get everyone up and moving.
“Love Shack” by The B-52’s
This classic party anthem is a great choice for a wedding reception. The funky bassline and catchy chorus are perfect for dancing, and the song’s fun and lighthearted lyrics are sure to put a smile on everyone’s face.
We want to read your thoughts!
Of course, these are just a few of the many great songs you can dance to at weddings. When choosing your wedding playlist, it’s important to consider the tastes and preferences of your guests. Try to choose a mix of classic and modern hits. We’re sure that your DJ will have a bag of tricks to choose from as well. Let us know what you think below! We’d love to hear from you.
Rick T
Rick has been consulting with and performing for brides and grooms on the right music for their wedding day since (gulp!) 1987.
