When it comes to wedding celebrations, few elements are as eagerly anticipated as the dance floor. It's where guests young and old come together to revel in the joyous atmosphere, creating memories that last a lifetime. Behind every unforgettable dance party is a carefully curated playlist, filled with tracks that speak to the hearts of all in attendance.
Whether you've secured a live band or enlisted the expertise of a DJ committed to keeping the revelry alive until dawn, we've compiled a selection of beloved dance anthems straight from the music experts themselves that you won't want to forget on your must-play list. These seven hits consistently spark the flames of celebration, ensuring an unforgettable soirée for all involved.
PARTY STARTER: "I Got You" by James Brown
Tiara Gamez, Sound By Design
"Always remember K.I.S.S. ... Keep It Simple, Silly. James Brown is the most sampled artist. Therefore, you'll notice that almost every single individual in the room has heard some form of James Brown (percussion, base or melody). This is a great song that gets all guests activated on the dance floor. It is great for an early play that segways into a perfect funky/soulful set, or can be mixed in late night to give the extra bounce the crowd needs. You can mix this song with almost anything out there."
TIMELESS SING-ALONG: "Sweet Caroline"
No wedding or event is complete without a rousing sing-along to 'Sweet Caroline' by Neil Diamond. It's a feel-good song that brings people together with its iconic chorus and infectious melody. From the young to the young at heart, everyone knows the words and can't resist joining in for a memorable moment of collective joy.
GENERATIONAL CROWD PLEASER: "Ain't Too Proud To Beg" by The Temptations
Geoffrey Sandler, Celebrations Entertainment
"This song is one of my favorite songs to play at weddings. First, it's a great dance floor 'opening song'. It spans so many generations because of how many movies and commercials it's been in. It has a great beat, is easy to dance to and is VERY recognizable."
GO-TO SET OPENER: "Uptown Funk"
'Uptown Funk' is a modern-day party anthem that never fails to ignite the dance floor. With its infectious groove, catchy hooks, and high-energy vibe, this song is guaranteed to get people moving and grooving. It's a versatile choice that works well as both an early crowd-pleaser and a late-night party starter.
CLASSIC FLOOR FILLER: "Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!" by Abba
Tiara Gamez, Sound By Design
"This song has been a huge hit specifically over the last two years. Between being an international hit overseas (ie Greece and Netherlands), an earworm from the late 70's, featured in the 2008 hit Mamma Mia!, and most notably a chart topper on via Tiktok - when playing "Gimme! Gimme! Gimme!" you're hitting all demographics. It's a simple song to get individuals out of their chair after dinner, or the perfect late night sing-along after the bar closes. It blends well with all contemporary electronic hits. Great mix."
BELOVED BALLAD: "At Last"
Few songs capture the essence of romance and celebration like 'At Last' by Etta James. It's a timeless classic that resonates with audiences of all ages. Whether it's the first dance for a newlywed couple or a slow dance moment for guests to cherish, 'At Last' sets the perfect mood with its soulful melody and heartfelt lyrics.
WEDDING ANTHEM: "Shut Up and Dance With Me" by Walk the Moon
Geoffrey Sandler, Celebrations Entertainment
"Shut Up and Dance With Me is an absolute MUST play at weddings. It's often on my couple 'must play' list and is one of those 'Anthem' songs that everyone sings along to. At 128 BPM, it is very easy to dance to and literally talks about people dancing! This is one of my favorites and is a must play at every wedding.
Main Photo courtesy of Celebrations Entertainment
