Selecting the special dances at your wedding can be a challenge considering the seemingly endless options. After dancing your First Dance, traditionally the Groom/Mother and Father/Daughter dance occur to the joy and happy tears of everyone present. Our experience playing weddings, and therefore special dances, for over 25 years lends us some background on how to make that musical moment memorable.
A Song that is Meaningful to Both of You
Is there a piece of music you enjoyed with your parents when you were growing up? Did you watch My Fair Lady together, or do you have a favorite classic band that you share like The Beatles? Choosing a song from your childhood can create a long-lasting and satisfying memory for you both on the day of your wedding.
Take Careful Consideration of the Lyrics
All too often we have had been asked to play romantic songs for Groom/Mother and Father/Daughter dances. Keep in mind the subject matter and lyrical content of your song choice so that it remains appropriate for your special dance.
Consider a Classic Choice
Typically there is a reason why a song becomes a standard, and sometimes the most obvious answer is the correct one! Choosing a classic song can be a great way to start or continue a tradition.
- “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong
- “Isn’t She Lovely?” by Stevie Wonder
- “My Girl” by The Temptations
- “Butterfly Kisses” by Bob Carlisle
- “The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra
- “Wind Beneath My Wings” by Bette Midler
- “Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion
- “This One’s For My Dad” by Nancy Sinatra
Something More Unique
Want to showcase your personal taste with your special dance? Check out some of these options for something less common.
- “93 Million Miles” Jason Mraz
- “Over the Rainbow/Wonderful World” medley by Israel “Iz” KaʻanoʻI Kamakawiwoʻole
- “Father and Daughter” by Paul Simon
- “You’ll Be in My Heart” by Phil Collins
- “In My Life” by The Beatles
- “You Are My Sunshine” by Johnny Cash
- “Sweet Child O’Mine” by Sheryl Crow
- “You Are the Sunshine of My Life” by Stevie Wonder
- “You Raise Me Up” by Josh Groban
- “How Sweet it Is (to be loved by you)” by James Taylor
- “Daughters” by John Mayer
- “To Sir With Love” by Lulu
- “Landslide” by Fleetwood Mac
- “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” by Elton John
- “Lullaby” by Billy Joel
- “Wildflowers” by Tom Petty
Country-Flavored
Some of the most emotional lyrics come from country and blue-grass genres. If you want to represent your roots, check out the selections below.
- “I Hope You Dance” by Leann Womack
- “Ready Set Don’t Go” by Billy Ray Cyrus and Miley Cyrus
- “Daddy Dance With Me” by Crystal Keith
- “I Loved Her First” by Heartland
- “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts
- “My Little Girl” by Tim McGraw
There are many special songs to suit your special dance, and we hope these suggestions help you narrow it down. Remember to make it special to you and your parent, and to create a memorable soundtrack to the most important night of your life!