Planning a wedding comes with countless decisions – and music is one of the most important. From the heartfelt walk down the aisle to the high-energy last dance, music shapes each moment of your big day.
And there’s nothing quite like a wedding live band to bring that music to life. If you’re an engaged couple dreaming up the perfect playlist or a wedding planner on the hunt for fresh ideas, consider this your cheat sheet of song suggestions for every key moment.
Of course, every wedding is unique, and the best song choices are the ones that reflect your love story and personal style. The following suggestions span beloved classics and modern hits that couples love hearing (and we love playing).
Romantic ceremony tunes, dance-floor anthems, and everything in between – we’ll help you spark ideas for each part of the day. Read on to discover our top song picks and how a live band can make each moment truly unforgettable.
Wedding Live Band Ceremony Songs
Your ceremony sets the tone for the day, so choose a song that feels truly personal. A classic or modern ballad played live can make your entrance even more emotional. Here are some beautiful ceremony song ideas to give your guests all the goosebumps:
- “Can’t Help Falling in Love” – Elvis Presley (acoustic version for a romantic, timeless vibe)
- “Yellow” – Coldplay (stripped-back acoustic arrangement, sweet and sentimental)
- “A Thousand Years” – Christina Perri (popular modern classic for an emotional aisle walk)
- “Here Comes the Sun” – The Beatles (bright, acoustic and perfect for a hopeful processional or recessional)
- “All You Need Is Love” – The Beatles (uplifting choice, great as a celebratory recessional song with the band kicking in joyfully)
Tips: If you have a specific song that means a lot to you as a couple, talk to your band about performing it live – even if it’s an unusual request, a good band will adapt. Also, consider having instrumental music (guitar, piano, or a string duo) for parts of the ceremony like the processional, signing of the register, or unity candle lighting.
Cocktail Hour Songs with a Wedding Live Band
Congratulations, you’re officially married! Time for guests to mingle, nibble, and enjoy the vibes. Light, upbeat live music sets the mood. Think jazz trio or acoustic set. Here are some perfect song picks for cocktails and canapés:
- “Put Your Records On” – Corinne Bailey Rae (easy-breezy and soulful, a great warm-up mood setter)
- “Sunday Morning” – Maroon 5 (laid-back pop that everyone knows, ideal for sunny afternoon cocktails)
- “L-O-V-E” – Nat King Cole (classic jazz favorite that adds a touch of class and romance)
- “Better Together” – Jack Johnson (acoustic, beachy vibes – especially fitting for outdoor or coastal weddings)
- “Fly Me to the Moon” – Frank Sinatra (or Michael Bublé’s version – a timeless jazz standard that keeps things elegant)
Notes: Your wedding live band can switch to a smaller setup, like a duo or trio, for relaxed cocktail music. It keeps the vibe lively but intimate. This is a great time to add your personal touch with genres you love, such as soft reggae, indie folk, or smooth R&B. Keep the volume low and the mood joyful as you ease into the reception.
Wedding Live Band Grand Entrance Songs
The first dance is a special moment for newlyweds, and the song should reflect your relationship. Go for something tender, playful, or personal. A wedding live band can make a ballad sound even more magical. If you don’t have an “our song,” here are a few beloved first dance picks to inspire you:
“Tenerife Sea” – Ed Sheeran (a romantic, lesser-known Ed Sheeran gem that’s perfect for a dreamy first dance)
“You Are the Reason” – Calum Scott (earnest and emotional – builds up beautifully when done live)
“At Last” – Etta James (the ultimate classic first dance song – elegant, timeless, and soulful)
“All of Me” – John Legend (modern R&B ballad that’s incredibly popular for its heartfelt lyrics)
“Perfect” – Ed Sheeran (lives up to its name for many couples – especially lovely with a live acoustic guitar and duet vocals)
Your wedding live band can adjust the tempo or create a custom version to match your dance style. If you’ve planned a routine, let them know so they can follow your cues or play a mashup. Feeling shy? Choose a shorter song or have guests join partway through to ease the pressure. This moment is all about you two, so enjoy it.
Father-Daughter Dance Songs with a Wedding Live Band
If you’re including a father-daughter dance or one with a parent or mentor, choose a song that reflects your bond. Sentimental and heartfelt tunes work best, and they often bring out a few happy tears. Here are some favourite picks for this special moment:
“My Girl” – The Temptations (an upbeat Motown classic; Dad might even sing along to this one!)
“I Loved Her First” – Heartland (country tear-jerker directly speaking from a father’s perspective – keep tissues handy)
“Isn’t She Lovely” – Stevie Wonder (joyful and sweet; often edited to a shorter version for dancing, and great with live brass if available)
“Butterfly Kisses” – Bob Carlisle (a 90s classic that’s sentimental and often used for this special moment)
“My Little Girl” – Tim McGraw (another country favorite that perfectly encapsulates a father’s love and pride)
Some dads and daughters keep this dance short and sweet, while others plan a fun surprise like an uptempo switch or medley. Whatever you choose, let your wedding live band know the plan. They can emcee the moment and handle smooth transitions, such as shifting from a slow verse to a faster chorus
Wedding Live Band Mother-Son Dance Songs
Similarly, the mother-son dance is a tender moment to honor the bond between the groom and his mother (or mother figure). The song choice can be emotional or joyful, and it often reflects gratitude and love. Here are a few wonderful mother-son dance song options:
“My Wish” – Rascal Flatts (country ballad with lyrics that express a parent’s wishes for their child’s happiness)
“A Song for Mama” – Boyz II Men (90s R&B classic that is literally a love letter to mothers – expect not a dry eye in the house)
“What a Wonderful World” – Louis Armstrong (timeless and sweet, a gentle waltz that’s simple to dance to and recognizable to all generations)
“You’ll Be in My Heart” – Phil Collins (uplifting and warm, famously from Tarzan – speaks to always being there for each other)
“Forever Young” – Rod Stewart (a heartfelt mid-tempo tune with a beautiful message from parent to child)
When choosing a parent dance song, think about the tempo and length. A shorter track or fading out early works well if either of you feels shy. The goal is to share a genuine moment without it feeling too long or formal.
If you’d rather not be in the spotlight, your wedding live band can invite other parent-child pairs to join in, turning it into a sweet family moment on the dance floor.
Dance Floor Anthems from Your Wedding Live Band
Now for the part everyone looks forward to: opening up the dance floor! After the formal dances and dinner, it’s time to let loose and party with your guests. Kick things off with one or two high-energy, crowd-favourite songs.
A great wedding live band will read the room and start with a hit that fills the floor. Here are some go-to party starters and reception dance songs.
“Shut Up and Dance” – WALK THE MOON (an upbeat modern classic that literally tells you to dance – always fills the floor)
“Uptown Funk” – Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars (funk-pop groove with an irresistible beat; your guests will dance, and maybe even sing that “hot damn” line)
“September” – Earth, Wind & Fire (funky 70s hit that every generation knows – instant mood booster with those horn lines)
“I Wanna Dance with Somebody” – Whitney Houston (80s pop at its finest; perfect for getting the ladies (and gents) singing along at the top of their lungs)
“Can’t Stop the Feeling!” – Justin Timberlake (sunny, feel-good pop that’s great for all ages and gets even the non-dancers toe-tapping)
These are just a few ideas. There are plenty of songs that can light up your reception. Mixing eras and genres keeps everyone happy. A wedding live band will read the room, adjust the vibe, and play everything from oldies to Top 40.
Got must-plays or a no-go list? Let your band know ahead of time. By the end of the night, you’ll have grandparents dancing with your uni mates, and that’s what a great party is all about.
Wedding Live Band Last Dance & Send-Off Songs
All good things must end, but not without one final song to wrap up the night. A last dance or send-off track is the perfect way to leave a lasting memory. Go out with a high-energy anthem or a slow, romantic moment with loved ones. Here are a few ideas for a memorable finale:
“Don’t Stop Believin’” – Journey (the ultimate sing-along rock anthem; your guests will form a circle, belt out the lyrics, and end the night with sheer joy)
“Mr. Brightside” – The Killers (a modern rock classic that has become a huge end-of-night favorite, especially if you want an energetic, jump-around ending)
“(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” – Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes (from Dirty Dancing – a nostalgic, joyful finale that sums up the feeling of the day and maybe inspires a goofy reenactment of the lift!)
For a more intimate vibe, try “At Last” for a slow dance or “Closing Time” as a fun way to end the night. Have your band announce it as the final song so guests know to make it count. It’s also the perfect time for a sparkler exit or big send-off.
Why Choose a Wedding Live Band to Soundtrack Your Day?
Music brings real magic to every part of your wedding day, especially when it’s performed live by passionate musicians. The right songs, played at just the right moments, make your celebration feel uniquely you. And the best part is, you don’t have to plan it all alone.
Rhythm Road Band is here to help with everything, from song ideas to unforgettable live performances. We tailor every set to match your style, your story, and your venue. As a leading wedding live band in Brisbane and Southeast Queensland, we know how to bring any vision to life.
Explore our wedding packages, browse our song list, and read testimonials from happy couples. When you’re ready, get in touch. No matter what songs you choose, hearing them live on your big day is pure magic.