A list of 20 of the best modern first dance songs, all released in 2023 & 2024.
Same Old, Same Old
A unique first dance song can be a little tricky to come by if you’re not a muso. And when looking for inspiration, we often find many suggested ‘modern song lists’ posted online include, well.. not so modern songs, or artists for that matter!
We appreciate John Legend and Bruno Mars are very popular, and that first dance songs this side of the 21st century may include ‘All Of You’ or ‘Marry You’. However, these aren’t exactly newly released songs.
With this in mind, below are 20 modern first dance songs that were released in the past year. Hopefully you’ll find something truly unique to set your first dance apart from the rest.
Glue Song by beabadoobee
Lyrics: “I always knew I’d find you, to be here is worth the wait, too/I’m not lying when I say, ‘I’ve been stuck by the glue onto you'”
As a modern twist for your first dance, “Glue Song” by beabadoobee offers a fresh and romantic take on modern love. Its uplifting melody and touching words are ideal for couples celebrating their union with a song as unique as their love story.
The lyrics beautifully capture the joy of finding ‘the one’ and the deep connection that feels like you’ve permanently bonded. Glue Song’s cruisy drum beat and delicate string arrangements make it the perfect song to sway along to for a tender first dance.
Liar by Paramore
Lyrics: “Love is not an easy thing to admit/But I’m not ashamed of it/Love is not a weakening/If you feel it rushing in/Don’t be ashamed of it”
For a first dance that captures the strength and honesty of love, “Liar” by Paramore is an exceptional choice. This song’s powerful lyrics about embracing love in its truest form resonate with couples who have found strength and pride in their love.
As discussed in their episode of Song Exploder, the song came about when Hayley Williams realised the feelings she was beginning to have for her bandmate, Taylor York. It’s an anthem for those who understand that love is a force to be celebrated, not hidden, making your first dance a moment of genuine emotional connection.
Now and Then by The Beatles
Lyrics: “I know it’s true/It’s all because of you/And if I make it through/It’s all because of you/And now and then/If we must start again/Well, we will know for sure/That I will love you”
For a first dance filled with nostalgia and deep affection, consider The Beatles’ latest and last-ever song release, “Now and Then.”
This song beautifully captures the essence of a love that grows and evolves over time. Its lyrics, speaking of unwavering commitment and a journey shared, are ideal for couples who have built a robust and enduring relationship and are ready to celebrate their next chapter together.
Defender by Flyte
Lyrics: “Your daily dose/Is changing gears/If I could drive, I’d take us home from here/I’d be your defender”
“Defender” by Flyte offers a beautiful narrative for your first dance, ideal for couples who see themselves as each other’s protectors and supporters. The song’s tender lyrics about being there for one another, no matter the circumstances, resonate with the deep commitment and care inherent in a loving partnership.
Its gentle melody creates a serene and loving atmosphere, perfect for a dance that celebrates the promise to always be each other’s defenders.
Water by Tyla
Lyrics: “Can you snatch my soul from me?/I don’t wanna wait, come take it/Take me where I ain’t been before (Before)/Can you blow my mind?/Set off my whole body (Whole body)”
For a first dance that’s charged with passion and intensity, “Water” by Tyla is a standout choice. This song’s lyrics, exploring the depths of desire and connection, are perfect for couples with deep bonds.
Its hypnotic rhythm and sensual lyrics will add an element of profound intensity to your first dance, reflecting the powerful emotions at the heart of your relationship.
Heaven by Niall Horan
Lyrics: “I’m having revelations/You dance across the floor/Beyond infatuation/How I obsessively adore you/That’s what I do/I believe, I believe/I could die in your kiss/No, it doesn’t get, doesn’t get/Better than this”
For your first dance, let “Heaven” by Niall Horan set a romantic and dreamy tone. With its lyrics about profound adoration and the bliss of being in love, this song is perfect for couples who feel like they’ve found their own slice of heaven in each other.
Its enchanting melody and Horan’s heartfelt delivery will create a magical moment, capturing the essence of your deep connection and the joy of your celebration.
Desire by Calvin Harris ft. Sam Smith
Lyrics: “Promise you won’t wake me/Before you leave/Leave me in a daydream/Just you and me/Stay with me forever/At least for the night (The night)/Even when you leave me, lead me to the light”
For a first dance that blends dreamy romance with an infectious beat, “Desire” by Calvin Harris featuring Sam Smith is worth considering.
The song’s blend of gentle lyrics about wanting to stay in a blissful moment with an upbeat rhythm creates a perfect backdrop for couples who love to find themselves lost in each other’s presence.
Think I’m In Love With You by Chris Stapleton
Lyrics: “Ooh, you are the power over me/You are the truth that I believe/You are my life, you are my world/You are the air I’m breathin’, girl/You are the light I want to see/You’re all of everythin’ to me”
“Think I’m in Love with You” by Chris Stapleton is a beautiful selection for a first dance that celebrates deep and transformative love. The song’s heartfelt lyrics about seeing one’s partner as their entire world resonates with couples who have found their soulmate.
Its soulful blend of Stapleton’s distinctive voice and a tender melody creates a deeply romantic atmosphere, ideal for a dance honouring your love’s all-encompassing nature.
Devotion by Arlo Parks
Lyrics: “I think in a way, I’ve always loved you/I used to hate it when people said that shit/But I mean it/You make me feel free/Ripping it out of me like you feel”
For a first dance that captures the essence of a love that has grown over time, “Devotion” by Arlo Parks is a poignant choice. With its honest lyrics about the journey to acknowledging love, this song is ideal for couples whose love story includes a journey of self-discovery and acceptance.
Its smooth, tender intro and Parks’ emotive vocals create a deeply touching moment, but also kicks into a fuzzed-out guitar riff that’s ideal for couples wanting an alternative’ first-dance turned mosh-pit for guests to get stuck into.
adore u by Fred again..
Lyrics: “Adore you/Ooh, I adore you/When you pray, you’re answered/You walk through life just like a dancer/If I had my way, every day would be your parade”
Set a vibrant and loving tone for your first dance with “Adore U” by Fred again… This track radiates joy and admiration and is perfect for couples who light up each other’s lives.
Its lyrics paint a picture of life as a celebration, ideal for those who view every day with their partner as a joyous occasion, making your first dance a lively and affectionate affair.
This Will Be Our Year by The Teskey Brothers
Lyrics: “The way you held me up when I was down/And I won’t forget the way you said/’Darling I love you’/You gave me faith to go on/Now we’re there and we’ve only just begun/This will be our year/Took a long time to come”
For a first dance that celebrates the journey and triumphs of your relationship, “This Will Be Our Year” by The Teskey Brothers is an inspired choice. The song’s lyrics, reflecting on support, love, and the shared journey, resonate deeply with couples who have overcome challenges together.
Josh’s sincere lyrics and smokey vocal delivery hit, driving home this celebration of unity, unconditional love and the exciting years to come.
It’s Euphoric by Georgia
Lyrics: “Down in Regent’s Park/It’s where you stole my heart/I wasn’t sayin’ much/Was on the tip of my tongue/You don’t have to say nothing/When you start to feel something”
For a first dance that captures the magic of a love that speaks beyond words, “It’s Euphoric” by Georgia is both lively and sentimental. This song’s playful melody and lyrics about the effortless connection of love are ideal for couples who’ve found love in the simplest of moments.
The song’s upbeat rhythm and reflective lyrics create a joyful and romantic atmosphere, celebrating those euphoric moments of love that are felt rather than said.
You & I by Rita Ora
Lyrics: “Now we’re singing all the words to Sweet Caroline/And you say to me, I love the way you look tonight/You know I, I never got it right/Until I found you and I”
Choose “You & I” by Rita Ora for the first dance that embodies the joy and fulfilment of finding true love. The lyrics, expressing a newfound perfection in love, resonate with the joy of finding someone who makes everything feel right.
The song’s melody and Ora’s expressive voice create a lively and affectionate atmosphere, perfect for a dance that celebrates the happiness and contentment found in each other’s company.
Kissing In Swimming Pools by Holly Humberstone
Lyrics: “When it rains, I wanna share your umbrella/Do you think that we’re made/To last in the coldest of weather/I wanna be the one that gets to fix you, honey/I wanna sleep to your sound”
Consider “Kissing in Swimming Pools” by Holly Humberstone for your first dance as a reflection of a deep and caring partnership. Ideal for couples who view their relationship as a haven in any storm, its delicate melody and Humberstone’s evocative voice will create a uniquely intimate and magical moment
The gentle melody and Humberstone’s innocent vocals create a tender and romantic atmosphere, ideal for a dance that celebrates the depth of your connection.
Until I Found You by Stephen Sanchez ft. Em Beilhold
Lyrics: “I would never fall in love again until I found her/I said, ‘I would never fall unless it’s you I fall into’/I was lost within the darkness, but then I found her/I found you”
For a first dance that speaks to a journey of love rediscovered, “Until I Found You” by Stephen Sanchez is a heartfelt choice. This song’s narrative of finding love when least expected is ideal for couples whose relationship has been a beacon in the darkness.
Drawing inspiration from the 1930s, 40s and 50s African-American groups, Sanchez’s delivery creates a profoundly emotional recording, ideal for a dance that celebrates finding your true love after a long search.
Who We Love by Sam Smith, Ed Sheeran
Lyrics: “It’s not wrong/To want the world for someone/It’s not a feeling you can run from/’Cause we love who we love/So let go/You don’t know better than your heart knows/Whether they’re here or long gone/We love who we love”
For a first dance that celebrates love’s unapologetic and enduring nature, “Who We Love” by Sam Smith & Ed Sheeran is a profound choice. This song is perfect for couples who have discovered the strength and beauty in loving freely and honestly.
Its moving melody and Smith’s soulful voice create a deeply emotional moment, making your first dance a powerful testament to the love you have chosen, celebrated, and cherished.
River by Miley Cyrus
Lyrics: “I feel you everywhere/Your face is all in my hair (hair)/Covered up in your sweat/It turns me on that you care, baby/Your love, it flows just like a river”
Embark on your marital journey with “River” by Miley Cyrus, a song that symbolises the vibrant energy of your union. Perfect for couples who share a fiery and profound bond, this song’s dynamic tempo and vivid lyrics paint a picture of a relationship filled with passion and depth.
Dance to the beat of a song that captures the essence of a love that rejuvenates and excites, just like the powerful flow of a river.
Magical by Ed Sheeran
Lyrics: “Silence is filled as time stands still/Our thoughts in the open room/Lay here until the sun distils/It’s light for the perfect view/Now I’m with you/Is this how it feels to be in love?/This is magical, this is magical”
Let your first dance be a journey into the heart of love with Ed Sheeran’s “Magical.” Ideal for those who feel an ethereal connection with their partner, this song’s serene melody captures the essence of a love that transcends the ordinary.
Its lyrics, encapsulating the beauty of quiet, intimate moments shared, are ideal for couples who see their relationship as a series of magical, timeless experiences.
Trustfall by P!nk
Lyrics: “I’m not going without you/(And you’re not going alone)/I fell so far ’til I found you/(But you know what you know, when you know)/So, I’m not going without you/(And you’re not going alone)/’Cause you know, when you know”
Choose “Trustfall” by P!nk for a first dance that’s as empowering as it is romantic. Resonating with themes of loyalty and the certainty of true love, you won’t find a modern first dance song better suited for a contemporary couple.
As you dance, let each step reflect the assurance and strength found in each other’s presence, symbolising a love that’s as daring as it is dependable.
Those Eyes by New West
Lyrics: “‘Cause all of the small things that you do/Are what remind me why I fell for you/And when we’re apart, and I’m missing you/I close my eyes and all I see is you/And the small things you do”
“Those Eyes” by New West is a beautifully fitting choice for your first dance, especially if you cherish your relationship’s little moments and gestures. The song’s lyrics about the small, everyday things that keep love strong are perfect for couples who find deep meaning in the simple acts of love and companionship.
Its melody is gentle and heartwarming, setting a tender and intimate tone for your dance, celebrating the nuances and subtleties that make your love unique and enduring.