Music is a universal language that speaks to our deepest emotions, and it’s difficult to imagine a moving wedding without it. But while it may be clear which song you want to be played during your ceremony, choosing songs for your reception can be a little more challenging. After all, everyone has different tastes, and you may be anxious to offer a selection of tracks that are both crowd-pleasing and true to your vision – so you can enjoy your special day while being serenaded with your favorite music. If you’re looking for some inspiration on the kinds of songs to choose for your big day, here are three musical genres that are sure to get everyone on the dance floor.
Country
Country music has been a staple of American culture for decades, and in recent years has seen an explosive rise in popularity, capturing the attention of audiences across the globe. If you’ve never given country music much thought until now, you are seriously missing out on this cultural phenomenon – and some deeply emotive, heartwarming songs. Love is a common theme for many artists, but the gentle, authentic backing of acoustic guitars against deep, husky voices in the country genre complement the most simple yet touching lyrics beautifully.
From the classic likes of ‘Take Me Home, Country Roads’ by John Denver to modern, touching love songs such as ‘Beautiful Crazy’ by Luke Combs, these moving tracks are sure to fill the air with smooth, tender vibes. Especially if you’re hosting a wedding with a rustic or sustainable theme, the raw, heartfelt melodies of country music will complement your aesthetic perfectly.
Jazz
Jazz music is soulful, improvisational and moving. Professional musicians in this niche are able to adapt their notes and tempo to either subdue or liven-up a crowd effortlessly, matching both the flow and atmosphere of your day. Whether you opt to use jazz as instrumental backing music for your proceedings or wedding breakfast, or kick off the party with a swinging ensemble of saxophones, trumpets and pianos, you really can’t go wrong.
There is a classy, refined edge to jazz music that makes it suitable for a variety of venues, from lavish hotel settings to outdoor scenic gardens. Be sure to ask plenty of questions to any prospective band, and ensure they have a large enough area at your venue to accommodate their swanky instruments.
Latin
You don’t have to be enjoying a destination wedding to bring the vibrant energy of latin music to your day. With pulsating beats that make it impossible to sit still and passionate vocals, you’re sure to have your whole guest list on the dance floor if you pop some latin tracks into your wedding playlist.
As such a diverse genre, there are many different sub-types of latin music – so you’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing your favourite tracks. For the chance to salsa, tango, and throw down your signature moves, opt to include popular hits such as ‘Despacito’by Luis Fonsi and ‘Vivir Mi Vida’ by Marc Anthony alongside lesser known, personal favourites.
Dance the night away
Whichever genre you choose for your special day, it should be one that you and your partner both genuinely enjoy listening and dancing to. Remember, any good wedding DJ or band should have a selection of tracks prepared that most people will have heard of, and will be able to adjust their setlist in line with the response they receive from you and your guests. With your genre chosen, all that’s left to do is to enjoy your wedding day and dance the night away in style.
