Step back in time and immerse yourself in the magic of the ’80s, an era that produced some of the most iconic and memorable music in history. Here are 20 of the most enchanting ’80s wedding songs that will transport you and your guests to a time when love, laughter, and neon lights filled the air.
From shimmering disco balls to power ballads that tug at the heartstrings, ’80s wedding songs have a unique charm that transcends generations and continues to captivate couples on their special day.
As you embark on your journey of love and commitment, let the nostalgic tunes of this unforgettable decade serve as the soundtrack for your very own fairy tale.
Contents
- 1. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston
- 2. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey
- 3. “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” by Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes
- 4. “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper
- 5. “Endless Love” by Lionel Richie & Diana Ross
- 6. “Like a Virgin” by Madonna
- 7. “Every Breath You Take” by The Police
- 8. “Africa” by Toto
- 9. “I Want to Know What Love Is” by Foreigner
- 10. “I Just Called to Say I Love You” by Stevie Wonder
- 11. “Take My Breath Away” by Berlin
- 12. “Glory of Love” by Peter Cetera
- 13. “Eternal Flame” by The Bangles
- 14. “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” by Starship
- 15. “Keep on Loving You” by REO Speedwagon
- 16. “Don’t You Want Me” by The Human League
- 17. “True” by Spandau Ballet
- 18. “Celebration” by Kool & the Gang
- 19. “Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green (1982 re-release)
- 20. “Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler
- Final Thoughts
1. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston
Picture a dazzling disco ball shimmering above as you twirl and whirl to Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me).” This infectious pop anthem, characterized by its unstoppable energy and contagious chorus, is the quintessential ’80s dance-floor hit.
As Houston’s powerhouse vocals reach for the stars, the joy of love and the promise of a good time fill the room.
2. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey
When the unmistakable opening piano notes of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin'” echo throughout the venue, you know it’s time to belt out the lyrics to this beloved classic.
This rock anthem, imbued with hope and determination, serves as a fitting reminder that love conquers all, even the most challenging of obstacles. Let your love story unfold as you sing your hearts out together.
3. “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” by Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes
The time-honored duet of “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” by Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes sweeps couples off their feet and transports them to the iconic dance scene from “Dirty Dancing.”
This unforgettable ballad is a testament to love’s ability to create unforgettable memories. Feel the chemistry between you and your partner as you sway and spin to this enchanting tune.
4. “Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper
As the tender strains of Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time” wash over the room, the delicate vulnerability of the song’s lyrics tugs at the heartstrings.
This heartfelt ballad, draped in gentle synthesizers and Lauper’s soulful voice, serves as a touching reminder of the commitment and devotion that love requires, making it an ideal selection for the first dance.
5. “Endless Love” by Lionel Richie & Diana Ross
With a powerful duet between Lionel Richie & Diana Ross, “Endless Love” is a sweeping declaration of eternal devotion.
The harmonious blend of their voices carries listeners away on a wave of emotion, making it the perfect song for couples to pledge their love to each other in front of their family and friends.
6. “Like a Virgin” by Madonna
Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” brings a flirtatious energy to the dance floor, daring couples to let loose and enjoy the moment.
The pulsating beat and catchy melody create an atmosphere where love is celebrated with unbridled enthusiasm. Embrace the playfulness of this iconic ’80s hit as you dance the night away.
7. “Every Breath You Take” by The Police
The Police’s “Every Breath You Take” weaves an air of intrigue and intensity around the room with its haunting melody and hypnotic rhythm. This captivating classic exudes a magnetic attraction that draws couples closer, encouraging them to cherish every moment spent in each other’s presence.
8. “Africa” by Toto
Toto’s “Africa” transports wedding guests to a world of adventure and romance. The song’s exotic instrumentation and soaring chorus create a captivating soundscape that invites couples to escape into their own love story.
9. “I Want to Know What Love Is” by Foreigner
In “I Want to Know What Love Is,” Foreigner pours out their heart and soul, creating a powerful ballad that resonates with longing and vulnerability. This moving anthem strikes a chord with anyone who has ever sought a deeper connection, making it an unforgettable addition to your wedding playlist.
10. “I Just Called to Say I Love You” by Stevie Wonder
Stevie Wonder’s “I Just Called to Say I Love You” is a timeless expression of affection, perfect for setting a romantic mood. The lilting melody and Wonder’s velvety voice remind us that love is something to be celebrated every day.
11. “Take My Breath Away” by Berlin
As the sultry tones of Berlin’s “Take My Breath Away” fill the air, the song’s intoxicating melody and evocative lyrics create an atmosphere of passion and desire. This seductive ballad lends an air of mystery to your special day, leaving your guests spellbound.
12. “Glory of Love” by Peter Cetera
Peter Cetera’s “Glory of Love” is an inspiring ode to the power of love, with its stirring melody and triumphant chorus. This uplifting anthem serves as a reminder that love has the strength to conquer all challenges, making it an ideal accompaniment for a newlywed couple’s journey into the future.
As you dance to this heartwarming song, the shared strength of your bond becomes a beacon for all to see.
13. “Eternal Flame” by The Bangles
The ethereal harmonies of The Bangles’ “Eternal Flame” create a mesmerizing atmosphere that celebrates the power of a love that never dies. The delicate, enchanting melody and heartfelt lyrics evoke a sense of wonder, as if each note is a gentle caress, igniting the eternal flame of your love story.
14. “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” by Starship
Starship’s “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us Now” is a triumphant declaration of love’s unstoppable force. This energetic, feel-good anthem is a celebration of life’s most extraordinary moments, inviting couples to embark on the adventure of a lifetime, hand in hand and hearts intertwined.
15. “Keep on Loving You” by REO Speedwagon
REO Speedwagon’s “Keep on Loving You” is a tender expression of unwavering commitment, as its soft piano notes and emotive lyrics echo the sentiments of undying love. This heartfelt ballad adds a touch of sincerity to your wedding day, as you promise to stand by each other through thick and thin.
16. “Don’t You Want Me” by The Human League
The infectious beat and catchy chorus of The Human League’s “Don’t You Want Me” transform the dance floor into a vibrant celebration of love and desire.
This synth-pop classic, characterized by its blend of futuristic sounds and timeless emotions, adds a touch of nostalgia to your wedding playlist, evoking memories of the ’80s.
17. “True” by Spandau Ballet
“True” by Spandau Ballet is a smooth and sophisticated ode to love that transcends time. The sultry saxophone and soulful vocals create a dreamy atmosphere, inviting couples to lose themselves in each other’s arms as they dance to this enchanting ballad.
18. “Celebration” by Kool & the Gang
With its irresistible beat and joyful energy, “Celebration” by Kool & the Gang invites everyone to join in on the jubilation of your special day. This upbeat, funky classic is the perfect soundtrack for a wedding reception that’s filled with laughter, dancing, and boundless love.
19. “Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green (1982 re-release)
The 1982 re-release of Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together” brings a sense of timeless romance to the wedding festivities. The smooth, velvety vocals and soulful melody create an atmosphere of warmth and tenderness, encouraging couples to cherish the love that binds them together.
20. “Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler
Bonnie Tyler’s “Total Eclipse of the Heart” wraps the room in an aura of passion and intensity, with its dramatic crescendos and poignant lyrics.
This powerful ballad serves as a reminder that even in the darkest moments, love can shine through and illuminate the path forward. Let this iconic ’80s song be the backdrop for your unforgettable wedding memories.
Final Thoughts
As we reminisce on the captivating melodies and timeless lyrics of these classic ’80s wedding songs, it’s clear that the decade’s unique musical landscape has left an indelible mark on the hearts of couples around the world.
With their irresistible charm and universal themes of love and commitment, these tunes have transcended time and continue to evoke an air of nostalgia and romance that few other eras can rival.