20 Oldies Songs for Wedding

While modern wedding songs can be great, there is something timeless and classic about oldies songs that can create a romantic and nostalgic atmosphere. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best oldies songs for weddings that will bring a touch of nostalgia and charm to your special day. 

From classic love ballads to upbeat dance hits, there’s sure to be something on this list that will make your heart skip a beat and your guests tap their feet. So, let’s dive into the world of oldies and see how these timeless tunes can make your wedding day even more magical.

1. “Stand By Me” by Ben E. King

“Stand By Me” by Ben E. King is a timeless classic that has been a popular choice for wedding ceremonies and receptions for decades. The soulful melody and poignant lyrics speak to the enduring power of love and the importance of standing by your partner through thick and thin.

2. “When a Man Loves a Woman” by Percy Sledge

Few songs capture the essence of true love like “When a Man Loves a Woman” by Percy Sledge. With its soulful vocals and stirring arrangement, this classic tune is a perfect choice for a wedding ceremony or reception.

The song’s powerful message of unconditional love and devotion is sure to tug at the heartstrings of everyone in attendance, making it a sentimental and memorable addition to any wedding playlist.

3. “To Be Loved” by Jackie Wilson

“To Be Loved” by Jackie Wilson is a charming and upbeat love song that is sure to get everyone on the dance floor. With its infectious melody and catchy chorus, this classic tune is the perfect way to celebrate the joy and happiness of marriage. 

4. “Love Me Tender” by Elvis Presley

This classic tune’s tender lyrics and gentle melody create a romantic and intimate atmosphere that is perfect for a wedding ceremony or reception. Presley’s iconic vocals and the song’s simple yet elegant arrangement make it a timeless classic that is sure to stand the test of time.

5. “Respect” by Aretha Franklin

Franklin’s soulful vocals and the song’s memorable horn section create an energetic and fun atmosphere that is perfect for dancing and celebrating with loved ones. Whether played during the reception or as the couple’s entrance song, “Respect” is a classic that will get everyone on their feet.

6. “That’s Amore” by Dean Martin

“That’s Amore” by Dean Martin is a classic song that exudes charm and romance. The upbeat tempo and playful lyrics create a joyful atmosphere that is perfect for a wedding reception.

Martin’s smooth vocals and the song’s memorable accordion riff transport listeners to the charming streets of Italy, making it an ideal choice for couples who love all things Italian or simply want to add a touch of whimsy to their wedding celebration.

7. “Build Me Up Buttercup” by The Foundations

This next song is a timeless classic that never fails to get people on the dance floor. With its infectious melody and catchy chorus, this upbeat tune is perfect for a wedding reception or after-party.

The song’s playful lyrics and upbeat rhythm make it an instant mood-booster that is sure to keep guests dancing all night long.

8. “I Only Have Eyes for You” by The Flamingos

“I Only Have Eyes for You” by The Flamingos is a romantic and dreamy ballad that is perfect for a first dance or slow dance at a wedding reception.

The song’s haunting melody and lush harmonies create a sensual and intimate atmosphere that is perfect for couples who want to express their love through dance. 

9. “Come Fly with Me” by Frank Sinatra

The song’s jazzy arrangement and Sinatra’s smooth vocals create a sophisticated and stylish atmosphere that is perfect for a wedding reception or cocktail hour. With its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, “Come Fly with Me” is a fun and playful tune that is sure to put a smile on everyone’s face.

10. “Cupid” by Sam Cooke

“Cupid” by Sam Cooke is a romantic and nostalgic love song that is perfect for a wedding reception or ceremony. The song’s gentle melody and Cooke’s soulful vocals create a warm and intimate atmosphere that is perfect for expressing love and devotion.

With its timeless lyrics and memorable chorus, “Cupid” is a classic tune that is sure to become a favorite among guests of all ages.

11. “Jump, Jive and Wail” by Louis Prima

If you’re looking for a song that will get everyone on the dance floor at your wedding, “Jump, Jive and Wail” is the perfect choice. With its upbeat tempo and catchy swing rhythms, this Louis Prima classic will have your guests tapping their feet and grooving to the beat in no time.

12. “Save the Last Dance for Me” by The Drifters

“Save the Last Dance for Me” by The Drifters is a timeless classic that’s perfect for any wedding celebration. The song’s romantic lyrics and soulful melody make it a popular choice for the first dance or as a slow dance later in the night.

The smooth harmonies of The Drifters add an extra layer of romance and nostalgia to the already sentimental lyrics. 

13. “Moon River” by Henry Mancini

The song’s dreamy melody and sentimental lyrics make it a popular choice for weddings, particularly for the first dance. The iconic opening melody on the guitar and the lush orchestration throughout the song create a sense of warmth and intimacy that is perfect for a wedding setting.

“Moon River” is a timeless classic that will add a touch of elegance and romance to your special day.

14. “Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys

“Good Vibrations” by The Beach Boys is a fun and upbeat song that’s perfect for getting everyone on the dance floor at your wedding. The song’s infectious harmonies, upbeat rhythm, and catchy lyrics will have your guests singing and dancing along in no time.

The layered instrumentation and Brian Wilson’s iconic production make for a sound that’s both nostalgic and ahead of its time, creating a unique atmosphere that’s perfect for a celebration like a wedding.

15. “Happy Together” by The Turtles

This next song is a classic pop song that’s perfect for celebrating love and togetherness at a wedding. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and optimistic lyrics make it a popular choice for weddings, particularly as a song for the dance floor.

The cheerful harmonies and jaunty rhythm create an atmosphere of happiness and celebration, making “Happy Together” a perfect choice for a joyous occasion like a wedding.

16. “I’m a Believer” by The Monkees

If you’re looking for a wedding song that will make your guests want to get up and dance, look no further than “I’m a Believer” by The Monkees. This classic tune is upbeat and fun, with catchy lyrics that will have everyone singing along.

Whether you’re looking for a first dance song or a song to play during the reception, “I’m a Believer” is sure to get the party started.

17. “Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison

“Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison is a timeless classic that’s perfect for weddings. This romantic song has a mellow, laid-back feel that’s perfect for slow dancing with your partner.

With its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, “Brown Eyed Girl” is the kind of song that will stick with you long after your wedding day.

18. “I Got You Babe” by Sonny & Cher

This timeless classic has a catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics that will make your heart skip a beat. Whether you’re looking for a first dance song or a song to play during the reception, “I Got You Babe” is sure to make your wedding day unforgettable.

19. “Sugar, Sugar” by The Archies

 “Sugar, Sugar” by The Archies is a fun and upbeat song that’s perfect for weddings. With its catchy melody and playful lyrics, this song is sure to get everyone up and dancing.

Whether you’re looking for a first dance song or a song to play during the reception, “Sugar, Sugar” is the kind of song that will put a smile on everyone’s face.

20. “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” by Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons

This is a classic love song that’s perfect for weddings. This romantic tune has a soulful, timeless quality that will make your heart flutter.

Whether you’re looking for a first dance song or a song to play during the reception, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” is the kind of song that will make your wedding day unforgettable.

Final Thoughts

As you plan your wedding day, choosing the right music is crucial in creating the perfect atmosphere. Oldies songs have stood the test of time and continue to be popular choices for couples who want to add a touch of nostalgia and romance to their special day.

Whether you’re a fan of classic love ballads or upbeat dance hits, there’s an oldies song out there that can perfectly capture the essence of your love story.