Romantic Love Songs: 250 Incredible Tracks for Your Wedding Day

Your special day is all about romance and celebrating your future lives together as a married couple.

As important as it is to have an amazing venue, and a beautiful dress, not to mention delicious food, no wedding is complete without the right music. And that’s where we come in. If you’re looking for the best romantic love songs for your big day, our guide of the top 250 wedding songs will help you craft a swoon-worthy playlist.

No matter what your wedding style or personal taste in music, our list is sure to have a ton of songs that are perfect for your celebration. So read on to discover — or rediscover — all of the best ballads for your wedding.

The 50 Most Romantic Love Songs of All Time

To help you in your search for the perfect love songs for your big day, let’s take a look at our top 50 love song recommendations — 25 modern and 25 classic.

Top 25 modern romantic love songs

1. “All of Me” — by John Legend

Dedicated to his wife Chrissy Teigen, this emotional, piano-based ballad was Legend’s first No. 1 single in the U.S. The 2013 hit is all about finding a love that is both passionate and unconditional.

2. “Thinking Out Loud” — by Ed Sheeran

This chart-topping 2014 track may not be Sheeran’s first love song, but it is one of his best. The song, which is all about ageless love that deepens and grows over the years, is the perfect wedding song but is equally amazing for a romantic date night with your sweetheart.

3. “You Are the Best Thing” — by Ray LaMontagne

This folk song may not have been a Top 10 hit, but it is the perfect song to dedicate to your future wife or girlfriend. LaMontagne, in his husky, gravelly voice, sings about his lady being the best thing that ever happened to him. If you want your lady to know she’s the best thing in your life, this is the song to choose.

4. “A Thousand Years” — by Christina Perri

Written for The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn soundtrack, this 2011 Top 40 hit is all about eternal love. A great choice for Twilight fans or any couple who believes true love is timeless, this is a beautiful song to dance to.

5. “Perfect” — by Ed Sheeran

One of the most popular love ballads of 2017 — and the best-selling song of 2018 — Sheeran wrote “Perfect” for the woman who is now his wife. This No. 1 hit boasts heartfelt and poignant lyrics and vocals making it the ideal choice for your first dance together as husband and wife.

6. “Make You Feel My Love” — by Adele

Bob Dylan’s Make You Feel My Love was given new life when British singer Adele decided to use it on her 2008 album “19.” The cover may have been slow to catch on, but it has since become a popular love song thanks, no doubt, to her powerful vocals and elegant piano work.

7. “Now and Forever” — by Richard Marx

A Top 10 hit for Marx, this acoustic love song was inspired by his relationship with his wife. Featured in the 1994 film “The Getaway,” the song is beautiful in its simplicity and, together with his husky voice, is a charming choice to dedicate to the woman you love.

8. “Halo” — by Beyoncé

If you’re looking for a song with a lot of passion, this one has it in spades. This powerful love ballad from Beyoncé may have been a hit when it came out in 2008, but it remains a popular wedding reception song more than a decade later.

9. “Love Me Like You Do” — by Ellie Goulding

This Grammy-nominated Top 10 hit from the “50 Shades of Grey” soundtrack is a good choice for those who prefer mid-tempo songs. Despite not being a typical love ballad, the melody, lyrics and vocals are equal parts sweet, romantic and seductive.

10. “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” — by Bryan Adams

Canadian rocker Bryan Adams not only won a Grammy for this romantic power ballad, but it was featured on the 1991 soundtrack for Prince of Thieves. The lyrics, which speak of a love worth dying for, may be a bit over the top, but can you ever have too much romance at a wedding? This is definitely a great candidate for a first dance.

11. “Amazed” — by Lonestar

Known as Lonestar’s longest-lasting No. 1 single and biggest hit ever, this award-winning country ballad was hugely popular in 1999. Boasting a listener-friendly, pop-country sound, the lyrics express a man’s devotion to the woman he loves. If you want a country song for your first dance, this is a great choice.

12. “You’re Still The One” — by Shania Twain

Shania Twain songs were hugely popular in the late 1990s, and this 1997 Grammy-winning track was no exception. The Canadian pop-country star’s signature vocals combine well with romantic lyrics for a truly wedding-worthy song. Whether you’re a country or pop fan, you’re sure to love dancing to this.

13. “I Won’t Give Up On Us” — by Jason Mraz

Acoustic guitar melodies and lyrics that talk of love and devotion made this romantic ballad from 2012 Mraz’s second top 10 single. This song is a great choice if you’re looking for a track to dedicate to your bride.

14. “Everything” — by Michael Bublé

Smooth vocals and slick lyrics make this 2007 Grammy-nominated song perfect for weddings. Inspired by then-girlfriend Emily Blunt, the Canadian jazz singer pours out his heart in this mid-tempo song that’s perfect for dancing.

15. “Because You Loved Me” — by Céline Dion

Céline Dion is definitely the queen of the romantic ballad, and this worldwide No. 1 hit is one of her best. The sweetly romantic lyrics focus on thanking the one you love, making this a great pick for your first dance as husband and wife.

16. “Love Will Keep Us Alive” — by The Eagles

Nominated for a Grammy in 1994, this is one of The Eagles’ best love songs. Bassist Timothy B. Schmit’s signature high tenor gives this sweet song a mixture of vulnerability and restrained passion, making it a great choice for your processional or first dance.

17. “Drowning” — by Backstreet Boys

A Top 40 hit, this melodic ballad from the popular boy band is full of longing and passion for that one perfect woman who makes their lives complete. This is a phenomenal song for a groom to dedicate to his bride but it can also be used as a romantic first dance song.

18. “I Need You” — by LeAnn Rimes

This 2001 ballad, which spent 25 weeks on Billboard’s Hot 100 list, has everything you could possibly want from a love song: romantic lyrics and LeAnn Rimes’ powerful yet heartfelt vocals. This beautiful song will work equally well for your ceremony or reception.

19. “You Sang to Me” — by Marc Anthony

Known for his passionate lyrics and vocals, Marc Anthony enjoyed a lot of success with this gorgeous love song. Nominated for a Grammy, the track hit No. 2 on the Hot 100 in 2000, yet it still sounds as fresh today as it did more than 20 years ago. If you’re looking for the perfect love song for your big day, this could be it.

20. “Marry Me” — by Train

If the title alone isn’t enough to convince you this is a great wedding song, the acoustic guitar melody, heartfelt lyrics and lead singer Pat Monahan’s high tenor just might. A hit on adult contemporary charts in 2010, it is a natural choice for a first dance song.

21. “Then” — by Brad Paisley

This two-times platinum single is a great choice for couples looking for a country song to dance to. Paisley’s baritone vocals and lyrics that talk about how love grows and deepens over time, make this the perfect country love ballad.

22. “I Do (Cherish You)” — by Mark Wills

This song definitely runs a close second to Brad Paisley’s “Then” when it comes to perfect country love songs. “I Do (Cherish You),” a top 10 favorite in 1998, is a piano-driven ballad that features Wills’ tenor vocals and lyrics about having life-long love and devotion for one special person.

23. “Truly Madly Deeply” — by Savage Garden

Romantic lyrics, a pleasing melody and soft vocals have long made this love song from Australian pop duo Savage Garden a staple at wedding receptions. This chart topping tune from 1997 is the perfect song for your first dance as a married couple.

24. “No One” — by Alicia Keys

Key’s passionate performance on this song about finding and loving “the one” propelled this R&B tune to the top of the charts in 2007, where it stayed for five consecutive weeks after its release. The heartfelt lyrics and effortless vocals are sure to resonate with many soon-to-be married couples.

25. “XO” — by John Mayer

This cover of Beyoncé’s R&B hit is a stripped down, acoustic version with Mayer’s signature guitar work and intimate vocals. This Top 20 hit for Mayer is sweet in its simplicity and is perfect for a first — or last — dance at your reception.

Top 25 classic romantic love songs

1. “At Last” — by Etta James

Considered one of the most iconic wedding songs of all time, “At Last” became the signature song of this jazz legend. This 1960 R&B-jazz hit features James’ passionate contralto vocals and romantic lyrics about finally finding love. What more could you want in a wedding song?

2. “Can’t Help Falling in Love” — by Elvis Presley

This ballad from the King of Rock ‘n Roll is regarded as one of the greatest songs of all time by Rolling Stone. It has been covered by numerous artists since becoming a huge hit for Presley in 1961, but the original remains the most famous.

3. “Unchained Melody” — by The Righteous Brothers

It may feature slightly melancholy undertones, yet this beautiful love song recorded by the Righteous Brothers in 1965, remains a popular choice at weddings and is considered one of the best love songs of all time. “Unchained Melody” enjoyed another huge spike in popularity in 1990 when it was used for the soundtrack of Ghost, the iconic movie starring Patrick Swayze and Demi Moore.

4. “God Only Knows” — by The Beach Boys

Praised by critics as one of the greatest songs ever written, this sophisticated love ballad features the beautiful lead vocals of Carl Wilson. Like all Beach Boys songs, this 1966 hit also features the group’s signature harmonies for a unique sound that has withstood the test of time.

5. “My Girl” — by The Temptations

Still famous today, “My Girl” has become the Temptations’ signature song. This No. 1 hit from 1965 is still played regularly on classic radio stations, thanks to its sweet lyrics and great harmonies.

6. “Let’s Stay Together” — by Al Green

This No. 1 Billboard hit from Al Green also made Rolling Stone’s list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. If you like classic R&B, this love ballad is perfect for your special day.

7. “Stand By Me” — by Ben E. King

This song has been covered by a variety of artists but none of the covers quite hold up to King’s top 10 hit from 1961. The inspiring lyrics talk about a loving relationship giving one the strength to face any battle — definitely something all newly married couples should aspire to.

8. “Unforgettable” — by Nat King Cole ft. Natalie Cole

Recorded by Nat King Cole in 1951, this Top 20 hit was remade 40 years later to create a duet with Cole’s daughter, Natalie. The duet became a Top 10 hit in 1991 and went on to win three Grammy Awards. No matter which version you choose, the song is a lovely choice for any wedding.

9. “This Magic Moment” — by Ben E. King and The Drifters

Melodic music, romantic lyrics and great vocals put this song on Billboard’s top 100 chart for 11 consecutive weeks in 1960. Still popular on classic radio, this track is a great choice for a grand entrance to your reception.

10. “When a Man Loves a Woman” — by Percy Sledge

“When a Man Loves a Woman” was a mega hit for Percy Sledge in 1966, hitting No. 1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B singles charts. While Bette Midler and Michael Bolton both covered the song successfully, Sledge’s rendition is a classic.

11. “You Are So Beautiful” — by Joe Cocker

This passionate, heartfelt song remains the most successful solo song of Cocker’s career. His success with this hit song is at least partly due to the musical abilities of Beach Boy Dennis Wilson, who heavily influenced the song. Both Cocker and Wilson sang this song, but Cocker’s raspy vocal continues to be the favorite and is the perfect love song for classic rock fans.

12. “You Send Me” — by Sam Cooke

“You Send Me” hit No. 1 on both Billboard’s R&B and top 100 charts in 1958 and has since been named one of the 500 most important rock ’n roll recordings by the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Known for its smooth vocals and sweet lyrics, this remains Cooke’s most famous song.

13. “I’ll Be There” — by The Jackson 5

This touching ballad from 1970 features the vocals of an 11-year-old Michael Jackson. Sung with a passion beyond most youngsters, Jackson’s lead vocal on this now iconic song is at least partly responsible for it being inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 2011.

14. “It Had to Be You” — by Ella Fitzgerald

This rendition of “It Had to Be You” from the First Lady of Song has become a jazz standard thanks to Fitzgerald’s melodic voice combined with romantic lyrics. Also sung by Frank Sinatra, this version is still a favorite and is perfect for a romantic first dance.

15. “Come Fly With Me” — by Frank Sinatra

If you like a big band sound, then this 1958 single from Frank Sinatra is a natural choice. The song, which features his signature smooth vocals and sophisticated instrumentation, is still one of the best choices for couples who want to waltz.

16. “Something” — by The Beatles

Chosen as one of Rolling Stone’s 500 greatest songs of all time, this song was written by George Harrison to his then-wife Pattie Boyd. This 1969 ballad is sincerely simple in its lyrics and vocals and combines well with Harrison’s great guitar work for a lovely first dance choice.

17. “The Way You Look Tonight” — by Tony Bennett

Fred Astaire’s 1930s song has been covered by a wide variety of artists from Frank Sinatra to Billie Holiday to Rod Stewart to Michael Bublé, yet Tony Bennett’s 1958 version remains a popular choice. Featured in 1997’s My Best Friend’s Wedding, it hit No. 3 on Billboard’s easy listening chart. Bennet also recorded a beautiful duet with country singer Faith Hill in 2011, giving you two great versions to choose from.

18. “Crazy Love” — by Van Morrison

“Crazy Love” has been covered by a number of artists since being released by Van Morrison in 1970, yet the original version of this classic rock song remains the best. As good as Morrison’s version is, Michael Bublé’s jazzier take on this song is also a good choice for someone who wants a smoother sound.

19. “L-O-V-E” — by Nat King Cole

One of Nat King Cole’s most famous songs, this jazzy track has become a standard covered by a variety of artists. While no one can match his sophisticated and smooth vocals, Joss Stone’s version of the song in 2007 would work for those who prefer an edgier sound.

20. “We’ve Only Just Begun” — by The Carpenters

Named one of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time by Rolling Stone, this 1970 hit song from the brother-sister duo features Karen Carpenter’s effortlessly beautiful contralto voice and lovely lyrics. Like all Carpenters songs, this romantic ballad is melodic and an enjoyable listen.

21. “Wonderful World” — by Sam Cooke

This R&B hit from the 1960s enjoyed a surge in popularity more than four decades later when it was used as the title soundtrack for the 2005 film Hitch. Like all of Cooke’s songs, “Wonderful World” features his smooth vocals and melodic music for an enjoyable, easy-on-the-ear sound.

22. “I’ll Never Love This Way Again” — by Dionne Warwick

A top 10 hit for Warwick, her cover of “I’ll Never Love This Way Again” won her the 1980 Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. Despite being first recorded by Richard Kerr and covered by singer Cherrill Rae Yates and actress Cheryl Ladd, her version is the best-known and most popular.

23. “You Light Up My Life” — by Debby Boone

Boone’s cover of this song from the 1977 film of the same title, took this track to the No. 1 position on the Billboard Hot 100 chart for 10 consecutive weeks. The daughter of singer Pat Boone, Debby Boone’s vocals are powerful and effortless without any hint of over-singing that can sometimes accompany such an emotional song. If you’re looking for a classic song that’s full of passion, this is the one for you.

24. “You Needed Me” — by Anne Murray

This song about unconditional love became a No. 1 hit for Canadian singer Anne Murray in 1978. Not only did she pick up a Grammy Award for her performance, the track revitalized her declining career. Murray’s warm, contralto coupled with sentimental lyrics make this a great song for a first dance.

25. “Wonderful Tonight” — by Eric Clapton

Clapton wrote this Top 20 hit from 1977 about then-wife Pattie Boyd, describing his love and admiration for her on a night out. The song is one of Clapton’s best ballads and features his signature guitar work. Perfect for a first dance, this song could also be used as your final dance of the night.

Other Beautiful Romantic Love and Wedding Songs to Consider

While these songs didn’t make our top 50 list of best modern and classic romantic ballads, each one of these love songs is perfect for a wedding.

No matter what type of music you love, our guide has a song for you, with 25 amazing love songs from every genre. Broken down by style and listed in alphabetical order, we’ve made it easy to find all of your favorite romantic wedding songs for your special day.