Singaporebrides | Essentials
May 2012
The Wedding Playlist
There was a time when Europe’s The Final Countdown was played at every single wedding dinner. I cringed each time I heard it and could never understand why that song was used. Seriously, the final countdown? For a wedding? What exactly are we counting down to?
Thankfully our tastes have matured, and now many couples are taking charge of their own wedding music. Think about what kind of couple you are. Do you like old classics? Are you quirky and fun? Or do you prefer what’s new and current? Here’s a list of songs, categorised for your listening pleasure to get the ball rolling. Enjoy!
OLDIES BUT GOODIES
Hawaiian Wedding Song by Elvis Presley
Listen here.
This one’s bound to get a glassy eye or two in the crowd. It’s got a nice slow tempo so you can really take your time and enjoy your first dance to this song, gazing lovingly into each others’ eyes.
The Way You Look Tonight by Tony Bennett
Watch here.
Remember the movie My Best Friend’s Wedding? This was the opening dance song at the couple (played by Cameron Diaz and Dermot Mulroney)’s wedding. “Some day, when I’m awfully low, and the world is cold, I will feel a glow just thinking of you, and the way you look tonight”. What a powerful love it must be to evoke that kind of emotion just with a thought of someone you love! Tony Bennett and Faith Hill did a lovely duet version of this song, but if you’d like a slightly jazzier and more upbeat version, Michael Bublé has done a nice remix.
We Belong Together by Ritchie Valens
Listen here.
Remember Ritchie Valens of the La Bamba fame? He also did a very simple and sweet number (as most love songs from his time were) that was also featured in the movie La Bamba. What a beautiful song for childhood sweethearts. Just check out the lyrics: “You’re mine, and we belong together, yes we belong together, for eternity”.
Let There be Love by Nat King Cole
Listen here.
Laura Fygi and Michael Bublé may have both paid tribute to Nat King Cole by doing cover versions and brought this song to its height of fame, but the original still oozes with feeling. Perfect for a classy couple at a classy reception.
FUN AND QUIRKY
I Got You Babe by Sonny and Cher
Watch here.
Despite its non conventional tune, this song’s got a really nice set of lyrics. If you’re a young couple with little possessions to your name and all odds are against you but you’re determined to prove everyone wrong and that love can conquer all, this one’s for you.
All You Need is Love by the Beatles
Watch here.
In love, love, love and all you want is for everyone to know about it? Remember the wedding scene in Love Actually? Sure you do. “All you need is love, love is all you need.”
FOR THE SENTIMENTAL SOUL
Love of My Life by Darla Day
Listen here.
Written by the Christian singer for her own wedding day, this song is a wholesome and sincere representation of a pure and simple love. Its tempo is perfect for your grand ballroom entrance as well as the magic moment when you gaze into each others’ eyes for a dance.
When I Fall in Love by Julie London
Listen here.
Out of the many different versions of this song to choose from, Julie London’s rendition is both relaxing and magical. With this song playing, you’ll feel that the world has stopped just for you and your loved one to enjoy your special moment. Also, you’re probably going to see a few older couples, maybe your own parents, smile at each other and link fingers.
Can’t Help Falling in Love by Richard Marx
Listen here.
This lesser known version of this classic love song is gentle and soothing. You’ll have ladies dabbing the corners of their eyes if you dance to this song. Many a groom has been known to serenade this song to their new wives as a surprise.
FROM MORE RECENT TIMES
I Do by Colbie Caillat
Watch here.
What a chirpy song! Can’t you just imagine a beach wedding, skipping down the aisle after being pronounced man as wife, with your short wedding gown dancing in the wind? Your guests are so going to be tapping their feet to the beat. “I never wanted to be anyone’s other half… that was the only way I knew until I met you”
Love of a Lifetime by Firehouse
Watch here.
A love song, much less a wedding song from a heavy metal band? This early 1990s hit is surprisingly romantic. If the both of you have bonded over 90s rock bands or are fans of Firehouse, what can be more apt than walking down the aisle to this song?
Lullabyby Bond
Listen here.
Like Pachelbel’s Canon in D but wish there was another version with a slightly more modern twist? Bond’s managed to transform an otherwise serious and solemn classic into a surprisingly fun and catchy number that’s bound to add some spring to your step.
Did you manage to pick out your songs from the list, or at least gotten going? Great, now it’s time to think about background music that will play during the reception while your guests wait! But don’t stress yourself too much about that – just go with simple lounge music and keep the volume down, and all will be well. Don’t forget to check with your venue on the necessary licences required for these songs! And do check out our other wedding song recommendations here. Good luck!
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