17 Best Songs to Play After First Dance: 17 Must-Haves

Hello, fellow music aficionados and DJs! Here we are, ready to dive into the divine world of melodies, rhythms, and unforgettable moments.

This time, we’ll navigate through the enchanting universe of those special tracks—those you play after the first dance, that truly capture the essence of joy, romance, and celebration.

We’ve curated a list of the top 17 tracks that are guaranteed to make hearts flutter and feet tap.

Whether you’re crafting a playlist for your own event, or spinning tracks as a DJ, this mix of classic and contemporary songs is sure to leave an everlasting impact.

Let’s get started!

Here are the best songs to play after first dance that you can check out:

List Of Best Songs to Play After First Dance

Best songs to play after first dance in a list format:

1. “Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran

From the album “X” released in 2014 under the Asylum and Atlantic Records, this beautiful love song has captured many hearts with its melodic charm and touching lyrics. It’s the perfect slow-dance follow-up song.

2. “All of Me” by John Legend

Featured on the album “Love in the Future” (2013) and released by GOOD Music and Columbia Records. Legend’s soulful voice singing this romantic ballad creates a heartfelt atmosphere that is hard to resist.

3. “Marry You” by Bruno Mars

A track from “Doo-Wops & Hooligans” (2010), released under Elektra Records. This upbeat, joyful song will surely get everyone dancing and celebrating love.

4. “At Last” by Etta James

This classic from the album “At Last!” (1960), released by Argo Records, is a timeless tune that fills the room with pure romance and nostalgia.

5. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

From the album “United” (1967) and released by Tamla Records. This song’s uplifting spirit makes it an excellent choice to keep the positive vibes flowing.

6. “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake

Released under RCA Records, this contagious dance track from the “Trolls” soundtrack (2016) is a sure-fire way to get the party started.

7. “The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra

Sinatra’s timeless charm shines through this song from the album “Sinatra Sings Days of Wine and Roses, Moon River, and Other Academy Award Winners” (1964) under Reprise Records. It’s the perfect classic follow-up to the first dance.

8. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey

A classic rock anthem from the album “Escape” (1981), released by Columbia Records. This track ensures a sing-along moment that will lift everyone’s spirits.

9. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” by Whitney Houston

Featured on the album “Whitney” (1987), released by Arista Records. This iconic pop song is a surefire choice for maintaining the dancefloor energy.

10. “Ho Hey” by The Lumineers

From the band’s self-titled debut album (2012), released by Dualtone Records. This indie folk tune sets a more relaxed, yet cheerful tone, great for easing into the dance portion of the night.

11. “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z

This energetic track from Beyoncé’s debut album “Dangerously in Love” (2003), released by Columbia Records, will undoubtedly get your guests moving and shaking.

12. “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars

From the album “Uptown Special” (2014), released under Sony Music Entertainment. Its funky beat will ensure everyone hits the dance floor.

13. “I Got You (I Feel Good)” by James Brown

Featured on the album “I Got You (I Feel Good)” (1966) under King Records. This classic song’s positive energy is infectious and will keep the party vibes going.

14. “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk The Moon

From the album “Talking Is Hard” (2014) under RCA Records. This dance-rock track brings an irresistible call to the dancefloor.

15. “Dancing Queen” by ABBA

A timeless hit from the album “Arrival” (1976), released by Polar Music. This disco classic will definitely add a fun twist to your dance floor.

16. “Happy” by Pharrell Williams

Featured on the “Despicable Me 2” soundtrack (2013), released by Back Lot Music and Columbia Records. Its upbeat rhythm and happy lyrics make it the perfect dance number for all ages.

17. “Shape of You” by Ed Sheeran

Another hit from Sheeran, this time from the album “÷” (2017), released by Asylum and Atlantic Records. This catchy tune brings a modern dance vibe to keep everyone grooving.

Fun Facts: Top Tracks to Play After First Dance

“Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran

Ed Sheeran learned to dance for the music video of “Thinking Out Loud.” He had no previous dance experience and trained for five hours a day over the course of three weeks to nail the choreography!

“All of Me” by John Legend

John Legend dedicated “All of Me” to his wife, Chrissy Teigen. The song’s music video even includes footage from their actual wedding, making the song that much more special.

“Marry You” by Bruno Mars

“Marry You” has become a popular choice for flash mob marriage proposals around the world. There’s even a viral video of a man proposing to his girlfriend in a choreographed car dance set to this song!

“At Last” by Etta James

“Etta James’s “At Last” wasn’t initially a hit when it was first released. It only gained popularity and recognition years later and is now one of the most covered songs in pop music history.

“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell

Despite being one of Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell’s biggest hits, “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” never reached #1 on the Billboard charts. It peaked at #19, proving that chart positions don’t always reflect a song’s lasting impact!

“Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey

“Don’t Stop Believin'” holds the title of the best-selling digital track from the 20th century, with over 7 million downloads in the US alone. It was popularized again by the TV show “Glee.”

“Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z

“Crazy in Love” marked the first major collaboration between Beyoncé and Jay-Z, now one of music’s most powerful couples. Beyoncé has said the song helped her gain confidence as a solo artist.

“Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars

“Uptown Funk” took a whopping seven months to create, according to Mark Ronson. The process was so stressful that it caused Ronson to faint during one of the recording sessions.

“I Got You (I Feel Good)” by James Brown

James Brown reportedly wrote “I Got You (I Feel Good)” in just an hour. The song has since been used in over 80 films, demonstrating its enduring appeal.

“Dancing Queen” by ABBA

“Dancing Queen” was the only ABBA song to hit #1 in the United States. It remains one of their most enduring hits and is a staple of dance parties around the world.

“Happy” by Pharrell Williams

“Happy” was originally written for CeeLo Green, but the record label decided to hold onto the track. The song ended up being a massive hit for Pharrell, topping the charts in over 20 countries.

As we conclude this melodious journey, remember that the best songs are those that connect, resonate, and set the mood for unforgettable moments.

Be it the timeless classics or the infectious modern beats, each track on this list can turn any event into a cherished memory.

Stay tuned, stay groovy, and keep the music playing!

Thanks for reading.

TBone