25 Gender-Neutral First Dance Songs Perfect for LGBTQ+ Weddings

article originally published on Bride.com


The music world sure is full of lovey-dovey ballads, but picking one that exemplifies your relationship for your first dance is a certain type of challenge—but this lengthy list of gender-neutral first dance songs might just simplify the process.
Celebrating your love with a first dance is a classic part of any wedding. You’ve likely imagined the embrace, the candlelit room, and how you’ll waltz—or break dance—with your new spouse to kick off the reception. The only thing missing from that day dream? The perfect first dance song.
You want the lyrics to make sense with who you are and how your relationship has played out. If only we could all be songwriters! Then, there is the fact that an overwhelming number of tunes are about a boy and a girl, and that might not fit you or your marriage. Luckily, there are plenty of love songs that don’t denote specific gender pronouns and musicians that praise “love is love.” For all couples, it’s about finding music that feels personal and expresses their tastes.

The Best (and Worst) Best Man Speech EverNeed inspo? We checked in with some pros—planner and event designer Jove Meyer, DJ Brian B, and Nate Nelson of LeForce Entertainment—to share their top gender-neutral first dance songs. From Etta James to Beyoncé, here are 25 love songs perfect for same-sex and LGBTQ+ weddings.
25 Perfect Gender-Neutral First Dance Songs
“At Last” by Etta James
“Love on Top” by Beyonce
“Stay with Me” by Sam Smith
“A Perfect Day” by Holley Maher
"You Are the Best Thing" by Ray LaMontagne
"Love Me Like You Do" by Ellie Goulding
"I Am Yours"Jason Mraz
"I Choose You" by Sara Bareilles
"Latch" by Sam Smith
"Truly Madly Deeply" by Savage Garden
"Halo" by Beyonce
"It Had to Be You" by Billie Holiday
"How Long Will I Love You"by Ellie Goulding
"Make You Feel My Love" by Adele
"Love Someone" by Jason Mraz
"Thinking Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran
"Boom Clap" by Lennon & Maisy
"Let's Stay Together" by Al Green
"By Your Side" by Sade
"Unchained Melody" by The Righteous Brothers
“Stand By Me” by Ben E. King
“I Like Me Better” by Lauv
“Clearly” by Grace VanderWaal
“So Into You” by Childish Gambino
“Butterflies” by Kacey Musgraves