The Tunes You Don't Want to Hear on the Dance Floor
Music plays a big role in your wedding day, from the first dance to the late-night reception. It's a balancing act of tunes you enjoy and pleasing your guests of mixed ages. Despite the fact that every song choice won't impress Grandma, some music is certainly inappropriate for the occasion. Nevertheless, say “I do not” to these songs at your wedding.
1. “Every Breath You Take” by The Police
If you don't listen carefully, you may not realize that this love song has a "stage 5 clinger" status. The lyrics could've been written by a stalker and come across as obsessive, which isn't a good influence on relationships. To be honest, we don't know why or how this one ever became so popular at weddings!
2. “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor
This song might be fun to dance to, but its lyrics only ruin the romance. If you listen carefully, the song is about living independently after a breakup––don't let it survive on your playlist.
3. "D-I-V-O-R-C-E" by Tammy Wynette
We don't have to spell it out for you: the reason this song is highly inappropriate for a wedding is pretty self-explanatory. It may be your day, and you can obviously play what you want, but maybe let's replace this one with "L-O-V-E" by Nat "King" Cole.
4. "I Hate Everything About You" by Three Days Grace
Well, if this were true, you probably wouldn't be getting married. It's not the best song to motivate you on your next chapter together. Hate doesn't belong on the dance floor!
5. "You Give Love a Bad Name" by Bon Jovi
Bon Jovi is a classic wedding choice, but that doesn't mean every song is a hit. Though this one's a banger, it's no good for a celebration of love. Poor Bon Jovi sings about his toxic relationship full of betrayal and anger. If this loveless song ends up on the wedding playlist, you're to blame.
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6. "Tainted Love" by Soft Cell
You've got to run away from this song—it will taint your opinion about love. The lyrics narrate a loving relationship that was torn apart by corruption and manipulation. Frankly, we don't think that's the vibe you're going for.
7. "Before He Cheats" by Carrie Underwood
Don't seek revenge on us for convincing you to take this song off your playlist. It's a fabulous ballad for a night of karaoke, but it won't set your marriage off on the right foot. (Then again, who are we to deny a classic song for hammered guests?)
8. "50 Ways to Leave Your Lover" by Paul Simon
Do we need to say more? Even though it's clever and catchy, the title is reason enough not to play this tune at the reception. Sound like a plan, Stan?
9. "Suspicious Minds" by Elvis Presley
A song about distrust and jealousy isn't really something to celebrate. Don't worry, we know that the King of Rock 'n' Roll belongs on any playlist, but he has other love songs you can request from the DJ to please the crowd.
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10. "Unfaithful" by Rihanna
The chorus already brands Rihanna as a relationship-ruiner, so it's probably not the best pick for your wedding. “Bad Girl RiRi” wrote this sad song about being an unfaithful partner, and it's a bad choice for the dance floor.
11. "I Still Haven't Found What I'm Looking For" by U2
A song about dissatisfaction with life is not the best choice after saying your 'I dos' at the altar. We're pretty sure U2 isn't short of albums to find the songs you're looking for.
12. "Used to Love Her" by Guns N' Roses
We used to love this song but we have to take it off your playlist. Let's not be reminded of love's past and instead let's focus on your relationship prospering as you grow old together.
13. "Yesterday" by The Beatles
Leave this song behind––it's a downer. Do you want to listen to a song about regret and struggles on your big day? Save the crying for happy tears.
14. "All My Exes Live in Texas" by George Strait
Well, that's awkward! We don't recommend bringing up your exes in the speeches or on the dance floor. Unless you're throwing a hoedown, maybe skip this one.
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15. "Love Stinks" by The J. Geils Band
Alright, we'll be honest: this one can be a pretty funny ironic choice...but it still doesn't set the tone for a romantic evening. This song doesn't speak highly of love and shouldn't be played during love's largest event.
16. "Gold Digger" by Kanye West feat. Jamie Foxx
We all like to drop to this beat, but it's not exactly wedding material. Gold digging is a derogatory term, and the language used throughout the song is inappropriate. They literally shout, "We want prenup!" Need we say more?
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17. "Another One Bites the Dust" by Queen
This is a groovy song, but its morbid lyrics make it unsettling for a couple entering a new era. The night should be about celebration and living happily ever after, not bopping to a song with these kinds of lyrics.
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18. "We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together" by Taylor Swift
For obvious reasons, we suggest you never ever play this song at your wedding. In general, break-up songs aren't recommended. Instead, tune into "Lover," a song Swift wrote about her joy of being in a lifelong commitment.
19. "Goodbye My Lover" by James Blunt
You can say “goodbye” to your guests as they leave the dance floor from this buzz-killer. This song is the Debbie Downer you don’t want at your party, even as a slow song option.
20. “Celebration” by Kool & the Gang
This song made the list for different reasons than the rest. Despite its name, lyrics, and popularity at weddings, can we start a new trend that removes this song from the list? It's cheesy and overplayed at every celebration––c'mon!
