Weddings are a special occasion where two people come together to celebrate their love and commitment to one another.
Music is an important part of any wedding ceremony or reception, and choosing the right songs can help set the right mood for the party.
We’ve curated a list of 35 of the best oldies songs for weddings that will add a touch of nostalgia and romance to your special day.
These songs have stood the test of time and are loved by generations of music lovers, making them the perfect soundtrack for your wedding day.
1. “At Last” by Etta James
The lyrics of “At Last” describe the feeling of finally finding the one you’ve been searching for and the joy and happiness that come with it.
James’ powerful vocals, combined with the lush orchestration and background singers, create a soaring, emotional performance that has resonated with audiences for over six decades.
“At Last” has been covered by many other artists over the years, but Etta James’ version remains the most famous and beloved.
It has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials and is often played at weddings and other romantic occasions.
2. “Across The Universe” by The Beatles
“Across The Universe” was first released on the World Wildlife Fund’s charity album No One’s Gonna Change Our World in December 1969 and later included on the album Let It Be in 1970.
The song’s lyrics are heavily influenced by Lennon’s interest in transcendental meditation, and the song reflects his belief in the power of the universe to bring people together.
The recording of the song also includes various sound effects, such as bird calls and the sound of a church organ.
The song’s message of universal love and interconnectedness continues to resonate with audiences to this day.
See also: Best Beatles Songs
3. “Blue Skies” by Josephine Baker
“Blue Skies” was written by Irving Berlin in 1926 and has since become a jazz standard.
Josephine Baker’s version of “Blue Skies,” which was recorded in 1931, is known for her powerful and distinctive voice.
“Blue Skies” is a popular choice for weddings due to its upbeat and optimistic lyrics.
The song speaks to the idea of starting a new life together with the person you love and the promise of a happy future.
The upbeat melody and catchy chorus make it a perfect song for dancing and celebrating with loved ones.
4. “Baby Love” by The Supremes
“Baby Love” by The Supremes is a classic oldies song that would be perfect for weddings.
The song was released in 1964 and quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Its catchy melody and sweet lyrics about a love that is “stronger than any mountain, taller than any tree” make it a great choice for weddings, particularly for the first dance or father-daughter dance moments.
5. “Can’t Help Falling In Love” by Elvis Presley
“Can’t Help Falling In Love” is a classic love ballad originally recorded by Elvis Presley in 1961 for the soundtrack of his movie “Blue Hawaii.”
The song’s lyrics express a deep and abiding love that cannot be denied or resisted, with lines like “Take my hand, take my whole life too, for I can’t help falling in love with you.”
“Can’t Help Falling In Love” has been used in various films, TV shows, weddings, and commercials, and it remains a beloved classic of the pop music canon.
It has been covered by artists such as UB40, Andrea Bocelli, and Haley Reinhart, among many others.
6. “Your Song” by Elton John
“Your Song” is a romantic ballad with simple and heartfelt lyrics about the love the narrator feels for their partner.
The heartfelt lyrics and beautiful melody make it a perfect choice for couples who want a romantic and sentimental song to mark their special day.
The song’s message of love and devotion is timeless and universal, making it a great fit for couples of all ages and backgrounds.
It has a classic and elegant feel that is perfect for traditional weddings but can also be adapted to fit more modern or alternative wedding styles.
7. “You Made Me Love You” by Patsy Cline
“You Made Me Love You” is a classic song originally written in 1913, but it was popularized by many artists, including Patsy Cline.
Cline’s version was released in 1962 as a single, and it was later included on her album Sentimentally Yours.
The song is a ballad that expresses the feelings of someone who has fallen deeply in love with another person.
The lyrics speak of how the narrator never wanted to fall in love again but was unable to resist the charms of their beloved.
8. “What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong
Louis Armstrong’s “What a Wonderful World” is a classic oldies song that has remained popular over the decades.
The lyrics of “What a Wonderful World” celebrate the beauty of life and the world around us.
The song’s message of hope, love, and optimism makes it an ideal choice for a wedding, which is a celebration of two people starting a new life together.
The song’s positive lyrics, timeless appeal, and romantic feel make it an ideal choice for couples who want to add a touch of nostalgia and sentimentality to their special day.
9. “They Can’t Take That Away From Me” by Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong
“They Can’t Take That Away From Me” is a classic song originally written by George and Ira Gershwin for the 1937 film “Shall We Dance?”
The song has been covered by many artists over the years, but one of the most famous versions is by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong.
The Fitzgerald and Armstrong version of “They Can’t Take That Away From Me” was released in 1956 as part of their collaborative album Ella and Louis Again.
The song features Armstrong’s distinctive trumpet playing and Fitzgerald’s smooth vocals.
The lyrics of the song describe a love that endures despite the passage of time and changing circumstances.
10. “The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra
“The Way You Look Tonight” is a popular song originally written by Jerome Kern and Dorothy Fields in 1936 for the film “Swing Time.”
Since then, many artists have recorded the song and it has become a jazz standard, but Frank Sinatra’s version is arguably the most well-known.
His version of the song is known for its smooth and romantic delivery, which perfectly captures the song’s lyrics about the beauty of a loved one.
The song’s lyrics describe the way the speaker feels when they see their loved one, focusing on their physical appearance and how it makes them feel.
11. “That’s Amore” by Dean Martin
“That’s Amore” is a classic Italian-American love song originally recorded in 1953.
The song has become a timeless classic and is often played at weddings and other romantic events.
The song’s lyrics describe the joy and happiness of falling in love, using vivid imagery and playful language to capture the excitement of romance.
The song’s playful tone and upbeat tempo make it a perfect choice for weddings, where couples are celebrating their love and the joy of being together.
12. “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” by Frankie Valli
The lyrics of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” describe the overwhelming feelings of love and attraction that the speaker feels toward his partner.
It has a classic feel that still speaks to people today, and its catchy tune and memorable lyrics make it a great song to sing along to at any party.
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” is a classic love song that captures the joy and excitement of falling in love.
It has become a beloved favorite and continues to be a popular choice for weddings and other romantic events.
13. “Cheek to Cheek” by Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong
“Cheek to Cheek” is a well-known jazz standard. Irving Berlin wrote it in 1935.
Although many artists have covered it over the years, Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong’s duet is one of the most well-known versions.
Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong recorded their version of “Cheek to Cheek” in 1956 for their collaborative album, Ella and Louis.
The lyrics of “Cheek to Cheek” are about the joy of dancing with a loved one and the feeling of being in love.
14. “Dream a Little Dream of Me” by Doris Day
“Dream a Little Dream of Me” is a popular song that was first recorded in 1931 by Ozzie Nelson and his orchestra.
However, Doris Day recorded one of the most well-known and adored renditions of the song in 1957.
Doris Day’s rendition of “Dream a Little Dream of Me” is a slow, dreamy ballad that showcases her beautiful voice and ability to convey emotion through her singing.
The lyrics of “Dream a Little Dream of Me” are about the desire to be with someone you love, even if only in your dreams.
15. “Endless Love” by Diana Ross and Lionel Richie
“Endless Love”‘s lush orchestration and soulful vocals create a romantic and emotional atmosphere that is perfect for weddings.
The slow tempo and gentle melody also contribute to the song’s romantic and tender feel.
The lyrics of “Endless Love” speak of the enduring and timeless nature of true love.
Its timeless beauty and message of love make it a perfect choice for any couple looking for a beautiful and romantic song to play at their wedding.
16. “Funny Valentine” by Frank Sinatra
Sinatra’s version of “My Funny Valentine” is a slow, soft ballad that shows off his smooth, soulful voice.
“My Funny Valentine” is a beautiful and timeless love song that perfectly captures the beauty and complexity of love.
The lyrics of “My Funny Valentine” are about the beauty and imperfections of love.
Sinatra’s interpretation of the song is often considered one of the best, with his heartfelt and emotional delivery making the song even more poignant and touching.
17. “God Only Knows” by The Beach Boys
“God Only Knows” features lush harmonies, unique instrumentation that includes a French horn, and a poignant and introspective lyric that speaks to the uncertainty and depth of romantic love.
The opening line, “I may not always love you,” sets the tone for the song’s exploration of the complex emotions that come with deep commitment.
Despite its introspective tone, “God Only Knows” is also a celebration of the power of love and the enduring bonds that it creates.
Over the years, many artists have covered the song, and it has also been used in movies, TV shows, weddings, and commercials.
18. “Happy Together” by The Turtles
“Happy Together” features a catchy melody, an upbeat rhythm, and catchy lyrics that celebrate the joys of being in love.
The chorus, in particular, is very memorable and has become one of the most recognizable parts of the song.
“Happy Together” became a huge hit for The Turtles, reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and becoming a top 10 hit in several other countries.
19. “How Deep Is Your Love” by The Bee Gees
“How Deep Is Your Love?” is a timeless classic that can make a great addition to any wedding playlist.
This song was released in 1977 and has remained popular over the years, making it a perfect choice for an “oldies” themed wedding.
The song’s romantic lyrics and soothing melody make it an excellent choice for the first dance or even as background music during the ceremony or reception.
It’s a song that speaks of the depth of love between two people, making it an ideal selection for a wedding celebration.
20. “I Got You Babe” by Sonny & Cher
“I Got You Babe” was released in 1965 and has become a staple in the world of love songs, making it a perfect choice for a wedding celebration.
The lyrics of “I Got You Babe” speak of a deep connection and commitment between two people.
Sonny and Cher’s chemistry and vocal harmonies in the song also add to its appeal and make it a great choice for a first dance.
The song’s message of love and commitment is universal and can be appreciated by all couples.
21. “It Takes Two” by Marvin Gaye and Kim Weston
“It Takes Two” is a lively and fun oldies song that can make an excellent addition to a wedding playlist.
The song was released in 1966 and has a catchy melody and upbeat tempo that can get guests dancing and celebrating.
The song’s lyrics speak of the importance of teamwork and partnership in a relationship, which makes it a fitting choice for a wedding celebration.
The duet between Marvin Gaye and Kim Weston adds to the song’s charm, as their voices blend seamlessly together.
22. “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston
The message of “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” is that finding love and dancing with someone who loves you is a universal sentiment that can resonate with couples on their wedding day.
It’s a song that celebrates the joy and excitement of being in love and wanting to share that love with others.
This is a fun and energetic oldies song that can add a touch of nostalgia and excitement to any wedding celebration.
23. “I’m a Believer” by The Monkees
“I’m a Believer” was released in 1966 and has become a timeless classic that can appeal to guests of all ages.
The lyrics speak of the joy and excitement of falling in love, making it a perfect choice for a wedding celebration.
“I’m a Believer” has a cheerful and upbeat vibe that can add a touch of happiness and positivity to any wedding playlist.
It’s a song that can create a festive atmosphere and get guests in the mood for celebrating.
24. “In Other Words (Fly Me to the Moon)” by Kaye Ballard
Ballard’s version of the song features a slow, dreamy arrangement with lush strings and a soft, jazzy vocal performance.
The song’s lyrics are a romantic invitation for a lover to travel to the moon and beyond.
The idea of space travel is used as a metaphor to show that the speaker wants to feel closer to the other person.
The song has become a standard in the jazz and pop repertoire and has been covered by many other artists, including Frank Sinatra, Nat King Cole, and Diana Krall.
25. “It Had To Be You” by Marion Harris, Isham Jones, and Gus Kahn
“It Had To Be You” is a romantic ballad that expresses the idea of fate bringing two people together.
The lyrics describe the feeling of knowing that a certain person was meant to be in your life and that no one else could fill that role.
The song has also been featured in numerous movies, including the classic film “When Harry Met Sally” and the animated film “Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs.”
26. “It’s Magic” by Keely Smith
“It’s Magic” was originally recorded by Doris Day and later covered by Keely Smith in 1958.
Smith’s version of the song features a soft, romantic arrangement with a gentle, swinging beat.
The dreamy, romantic tone of the song’s lyrics is perfectly captured by her smooth, seductive voice.
The lyrics describe the feeling of falling in love and the magical, transformative power that it can have.
Its enduring popularity is a testament to the timeless quality of its melody and lyrics and its ability to capture the joy and wonder of falling in love.
27. “La Bamba” by Ritchie Valens
La Bamba” is a traditional Mexican folk song that was popularized by Valens in 1958.
The song’s lyrics celebrate the joy of music and dancing, making it an ideal choice for a wedding celebration.
The song is also relatively easy to dance to, making it a good choice for guests of all ages and abilities.
In addition to its musical qualities, “La Bamba” has a rich cultural significance.
It is considered a symbol of Mexican heritage and is often played at celebrations such as weddings, quinceañeras, and other special events.
28. “La Vie en Rose” by Edith Piaf
Edith Piaf is a French singer best known for her emotional and passionate performances, and this song is no exception.
The song’s title translates to “Life in Pink” in English, but it’s often translated as “Life in Rosy Hues” or “Life Through Rose-Colored Glasses” to convey the meaning better in English.
The lyrics describe the feeling of being in love and how it transforms the world around the singer.
The song expresses the sentiment of being able to find joy in everything when in love and how life becomes a beautiful experience.
29. “Let’s Jump the Broomstick” by Brenda Lee
Charles Robins drew inspiration for his song “Let’s Jump the Broomstick” from the African-American custom of jumping over a broomstick to symbolize a wedding ceremony.
In the song, Brenda Lee sings about a couple who are planning to get married and are excited to jump the broomstick together.
The lyrics are playful and upbeat, with a catchy melody that invites listeners to dance along.
“Let’s Jump the Broomstick” was a hit for Brenda Lee, reaching #12 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and #1 on the UK Singles Chart.
30. “Moon River” by Audrey Hepburn
Audrey Hepburn first sang “Moon River” in the 1961 movie “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” where she portrayed Holly Golightly.
In the film, Hepburn’s rendition of “Moon River” is a defining moment, as she sits on her window ledge, strums her guitar, and sings wistfully about the river and its romantic allure.
Her performance captured the hearts of audiences and earned her an Academy Award for Best Actress.
The song has become a classic because of the way its lyrics and haunting melody capture the longing and sadness of a lost love.
31. “Stupid Cupid” by Connie Francis
“Stupid Cupid” can be a fun addition to a wedding playlist if the couple has a lighthearted and humorous relationship.
The song is a playful and upbeat tune that tells the story of a girl who is being pursued by Cupid’s arrows but is frustrated by the constant attention.
Stupid Cupid” is a fun and catchy song that shows off Connie Francis’s impressive vocal range and her ability to sing in a playful and lighthearted way.
32. “Always and Forever” by Heatwave
“Always and Forever” was released in 1977 and became a hit in both the United States and the United Kingdom.
The song features smooth and soulful vocals, a beautiful melody, and lyrics that express the depth of love and commitment between two people.
It is a perfect choice for a wedding dance or as a background song during the ceremony or reception.
33. “Unchained Melody” by Righteous Brothers
“Unchained Melody” has since become a timeless classic and is often included in wedding playlists due to its romantic and sentimental nature.
The song features the powerful and soulful vocals of the Righteous Brothers, and its haunting melody and poignant lyrics express the depth of love and longing between two people.
34. “My Girl” by The Temptations
“My Girl” was written by Smokey Robinson and Ronald White, both of whom were members of the Motown group The Miracles.
“My Girl” is known for its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and romantic lyrics.
The song features the lead vocals of David Ruffin and background vocals from the rest of the group.
The lyrics express the singer’s love and devotion to his girl and describe the many ways in which she makes him happy.
35. “Happy Together” by The Turtles
“Happy Together” is indeed a classic oldie that can be a great addition to a wedding playlist.
The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a perfect choice for a wedding reception or dance floor.
Its lyrics speak of the happiness and joy of being in love and the desire to spend every moment with the one you love.
Moreover, the song’s popularity and familiarity with guests of all ages make it a safe choice for a wedding playlist.
Oldies Songs for Weddings – Final Thoughts
The 35 best oldies songs for weddings are a timeless collection of music that can add an extra touch of romance and nostalgia to any special day.
These old songs have stood the test of time and are still popular choices for couples who want their weddings to have a vintage feel.
From soulful ballads to upbeat dance tracks, these songs have something for everyone and can create a memorable atmosphere that will be cherished by all in attendance.
You may also like: Best Wedding Songs of All Time
