So, you're planning a wedding and need the perfect soundtrack? You've come to the right place! Music sets the mood, creates memories, and gets everyone on the dance floor. Let’s dive into the most popular wedding songs of 2016, offering you a mix of romantic ballads, upbeat dance tunes, and timeless classics that will make your special day unforgettable. Selecting the right music for your wedding involves considering various factors such as your personal taste as a couple, the overall vibe you want to create, and the preferences of your guests. Start by thinking about songs that hold special meaning for you and your partner. Maybe there's a song that was playing during your first date, proposal, or another significant moment in your relationship. Including these songs will add a personal and sentimental touch to your wedding playlist, making it even more memorable. Consider the different stages of your wedding day when selecting music. For the ceremony, you'll want to choose elegant and romantic pieces that reflect the solemnity and beauty of the occasion. For the cocktail hour, opt for upbeat and cheerful tunes that create a relaxed and social atmosphere. During dinner, select a mix of mellow and classic songs that provide a pleasant background ambiance without being too distracting. And for the reception, focus on high-energy dance hits that will get everyone on the dance floor and keep the party going all night long.

First Dance Magic

Ah, the first dance. All eyes are on you, and the song you choose will forever be etched in your memory. In 2016, several songs stood out as top choices for this special moment. Let's explore some of them:

• "Thinking Out Loud" - Ed Sheeran: This song was practically made for weddings. Its soulful lyrics, romantic melody, and Ed Sheeran's undeniable charm made it a top pick. The beauty of "Thinking Out Loud" lies in its timeless appeal and universal message of enduring love. The lyrics speak of growing old together and loving someone unconditionally, making it a perfect representation of the vows you're about to exchange. The melody is gentle and romantic, creating a warm and intimate atmosphere that will draw you and your partner closer as you share your first dance as a married couple. Furthermore, Ed Sheeran's soulful vocals add an extra layer of emotion to the song, making it even more impactful and memorable. Whether you're looking for a classic first dance song or something more contemporary, "Thinking Out Loud" is a perfect choice that will resonate with you and your guests for years to come.
• "All of Me" - John Legend: A classic for a reason. John Legend's heartfelt vocals and the song's simple yet profound lyrics make it a timeless choice. "All of Me" is more than just a song; it's a declaration of unconditional love. The lyrics speak of accepting someone for who they are, flaws and all, and loving them completely and wholeheartedly. This message resonates deeply with couples who are embarking on their journey of marriage, where acceptance, understanding, and unwavering support are essential for building a strong and lasting relationship. The simplicity of the melody allows John Legend's heartfelt vocals to shine through, creating an intimate and emotional atmosphere that will leave you and your partner feeling connected and cherished. Whether you're looking for a song that expresses your deepest feelings or one that simply makes you feel good, "All of Me" is a perfect choice that will capture the essence of your love story.
• "A Thousand Years" - Christina Perri: For those who wanted a touch of fairytale romance, this song was a dream. Its sweeping melody and evocative lyrics create a magical atmosphere. Christina Perri's haunting vocals add to the song's ethereal quality, making it feel like something out of a dream. The lyrics speak of a love that transcends time and space, a love that is destined to be. This message resonates with couples who believe in soulmates and the idea that their love was meant to be. The sweeping melody and evocative lyrics create a magical and enchanting atmosphere that will transport you and your partner to another world as you share your first dance as a married couple. Whether you're a fan of fantasy or simply looking for a song that captures the magic of your love story, "A Thousand Years" is a perfect choice that will leave you feeling like you're living in a fairytale.

Getting the Party Started

Once the formalities are over, it's time to let loose and celebrate! These 2016 hits were guaranteed to get guests on their feet:

• "Uptown Funk" - Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars: This song is pure energy. Its infectious beat and funky vibe made it impossible not to dance. "Uptown Funk" is a celebration of music, style, and good times. Its infectious beat will have you tapping your feet from the moment it starts, and the funky vibe will make you want to get up and dance. The lyrics are playful and confident, encouraging you to embrace your individuality and let your personality shine. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just looking to have some fun, "Uptown Funk" is a perfect choice that will get everyone on the dance floor and create a lively and energetic atmosphere at your wedding reception. So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to groove to the irresistible sounds of "Uptown Funk."
• "Can't Stop the Feeling!" - Justin Timberlake: A feel-good anthem that everyone loved. Its upbeat tempo and positive lyrics were contagious. This song is pure joy and exuberance. Its upbeat tempo will instantly lift your spirits, and the positive lyrics will fill you with happiness and optimism. The song is about letting go of your worries and embracing the moment, which is exactly what you want to do at your wedding reception. Whether you're dancing with your partner, your friends, or your family, "Can't Stop the Feeling!" is a perfect choice that will create a fun and carefree atmosphere and leave you feeling energized and uplifted. So get ready to dance, sing, and celebrate with Justin Timberlake's infectious hit.
• "Shut Up and Dance" - WALK THE MOON: If you wanted a high-energy, sing-along song, this was it. Its catchy chorus and driving beat made it a crowd-pleaser. The song is an invitation to let go of your inhibitions and dance like nobody's watching. Its catchy chorus will have you singing along in no time, and the driving beat will make you want to move your feet. The lyrics are about surrendering to the moment and enjoying the freedom of expression through dance, which is exactly what you want to encourage your guests to do at your wedding reception. Whether you're a seasoned dancer or just looking to have some fun, "Shut Up and Dance" is a perfect choice that will create a lively and interactive atmosphere and get everyone involved in the celebration. So turn up the volume, let loose, and get ready to shut up and dance with WALK THE MOON.

Sweet & Sentimental Moments

Weddings aren't just about dancing; they're also about heartfelt moments. These songs provided the perfect backdrop for those special memories:

• "Die a Happy Man" - Thomas Rhett: A country ballad that spoke of contentment and love. Its heartfelt lyrics and Thomas Rhett's genuine delivery made it a tearjerker. This song is a testament to the power of love and gratitude. Its heartfelt lyrics speak of finding happiness and fulfillment in the simple things in life, such as spending time with the person you love. The song emphasizes the importance of cherishing every moment and appreciating the blessings that you have. Thomas Rhett's genuine delivery adds an extra layer of emotion to the song, making it even more impactful and moving. Whether you're a fan of country music or simply looking for a song that celebrates the beauty of love, "Die a Happy Man" is a perfect choice that will bring tears to your eyes and warm your heart.
• "Like I'm Gonna Lose You" - Meghan Trainor ft. John Legend: A powerful duet about cherishing every moment. Its emotional lyrics and soaring vocals made it a memorable choice. "Like I'm Gonna Lose You" is a poignant reminder to appreciate the people you love while you have them. Its emotional lyrics speak of the fear of loss and the importance of cherishing every moment spent with loved ones. The song encourages you to express your feelings openly and to make the most of the time you have together. Meghan Trainor and John Legend's soaring vocals add an extra layer of emotion to the song, making it even more impactful and moving. Whether you're looking for a song to dedicate to your partner or one that simply reminds you to appreciate the present moment, "Like I'm Gonna Lose You" is a perfect choice that will touch your heart and leave you feeling grateful for the people in your life.
• "Grow Old With You" - Adam Sandler: This song has a sweet and funny message. Perfect for the couple who loves to laugh together. It's a lighthearted and humorous take on the journey of growing old together. Its lyrics paint a picture of a couple who are comfortable in their love and who can find humor in the everyday challenges of life. The song emphasizes the importance of laughter, companionship, and unwavering support in a long-lasting relationship. Adam Sandler's playful delivery adds an extra layer of charm to the song, making it even more endearing and relatable. Whether you're a fan of Adam Sandler's movies or simply looking for a song that celebrates the joys of companionship, "Grow Old With You" is a perfect choice that will make you smile and appreciate the simple pleasures of life.

Timeless Classics

No wedding is complete without a few classic songs that stand the test of time. Here are a couple of evergreen choices that were still popular in 2016:

• "At Last" - Etta James: A soulful ballad that speaks of finding true love. Its timeless melody and Etta James's powerful vocals make it a wedding staple. "At Last" is an ode to the transformative power of love. Its timeless melody evokes a sense of romance and nostalgia, while the lyrics speak of finding solace, fulfillment, and unwavering companionship in the arms of a true love. Etta James's powerful vocals convey the raw emotion and depth of feeling that the song embodies, making it a perfect choice for couples who have found their soulmates and are ready to embark on a journey of lifelong commitment and devotion.
• "What a Wonderful World" - Louis Armstrong: A simple yet profound song that celebrates the beauty of life and love. Its optimistic message and Louis Armstrong's iconic voice make it a heartwarming choice. "What a Wonderful World" is a celebration of the beauty, simplicity, and wonder that surrounds us. Its optimistic message reminds us to appreciate the little things in life, to find joy in everyday moments, and to see the world through the eyes of love and gratitude. Louis Armstrong's iconic voice adds an extra layer of warmth and sincerity to the song, making it a perfect choice for couples who want to infuse their wedding day with a sense of hope, positivity, and appreciation for the beauty of life's journey.

Tips for Creating Your Perfect Wedding Playlist

Creating the perfect wedding playlist can seem daunting, but with a little planning, it can be a fun and rewarding process. Here are a few tips to help you curate a soundtrack that reflects your unique style and creates the perfect atmosphere for your special day:

1. Consider Your Audience: While it's important to choose songs that you love, remember to consider the preferences of your guests. Include a mix of genres and eras to cater to different tastes and ensure that everyone has something to enjoy.
2. Think About the Flow: Plan the order of your songs to create a natural flow throughout the day. Start with more mellow tunes during the ceremony and cocktail hour, then gradually increase the energy as the reception progresses. Save the high-energy dance hits for later in the night to keep the party going strong.
3. Don't Forget the Classics: While it's fun to include contemporary hits, don't forget to incorporate some timeless classics that everyone knows and loves. These songs will get guests of all ages on the dance floor and create a sense of nostalgia and shared enjoyment.
4. Personalize It: Add personal touches to your playlist by including songs that hold special meaning for you and your partner. These could be songs that were playing during your first date, proposal, or another significant moment in your relationship. Including these songs will make your wedding playlist even more memorable and meaningful.
5. Test It Out: Before the big day, test out your playlist to make sure that the songs flow well together and that the transitions are smooth. This will also give you an opportunity to make any necessary adjustments or changes before it's too late.

Conclusion

So there you have it – a look back at some of the most popular wedding songs of 2016. Of course, music taste is subjective, so feel free to mix and match these suggestions with your personal favorites. The most important thing is that your wedding playlist reflects you as a couple and creates a day filled with love, laughter, and unforgettable memories. Happy planning, guys!