When you start choosing a list of songs for your big day, it often means that you’ve handled all the big planning parts, and now you’ve come to the fun details. While this is your day, and you may have a lot of favorite songs, you need to be careful with your choice because some are simply unsuitable for such an occasion. Let us help you make your playlist and avoid all of those “do not play” wedding songs!
Getting Started
We’re at the beginning of wedding season, which means it’s the perfect time to take a peek at one of the most divisive components of wedding planning: the music. We were dying to know what songs couples should ban at their wedding receptions — the sonic experiences are considered so universally distasteful that statistically discernible numbers of people go out of their way to avoid hearing them on the biggest day of their lives. Ok, let’s go over some of the top “do not play” songs for your wedding day.
What songs to avoid on your special day?
When creating your list, you should consider that many of the songs that might come to your mind are considered breakup or cliche. Some of them are even overplayed tunes. Therefore, let’s see which songs not to play at weddings while celebrating your love story.
Overplayed Wedding Reception Songs
Tracks that people have listened to over and over again are mood breakers. These “do not play” wedding songs can easily ruin the atmosphere, so it’s better to avoid them if you want to keep your guests happy. Some of these include:
- Bee Gees – Stayin’ Alive
- Gloria Estefan – Conga
- Whitney Houston – I Will Always Love You
- Tina Turner – Simply The Best
- Beyonce – Single Ladies
Cliche Wedding Reception Songs
Well, there are just some songs people expect because they are dancy and upbeat. However, just because they are dancy features it does not mean that your guests will enjoy them. Make sure that you don’t include these tracks on your wedding playlist:
- ABBA – Dancing Queen
- Vanilla Ice – Ice Ice Baby
- Gloria Gaynor – I Will Survive
- Los Del Rio – Macarena
- Chicken Dance
Breakup/ Inappropriate Wedding Reception Songs
It goes without saying that breakup songs are completely inappropriate wedding songs. They are usually sad, and their lyrics don’t match the setting or the occasion. You also don’t want to play songs that will upset grandma. Examples of tunes that will ruin the good vibes on the dance floor include:
- U2 – Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For
- Echo & the Bunnymen – Nothing Lasts Forever
- Greg Kihn Band – The Breakup Song
- Adele – Someone Like You
- Phil Collins – Easy Lover
How to Create the Perfect Wedding Playlist
Planning the perfect wedding playlist doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start with the songs that reflect your love story, such as your favorite love song or the one you danced to on your first date. Then, add a mix of high-energy dance songs to keep the party alive. Don’t forget to include tracks that resonate with your family and friends.
Just as important as choosing the right songs is knowing what songs to not play at a wedding. Review your wedding songs do-not-play list carefully and share it with your DJ. Remember to avoid songs that don’t match the mood or have inappropriate lyrics. Whether it’s breakup ballads or overplayed hits, sticking to your playlist plan ensures a flawless celebration.
Final Thoughts
Everyone has an opinion on what is or is not a great wedding reception song to play. Everyone also wants their music to reflect who they are as a couple or maybe some that have an inside joke in it.
Regardless, there is a certain level of tolerance that each couple will have to make. This can be down to lyrical content, song length, musical style, and more.
At the end of the day your wedding reception is all about YOU. You should get the most say in what you want to hear. You don’t need to feel bad trying to please everyone there. One way to do this is to put song requests on your RSVPs. Be sure to mention that you will have a list of songs that you do not want to be played as well.
Complete Weddings + Events – Cedar Rapids Wedding DJs
Don’t forget to check out our blog for more tips and get in touch if you are ready to start planning the most important day of your life. We offer photography, videography, coordination, photo booth rental, and DJ services in Cedar Rapids, IA, and surrounding areas.