Songs Not to Play at a Wedding
There’s a special kind of magic that floats through the air at a wedding, the joy, the laughter, the shared glances that say, We made it. Every detail feels like it carries emotional weight, especially the music. From walking down the aisle to that unforgettable first dance, the soundtrack of your wedding becomes the heartbeat of the day. But here’s the twist: not every popular or catchy tune belongs on that carefully curated playlist. In fact, some songs despite being radio hits or karaoke favorites could bring the energy of your big day to an awkward halt. Whether it’s lyrics that clash with the spirit of love or a beat that disrupts the romance, some tunes are simply wedding-day misfits. Let’s dive into the list of songs you might want to skip—trust us, your guests (and your future self) will thank you.
Songs Not to Play at a Wedding
Breakup Ballads That Send the Wrong Message
There’s no denying the power of a heartfelt ballad—but the context matters. Playing a sorrowful tune about love lost while two people are declaring forever might feel like mixing champagne with vinegar. Take Adele’s “Someone Like You,” for instance. It’s breathtaking, raw, and emotional—but it’s also about heartbreak, longing, and watching someone you love marry someone else. Ouch.
Another one that sneaks into wedding playlists more often than you’d think? Toni Braxton’s “Un-Break My Heart.” Yes, it’s iconic, but it’s also steeped in pain and regret—not exactly the mood you’re going for on a day dedicated to hope and beginnings. Be cautious of emotional depth that’s rooted in loss; your wedding deserves songs that uplift, not songs that have guests reaching for tissues for all the wrong reasons.
Songs With Cheating Themes (Even If They Sound Sweet)
It’s easy to get swept away by a beautiful melody and miss what the lyrics are actually saying. But trust us: if the song’s about infidelity or unfaithful lovers, you might want to hit skip. “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” by Marvin Gaye might sound soulful and smooth, but it’s about betrayal and suspicion. Definitely not first dance material.
Carrie Underwood’s “Before He Cheats” is another one that often ends up in DJ request piles, especially during the bouquet toss. But think about the message: slashing tires and smashing headlights because of a cheating partner? It’s entertaining, sure, but the last thing you want is to plant seeds of drama at your reception. Opt for tunes that celebrate loyalty, not revenge.
Depressing or Downbeat Vibes
A wedding is a celebration of love, unity, and joy—so songs that carry a heavy emotional load or sound too melancholic can feel out of place. Take “The Sound of Silence” by Simon & Garfunkel. It’s haunting and poetic, but it’s also about isolation and despair. That kind of mood just doesn’t mesh well with clinking glasses and dancing flower girls.
Even Coldplay’s “Fix You,” as emotionally touching as it is, can feel more suited for a reflective solo moment than a communal celebration. It’s about pain, healing, and trying to mend what’s broken which, while noble, might give guests a dose of unintended sadness during your big day. Aim for melodies that sparkle with joy, not songs that echo loneliness.
Songs About Past Loves and Regrets
Reminiscing about past relationships may have its place in a late-night journaling session, maybe, but not at your wedding. Songs like “My Heart Will Go On” by Celine Dion are deeply emotional and beautiful, but also carry the tragic weight of loss and longing. Titanic romance aside, it might leave guests feeling a bit blue rather than blissful.
Then there’s “Back to December” by Taylor Swift, a song filled with apologies and looking back on a relationship that didn’t work out. It might strike a chord emotionally, but it’s not the tone you want when toasting to new beginnings. Keep your soundtrack rooted in the present and future of your love story, not tangled up in the what-could-have-beens.
Songs with Inappropriate or Misleading Lyrics
You’d be surprised how many upbeat wedding dance tracks actually contain lyrics that are, well, less than appropriate. “Every Breath You Take” by The Police is often mistaken for a romantic classic, but listen closer it’s a song about obsession and possessiveness. Not exactly the kind of message you want to share as you take your partner’s hand in front of friends and family.
Similarly, “Blurred Lines” by Robin Thicke might get people on their feet, but its suggestive lyrics and controversial themes have sparked serious debates. Your wedding should be a safe, inclusive space, and songs that risk offending or alienating guests—especially older relatives or kids—are better left off the list. Always check the lyrics, no matter how catchy the beat.
Songs That Clash With Your Personal Love Story
Every couple has a unique journey, and your wedding playlist should reflect that. Including a song that doesn’t align with your shared values or story can feel disjointed. For example, if you met in a quaint bookstore and bonded over poetry and lattes, a loud, aggressive club anthem might feel jarring when played during dinner. It’s not just about what’s popular, it’s about what fits you.
Even humorous or ironic songs—like “Love Stinks” by J. Geils Band or “Single Ladies” by Beyoncé—might come across as tone-deaf if not handled with care. While these tracks can be fun in the right context (maybe a cheeky bachelorette party?), they might not hit the right note at your ceremony or reception. Tailor your playlist to feel cohesive with your shared vibe, whether it’s romantic, adventurous, or totally whimsical.
Let the Music Match the Magic
At the end of the day, your wedding playlist should be a celebration in song—an extension of the love, energy, and dreams you’re building together. It’s not about following rules or avoiding every sad song, but about being intentional. Think of your music as a memory-maker, shaping the atmosphere and anchoring the emotions of the day.
So before you press play, pause and ask yourself: Does this song add to the love story we’re telling today? If not, it’s okay to skip it—there are countless joyful, romantic, and meaningful tracks out there that do. Curate a soundtrack that will make your heart dance every time you hear it again, whether it’s on your first anniversary or your fiftieth.
Planning a wedding? Well, there are just some songs that you shouldn’t play at a wedding, check out our list below:
- Papa Don’t Preach – Madonna
- If You Wanna Be Happy – Jimmy Soul
- Tonight (I’m F++++ you) – Enrique Iglesias
- Suspicious Minds – Elvis Presley
- Gold Digger – Kanye West
- Better Man – Pearl Jam
- D. I. V. O. R. C. E. by Tammy Wynette
- A Quick One, While He’s Away – The Who
- Closer – Nine Inch Nails
- Every Breath You Take – The Police
- I Don’t Love Anyone – Belle and Sebastian
- I Will Always Love You – Whitney Houston or Dolly Parton
- Secret Love – Doris Day
- A Man Needs A Maid – Neil Young
- My Heart Will Go On – Celine Dion (The theme from Titanic)
- Your Cheating Heart – Hank Williams
- Love Stinks – J. Geils Band
- Love Will Tear Us Apart – Joy Division
- Tears in Heaven – Eric Clapton
- I Am Trying To Break Your Heart – Wilco
- I Will Survive – Gloria Gaynor
- White Wedding – Billy Idol
- Separate Ways (Worlds Apart) – Journey
- Goodbye Earl by the Dixie Chicks
- YMCA, Chicken Dance, Hokey Pokey etc.
- Only You Can Love Me This Way – Keith Urban
- Its so hard to say goodbye to yesterday
- Your Cheatin’ Heart, Hank Williams!
- All My ex’s Live in Texas – George Strait: (especially if you are living in Texas)
- Tomorrow I’m gonna leave you!
- Shorty your my angel…
- Holding her and loving you
- You’ve lost that loving feeling
- Beautiful day – U2
- Another One Bites the Dust
- Highway to Hell
- It’s Sad to Belong – England Dan & John Ford Coley
- 50 Ways To Leave Your Lover!
- You Give Love a Bad Name – Bon Jovi
- Beauty and the Beast
- Before He Cheats
- Red high heels
- You lie
- Undo it and good girl by Carrie Underwood
- If i die young by The Band Perry
- I Don’t Even Know His Name by Carrie Undewood
Leave a comment below for more suggestions.
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Make sure to also check out our list of Songs to Play at a Wedding!
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