Last Dance Songs: Close Your Wedding In Style & Lasting Love
Updated on June 12, 2023 | Written by Matthew Campbell (Editor of My Wedding Songs and wedding DJ)
Last dance songs close out the reception and signal that it’s time for your guests to leave.
They are a great way to bookend your wedding reception from the first dance to the last.
This will help everyone remember the night — especially the two of you.
You will enjoy a list of the most popular and unique last dance songs to end your reception.
Every couple’s music tastes are different. Thus, we selected the last dance songs that include many different eras and music styles.
New Last Dance Songs
- “One Last Dance” by John Legend (R&B – 2022)
- “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Teddy Swims (Pop – 2022)
- “Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” by Ron Pope, The National Parks (Singer-Songwriter – 2022)
- “Never Let You Go” by Jason Derulo, Shouse (Dance – 2022)
- “The Best Is Yet to Come” by Tom Walker (Singer-Songwriter – 2022)
- “Growing Old With You” by Restless Road (Country – 2022)
- “Drunk (And I Don’t Wanna Go Home)” by Elle King & Miranda Lambert (Alternative – 2021)
- “Today Was A Fairytale (Taylor’s Version)” by Taylor Swift (Pop – 2021)
- “Bang!” by AJR (Alternative – 2021)
- “Closing Time” by The Chardon Polka Band (Polka – 2020)
Trending Last Dance Songs
- “Semisonic” by Closing Time (Rock – 2003)
- “(I’ve Had The) Time Of My Life” by Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes (Pop – 1987)
- “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey (Rock – 1981)
- “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers (Rock – 2004)
- “Last Dance” by Donna Summer (Disco – 1979)
- “Piano Man” by Billy Joel (Rock – 1973)
- “Take Me Home, Country Roads” by John Denver (Country – 1971)
- “Sweet Caroline” by Neil Diamond (Rock – 1969)
- “Bye Bye Bye” by N’Sync (Pop – 2000)
- “Friends In Low Places” by Garth Brooks (Country – 1990)
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Rock Closing Tunes
Drunk (And I Don’t Wanna Go Home) – Elle King & Miranda Lambert
Released in 2021, Genre: Alt. Rock
A fun upbeat song about having a wild night and not wanting it to end.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
So don’t you wait up tonight
Don’t worry, I’ll be fine
Baby, I’m drunk, and I don’t wanna go home, yeah
Dance Real Close – Jessie Payo
Released in 2019, Genre: Rock
A romantic oldies vibe for the newlyweds to enjoy a last or private dance together remembering the day.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Shut up and kiss me, I’m talking too much
Dance to the record like they wrote it for us
Best Day Of My Life – American Authors
Released in 2013, Genre: Rock
A fun uptempo song to end on a high note singing and celebrating your wedding day.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I’m never gonna look back
Woah, never gonna give it up
No, just don’t wake me now
This is gonna be the best day of my life
Marry Me – Train
Released in 2010, Genre: Rock
A wedding ceremony can begin with this popular wedding song and also close out the reception.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Together can never be close enough for me
Feel like I am close enough to you
You wear white and I’ll wear out the words I love you
Mr. Brightside – The Killers
Released in 2003, Genre: Rock
One of the top choices for a last dance is to sing your heart out with family and friends.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
But it’s just the price I pay, destiny is calling me
Open up my eager eyes, ’cause I’m Mr. Brightside
I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing – Aerosmith
Released in 1998, Genre: Rock
A slow dance song for the newlyweds that reminds them that they want to cherish each moment together.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I don’t want to close my eyes
I don’t want to fall asleep
‘Cause I’d miss you, babe
And I don’t want to miss a thing
Closing Time – Semisonic
Released in 1998, Genre: Rock
The quintessential last dance song as it signifies that the party is over.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Closing time, time for you to go out
To the places you will be from
I know who I want to take me home
Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life) – Green Day
Released in 1997, Genre: Rock
A slow song that lets all your guests know that you hope they had a good time but it’s time to leave.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
It’s something unpredictable
But in the end is right
I hope you had the time of your life
Send Me On My Way – Rusted Root
Released in 1992, Genre: Rock
This is one of my favorites on the list. It is a mid-tempo song perfect for a send-off and closing vibes.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I would like to hold my little hand
And we will run, we will, we will crawl
Send me on my way
Love Of A Lifetime – Firehouse
Released in 1991, Genre: Rock
Not only for hair band fans, but this slow love song will also remind everyone that you are committing yourselves to each other forever.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I finally found the love of a lifetime
A love to last my whole life through
It’s The End Of The World As We Know It – R.E.M.
Released in 1987, Genre: Rock
This is a song to have everyone singing along encircling the couple as the night ends.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
It’s the end of the world as we know it
It’s the end of the world as we know it and I feel fine
Livin’ On A Prayer – Bon Jovi
Released in 1986, Genre: Rock
This is one of the greatest party songs and sing-along songs of all time – particularly in the Jersey area.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Take my hand, we’ll make it I swear
Woah, livin’ on a prayer
Take Me Home Tonight – Eddie Money
Released in 1986, Genre: Rock
Even though Money is no longer with us, this party song is a way to sing out loud and signify a final song that implies you want to go home together.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Take me home tonight
I don’t want to let you go ’til you see the light
Take me home tonight
Africa – Toto
Released in 1982, Genre: Rock
A mid-tempo song that will have everyone singing and dancing.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
It’s gonna take a lot to drag me away from you
There’s nothing that a hundred men or more could ever do
Don’t Stop Believin’ – Journey
Released in 1981, Genre: Rock
Even though the song could be considered overplayed as a last dance song, there is no doubt that classic rock and song fans will sing the lyrics at the top of their lungs.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Don’t stop believin’
Hold on to that feelin’
You Shook Me All Night Long – AC/DC
Released in 1980, Genre: Rock
This is one of the best rock party songs of all time. You can’t go wrong.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
And you shook me all night long
Yeah, you shook me all night long
Don’t Stop Me Now – Queen
Released in 1978, Genre: Rock
A song that has varying tempos but will hit the high notes and will get everyone fired up.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
‘Cause I’m having a good time
(Don’t stop me now)
Yes, I’m havin’ a good time
I don’t want to stop at all
Wonderful Tonight – Eric Clapton
Released in 1977, Genre: Rock
A song for all of the couples to end in romance with a slow dance looking into each other’s eyes.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I feel wonderful because I see the love light in your eyes
Then the wonder of it all is that you just don’t realize
How much I love you
Don’t Stop – Fleetwood Mac
Released in 1977, Genre: Rock
A mid-tempo song that will have everyone singing along and dancing around the wedding couple about how they will conquer all together.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Don’t stop thinking about tomorrow
Don’t stop, it’ll soon be here
It’ll be better than before
Bohemian Rhapsody – Queen
Released in 1975, Genre: Rock
This is a very popular song made famous by a skit on SNL and will end your wedding on a high note – literally.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Goodbye, everybody, I’ve got to go
Gotta leave you all behind and face the truth
Piano Man – Billy Joel
Released in 1973, Genre: Rock
Joel is one of the greatest music artists of all time and this song is a popular last dance song that will have everyone singing the lyrics and dancing to the end.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Sing us the song you’re the piano man
Sing us a song tonight
Well we’re all in the mood for a melody
And you’ve got us feelin’ alright
American Pie – Don McLean
Released in 1971, Genre: Rock
Let’s forget what the meaning of the song is but it has become a classic rock song that everyone knows the lyrics to sing out loud.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
So, bye-bye, Miss American Pie
Drove my Chevy to the levee, but the levee was dry
And them good ol’ boys were drinkin’ whiskey and rye
Sweet Caroline – Neil Diamond
Released in 1969, Genre: Rock
This song is not only for sporting events, queue Boston Red Sox fans, but the song talks of loving a girl and will have everyone in a big group hug singing along.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Sweet Caroline
Good times never seemed so good
Sweet Caroline
I believe they never could
All You Need Is Love – The Beatles
Released in 1967, Genre: Rock
A slower tempo love song that has stood the test of time – just like your love for each other.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
All you need is love, love
Love is all you need
Can’t Help Falling In Love – Elvis Presley
Released in 1961, Genre: Rock
I consider this the greatest wedding song of all time and this romantic slow song will have everyone on the dance floor.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Take my hand
Take my whole life too
For I can”t help falling in love with you
This list is all about the last dance. Be sure to pick your first dance song as a married couple.
Popular Pop Tracks
Don’t Stop Believin’ – Teddy Swims
Released in 2022, Genre: Pop
This is a slower cover of the famous Journey song that guests can slow dance to and sing the lyrics.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Everybody wants a thrill
Payin’ anything to roll the dice
Just one more time
Today Was A Fairytale (Taylor’s Version) – Taylor Swift
Released in 2021, Genre: Pop
A slow song for the newlyweds to look back at the moments of their wedding day.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
You’ve got a smile
Takes me to another planet
Every move you make everything you say is right
Today was a fairytale
Bang! – AJR
Released in 2020, Genre: Pop
If you want to end your wedding reception with a bang, that’s exactly what this song is telling everyone.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Everybody come hang (come hang)
Let’s go out with a bang
Bang! Bang! Bang!
Incredible – James TW
Released in 2019, Genre: Pop
A slow dance song that is similar to “Thinking Out Loud” but not overplayed letting your lady know she looks incredible.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
It’s getting late, wish we could stay like this forever
Dancing ’till both our feet ache
My love, nothing can break these arms
Memories – Maroon 5
Released in 2019, Genre: Pop
A mid-tempo song letting wedding guests know that you are thankful for them for coming and thanking them for sharing the memories of the day.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Toast to the ones here today
Toast to the ones that we lost on the way
Perfect – Ed Sheeran
Released in 2017, Genre: Pop
A modern slow dance song that will have every couple on the dance floor.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
When I saw you in that dress, looking so beautiful
I don’t deserve this, darling, you look perfect tonight
Say You Won’t Let Go – James Arthur
Released in 2016, Genre: Pop
Even though this song was a popular first dance song when it was released, it still holds today as a romantic slow dance song.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I know I needed you
But I never showed
But I wanna stay with you until we’re grey and old
Uptown Funk – Mark Ronson feat. Bruno Mars
Released in 2014, Genre: Pop
The song might be overplayed but there is no doubt that everyone knows it and will dance to it.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
‘Cause uptown funk gon’ give it to you
Saturday night and we in the spot
Don’t believe me just watch (come on)
A Sky Full of Stars – Coldplay
Released in 2014, Genre: Pop
A mid-tempo song that will have all guests closing out your wedding dancing and singing on a high note.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
‘Cause you’re a sky, you’re a sky full of stars
Such a heavenly view
You’re such a heavenly view
Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran
Released in 2014, Genre: Pop
Another slow love song that will fill the dance floor to end the night.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Kiss me under the light of a thousand stars
Place your head on my beating heart
I’m thinking out loud
That maybe we found love right where we are
Shut Up And Dance – Walk The Moon
Released in 2014, Genre: Pop
This is a party song that will have everyone dancing.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
This woman is my destiny
She said oh oh oh
Shut up and dance with me
A Thousand Years – Christina Perri
Released in 2011, Genre: Pop
A very recognizable slow dance song – thank you Twilight Saga.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Darling, don’t be afraid
I have loved you for a thousand years
I’ll love you for a thousand more
Marry You – Bruno Mars
Released in 2010, Genre: Pop
A mid-tempo song celebrating the newly married couple.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Is it the look in your eyes or is it this dancing juice?
Who cares, baby, I think I wanna marry you
Save The Last Dance For Me – Michael Buble
Released in 2006, Genre: Pop
A mid-tempo dance song that everyone can take lightly to dance with the one they love.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
And don’t forget who’s takin’ you home
And in whose arms you’re gonna be
So darling, save the last dance for me
Come Away With Me – Norah Jones
Released in 2002, Genre: Pop
As the reception ends, this slow song will have everyone dancing right out the doors.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Come away with me and we’ll kiss
On a mountaintop
Come away with me
And I’ll never stop loving you
Bye Bye Bye – N Sync
Released in 2000, Genre: Pop
A popular dance song not only for boy band fans but a theme that the night is coming to an end.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I know that I can’t take no more
It ain’t no lie
I want to see you out that door
Baby bye bye bye
The Horses – Daryl Braithwaite
Released in 1990, Genre: Pop
A popular final wedding song in Australia.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
That’s the way it’s gonna be, little darlin’
We’ll be riding on the horses, yeah
Way up in the sky, little darlin’
And if you fall I’ll pick you up
(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life – Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes
Released in 1987, Genre: Pop
This was the final dance song in the movie Dirty Dancing and will have no one sitting in a corner.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Now I’ve had the time of my life
No, I never felt like this before
Yes I swear, it’s the truth
And I owe it all to you
Never Gonna Give You Up – Rick Astley
Released in 1987, Genre: Pop
Even though the song was considered cheesy for many years, it has become a party anthem.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Never gonna make you cry
Never gonna say goodbye
Never gonna tell a lie and hurt you
New York, New York – Frank Sinatra
Released in 1977, Genre: Pop
Many wedding guests have lined up like showgirls raising their legs and celebrating the night.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
If I can make it there
I’ll make it practically anywhere
It’s up to you
New York, New York
Na Na Hey Hey Kiss Him Goodbye – Steam
Released in 1969, Genre: Pop
This is a popular song to sing that lets everyone join in for a final reception song.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
So dog-gone willin’, so kiss him
(I wanna see you kiss him, I wanna see you kiss him)
Go on and kiss him goodbye
My Way – Frank Sinatra
Released in 1969, Genre: Pop
Hey, if your wedding was exactly the way you wanted it and you had a great time, this theme fits perfectly.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Each careful step along the byway
And more, much, much more
I did it, I did it my way
The last dance can be a romantic moment. If you want to end on a high note, there are many songs to choose from here. You can also see our list of party songs for singing and dancing too.
Country Hits to End an Event
The Best Is Yet To Come – Drake White
Released in 2018, Genre: Country
A song to play wishing the wedding couple a lifetime of happiness.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
But we’re just gettin’ started
It’s gonna be a long, long run
Oh, the best is yet to come
In Case You Didn’t Know – Brett Young
Released in 2017, Genre: Country
A romantic slow dance song reminding lovers that a wedding is full of love.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
In case you didn’t know
Baby, I’m crazy ’bout you
And I would be lyin’ if I said
That I could live this life without you
From The Ground Up – Dan + Shay
Released in 2016, Genre: Country
A slow dance song telling that the success of a relationship is built on the foundation of love for each other.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Beside you I’ll stand through the good and the bad
We’ll give all that we have
And we’ll build this love from the ground up
Today – Brad Paisley
Released in 2016, Genre: Country
A song about celebrating and cherishing the moments of love during a wedding day.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Bring on tomorrow
Because the memory of a day like today
Can get your through the rest of your life
Die A Happy Man – Thomas Rhett
Released in 2015, Genre: Country
A song that is a reminder that it is not the material things you get or the things you do, what really matters is spending life with the one you love.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Oh, if all I got is your hand in my hand
Baby, I could die a happy man
I Don’t Dance – Lee Brice
Released in 2014, Genre: Country
A song about a guy who doesn’t dance but will do anything for his lover.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Spinnin’ you ’round and ’round in circles
It ain’t my style, but I don’t care
I’d do anything with you anywhere
I Don’t Want This Night To End – Luke Bryan
Released in 2011, Genre: Country
An up-tempo dance song with the theme that you don’t want the party to stop.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
And I don’t know what road we’re on
Or where we’ve been
From starin’ at you, girl
All I know is I don’t want this night to end
Then – Brad Paisley
Released in 2009, Genre: Country
A slow song talking about the first time you knew you loved your lover.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
We’ll look back someday, at this moment that we’re in
And I’ll look at you and say
And I thought I loved you then
Makin’ Plans – Miranda Lambert
Released in 2009, Genre: Country
A song about two people in love and making plans to spend the rest of their lives together.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
But you know me like the back of your hand
I’m your girl and you’re my man
And we’re makin’ plans
You’re Still The One – Shania Twain
Released in 1998, Genre: Country
A slow dance song that is not only for newlyweds but for couples with many years together and reminds their lovers that they are still their whole world.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
They said, “I bet they’ll never make it”
But just look at us holding on
We’re still together, still going strong
Friends In Low Places – Garth Brooks
Released in 1990, Genre: Country
A very popular sing-along song you can end the night celebrating with family and friends as they have your backs.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
‘Cause I’ve got friends in low places
Where the whiskey drowns
And the beer chases my blues away
And I’ll be okay
Could I Have This Dance – Anne Murray
Released in 1980, Genre: Country
A very popular first dance song in its day but could be taken as the last dance that marks the beginning of the rest of your lives together.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Could I have this dance, for the rest of my life
Could you be my partner, every night
Take Me Home, Country Roads – John Denver
Released in 1971, Genre: Country
A very popular song that will have everyone singing along as the event comes to a close.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Country roads, take me home
To the place I belong
The last dance song ends the reception. The high note that begins the reception is the introduction of the newlyweds. See a list of wedding grand entrance and introduction songs.
R&B End of Night Favorites
One Last Dance – John Legend
Released in 2022, Genre: R&B
The song has a soulful vibe with the right message of wanting one last dance before leaving.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Oh, this moment gave us one more chance
Why don’t we hold it before the bar closes?
One last dance
Love On Top – Beyoncé
Released in 2011, Genre: R&B
A fun dance that talks about how a man finally puts his lover first.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
You’re the one I can always call
When I need to make everything stop
Finally you put my love on top
All My Life – K-Ci & Jojo
Released in 1997, Genre: R&B
This is the ultimate romantic slow dance song to end your wedding with a packed dance floor.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
All my life
I prayed for someone like you
And I thank God
That I
That I finally found you
Save The Best For Last – Vanessa Williams
Released in 1992, Genre: R&B
Saving the best slow dance song for last is exactly what the doctor ordered.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Isn’t this world a crazy place?
Just when I thought our chance had passed
You go and save the best for last
I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me) – Whitney Houston
Released in 1987, Genre: R&B
This is not only a girl’s anthem but will have everyone singing and dancing.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Yeah, I wanna dance with somebody
With somebody who loves me
Just The Two Of Us – Bill Withers and Grover Washington, Jr.
Released in 1981, Genre: R&B
This is a mid-tempo song celebrating the wedding couple’s new marriage.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Just the two of us
Building them castles in the sky
Just the two of us
You and I
September – Earth, Wind & Fire
Released in 1978, Genre: R&B
If you want to end your reception with a party song – you can’t get better than this song.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Found the love we shared in September
Only blue talk and love
Remember
True love we share today
This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) – Natalie Cole
Released in 1975, Genre: R&B
This is a mid-tempo song that celebrates a new marriage that will stand the test of time.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
You’ve given me the thrill of a lifetime
And made me believe you’ve got more thrills to spare, oh!
This will be an everlasting love
Oh, yes it will now!
Ain’t No Mountain High Enough – Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
Released in 1967, Genre: R&B
A fun duet song that will have all guests supporting the wedding couple as they begin their new life as one.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
‘Cause baby, there ain’t no mountain high enough
Ain’t no valley low enough, ain’t no river wide enough
To keep me from getting to you
Hit The Road Jack – Ray Charles
Released in 1967, Genre: R&B
If you want to let every guest know that the party is over and to join in singing, play this!
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back
No more, no more, no more, no more
Hit the road Jack and don’t you come back no more
My Girl – The Temptations
Released in 1964, Genre: R&B
A fun slower song that every generation will recognize and enjoy.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I’ve got a sweeter song
Than the birds in the trees
Well, I guess you’d say
What can make me feel this way
My girl
Stand By Me – Ben E. King
Released in 1961, Genre: R&B
This is a popular slow dance song that everyone will sing to each other while dancing.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I won’t cry, I won’t cry
No, I won’t shed a tear
Just as long as you stand
Stand by me
At Last – Etta James
Released in 1960, Genre: R&B
One of the greatest wedding songs of all time and the wedding couple will be reminded that they found each other.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
At last
My love has come along
My lonely days are over
And life is like a song
Shout – The Isley Brothers
Released in 1959, Genre: R&B
If you want to end a party with a party song, then play this as your last song – if you can wait that long.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
You’ve been good to me, baby
Better than I’ve been to myself
Hey hey, and if you ever leave me
I don’t want nobody else
If you want to have a private moment at the end of the reception, see a slow dance song playlist too.
Unique Folk Hits
Good Riddance (Time of Your Life) – Ron Pope, The National Parks
Released in 2022, Genre: Folk
A cover of the song by Green Day that will bring your wedding day to a close with a slow song.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
It’s something unpredictable
But in the end, it’s right
I hope you had the time of your life
Simply the Best – Noah Reid
Released in 2018, Genre: Folk
A slow cover of the song by Tina Turner but also featured on the show Schitt’s Creek.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
You’re simply the best
Better than all the rest
Better than anyone
Anyone I ever met
Ho Hey – The Lumineers
Released in 2013, Genre: Folk
A mid-tempo song that will have couples romancing and singing along too.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I belong with you, you belong with me
You’re my sweetheart
Home – Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
Released in 2010, Genre: Folk
A very popular song celebrating your love for each other.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Oh, home, let me come home
Home is wherever I’m with you
You Are The Best Thing – Ray Lamontagne
Released in 2008, Genre: Folk
A mid-tempo love song to swirl your lover around the dance floor.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
We’ve come a long way, baby
You know, I hope and I pray that you believe me
When I say this love will never fade away
Wagon Wheel – Old Crow Medicine Show
Released in 2004, Genre: Folk
This is a group dance song to play to finish with everyone dancing away.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
So rock me mama like a wagon wheel
Rock me mama anyway you feel
Hey mama rock me
Other moments to set to music include the unexpected wedding cake cutting songs, women guests trying to become the next one to marry, and men guests trying to become the next one to marry.
EDM & Dance Finale Tracks
Never Let You Go – Jason Derulo, Shouse
Released in 2022, Genre: Dance
This is a new dance song to signify not wanting the party to end.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
How am I supposed to go and live it
Comparing everybody to you?
No, I won’t forget you
Won’t forget you
Can’t Stop The Feeling! – Justin Timberlake
Released in 2016, Genre: Dance
This is a popular party song that everyone will know and will pack the dance floor.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
I can’t stop the feeling
So just dance, dance, dance
Stole the Show – Kygo and Parson James
Released in 2016, Genre: Dance
Not only for EDM fans, but the song will signify how the wedding couple stole the show.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
So hold for the applause, oh
And wave out to the crowd, and take our final bow
Oh, it’s our time to go, but at least we stole the show
Get Lucky – Daft Punk, Pharrell Williams
Released in 2013, Genre: Dance
A fun party song that gets a little bit frisky before everyone heads home.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
We’re up all night to get some
We’re up all night for good fun
We’re up all night to get lucky
Glad You Came – The Wanted
Released in 2011, Genre: Dance
This is a party anthem that also thanks your guests for coming to celebrate your big day.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
The sun goes down, the stars come out
And all that counts is here and now
My universe will never be the same
I’m glad you came
I Gotta Feeling – Black Eyed Peas
Released in 2009, Genre: Dance
Even though the song talks about getting a party started it can also be played to end one since it is such a fun party song.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Let’s paint the town, we’ll shut it down
Let’s burn the roof and then we’ll do it again
Forever – Chris Brown
Released in 2008, Genre: Dance
Brown has made some poor decisions in his life but there is no doubt that this song is a banger.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
‘Cause we only got one night
Double your pleasure
Double your fun
And dance forever ever ever
One More Time – Daft Punk
Released in 2000, Genre: Dance
This is an epic EDM party hit.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
One more time, we’re gonna celebrate
Oh yeah, alright, don’t stop the dancing
Disco Bangers
Celebration – Kool & the Gang
Released in 1980, Genre: Disco
A song that could be considered overplayed, but it will still fill the dance floor because of its fun beat.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
There’s a party goin’ on right here
A celebration to last throughout the years
So bring your good times and your laughter too
We’re gonna celebrate your party wlth you
We Are Family – Sister Sledge
Released in 1979, Genre: Disco
This is a party song celebrating two families coming together.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
We are family (hey, sing it to me)
I got all my sisters with me
We are family (oh, I can hear you now)
Get up everybody and sing
Last Dance – Donna Summer
Released in 1978, Genre: Disco
One of the most famous party and dance songs to play to end an event.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
So let’s dance, the Last Dance
Let’s dance, the Last Dance
Let’s dance, this Last Dance tonight
Misc Genre Tunes
The Best Is Yet to Come – Tom Walker
Released in 2022, Genre: Singer-Songwriter
A cover but with the unique voice of Walker makes this slow song a memorable last dance song.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
The best is yet to come
In life, I’ve made a few mistakes
But you were never one, my love
Closing Time – The Chardon Polka Band
Released in 2020, Genre: Polka
Don’t downplay this polka cover of the Semisonic song until you hear the fun vibes. Love it!
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Closing time, time for you to go out
To the places you will be from
Cha Cha Slide – DJ Casper
Released in 2017, Genre: Hip Hop
A group line dance song to play that is guaranteed to fill the dance floor.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Left foot, let’s stomp
Cha cha now y’all
Now it’s time to get funky
Our Love – Judah & the Lion
Released in 2013, Genre: Singer-Songwriter
A slow song to celebrate a day and future filled with love.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
As I wait for you
And we’ll find the love
We’ve wanted so
And all come true
Young Forever – Jay-Z feat. Mr. Hudson
Released in 2010, Genre: Hip Hop
A love anthem for rap and hip hop fans.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
Forever young
I wanna be forever young (yes)
Do you really want to live forever?
Forever and ever
Cupid Shuffle – Cupid
Released in 2007, Genre: Hip Hop
Another group dance song that will pack the dance floor.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
To the left, to the left, to the left, to the left
Now kick, now kick, now kick, now kick
Now walk it by yourself, now walk it by yourself
Lose Yourself – Eminem
Released in 2002, Genre: Hip Hop
This is a song that will get everyone pumped up.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
You better lose yourself in the music
The moment, you own it, you better never let it go (Go)
You only get one shot, do not miss your chance to blow
This opportunity comes once in a lifetime, yo
One Love / People Get Ready – Bob Marley
Released in 1977, Genre: Reggae
A song that is all about celebrating love for each other and will be directed to the newleyweds.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
So shall it be in the end (one heart)
All right! Give thanks and praise to the Lord and I will feel all right
Let’s get together and feel all right
It Had To Be You – Tony Bennett
Released in 1956, Genre: Jazz
Thi sis a timeless love song for couples in love and a slow dance.
Most Meaningful Lyrics:
For nobody else gave me a thrill
With all your faults I love you still
It had to be you
FAQs
What should the last dance song of the wedding be?
The last dance song is a closing element to the perfect night. You basically have two choices for the tone of the last dance: slow or upbeat.
A slow song will help the guests key down from their sugar highs (cake, right?). It also signals that the party is over. (Please, leave, thanks for the presents.)
On the other hand, finishing the night with the last dance surrounded by your friends can be fun, too.
You can choose to end your wedding reception on a high note with an upbeat song that everyone will remember (and feel good about that gift they bought).
What is a good last song for a wedding?
There are two ways to end the night. One is with a bang with an upbeat party song like “Can’t Stop The Feeling!” or with the dance floor full of couples playing a romantic song like “At Last,” a classic by Etta James.
Remember, it’s your wedding so the choice is yours. Just be sure to pay attention to the lyrics.
Avoid breakup songs — even if they’re upbeat. “It Wasn’t Me” by Shaggy or “Mambo No 5” by Lou Bega maybe aren’t the best choices for the last dance.
Can we have a private last dance (secret last dance)?
Your last dance can be a private dance. The private last dance is when the DJ gently nudges guests out the door for an official send-off. The empty room only has the wedding couple, DJ, and photographer to capture the moment.
A private last dance is a good way to refocus on yourselves — the wedding couple. Talk to your professional wedding coordinator and DJ to choose a song that will set the tone for the night, the honeymoon, and the rest of your lives.
What music is played at the end of a wedding ceremony?
The song played at the end of a wedding is the recessional – the song that is playing as the wedding couple walks out after the first kiss. Your recessional could incorporate a few songs as the wedding party and guests leave. See a list of wedding exit songs to help guide you.
Should the last dance at a wedding be slow?
The last dance should include 2 songs. The first is a slow song to get all of the couples on the dance floor. Then, kick the music in high gear with a party song that will have everyone singing and dancing to end on a high note and be excited about the send-off.
How do you end a wedding reception?
Couples typically end their wedding reception with the last dance, slow song, or on a high note. Then, guests proceed outside the reception venue for a final send-off with bubbles, sparklers, or fireworks.
So, how do you end a perfect wedding reception? With the last dance, of course.
Music Sources:
- DJs’ Playlists
- Couples’ Playlists
- DJ Event Planner
- DJ Intelligence
- Amazon Best Sellers
- Billboard
- Spotify
Why trust ?
DJ, Editor, Music Lover
Matthew (Matt) Campbell is the founder/editor of My Wedding Songs from his experience as a wedding DJ. He is the author of two wedding planners: ‘Wedding Songs Planner’ and ‘The Wedding Music Toolkit’. Matt is the host of the ‘Wedding Songs Podcast’. He shares music inspiration in his weekly newsletter the ‘Wedding MusicLetter’. His articles have been published on Rolling Stone, DJ Life Magazine, and DJ Times. Matt resides in the wedding capital of the world – Las Vegas.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading through all of your suggestions and it is very helpful. Keep it up!!
Wonderful Tonight by Eric Clapton
Great song. We definitely have it on the list!
Coldplay – A Sky Full of Stars
Thanks David. Great song. We will add it to the list.
Color my world by Chicago
Thanks Kevin. Great song and we will add it to the list.