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Get on the dancefloor with your dad! From sentimental ballads to upbeat anthems, are our top father-daughter dance songs for your wedding.
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Written as a response to 'My Guy' by Mary Wells with "all the women of the world in mind" and featuring Motown house band The Funk Brothers, it's a father-daughter dance classic.
Written as a response to 'My Guy' by Mary Wells with "all the women of the world in mind" and featuring Motown house band The Funk Brothers, it's a father-daughter dance classic.
A song written by Stevie Wonder to celebrate the birth of his daughter Aisha Morris, what could be more appropriate for a father-daughter dance song?
A song written by Stevie Wonder to celebrate the birth of his daughter Aisha Morris, what could be more appropriate for a father-daughter dance song?
Guns 'n' Roses' classic rock anthem makes for a fun alternative to the usual ballad format. Work out some moves, or just mosh your way through this one.
Guns 'n' Roses' classic rock anthem makes for a fun alternative to the usual ballad format. Work out some moves, or just mosh your way through this one.
There’s no two ways about it, this is a next level tear-jerker. If you want to up the intensity of the moment, this is the track to end all sentimental father daughter songs anywhere ever.
There’s no two ways about it, this is a next level tear-jerker. If you want to up the intensity of the moment, this is the track to end all sentimental father daughter songs anywhere ever.
Crissie Rhodes from British country band The Shires wrote this heartfelt ballad in Nashville about her father, who passed away when she was a child.
Crissie Rhodes from British country band The Shires wrote this heartfelt ballad in Nashville about her father, who passed away when she was a child.
The title says it all. Vandross wrote this 2003 homage to his own late father. At the time of its release in 2003, Vandross was recovering from the stroke which eventually killed him two years later, adding extra poignancy to the track.
The title says it all. Vandross wrote this 2003 homage to his own late father. At the time of its release in 2003, Vandross was recovering from the stroke which eventually killed him two years later, adding extra poignancy to the track.
For a more epic, sweeping soundtrack to your dance, try Groban’s soaring vocal and epic orchestral accompaniment. Perfect for a father feeling ambitious enough to attempt a lift!
For a more epic, sweeping soundtrack to your dance, try Groban’s soaring vocal and epic orchestral accompaniment. Perfect for a father feeling ambitious enough to attempt a lift!
Let your Dad have a say on this one and give him a final dose of Springsteen in his big moment. He even mumbles his way through some genuinely touching sentiments – so everyone’s happy!
Let your Dad have a say on this one and give him a final dose of Springsteen in his big moment. He even mumbles his way through some genuinely touching sentiments – so everyone’s happy!
This hit is often said to be the band's greatest hit and one of the greatest songs ever written. It's also reportedly Paul McCartney's favourite song!
This hit is often said to be the band's greatest hit and one of the greatest songs ever written. It's also reportedly Paul McCartney's favourite song!
Originally by Van Morrison, Rod Stewart covered it for his 1991 album 'Vagabond Heart' and his version has been a popular dad and daughter song ever since.
Originally by Van Morrison, Rod Stewart covered it for his 1991 album 'Vagabond Heart' and his version has been a popular dad and daughter song ever since.
For the festival bride and the bohemian Dad, this folksy, jaunting, acoustic song of freedom and love will give you just the right amount of time to express yourself and mark the occasion.
For the festival bride and the bohemian Dad, this folksy, jaunting, acoustic song of freedom and love will give you just the right amount of time to express yourself and mark the occasion.
When it was released in 1968, this track was the biggest selling single of the year in Britain, which means it's loved by generations young and old.
When it was released in 1968, this track was the biggest selling single of the year in Britain, which means it's loved by generations young and old.
A prevailing favourite that will have your guests smiling and singing along in no time. If the thought of a father-daughter dance makes you nervous, this crowd-pleaser will diffuse the nerves immediately.
A prevailing favourite that will have your guests smiling and singing along in no time. If the thought of a father-daughter dance makes you nervous, this crowd-pleaser will diffuse the nerves immediately.
For devoted subjects of Queen Bee, there is only one corner of the Beehive to look on this occasion. Her soaring vocals and reflective lyrics are the perfect fit for an unforgettable moment.
For devoted subjects of Queen Bee, there is only one corner of the Beehive to look on this occasion. Her soaring vocals and reflective lyrics are the perfect fit for an unforgettable moment.
Originally written for 'The Wild Thornberrys Movie', this tune was released as a single in 2002, and is a lovely song to share with your dad.
Originally written for 'The Wild Thornberrys Movie', this tune was released as a single in 2002, and is a lovely song to share with your dad.
Narratively marking a reflective moment that suits the wedding day down to a T, this will summarise most of his thoughts in this moment. Play your cards right, Dad, and you could just use this instead of having to give a speech.
Narratively marking a reflective moment that suits the wedding day down to a T, this will summarise most of his thoughts in this moment. Play your cards right, Dad, and you could just use this instead of having to give a speech.
Elton John's first single to chart, this was one of the first written by John and Bernie Taupin, who was 17 at the time, with loving and innocent lyrics.
Elton John's first single to chart, this was one of the first written by John and Bernie Taupin, who was 17 at the time, with loving and innocent lyrics.
Long before Adele was breaking our hearts, Dylan was dishing out sentimental anthems as timeless as your father-daughter song deserves.
Long before Adele was breaking our hearts, Dylan was dishing out sentimental anthems as timeless as your father-daughter song deserves.
For a tender, heartfelt soundtrack, Heartland have nailed the sentiment of joy and heartache that any father feels at the changing of chapter that their daughter's wedding day marks. Approach with caution, there will be tears.
For a tender, heartfelt soundtrack, Heartland have nailed the sentiment of joy and heartache that any father feels at the changing of chapter that their daughter's wedding day marks. Approach with caution, there will be tears.
One for the Freddie fans who want to celebrate the father-daughter friendship that exists between you – while also getting to enjoy Mercury’s rasping, iconic tones.
One for the Freddie fans who want to celebrate the father-daughter friendship that exists between you – while also getting to enjoy Mercury’s rasping, iconic tones.
Delicate, affectionate and poignant, Karen Carpenter’s inimitable vocal glides through this track with a sweetness that will have everyone ‘awwww’-ing at your dance together.
Delicate, affectionate and poignant, Karen Carpenter’s inimitable vocal glides through this track with a sweetness that will have everyone ‘awwww’-ing at your dance together.
They say that there is a John Mayer song for every occasion and this is surely one of the most niche but obvious. With his smooth guitar and vocal, there are few more bespoke tracks for such an occasion.
They say that there is a John Mayer song for every occasion and this is surely one of the most niche but obvious. With his smooth guitar and vocal, there are few more bespoke tracks for such an occasion.
For the doting father, this dance is a chance to celebrate and elevate your daughter on her special day – and what better accompaniment than the soul-bearing grooves of the great Stevland Morris himself.
For the doting father, this dance is a chance to celebrate and elevate your daughter on her special day – and what better accompaniment than the soul-bearing grooves of the great Stevland Morris himself.
This playful, child-like song transports you back to the nursery rhyme era of your life, with a cuteness score which is off the scale of cute.
This playful, child-like song transports you back to the nursery rhyme era of your life, with a cuteness score which is off the scale of cute.
After writing this, Rod Stewart approached Bob Dylan who agreed to share ownership and royalties of the track, as his song of the same title was similar.
After writing this, Rod Stewart approached Bob Dylan who agreed to share ownership and royalties of the track, as his song of the same title was similar.
American country music star Tim McGraw wrote this sweet song to convey his love to his daughter in 2006, and it was featured in the movie 'Flicka'.
American country music star Tim McGraw wrote this sweet song to convey his love to his daughter in 2006, and it was featured in the movie 'Flicka'.
Originally recorded by Marvin Gaye in 1964, this was a hit for James Taylor in 1975 with Carly Simon on backing vocals.
Originally recorded by Marvin Gaye in 1964, this was a hit for James Taylor in 1975 with Carly Simon on backing vocals.
Have your guests swaying along with you as Chrissie Hyde serenades you through four minutes of low-key power ballad goodness that will move you and lift your spirits in equal measure.
Have your guests swaying along with you as Chrissie Hyde serenades you through four minutes of low-key power ballad goodness that will move you and lift your spirits in equal measure.
For a lighter touch to your dance, give your friends, family and guests something they can also sing along with. One for the Van Morrison fans or the brown-eyed brides amongst us.
For a lighter touch to your dance, give your friends, family and guests something they can also sing along with. One for the Van Morrison fans or the brown-eyed brides amongst us.
Carol King's and James Taylor's version of this song reached number one in the same year, so we know it's a good one!
Carol King's and James Taylor's version of this song reached number one in the same year, so we know it's a good one!
Easy to dance to and a knowing nod to the Daddy’s Girl who has you wrapped around her finger, Orbison’s crooning is the anthem of a long-suffering but adoring father.
Easy to dance to and a knowing nod to the Daddy’s Girl who has you wrapped around her finger, Orbison’s crooning is the anthem of a long-suffering but adoring father.
A critically acclaimed worldwide hit, this is a heartfelt ballad chosen time and again for the dad and daughter dance song.
A critically acclaimed worldwide hit, this is a heartfelt ballad chosen time and again for the dad and daughter dance song.
For the pop princess who never shies away from a bit of cheese, Christina has a ready-made vocal-defying ballad that is a no-brainer to choose for your dance. Plus there’s a key change thrown in for free. Winning.
For the pop princess who never shies away from a bit of cheese, Christina has a ready-made vocal-defying ballad that is a no-brainer to choose for your dance. Plus there’s a key change thrown in for free. Winning.
Randy Thomas and Bob Carlisle wrote this song for Carlisle's daughter's 16th birthday, and it was a major hit in the US charts and won a Grammy for Best Country Song.
Randy Thomas and Bob Carlisle wrote this song for Carlisle's daughter's 16th birthday, and it was a major hit in the US charts and won a Grammy for Best Country Song.
Written by Gerry Goffin and Carole King, this father-daughter classic was recorded by The Drifters in 1961 and has been heavily covered ever since.
Written by Gerry Goffin and Carole King, this father-daughter classic was recorded by The Drifters in 1961 and has been heavily covered ever since.
“Sweet pea, apple of my eye” this sweet and laidback 2006 track from Amos Lee seems perfect for father and daughter dances.
“Sweet pea, apple of my eye” this sweet and laidback 2006 track from Amos Lee seems perfect for father and daughter dances.
Released in 1965 by pop duo Sonny and Cher, this song highlights the strength and importance of an enduring love. What could be more enduring than the love between a father and daughter?
Released in 1965 by pop duo Sonny and Cher, this song highlights the strength and importance of an enduring love. What could be more enduring than the love between a father and daughter?
Written for her 2008 studio album Fearless, The Best Day is a song dedicated to pop sensation Taylor Swift’s parents. With a folky feel and laidback vibe, it’s perfect for off-the-cuff and casual dances.
Written for her 2008 studio album Fearless, The Best Day is a song dedicated to pop sensation Taylor Swift’s parents. With a folky feel and laidback vibe, it’s perfect for off-the-cuff and casual dances.
Written by Folds for his daughter Gracie, who was born in 1999, this track is packed with relatable father daughter memories and wishes from a parent to a child.
Written by Folds for his daughter Gracie, who was born in 1999, this track is packed with relatable father daughter memories and wishes from a parent to a child.
Released in 2003 for the album Deeper Life, Always Be Your Baby is the perfect choice for a father and daughter dance song. We challenge you to listen to the lyrics without shedding a tear!
Released in 2003 for the album Deeper Life, Always Be Your Baby is the perfect choice for a father and daughter dance song. We challenge you to listen to the lyrics without shedding a tear!
Perfect for anyone who considers their dad as their hero, Wind Beneath My Wings is a wonderful choice. We think it’s a great way to pay tribute to a dad who has always been there.
Perfect for anyone who considers their dad as their hero, Wind Beneath My Wings is a wonderful choice. We think it’s a great way to pay tribute to a dad who has always been there.
This soft, country ballad describes a child’s transition to adulthood. Performed by father and daughter duo, Miley and Billy Ray Cyrus, Butterfly Fly Away was part of the Hannah Montana move soundtrack.
This soft, country ballad describes a child’s transition to adulthood. Performed by father and daughter duo, Miley and Billy Ray Cyrus, Butterfly Fly Away was part of the Hannah Montana move soundtrack.
Camila Cabello released the music video for First Man on Father’s Day in 2020. Camila has said that the song is inspired by her feelings seeing her father react to her first relationship.
Camila Cabello released the music video for First Man on Father’s Day in 2020. Camila has said that the song is inspired by her feelings seeing her father react to her first relationship.
A quick listen to the lyrics of this Faith Hill smash hit will tell you exactly why it’s made our dad and daughter dance songs round-up – it’s all about keeping a part of someone with you.
A quick listen to the lyrics of this Faith Hill smash hit will tell you exactly why it’s made our dad and daughter dance songs round-up – it’s all about keeping a part of someone with you.
If you grew up watching Disney movies with your dad, this hit from the Lion King is a fantastic choice. You could even draw some dance inspiration from the West End show…
If you grew up watching Disney movies with your dad, this hit from the Lion King is a fantastic choice. You could even draw some dance inspiration from the West End show…
Another Disney soundtrack smash, this time from 1999’s Tarzan. We reckon this is a lovely slow dance pick that will have your guests reaching for the tissues.
Another Disney soundtrack smash, this time from 1999’s Tarzan. We reckon this is a lovely slow dance pick that will have your guests reaching for the tissues.
Written in 1969 by George Harrison, this song reflects his relief at the arrival of spring. Whether you’re marrying in the spring or were a spring baby, we think this is an uplifting pick.
Written in 1969 by George Harrison, this song reflects his relief at the arrival of spring. Whether you’re marrying in the spring or were a spring baby, we think this is an uplifting pick.
Were you a keen dancer as a little one? We think Tiny Dancer would make an adorable father daughter song choice!
Were you a keen dancer as a little one? We think Tiny Dancer would make an adorable father daughter song choice!
This sweet song was released in 1970 and is written from the perspective of a parent, making it a great way for dads to show just how much their daughter means to them.
This sweet song was released in 1970 and is written from the perspective of a parent, making it a great way for dads to show just how much their daughter means to them.
Originally performed by Cyndi Lauper and written by Lauper and Rob Hyman, this hit went straight to number one in 1984 but it’s the Eva Cassidy version that has us feeling weepy!
Originally performed by Cyndi Lauper and written by Lauper and Rob Hyman, this hit went straight to number one in 1984 but it’s the Eva Cassidy version that has us feeling weepy!
The father-daughter dance song is often scheduled after the first dance, but this can feel a little disjointed and disrupt the flow of the evening if all your guests have joined the dancefloor during the first dance of the newlyweds.
We'd advise not putting two slow songs back to back too, so you could consider choosing an uptempo number for either your first dance or your father-daughter dance.
Another option is to share your father-daughter dance song after the speeches and before the cake-cutting, or alternatively you could schedule it for later in the evening, for example at the start of the band's second set.
There's a traditional place for your mum to be involved, which is during the first dance. After a moment with your new husband or wife, the groom traditionally invites the bride's mother to dance, while the bride dances with the groom's father.
After that, the groom dances with his mother and the bride with her father while the others pair off. This is a great place to involve any step-parents or other significant family members too.
To give another nod to the mother of the bride, you could request her favourite song for the band or DJ to play, and dedicate it to her with your thanks.
If you don’t have a father or have two mothers, then by all means turn this tradition into a mother-daughter dance and celebrate your own unique family set-up. It’s your day and should be done your way.
We recommend keeping the father-daughter dance short and sweet! By this point in the evening, all your guests will be keen to get on the dancefloor themselves and celebrate with you, so don't keep them waiting too long.
You can either choose a short song or ask the band to shorten it for you, which they can do by skipping a verse and/or a chorus. If you've hired a DJ, he may be able to create a shorter version for you as well.
If you've hired a live band, they'll be raring to go and will fill the dancefloor for you after the father-daughter dance, so be prepared to go straight into the party after a quiet moment with your dad.
This is completely up to you! If you're nervous about it, some simple steps might be helpful to put your nerves at ease. Some light-hearted choreography with a fun-loving dad could be a real crowd pleaser!
If you're not nervous or you don't have time to spare, a simple slow dance or some silly, uptempo dance moves will still delight your dad and your guests.
It's not about the dance, it's about the relationship between the two of you and sharing this special moment on your wedding day.
The father-daughter dance stems back to times when marriages were often social and financial arrangements rather than romantic unions.
The father-daughter dance would likely have been one of the final acts before a woman officially belonged to her husband rather than her father. After this dance, the bride would have her first dance with her husband – the only man she would be permitted to dance with from this point onwards.
These days the dance is (thankfully!) more about celebrating the bond between a father and daughter in front of loved ones and comes after the first dance.
Yes! If your stepdad has been your main father figure, it makes total sense for him to take part in the father-daughter dance.
If you’re having a father-daughter dance with your father but would like to honour your stepdad too, why not switch part way through the song? You could also ask the DJ or band to mix the song you have chosen for your father-daughter dance into another song for your stepdad, creating a seamless transition between dances.
Just remember to keep the dances short and sweet so guests can join in the fun as soon as possible!
Alternatively, you can add your stepdad’s favourite song to your playlist and ask the band or DJ to give him a special shout-out.
If you’d love to honour your dad but feel a father-daughter dance isn’t for you, why not invite your mum and dad to join you and your new spouse on the dance floor for a couples dancing session? It’s a great way to honour both parents and dance with those you love most to a special song.
You could also ask the band or DJ to play a song that’s special to you and your dad during the reception and simply find your dad on the dancefloor when it comes on. This is a great alternative for those nervous about performing a special dance in front of guests.
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