Top 10 Songs You Should NEVER Play At Your Wedding

Often considered one of U2’s best works, this number’s soulful tones and seemingly romantic title might sound like the ideal choice for your first dance. But if you pay close attention to its meaning, you might change your mind. Bono reportedly wrote the song while attempting to juggle being both a husband and an artist. The lyrics describe a man in a troubled and complex union that he can’t quite let go of. Look, if you love the song, by all means, enjoy it. But if the lyrics actually resonate with you, well, that’s probably a conversation for before the “I dos”.

Given that the music video for this one showcases an epic wedding scene, we can understand why some folks might choose this song for their big day. But the video is at least somewhat based on a short story called “Without You” by Del James. In it, a self-destructive musician cheated on his girlfriend, prompting her to take her own life. That certainly colors the words in a unique, depressing light. Even if you’re able to separate the song from the story, it’s still almost ten minutes long. Your guests would likely either be bored or disturbed. Either way, there are probably better music choices for a wedding out there!

Just picture it, all eyes are on you and your significant other as you dance to the most romantic song imaginable. This Goo Goo Dolls track probably isn’t what’s playing. Written for the movie “City of Angels”, the track is about desperately longing for love. Indeed, the lyrics describe someone who’s fallen for a person who may not even know they exist. And the singer comes across as quite a sorrowful individual too. If you’ve seen the movie, you’ll understand the tragic context. If you haven’t, maybe go watch it before finalizing your playlist. We’d guess it’s probably not the vibe you’re going for on what’s meant to be the happiest day of your life.

You might think that a song called “Always” is the perfect declaration of love for your magical day. And in theory, you’d be correct. But in reality, this song tells the story of a man pining for an ex. Sure, some of the imagery is quite lovely, and the melody is certainly stirring. But you don’t want to be slow dancing when you suddenly realize that the narrator sounds like he has an almost dangerous fixation on his past girlfriend. If this song holds a different meaning to you, don’t let us get in your way; it’s definitely a beautiful power ballad. We’re just saying it isn’t “always” wedding appropriate.

It seemed like you couldn’t go anywhere in the early aughts without hearing this song, and weddings were no exception. Despite its deceivingly affectionate title, there’s nothing romantic about it. If you don’t believe us, take it from James Blunt himself. He told the Huffington Post that the song is about someone who’s stoned and “stalking someone else’s girlfriend.” It’s safe to say that many of us have come to uncover its creepy content in recent years. So Blunt probably doesn’t need to worry about this song playing at peoples’ nuptials anymore. Nevertheless, we’re sure that there are plenty of couples who watch their wedding videos back and cringe when this number comes on.

Marvin Gaye’s version of this song is a Motown classic. Perhaps it’s earned a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame, but it probably shouldn’t have one at your wedding. Granted, the bop is an oldie but a goodie that will certainly send all your guests to the dance floor. But what exactly is it that he “heard through the grapevine”? Well, if you listen to the lyrics, the singer talks about learning that he’s been cheated on, but not from his significant other. And naturally, he’s deeply hurt by the lies. If you ask us, themes of infidelity don’t really have a place at a wedding, even if they’re addressed in a super catchy way.

There’s a “Titanic” reason why you should skip this Céline Dion classic. Needless to say, most people generally associate this song with the popular 1997 blockbuster. For some, it conjures up the iconic image of Jack and Rose during the “I’m flying” scene. We can almost guarantee that several of your guests would replicate the famous pose if given the chance. But for others, it’s just a reminder of one of the greatest tragedies of the 20th century, and of Jack’s heartbreaking demise. Unless you’re trying to make your guests sob, this song is probably a non-starter. You probably don’t want people thinking of your marriage as a sinking ship, anyway…

You may be skeptical about this one, but just hear us out. Like many others, the title had us fooled into believing that this song is nothing but a pure proclamation of love. While that’s kind of true, it’s also about someone who regrets their breakup and wants another shot. We don’t know what they did to lose the other person, just that they’d do anything to get them back. That’s not quite the feel-good vibe you had in mind, right? Maybe you do find it romantic, and hey, that’s fine. It’s definitely a great party-starter, but, all things considered, it might not have the right tone for a wedding.

Thanks to Whitney Houston’s cover, this track is widely regarded as one of the best love songs of all time. But if you knew why Dolly Parton wrote it in the first place, you might see it a little differently. She penned the song as an olive branch to her professional partner Porter Wagoner after deciding to part ways. It demonstrated how much she respected and valued him. Apparently, he was overcome with emotion the first time she played it for him. As beautiful as that story is, it’s still ultimately a song about separation. Is that really the message you want to put out there on your special day?

Before we unveil our top pick, here are a few honorable mentions.

“Good Riddance (Time of Your Life)” (1997), Green Day
It’s Melodic, but Full of Heartbreak

“White Wedding” (1982), Billy Idol
This Track Is a Little Too Gloomy to Play On the Day You Joyously Tie the Knot

“I Will Survive” (1978), Gloria Gaynor
It’s a Bop, but It’s Also About Getting a Lover Out of Your Life & Being Better for It

“I Write Sins Not Tragedies” (2005), Panic! at the Disco
Just Because It’s Set at a Wedding Doesn’t Mean It Should Feature at Yours

The music you choose for your first dance makes a statement about who you are as a couple. From that moment on, it becomes your song. While this is a popular choice, don’t let its passionate and smooth melody fool you. It’s actually one of the most misunderstood tracks out there. Sting himself reportedly described it as “sinister.” That’s because it’s about jealousy, obsession, and possessiveness. Is there anything less romantic than your partner quite literally tracking your every move? That’s not exactly the best foundation to lay if you’re hoping to have a healthy union. If this song made your list, it’s time to rule it out because there ain’t nothin’ about love here.