The first dance is one of those wedding moments you’ll always remember. Whether you’re a lesbian couple, two grooms, or anywhere in between, your song should say something real about your love and feel good to dance to in front of your favourite people.
Many traditional wedding songs are gendered, or don’t reflect the stories same-sex couples want to tell. But that’s changing. From soulful ballads to upbeat pop and romantic singer-songwriter tracks, there’s a growing number of gender-neutral love songs that work beautifully for the LGBTQ+ community.
Here’s our updated playlist of top first dance songs that speak your language and still sound amazing on the dancefloor.
These songs skip the “he/she” storylines and keep things focused on connection, commitment and that just-married feeling.
An uplifting track from a long time LGBTQ+ ally, this one hits the perfect balance between sweet and celebratory. Sara Bareilles sings about choosing your person no matter what which makes it a great fit for a same-sex wedding.
Best lyric: “I’ll unfold before you, what I’ve strung together”
Emotional, romantic, and totally timeless. It’s got all the feelings for a slow first dance, and Sam Smith’s voice carries it home. There’s something powerful about choosing a song from a queer artist for such a personal moment.
Soulful and packed with longing, this love song works beautifully for any couple. Patti LaBelle, a beloved LGBTQ+ icon, delivers every note like it matters.
Whether you’re planning a fun wedding or just want to dance like no one’s watching, these songs go all in on that joyful, can’t-stop-smiling kind of love.
A classic from Boy George and one of the most memorable gay love songs ever written. The lyrics are clear and simple love is love and that’s exactly the message many couples want to share on their big day.
Great for: A slow dance that builds up to the crowd joining in
A relaxed, slightly upbeat track that’s perfect for an outdoor wedding or something low-key. The lyrics are gender-neutral and focus on life being better with your person beside you.
If you’re looking for something sweet, powerful, or a little unexpected, these are solid picks for lesbian weddings and civil partnerships.
It’s been used by couples all over the world and still works. The words are romantic without feeling too heavy, and the chorus just makes people cry (in a good way).
Good for: A choreographed first dance or a classic slow dance
Two LGBTQ+ allies singing about loyalty, trust, and staying together, this wedding reception track feels made for the community. Both Beyoncé and Frank Ocean bring emotional weight without it ever feeling cheesy.
Not every song has to be a chart-topper to make the list. These songs are more understated, but they come with serious heart and often sound incredible in a quiet moment.
Pulled from Call Me By Your Name, this is one of the most inclusive and poetic tracks you can pick. It’s quiet and reflective, ideal for couples who want to keep things intimate on the dancefloor.
You can’t talk about gay first dance songs without Elton John. The lyrics are about finding your person and feeling understood. It’s a love song that’s aged perfectly, just like the man himself.
Want to shake off the nerves and kick off your wedding reception with something joyful? These hits will help set the tone.
This is ideal if you want your first dance to be fun, quirky, and full of personality. Totally gender-neutral and great for same-sex couples who don’t want a slow dance but still want something meaningful.
This one’s pure energy. Whether you’re planning to do a choreographed number or just freestyle with your new spouse, this playlist pick will fill the dancefloor in seconds.
Here’s a bonus list of inclusive picks that suit every kind of couple. All of these avoid gendered lyrics and are well-loved in gay weddings, lesbian weddings, and everything in between.
Want more? Create your own Spotify wedding playlist with a mix of slow songs, R&B, pop, and singer-songwriter gems. Look for songs that use “you” instead of gendered pronouns, and focus on tracks that reflect your actual relationship, not a template.
All Country House Weddings venues like Leez Priory, Holmewood Hall, and Bourton Hall offer flexible reception spaces, so whether you’re planning a big choreographed number or a quiet slow dance, your first dance will get the moment it deserves.
You’ll have:
Looking for inspiration beyond the music? Our Real Weddings section is full of stories from couples who’ve done it their own way.
