A List of Wedding Songs NOT to Play

Anyone who has ever been to a wedding can make a list of wedding songs played at a reception that is filled with horrible choices. Maybe it was a “one hit wonder” from thirty years ago, or perhaps there was a very suggestive rap song played where the bride and groom were rubbing up and down each other in motions better left to the honeymoon. All the wedding planning goes straight out the door when inappropriate or tacky songs or played.

For many years now, the list of wedding songs selected by the bride and groom have included some of the most outlandish, ill-fitting, and simply awful songs to ever grace the radio waves. Wedding professionals must see these selections and cringe inwardly while at the same time giving an uneasy smile. Several songs come to mind whenever a wedding takes place because they usually make the list of wedding songs given over to the band or DJ.

Somewhere a married couple secretly laughs to themselves about their evil plan. It was a devious plan to start a trend in marriage receptions to have songs like the “Cha Cha Slide”, the “Chicken Dance” and any number of other silly songs played at wedding reception. Obviously by the amount of people having these on a list of wedding songs to be played at the reception, it worked very well.

Most couples pay attention to details during wedding planning. But the list of wedding songs seems to escape their attention. They like the overall tune but must not pay attention to the words or at worst, simply not understanding what the song is about. “Every Breath You Take” by the Police is a prime example of this inattentiveness. On the surface it seems like a love song until you pay attention to the words. Now if the wedding were for two stalkers…the song is a perfect one. But as it stands, a song about someone obsessed does not seem to have a place on that special day.

Many couples want the first song they danced to be played at their wedding. This is a very romantic idea in theory. A list of wedding songs should be personal but a little common sense has to be included. Grandma might not appreciate the humor of the first dance being to “Baby Got Back” and seeing her grandchild out on the floor in formal wear and performing motions better left to the honeymoon night.

While AC/DC’s “She Shook Me” might be a great song for a party, it may not go over so well on the list of wedding songs you want played at the reception. Or at least not until after the older or more conservative members of the reception adjourn for the night. Yes it is your wedding, but a little courtesy to the guests can go a long way in making the day a wonderful affair.