The first dance is a significant part of your same-sex wedding songs playlist, whether you are outlandish or shy, it’s a joint effort towards something unforgettable.
It’s easy to find lists and recommendations of songs/playlists appropriate for a wedding. However, with a gay wedding, the appropriate selections can vary in quantity.
Thus we have constructed a delightful selection for gay men and lesbians to enjoy.
When U2’s Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For started playing as the first dance at a wedding we recently attended, it made everyone chuckle, but the tongue-in-cheek approach to choosing a first dance wedding song was perfect for them, it certainly doesn’t suit everyone.
So, what would you choose? A floor-filler, something sentimental, a song with LGBTQ+ significance? We say go loud, dance proud.
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To help inspire you for your first dance music choice, we’ve drawn up our top 50+ best wedding songs performed by musical gay icons.
Whether you want something classic or you’re up for something more modern, we’ve created a playlist of the best first dance same-sex wedding songs.
A lot of these songs are either written or recorded by LGBTQ+ friendly artists, or are re-recorded classics.
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The gender-neutral first dance songs use “you” as the pronoun so they work with every couple.
Every couple deserves to have a first dance song that reflects their love story. Love is love, isn’t it?
Enjoy finding your perfect first dance same-sex wedding song!
1. Beyoncé – Dangerously in Love
What’s not to love about Beyoncé – pop diva extraordinaire who shakes her fabulousness at every given opportunity. Her incredible vocals and energy are undeniable, but it’s in this song that we get a real glimpse of her emotional depth. A true, moving love song.
Length: 4:53
Most romantic lyric:
You are my life,
My happiest moments weren’t complete, If you weren’t by my side.
2. Miley Cyrus – Adore You
Miley came out as pansexual and gender-fluid last year and has long been a gay rights activist. She has an equality symbol tattooed on her finger promoting the message that ‘All love is equal.’ She’s fought against Rick Santorum, Urban Outfitters, Miss California and many more over the subject; and collaborated with everyone from Marc Jacobs to Facebook to promote gay marriage rights.
Length: 4:37
Most romantic lyric:
When you say you love me, know I love you more.
3. Adele – My Same
Adele’s got class. It’s her sassy no-nonsense approach to life, her giving the finger when her speech was cut off at The Brits that we love; oh and her heart-wrenching lyrics and pitch-perfect vocals. She made (often bittersweet) love songs cool. From her album, 19, this one is one of her more upbeat love songs.
Length: 4:38
Most romantic lyric:
I don’t know who I’d be if I didn’t know you.
4. David Bowie – Heroes
Bowie was embraced by the gay community when he came out with his gender-fluid alter ego Ziggy Stardust, in ’76 he told Playboy that he was bisexual but later retracted this saying he was just a ‘closet heterosexual’. This didn’t do much to dispel the rumours of his relationship Mick Jagger, however.
Length: 6:10
Most romantic lyric:
Cause we’re lovers and that is a fact, yes we’re lovers and that is that.
5. Judy Garland – I Can’t Give You Anything But Love
Judy has been called ‘the Elvis of homosexuals’ by The Advocate. Her beloved film The Wizard of Oz-inspired some of the gay culture’s most ingrained terms, ‘Friends of Dorothy’ stemmed from this and the rainbow flag may be inspired by her song ‘Over the Rainbow’. Many gay people related to Dorothy’s experience of going from black and white Kansas to the multi-coloured Oz.
Length: 5:09
Most romantic lyric:
I can’t give you anything but love, that’s the only thing I’ve got plenty of baby.
6. Cyndi Lauper – Time After Time
Cyndi has long had a mutual love affair with the gay community, penning supportive tracks like ‘True Colours’ and tirelessly working for gay rights. She even opened a homeless shelter for young gay individuals who didn’t have anywhere to go.
Length: 4:03
Most romantic lyric:
If your lost, you can look and you will find me, time after time.
7. Amy Winehouse – There is No Greater Love
Is Amy a gay icon? Well, she was embraced by the LGBT community, she made a name for herself out of being different, being bold and breaking the mold. She was admired for being herself no matter what others said and people related to her. She may not ‘officially’ be a gay icon, but she rocked and her voice was incredible. There is no Great Love is a brilliant choice for anyone contemplating a vintage themed wedding.
Length: 3:27
Most romantic lyric:
You’re the sweetest thing I have ever known; and to think that you are mine alone.
8. Savage Garden – I Knew I Loved You
Darren Hayes battled with his sexuality for a large part of his life and believes he may have been one of the gay performers who didn’t lie about who they were. The emotion and angelic tones of his voice leave lovers all a quiver when they hear this song.
Length: 4:11
Most romantic lyric:
I think I dreamed you into life, I knew I loved you before I met you, I have been waiting all my life.
9. Elton John – Something About The Way You Look Tonight
Elton first got together with David Furnish in 1995; the pair became civil partners the day the law changed in 2005 and, in 2014, they converted their civil partnership. They also have two children. Elton has actively campaigned for gay rights throughout this time clashing with everyone from Vladimir Putin to Dolce and Gabanna for the cause.
Length: 3:57
Most romantic lyric:
You light up every second of the day.
10. Cher – Still
Cher has always been a massive gay icon, particularly within the drag community where she has inspired hundreds of copycats. She became even more involved with gay rights when her daughter Chastity came out as lesbian and transgender.
Length: 5:43
Most romantic lyric:
Cause I have no precious gifts to give you, I only have four words, darling I love you.
11. Al Green – Let’s stay together
Although Al Green was not an LGBT icon, he knew what it was like to grow up in a strict family home. He was kicked out of his home in his teens after his strict Christian father caught him listening to Jackie Wilson’s music. This tune of his is a soulful classic and loved by most people.
Length: 3.20
Most romantic lyric:
Lovin’ you whether, whether, times are good or bad, happy or sad
12. Mary Lambert – She keeps me warm
Mary Lambert took the hook from the LGBTQ song “Same Love” she sang on for Macklemore and expanded it into an amazing ballad on the piano. This is a declaration of her love for her own girlfriend.
Length: 3.51
Most romantic lyrics:
She says I smell like safety and home
I named both of her eyes forever and please don’t go
13. Disclosure (ft. Sam Smith) – Latch
Sam smith emerged into fame when he was featured on Disclosure’s song ‘latch’ An openly gay singer, he has since released many LGBT friendly songs. This song is much loved by the Lgbt community and brilliantly combines love, desire, and fun. Perfect for those who want to mix up the slow dance a bit!
Length: 4.16
Most romantic lyric:
“How do you do it, you got me losing every breath. What did you give me to make my heart beat out my chest?”
14. Troye Sivan – Youth
Troye Smith, an openly gay singer and adorably cute. This song is an innocent depiction of young love, perfect for gay couples who grew up together. It talks about being unbeatable when you are together with someone. A cutesy pop song displaying gay love in its most innocent form.
Length: 3.17
Most romantic lyrics:
“And the stars exploding, we’ll be fireproof.
My youth, my youth is yours
Trippin’ on skies, sippin’ waterfalls”
15. Trey Pearson – Love is love
This seemingly seventies ballad is actually relatively new and was released in October 2017. A super upbeat and happy song about gay love and LGBT rights!
Length: 3.41
Most romantic lyric:
l know that “Love is love”
16. The killers – human
With a rational and dreamy approach to music, the killers released this song in 2009 and It was a hit. A great song that can be applied to any relationship but also life in general. A great pace to dance to and reflect listening to. It makes you picture two lovers in their own bubble, freed from labels and associated stigma.
Length: 4.19
Most romantic lyric:
“Let me know, is your heart still beating? Are we human or are we dancers?”
17. Jason Mraz – I’m yours
Who doesn’t love Jason Mraz? This song is adorable and applicable to all couples! Guaranteed to give you and your guests the feels! It talks about opening up your minds and hearts, being one big family. ‘It’s our godforsaken right to love’ Just perfect if you think about it.
Length: 3.41
Most romantic lyric:
But I won’t hesitate no more, no more. It cannot wait I’m yours
18. Sara Bareilles – I choose you
This. Woman. Is. Amazing. So many feels watching her music video which features the surprise engagements of two couples, one of them being a lesbian couple. She helps in the engagement and the entire preparation and final moment are filmed. It’s so heart-warming and such a great song too!
Length: 4.12
Most romantic lyric:
“My whole heart, will be yours forever. This is a beautiful start, To a lifelong love letter”
19. Brett every – what a beautiful day
This song is specifically about a gay wedding and has an adorable video that comes with it, that might be great on a projector behind you while you dance!
Song length: 3.15
Most romantic lyrics:
And the Prime Minister said, “By this beautiful law
That whatever beliefs, we believe in love more”
20. At last – Etta James
Etta James’s wonderfully earthy voice is a must-have at your wedding. This song, being the scrumptiously romantic classic that it is, will set the scene perfectly.
Length: 3.04
Most romantic lyric:
“And here we are in Heaven. For you are mine at last.”
21. Ben E King – Stand by me
A romantic song from the 1960s, popular and loved by most people! A song for bravery and sticking together no matter what.
Length: 2.52
Most romantic lyrics:
Oh, I won’t be afraid, Just as long as you stand,
Stand by me.
22. Peter Gabriel – In your eyes
This 1980s ballad is a vintage love of ours but timeless, the upbeat quality and early piano harmonies create a glittered romance in our minds. The song awakens at 1.04 and becomes livelier which gives you a lot to work with regarding dance moves. An amazing song about finally finding love after experiencing failures. Perfect under a starry spotlight.
Length: 5.28
Most romantic lyrics:
The resolution of all the fruitless searches, In your eyes
I see the light and the heat, In your eyes
23. Queen – I want to break free
Freddy Mercury, a pioneer in the LGBT movement (at least after his death) an incredibly talented singer sings this with such true passion, describing how he has fallen in love and he wants to be free – very likely eluding to his secret sexual preference at the time.
Length: 4.29
Most romantic lyric:
I’ve fallen in love for the first time, and this time I know it’s for real
24. Whitney Houston – I wanna dance with somebody
Whitney Houston’s classic banger cannot be missed from this playlist. Especially since she kept her true nature concealed – She was in love with her assistant Robyn Crawford, but since she came from an African American family, her mother forbade the relationship. Later in life, she died from a drug overdose. Although she talks of a man in the song, this would work for gay couples!
Length: 5.14
Most romantic lyric:
Yeah, I wanna dance with somebody. With somebody who loves me!
25. The weather girls – It’s raining men
A hilarious song by the sassy weather girls, it’s raining men! Need we say more? Surely a floor filler or a spicy first dance!
Length: 4.54
26. Stevie Wonder – you are the sunshine of my life
The blind prodigy who had the best ear for good music created this classic back in 1972. A charming song to dance to.
Length: 2.57
Most romantic song lyrics:
You are the sunshine of my life, yeah,
That’s why I’ll always stay around, You are the apple of my eye, Forever you’ll stay in my heart.
27. Christina Perri – a thousand years
This simple song is so adorable and lovable, very popular with lesbian weddings.
Length: 4.44
Most romantic lyrics:
I have died every day, waiting for you
Darling, don’t be afraid, I have loved you for a thousand years
I’ll love you for a thousand more
28. Melissa Etheridge – A simple love
Melissa Etheridge is openly gay and released this song in 2007. It is short so it could be the intro to your first dance, or perfect for those who don’t like being under the spotlight for too long.
Length: 1.17
Most romantic lyric:
It’s a simple love, Between you and me
29. Elvis – Can’t help falling in love
An all-time classic that will get even your elderly guests swooning. Elvis was great at professing his love in the most beautiful way.
Length: 3.00
Most romantic lyric:
Take my hand, Take my whole life, too. For I can’t help falling in love, with yo
30. Ed Sheeran – Perfect duet (ft. Beyonce)
This song tugs at our heartstrings. So amazing. Everyone loves Ed and his guitar skills, Beyonce adds her classy soul to the mix.
Length: 4.19
Most romantic lyric:
Looking so beautiful, I don’t deserve this Darling, you look perfect tonight
31. Ronan Keating – When you say nothing at all
All those who lived through the nineties will most likely reminisce when they hear this song. So romantic and timeless.
Length: 4.15
Most romantic lyric:
Try as they may they can never define, what’s being said between your heart and mine
32. Emmylou Harris – A love that will never grow old
This dreamy country singer is a must-have at your wedding, especially since this song was featured on a brokeback mountain.
Length: 3.20
Most romantic lyrics:
Lean on me, let our hearts beat in time,
Feel strength from the hands that have held you so long.
Who cares where we go on this rutted old road
In a world that may say that we’re wrong.
33. Queen – You’re my best friend
Another queen banger, perfect and sweet. Spoken with emotion through the beautiful voice of Freddy Mercury.
Length: 3.07
Most romantic lyrics:
You’re my sunshine and I want you to know
That my feelings are true
I really love you
Oh you’re my best friend
34. Rufus Wainright – across the universe
This gay Canadian singer is famed for this song especially, and it is popular among the LGBT community.
Length: 4.14
Most romantic lyrics:
Limitless undying love which shines around me like a million suns
And calls me on and on across the universe
35. Madonna – Like a prayer
A huge advocate for gay rights and loved by the gay community, Madonna’s romantic eighties classic – like a prayer!
Length: 5.37
Most romantic lyrics:
When you call my name
It’s like a little prayer
I’m down on my knees
I wanna take you there
36. Kris Allen – The vision of love
This talented singer sings passionately and creates an emotional picture in your mind
Length: 3.36
Most romantic lyrics:
Wake up if you believe
Love is not a fading dream
Tell me I’m not the only one
Who feels this way right now
37. Sade – Your love is king
This schmaltzy song is perfect for those extra passionate couples, Crown your king!
Length: 3.37
Most romantic lyrics:
Your love is king, crown you in my heart
Your love is king, never need to part
38. Eli Lieb – Young love
This fast-paced song by Eli Lieb is the perfect story of gay love.
Length: 3.48
Most romantic lyrics:
When I was young in love when you were everything
We’d stay up and drink through the night
Laying on the roof I put my hands on you
You said our love will never die
39. Gio Amenta – Speak softly
This passionate song by gay singer Gio Amenta talks about embracing your true self.
Length: 4.09
Most romantic lyric:
Speak softly, it helps when you’re holding my hand
40. Jason and DeMarco – Till the end of time
A slow-paced romantic song that bleeds passion.
Length: 6.05
41. Hands – A song for Orlando (with Britney Spears & Gwen Stefani)
This song has a very sad back story, but included at your wedding would be liberating and a great way to pay homage to the victims of the Orlando shooting.
Length: 4.35
Most romantic lyric:
Doesn’t matter who you love, all that matters is your love
42. James Morrison – You give me something
The gorgeous James Morrison sings this so beautifully!
Length: 3.49
Most romantic lyrics:
Cause you give me something
That makes me scared, alright,
This could be nothing
But I’m willing to give it a try,
Please give me something
‘Cause someday I might know my heart.
43. Shania Twain – you’re still the one
Who doesn’t love Shania Twain? The queen of romance and devotion.
Length: 3.21
Most romantic lyrics:
You’re still the one I run to
The one that I belong to
You’re still the one I want for life
44. Daniel Bedingfield – If you’re not the one
This song is such a classic and so beautiful, we’re sure everyone gets the feels when listening to this song. Especially when he hits that high note! Since it features the word wife it might be better for lesbian couples but it is such a lovely song.
Length: 4.07
Most romantic lyric:
I don’t want to run away but I can’t take it, I don’t understand,
If I’m not made for you then why does my heart tell me that I am?
Is there any way that I can stay in your arms?
45. Joey Graceffa – Don’t wait
Gay singer and a lovely romantic song.
Length: 4.32
Most romantic lyrics:
The darkness can be such a lonely place on your own
I’ll be your compass so you’ll never feel alone
Don’t wait for the world to be ready, Who says you can’t explore?
46. Rihanna – Diamonds
Ri Ri is known to be a supporter of gay rights, especially when she released Ti Amo (about the love between her and another female.) This song is beautiful and talks of embracing your sparkle.
Length: 4.42
Most romantic lyrics:
Find light in the beautiful sea, I choose to be happy
You and I, you and I, we’re like diamonds in the sky
You’re a shooting star I see, a vision of ecstasy
47. Pink – Perfect
This is such a deeply emotional song about past struggles, not being accepted, etc. But talks about remaining strong and considering yourself perfect.
Length: 4.07
Most romantic lyrics:
Pretty, pretty please, don’t you ever, ever feel
Like you are less than, less than fuckin’ perfect
Pretty, pretty please, if you ever, ever feel like you’re nothing
You’re fuckin’ perfect to me
48. Christina Aguilera – Aint no other man
Want a first dance song you can really groove to? Look no further.
Length: 4.52
Most romantic lyrics:
Could feel it from the start
Couldn’t stand to be apart
Something ’bout ya caught my eye
Something moved me deep inside
49. Son of a preacher man – Dusty Springfield
Cheeky!
Length: 2.26
Most romantic lyrics:
The only one who could ever reach me
Was the son of a preacher man
The only boy who could ever teach me
Was the son of a preacher man
50. The Ronettes – Be my baby
For the vintage-loving fellows!
Length: 2.44
Most romantic lyrics:
The night we met I knew I needed you so
And if I had the chance I’d never let you go
So won’t you say you love me,
I’ll make you so proud of me.
We’ll make ’em turn their heads every place we go
Bonus: Westlife – I wanna grow old with you
Just because it speaks for itself.
Length: 4.09
Most romantic lyrics:
I want to grow old with you
I want to die lying in your arms
I want to grow old with you
I want to be looking in your eyes
What’s your first dance song choice?
Do you have a preferred gay wedding song or a lesbian wedding song? Let us know of your favourite first dance same-sex wedding songs in the comments below…
Why not also check our Top 10 Gay Wedding Preludes and let us know what you think about…
