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Writer's pictureNick Stackhouse

20 Essential 1990s Songs For Every Part Of Your Wedding

Updated: Dec 21, 2022

Today we’re going to outline the best 1990s songs for every part of your Essex & London Wedding.


Ahhh, the 1990s. From denim overalls to awkward No Doubt haircuts, this era was truly iconic in so many ways - and its music is no exception!


When it comes to weddings, there's nothing quite like hearing some of your favourite tracks from the 1990s - whether you're tapping along to "MMM Bop" or slow-dancing to "All My Life", it's a guaranteed good time.


If you're planning your wedding, be sure to include some of the best 1990s songs from this article on your request list - your guests will thank you for it! From boy bands to hair metal, there's something for everyone in this eclectic mix.


Cocktail hour, first dance, floor-fillers and last dance songs; we’ve got it all for you.


If you’re looking for some inspiration for your wedding song playlist, you’ve come to the right place.


I’ve broken the list down into 4 categories: Cocktail hour, first dance songs, floor fillers and ending songs.


Let’s get started:



1990s Cocktail Hour Wedding Songs


Cocktail hours at weddings are a great way to kick off the celebrations and give guests a chance to mingle and enjoy some drinks.


Not every wedding has a cocktail hour, but the songs I listed below could also be used for that time in-between dinner and the evening party starting.


They’re well-known, upbeat songs that will get guests moving and singing along, perfectly setting the mood for the evening party - from classic pop bangers to old-school hip-hop anthems, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!



1. Charles & Eddie - Would I Lie To You?

"Would I Lie to You" by Charles & Eddie is a classic song that's been beloved for over two decades. With its catchy chorus and infectiously smooth R&B grooves, it's no surprise that this song still gets us singing along.


After all, when it comes to "Would I Lie To You," the answer is always no!



2. Hanson - MMM Bop

This track was written by Isaac, Taylor and Zac Hanson when they were just teenagers, but even more interesting is that the song was originally written as a slow ballad! Thankfully, we got the upbeat version instead - because can you really resist singing along?



3. Supergrass - Alright

Interestingly, this song was actually a re-recording of an earlier version that Supergrass had done for their first demo tape. The iconic music video was also shot in just one day and it only cost them £800!



4. The Verve - Bittersweet Symphony

Released in 1997, this anthem of dreamy melancholy still resonates with listeners today. Its iconic music video featuring a protagonist walking through an endless abyss of urban sprawl is now considered a masterpiece.


To this day, it remains one of the most recognizable and beloved songs in modern rock history; its bittersweet melody and message of hope has resonated with countless fans throughout the years. Get it on your list!



5. Savage Garden - Truly Madly Deeply

The iconic pop ballad "Truly Madly Deeply" was released by the Australian duo Savage Garden in 1997. It's not hard to see why this song has been so popular: it's an uplifting love story with a catchy chorus that makes it hard not to sing along!


Perfect at your wedding (or at the karaoke bar), "Truly Madly Deeply" is one of those songs that will never go out of style. With its soaring vocals, lush strings and a melodic guitar riff, it's easy to get lost in the beauty of this timeless classic. So add it to your request list and let yourself be swept away by the sweet sounds of Savage Garden! You won't regret it.


Now let's move on to some options for your first dance:



1990s First Dance Wedding Songs


Your first dance will likely be personal to you, but here are some options that might help you make your decision.



1. Bryan Adams - (Everything I Do) I Do It For You

Bryan Adams’ song “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” is an iconic love ballad that has been a popular choice for first dances at weddings since its release in 1991.


So even if you’re not usually one to get caught up in romance, give this song a listen and you may just find yourself swept away by its passionate lyrics.



2. Bon Jovi - Always

A classic rock ballad, "Always" by Bon Jovi is a popular choice for a first dance song - its romantic lyrics have made it a popular choice for couples wanting to express their love on their wedding day.


The medium tempo of the song makes it perfect for a first dance and its lyrics are sure to bring some tears of joy from the guests. Plus, it's such a classic tune that even grandparents will be singing along!



3. K-Ci & JoJo - All My Life

All My Life by K-Ci & JoJo is a great song to get the party started at a wedding and makes for an unforgettable first dance.


The heartfelt lyrics capture the essence of a deep love between two people, making it a perfect choice for a wedding. Not to mention, it’s catchy and upbeat, so all the guests will be singing along and dancing with joy (plus, it’s sure to be a hit on the karaoke machine at all future wedding anniversaries!)



4. Brian McKnight - Back At One

"Back at One" by Brian McKnight is a timeless romantic ballad that makes for the perfect first dance song. Its soft and slow tempo allows couples to take their time as they sway on the dance floor, taking in the moment together.


The song speaks of how one love is all you need to make the world a better place, and that two hearts are stronger when they join together. Can't get much more romantic than that!



5. The Cure - Friday I'm In Love

"Friday I'm In Love" by The Cure is an excellent choice of song for a first dance - its upbeat tempo and romantic lyrics make it the perfect backdrop to any couple on their wedding day.

The song isn’t too slow or too fast, making it the perfect mix of energy and emotion. Plus, this classic tune is sure to get all the guests up on the dance floor and join you when ready (bonus points if your wedding is on a Friday).


Now the first dance is over, let's get everyone else on the dance floor:



1990s Floor Filler Wedding Songs


The romantic bit is out of the way, now it's time to party. Here are some 1990s songs that will amp up the energy in no time.



1. Mariah Carey - Fantasy

"Fantasy" by Mariah Carey creates an energetic atmosphere that gives you no option but to move your body and dance.


The remix featuring Ol’ Dirty Bastard adds that hip-hop party vibe as well. Don't forget to put on Fantasy on your request list - it's sure to be a hit!



2. Spice Girls - Wannabe

This a pop classic that gets people dancing and singing along no matter the time or place. It has an undeniably infectious energy and instantly recognizable lyrics that always puts a smile on people's faces.


So if you're ever in need of some energy on the dance floor, get "Wannabe" on!



3. B*witched - C'est La Vie

"C'est La Vie" by B*witched is an iconic song that has been popular for decades and continues to get people dancing. The upbeat, playful tune and catchy chorus is so irresistible to dance to.


You're sure to get some guests doing an Irish jig battle too, which is never a bad idea.



4. Five - Keep On Movin'

"Keep On Movin'" by Five has an upbeat tempo and infectious melody - the song is the perfect example of a catchy chorus that's easy to sing along to (try not to sing along to the "Ahhhhhh" in the chorus).


Don't be surprised if you find yourself humming "Keep On Movin'" long after the song is over.



5. Jamiroquai - Canned Heat

"Canned Heat" by Jamiroquai is an upbeat, soulful song that has been getting people dancing since its release in 1996 - proving that great music never goes out of fashion.


The track has a really timeless quality to it, and even today has the capacity to get a room of people up on their feet. Get ready to have some fun – it's time for Canned Heat!


Next, it's time to close out your night with some sweet 1990s tunes. Get ready:



1990s Ending Wedding Songs


These songs are hand-picked to bring everyone together at the end of the night, in a big circle singing at the top of their lungs.


The perfect ending to your Essex & London wedding party.



1. Take That - Never Forget

The song has become a classic and still remains one of Take That's most popular singles, with its uplifting chorus “Never forget where you’re coming from/Never pretend life isn’t fun” (very fitting to round out your wedding).


The song also appeared in the hit 1995 romantic comedy, Four Weddings and a Funeral, starring Hugh Grant and Andie MacDowell.



2. Wilson Phillips - Hold On

Even though "Hold On" was never released as a single – the song was made popular again after being featured in Bridesmaids.


Make sure you’re ready for an intense sing-along. You won’t be able to resist!



3. Oasis - Champagne Supernova

Today, "Champagne Supernova" is seen as a classic Oasis song and remains one of their most popular singles.


This one is guaranteed to get everyone hugging and singing at the top of their lungs.



4. Underworld - Born Slippy

This track gained widespread popularity due to its use in the film Trainspotting.


Get it on your request list and get ready to break a sweat!



5. Aerosmith - I Don't Want To Miss A Thing

Released in 1998, "I Don't Want to Miss a Thing" is a power ballad by Aerosmith and is the lead single from the soundtrack for the movie Armageddon.

The song is about not wanting to miss out on anything in life, particularly when it comes to love (could it be more perfect for a wedding?). Tyler sings lyrics like "I don't wanna close my eyes / I don't wanna fall asleep / 'Cause I'd miss you, baby / And I don't wanna miss a thing," which perfectly captures the sentiment of wanting to savour every moment with someone special.


So there you have it - all the greatest hits from the 1990s that made us dance and sing. Perfect for your wedding playlist!


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