April 2024

Congratulations! You’ve said “I do,” sealed your love with a kiss, danced your first dance, been toasted (or roasted), you’ve cut some cake and now it’s time to cut up on the dance floor with your nearest and dearest! But what’s the secret to keeping the energy high and the dance floor packed throughout your wedding reception? Well, secrets, secrets are no fun unless they’re shared with everyone, so without further ado… drumroll please… it’s the music! 

At Around Town Entertainment, we understand the importance of crafting the perfect playlist to ensure your guests are grooving all night long. From timeless classics to contemporary hits, we’ve curated a selection of songs guaranteed to ignite the dance floor and create unforgettable memories. On our extensive song list, we have just about everything you could ask for, which is where you come in! Grab your fiancé, a bottle of wine and your favorite snacks, and let’s get down to business – it’s time to highlight to your heart’s content. Highlighting the songs you love on our extensive song list is what gives us a sense of your taste… and what kind of party you’re looking to have! 

If you’re like most of our couples, you’re more than ready to dance the night away all night long with all your favorite people, so below we have a few examples of songs that get people moving and grooving every time; because once you’re finished highlighting the song list, don’t forget you still get to pick 3 specific song requests! While it’s important to pick songs that are meaningful to you and your new spouse, if you wanted to make sure a favorite dance tune came on: this is the place to do it. And remember: if it isn’t on the song list, that doesn’t mean we don’t know it or can’t learn it! Any song in your three requests is a song we will learn and deliver with the same high energy and professionalism you expect from an Around Town live wedding band! 

1. “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars

Kick off the party with this infectious funk-pop anthem that never fails to get people moving. With its irresistible beat and catchy chorus, “Uptown Funk” sets the tone for a night of non-stop fun and celebration.

2. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” by Whitney Houston

No wedding playlist is complete without a dose of Whitney’s powerhouse vocals. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” is a timeless classic that appeals to guests of all ages, ensuring everyone hits the dance floor.

3. “Shut Up and Dance” by Walk the Moon

With its upbeat tempo and feel-good lyrics, “Shut Up and Dance” is guaranteed to have your guests singing along and busting out their best dance moves. It’s the perfect song to keep the energy high and the party vibes going strong.

4. “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey

Cue the sing-alongs and air guitar solos! “Don’t Stop Believin'” is a crowd-pleaser that never fails to unite guests in a collective moment of pure joy. It’s a must-have on any wedding playlist for its timeless appeal and infectious optimism.

5. “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake

Justin Timberlake brings the funk with “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” This feel-good anthem is guaranteed to have everyone on their feet, dancing like nobody’s watching. It’s the ultimate mood booster for your wedding reception.

6. “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire

Channel disco vibes with “September” by Earth, Wind & Fire. This funky groove is impossible to resist, making it a surefire way to keep the dance floor packed and the good times rolling all night long.

7. “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas

Get the party started with “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas. With its infectious energy and optimistic lyrics, this song is the perfect soundtrack for celebrating love, friendship, and unforgettable moments.

8. “Dancing Queen” by ABBA

Embrace your inner dancing queen with this timeless classic from ABBA. “Dancing Queen” is a wedding reception staple that never fails to get guests of all ages grooving on the dance floor. It’s a nostalgic anthem that brings people together in celebration of love and music.

9. “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift

Shake off any wedding day jitters and hit the dance floor with Taylor Swift’s empowering anthem, “Shake It Off.” With its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo, this song is guaranteed to lift spirits and keep the party vibes going strong.

10. “24K Magic” by Bruno Mars

Bruno Mars brings the funk with “24K Magic.” This high-energy track is perfect for getting the party started and keeping the dance floor packed all night long. With its infectious groove and smooth vocals, it’s a surefire hit with wedding guests of all ages.

11. “Dance the Night Away” by Dua Lipa

Some might say this was the song of the summer, and certainly one that kept all the Barbies on their toes in 2023’s smash hit movie. Between the high energy vocals and classic disco feel with a modern twist, we’re pretty sure you’re about to have your own Barbie & Ken dance party for the ages with this hit! 

12. “I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)” by The Proclaimers

What could be a better song for a wedding reception – right after you’ve “proclaimed” your love for one another – than one that professes just how far you’d go to be with one another? It also doesn’t hurt that this song has a nice steady beat, with a catchy melody and infectious chorus that tends to get even the quietest of partiers hollering along with the “da-da-da-da’s”! 

At Around Town Entertainment, we’re passionate about helping you create the ultimate wedding celebration – no matter what your taste or what songs you choose, our award-winning and highly acclaimed bands will work with you to ensure your reception is a night to remember. So, let’s turn up the music, hit the dance floor, and make memories that last a lifetime!

Ella Fitzgerald’s “Someone to Watch Over Me.” Frank Sinatra’s “The Way You Look Tonight.” Nat King Cole’s “L-O-V-E.” Etta James’ “At Last.” There’s a reason these artists are known as “The Greats” and these songs as some of the most timeless, classic love songs of all time. We here at Around Town Entertainment love these songs and this gorgeous style of music, with its beautiful brass, and rich, swelling vocals. 

If you’re one of our classic couples who loves old romanticism, and a gorgeous classic vintage vibe, we’re sure these songs have crossed your mind as you’ve been planning your music – how could they not? We’d happily recommend all of them for your big day and special moments; they’re standards, totally classic, guaranteed hits. We also understand though if you have that little voice in the back of your head going “…does classic run the risk of being overdone?” 

First of all, no, not at all. Classic is classic for a reason! Some things truly never go out of style and these big band, jazzy, soulful numbers have safely ensconced themselves in that category. However, we’re also happy to say that there are ways for you to still have that sweeping romantic jazz feel – without picking an old jazz standard!

There’s been a recent comeback, or resurgence in the sweeping, romantic, symphonic, big band, jazz sound in contemporary music with artists like Laufey, Cody Fry, Jacob Collier, Jon Batiste, Sammy Rae & the Friends, Olivia Dean, Adele, and Ben Rector at the forefront of the movement, along with cover artists like Postmodern Jukebox, or stories. 

These artists and others like them infuse their music with rich orchestration, incorporating elements like brass, strings, and woodwinds to create a full-bodied sound that harks back to the golden age of big band music. Their compositions often feature soaring melodies, intricate harmonies, and dynamic shifts, evoking a sense of nostalgia and romance – perfect for a wedding where you’re blending the idea of rich romance with the idea something that can last forever – just like this classic style of music. 

Moreover, the revival of this sound speaks to a broader trend of artists rediscovering and reimagining classic genres and styles. By blending elements of jazz, classical, and pop, these artists are creating a unique sonic landscape that appeals to both old-school aficionados and contemporary music lovers alike – which makes it ideal for a classic yet contemporary wedding, and is sure to keep all your guests feeling like the music is familiar to them, from grandma to your girl friends! 

Of course, we wouldn’t rave about these artists or throw this idea out there without having some fabulous examples to back it up! Here are just a few of our favorite suggestions our award-winning live bands can play that could fit beautifully into your evening – a lot of them make for stunning first dances. 

“Best Friend” by Laufey – an ideal tempo for a calm, sweet, soothing first dance, this song has a romantic timeless vibe and lyrics that express a deep and genuine affection, capturing the essence of a strong bond between two people. Perfect for newlyweds that know their deep friendship is at the heart of their passionate love; and as a bonus, the lyrics have a few clever little jokes that will leave you and your guests laughing at its poignancy. 

“I Hear a Symphony” by Cody Fry – this song is deceptive and perfect for couples looking for a choreographed dance moment. It begins very softly and simply and builds to a lush and rich musical moment as the lyrics describe how someone went from hearing a simple song as they went through their life, to hearing a full symphony each time they look at their love. It’s the musical and aural equivalent to the “I met you and now the world is technicolor” sentiment! If you ever wanted to feel like the main characters of a movie, this song is the perfect soundtrack, with its deceptive simplicity magically transforming into a sweeping romantic movement that will leave your guests in tears (the good kind). 

“I Get It Now” by Sammy Rae & The Friends – This one is brand-spanking new, so we aren’t surprised if you haven’t heard it yet! Once again lush yet simple, this song beautifully describes how the love you spent years trying to make happen turned out to be something so simple and effortless with the right person. Believe it or not, it’s the bands’ first love song – and we think it hits the mark perfectly. Slow and steady, just like your love, this song is another perfect option for a first dance – its structure simultaneously classic and flowing, allowing for that lovely jazz sound. 

What if the song that means the most to you and your partner doesn’t match the vibe of your wedding? Say you’ve planned this gorgeous classic, romantic, timeless day, but your favorite song that you’d like to use for your first dance or other part of your big day just doesn’t seem to fit musically. Well, that’s the most beautiful part of your brilliant choice to hire our incredibly talented live musicians: we can change the style of a song. Think of Postmodern Jukebox taking contemporary songs and giving them a retro makeover – we can do something similar! In the same way that artists will often release acoustic covers of their music or someone else’s, we can take the song that’s most meaningful to you and shift its style so that it suits the vibe you’re looking for! 

When it comes to crafting the perfect ambiance for your wedding day, the choice between a live wedding band and a DJ is a decision that can shape the entire atmosphere of your celebration. And let’s be honest, this decision is a big one—it’s not just about music; it’s about creating moments that will be cherished for a lifetime! So, why should you choose our live wedding bands over a DJ? Let’s dive into the reasons why this choice can truly elevate your special day.

First and foremost, let’s talk atmosphere. Picture this: you’re surrounded by your closest friends and family, the love in the air is palpable, and as you take to the dance floor for your first dance as a married couple, the sound of a live band fills the room with soul-stirring melodies. There’s an energy, a vibrancy that comes with live music that simply can’t be replicated by recorded tracks. The presence of our talented musicians and vocalists adds a level of sophistication and elegance to your wedding that sets the stage for an unforgettable experience. Their professionalism and experience are unmatched, and are skilled at quickly reacting and adjusting to whatever is happening in the moment, whether you need a longer intro to reach the dance floor, or a shorter ending to the cake cutting in case of a frosting fiasco! 

But it’s not just about the music—it’s about the interaction, the connection between the performers and your guests. With our award-winning live wedding bands, you get more than just music; you get a fully immersive entertainment experience. From engaging with the crowd to reading the room and adjusting their performance on the fly, our live bands bring a level of spontaneity and excitement that keeps the energy high and the dance floor packed all night long. It’s this interactive element that creates moments of pure magic, where you and your guests feel truly connected to the music and each other.

Now let’s talk customization. One of the greatest advantages of choosing an Around Town live band is the ability to tailor your music selection to reflect your unique style and personality as a couple. Whether you’re into classic hits, modern chart-toppers, or a mix of genres, our talented bandleaders can curate a setlist that perfectly suits your taste and sets the tone for your celebration. From romantic ballads to high-energy dance tunes, the versatility of a live band ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy, creating a personalized soundtrack for your special day that will be remembered for years to come.

Perhaps the most compelling reason of all to choose a live wedding band over a DJ is the undeniable power of a live performance. There’s something truly magical about witnessing musicians and vocalists come together to create music in real-time. The raw emotion, energy, and talent of live performers add an extra layer of depth and authenticity to your wedding day, elevating the entire experience to new heights. Whether it’s the soulful strains of a vocalist or the infectious rhythm of a drummer, the sight and sound of live music create moments that are not only memorable but truly transformative.

Of course, versatility is also key when it comes to choosing the right entertainment for your wedding day. Around Town’s highly-lauded bands can cover a wide range of musical styles and genres, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re planning an elegant ballroom affair or a laid-back outdoor celebration, our versatile bands can adapt their performance to suit the unique vibe of your event, keeping the party going from start to finish. From classic rock to Motown classics, we can cater to diverse musical tastes and create an atmosphere that is as unique as you are as a couple.

But let’s not forget about the lasting memories that live music can create. Your wedding day is a once-in-a-lifetime celebration, and the music you choose will play a central role in shaping the memories you’ll cherish for years to come. From the first dance to the last song of the night, the presence of live performers adds an extra layer of emotion and intimacy to your special day, creating moments that will be etched in your heart forever. Whether it’s the soul-stirring lyrics of a love ballad or the infectious energy of a hit dance song, the music becomes a soundtrack to your love story, weaving its way into the fabric of your memories and reminding you of the magic of your wedding day.

Of course, we would be remiss not to sing the praises of our fabulous after party DJs! We know you party animals don’t want the night to end, so we do offer the option to keep the celebration going just a little bit longer with DJ’s available to book in advance. They’re there to bring the heat with some of the more “club” numbers your grandma may wish to miss – so the timing is perfect since she’ll likely be in bed by the time you’re ready for an after party! 

To sum up, choosing an Around Town live wedding band over a DJ for the bulk of your day offers a multitude of benefits that can truly elevate your special day. From creating an unforgettable atmosphere to providing interactive entertainment, customization, and a lasting experience that will be cherished for a lifetime, live music brings a level of sophistication and authenticity to your wedding that simply can’t be matched. So, as you plan your dream wedding, consider the power of live music to transform your celebration into a moment you’ll never forget.

You did it! You got married! You’ve walked down the aisle, exchanged those heartfelt vows, and sealed the deal with a kiss. The cameras have flashed, the guests have mingled (and taken the opportunity to have a cheeky little cocktail and hors d’oeuvre), and now it’s time to eat, drink, be merry, and get your groove on! But in order to do that, you have to actually walk into the room where all your guests are eagerly awaiting that oh-so-special announcement: 

“Now announcing, for the first time, as (insert the description that works best for you and your partner), the new Mr./Mrs. & Mr./Mrs.___!!” 

Doors burst open! You’re there! It’s celebratory! Fun! Magical! THE official start of The Party. 

Please tell us there’s a song playing in your mind as that happens. While some couples choose to enter the room in relative silence, you did the smartest thing ever and hired our live wedding bands to play the most fun, toe-tapping, groove-thang-shaking bops around to get your guests excited and ready to dance the night away in celebration of your love! Which means, of course, that one of the fun moments you get to pick out music for is this: the Reception Entrance Song. 

Let’s dive into why choosing the perfect reception entrance song is an absolute must. First things first, it’s all about setting the tone. Your entrance song isn’t just some background noise; it’s the opening credits to the blockbuster movie that is your wedding reception. Whether you want to kick things off with a bang, set a romantic mood, or get everyone grooving on the dance floor from the get-go, your song choice sets the stage for the entire evening. Think about it – do you want your guests to feel like they’ve stepped into a fairytale romance, a high-energy dance party, or a feel-good celebration of love? Your entrance song sets the tone for the entire night ahead.

Now, let’s talk personalization. This isn’t just any old party – it’s YOUR party. Your reception entrance song is a chance to showcase your personalities, your style, and your love story. Whether it’s a timeless classic that holds sentimental value, a modern hit that gets everyone pumped, or a quirky tune that’s uniquely ‘you,’ your song should scream ‘this is us!’ It’s a reflection of your journey together, your shared interests, and the love that brought you here today. Plus, let’s be real – who doesn’t love a good opportunity to show off their impeccable taste in music?

But hold on, we’re not done yet! Your reception entrance isn’t just about you; it’s about your guests too. Your song choice sets the vibe for the entire room, getting everyone hyped up and ready to celebrate. So why settle for silence when you could have your guests cheering and dancing along from the moment you walk in? Your entrance sets the pace for the rest of the evening, and a killer song choice ensures that the energy stays high and the party keeps rocking all night long.

Now, we know some of you are the “shy and retiring” types who don’t want a big entrance – and we get that! But we have news – on your wedding day, you’re the center of attention no matter what. Your guests are going to be waiting with baited breath for you to enter the reception and all eyes will be on you no matter what. Do you want your entrance to be silent, save for the clapping of your guests, or do you want a song to distract them and get them moving and grooving? Keep in mind, wedding dresses are not typically the lightest or easiest to maneuver in, so for those of you wearing one or walking with someone wearing one: take the time it would ordinarily take you to walk into a room and double it. In great news, Around Town’s live bands are exceptionally clever: for your entrance we’ll generally play the catchiest hook, verse and chorus for whatever song you choose, so the whole moment feels seamless and effortless! 

Of course, we couldn’t possibly leave you hanging without some suggestions to get your creative juices flowing for your epic and magical entrance! Choosing this song is a deeply personal choice, reflecting your unique personalities, preferences, and desired atmosphere for your celebration. So, without further ado, we’ve curated a list featuring both timeless classics and contemporary hits that could serve as fantastic options:

1. “Can’t Stop the Feeling!” by Justin Timberlake
2. “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” by Natalie Cole 
3. “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
4. “I Gotta Feeling” by The Black Eyed Peas
5. “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z
6. “You Make My Dreams” by Hall & Oates
7. “Love on Top” by Beyoncé
8. “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours)” by Stevie Wonder
9. “Happy” by Pharrell Williams
10. “I Choose You” by Sara Bareilles
11. “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars
12. “Here Comes the Sun” by The Beatles
13. “Walking on Sunshine” by Katrina & The Waves
14. “I Do” by Colbie Caillat
15. “Best Day of My Life” by American Authors

It’s important to consider various factors such as tempo, lyrics, and overall vibe to ensure the chosen song perfectly complements your vision for your entrance. But don’t forget to consider songs with personal significance or that capture the sheer joy and excitement of the moment. Ultimately, the ideal song is one that resonates deeply with both of you, creating a truly unforgettable entrance to your reception.

In short, your reception entrance song is the ultimate mood-setter, the perfect expression of who you are as a couple, and the key to kicking off the party of a lifetime. So don’t leave it to chance – crank up the volume, let the music speak for you, and get ready to make a grand entrance that nobody will ever forget!