Best Modern Rock Wedding Reception Songs For 2023

Best Modern Rock Wedding Reception Songs For 2023 600 399 adam Michaels

Although your wedding ceremony will be a big moment for you and your partner, the music selection is what most of your guests are looking forward to. The music is what takes a party from mediocre to unforgettable.

For a truly fun time at your wedding reception, you will need some great rock wedding songs, the kind that will get your guests in the mood and on to the dance floor. Take your music playlist to the next level and tune things up a notch for the enjoyment of all.

With songs from rock bands such as Yellowcard, Oasis, The Killers, and several others, you won’t run out of great rock songs to dance to. You will have your friends and family tapping their feet, moving and grooving the second the music comes on. If you’re looking for music to make a grand entrance as well, you are in the right place. Most of these songs are great numbers to set the tone for your entire wedding reception.

“Come to Me” by Goo Goo Dolls

if you’re a fan of rock music and want to make your wedding’s first dance truly unforgettable, “Come to Me” by Goo Goo Dolls is an excellent choice. This beautifully crafted rock ballad features a slow, melodic tempo and heartfelt lyrics that express the depth of true love.

The song’s joyful, fun-loving spirit is infectious and is sure to create a memorable moment for the newlyweds and their guests. With Johnny Rzeznik’s distinctive vocals and the band’s signature guitar sound, this song creates a romantic and intimate atmosphere that is perfect for the special moment.

“Everlong (Acoustic Version)” by Foo Fighters

“Everlong (Acoustic Version)” by Foo Fighters is a beautiful and romantic rock song that would be a perfect choice for a wedding first dance. This acoustic version of the Foo Fighters’ hit song features a stripped-down arrangement that highlights the raw emotion and sincerity of Dave Grohl’s vocals. The slow, melodic tempo and tender lyrics about the enduring power of love create a truly intimate and unforgettable atmosphere.

“Heaven” by Bryan Adams

If you’re a die-hard fan of Bryan Adams or simply appreciate the beauty of this timeless ballad, “Heaven” is a fantastic choice for a rock song for a wedding first dance.

The song’s essence of true love and the feeling of being in your world with your partner are beautifully captured by Bryan Adams’ powerful vocals and iconic guitar riffs.

“Friday I’m in Love” by The Cure

Choosing “Friday I’m in Love” as a wedding’s first dance song is also a unique and unconventional choice that will make the moment even more special. It’s a departure from the usual slow ballads or romantic songs that couples often choose for their first dance.

“Faithfully” by Journey

“Faithfully” by Journey, released in 1983 as part of their album “Frontiers,” has become an enduring favorite for wedding first dances. This classic rock ballad, penned by Jonathan Cain, showcases the band’s powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics, which poignantly express the devotion and commitment that come with true love. As couples sway to the music, the tender lines “I’m forever yours, faithfully” serve as a poignant reminder of the promises they’ve made to one another.

(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” — by Bryan Adams

This 1991 rock ballad not only was featured in the soundtrack for Prince of Thieves, but it also won Canadian rocker Bryan Adams a Grammy. Are the lyrics, which speak of a love worth dying for, a little bit cheesy? Yes, but in the very best way. This romantic song is the perfect candidate for a memorable first dance with your spouse.

I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” — by Aerosmith

This No. 1 Hot 100 hit was written for the 1998 sci-fi film “Armageddon,” which, ironically, starred lead singer Steven Tyler’s daughter, Liv Tyler. While Aerosmith wasn’t songwriter Diane Warren’s first choice to perform the song, it became Aerosmith’s biggest hit in the U.S. and across the globe. If you like a classic love song interlaced with a rock style, this one’s for you.

Have I Told You Lately That I Love You” — by Rod Stewart

If you’re looking for a track that’s a little more laid back, then this love song from U.K. rocker Rod Stewart is the way to go. His cover of Van Morrison’s song became a Top 10 hit in 1993. If you’re a fan of Stewart’s raspy vocals, this sentimental ballad is ideal for your ceremony or reception.

Ocean Avenue – Yellowcard

This song set all my sk8r boi romance expectations. This song had a huge moment. This brings me back to high school skipping lunch and sitting in the lunch room with my headphones in. 

Sugar, We’re Going Down – Fall Out Boy

“A LOADED GOD COMPLEX. COCK IT AND PULL IT,” we all screamed like we understood what that meant. You’ll get the same enthusiasm when your wedding band drops this tune at your wedding. If you want people to get rowdy, play old Fall Out Boy songs. 

The Reason – Hoobastank

Even though they have the worst band name ever, they still managed to pen this classic pop/rock ballad back in 2003. Drenched in nostalgia and perfect lyrics for a wedding, it’s a unique and fitting first dance choice.

Tonight, Tonight – Smashing Pumpkins

This song is timeless and it treads the line perfectly between a ballad and a grungy rock tune. This an awesome first dance song idea for the rockier brides, without the worry of alienating your guests.

Medicine – The 1975

There is something therapeutic about ‘Medicine’. For many, falling in love with the ideal partner can be the cure to all their woes! If you feel this way, The 1975 have you covered.