Planning an unforgettable wedding reception can be overwhelming, especially when it comes to creating the perfect playlist. Did you know that R&B songs are a phenomenal choice for adding heartwarming vibes to your nuptial celebration? In this article, we’ve handpicked 75 of the best R & B wedding songs to help set an enchanting ambiance for your big day.
Let’s dive in and discover some music magic that will have everyone grooving on your dance floor!
The Beauty of R&B Wedding Songs
R&B radiates pure emotion, passion and dedication which can lend the perfect ambience to your wedding. The soulfulness of these music tracks carries a unique charm that resonates with couples deeply in love.
Imagine dancing your first dance as newlyweds to the rhythm of timeless classics like“At Last” by Etta Jamesor more contemporary gems such as“All of Me” by John Legend. These songs encapsulate an enchanting blend of love lyrics and smooth beats, turning each moment into a treasured memory.
R&B wedding songs also have magnificent versatility which could effectively set various moods at different stages of your celebration. Whether it’s creating an intimate atmosphere during the ceremony or setting a joyous vibe for the reception party, R&B has got you covered! Let Brandy serenade you down the aisle with her heartfelt hits, or let Beyoncé kickstart your bridal squad grooving on the dance floor.
The tunes will seamlessly weave love stories echoing around every corner while marking meaningful exchanges – from father-daughter dances to groom’s captivating walk down the aisle.
Classic R&B Wedding Songs
Al Green – “Let’s Stay Together”
“Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green is a timeless classic that speaks to the enduring nature of love. Its soothing melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a popular choice for weddings.
“I’m… I’m so in love with you
Whatever you want to do
Is alright with me…”
Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell – “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough”
This energetic duet speaks of the lengths one would go to for love. Its uplifting message makes it a favorite for newlyweds.
“Ain’t no mountain high enough
Ain’t no valley low enough
Ain’t no river wide enough
To keep me from getting to you babe.”
Luther Vandross – “Here and Now”
“Here and Now” promises a forever kind of love. Luther Vandross’ smooth vocals are sure to add a touch of romance to any wedding ceremony.
“Here and now
I promise to love faithfully
You’re all I need…”
Percy Sledge – “When a Man Loves a Woman”
This song embodies the depth of a man’s love for his partner. Its soulful rendition has made it a staple for romantic occasions.
“When a man loves a woman
Can’t keep his mind on nothin’ else…”
Whitney Houston – “I Will Always Love You”
Whitney Houston’s powerful vocals make this ballad unforgettable. Its message of enduring love makes it perfect for wedding ceremonies.
“And I… will always love you
I will always love you.”
Boyz II Men – “On Bended Knee”
This touching ballad is all about seeking forgiveness and promising to be better. It’s a beautiful reminder of commitment and perseverance in a relationship.
“Can we go back to the days our love was strong?
Can you tell me how a perfect love goes wrong?”
Anita Baker – “Sweet Love”
“Sweet Love” is a melodic ode to the wonders of love. Anita Baker’s voice is sure to add a touch of elegance to any wedding.
“Sweet love hear me callin’ out your name
I feel no shame; I’m in love
Sweet love…”
The Temptations – “My Girl”
This joyful tune celebrates the happiness brought by a special someone. Its upbeat tempo and loving lyrics are bound to bring smiles to the faces of the wedding attendees.
“I guess you’d say
What can make me feel this way?
My girl…”
Peabo Bryson & Roberta Flack – “Tonight I Celebrate My Love”
This duet is a beautiful expression of love and intimacy, making it a perfect choice for a wedding first dance.
“Tonight I celebrate my love for you
And that midnight sun is gonna come shining through.”
Stevie Wonder – “Ribbon in the Sky”
This song likens love to a ribbon in the sky, a unique and enduring symbol. Stevie Wonder’s magical touch makes this a great song for a wedding.
“For so long, for this night I prayed
That a star would guide you my way
To share with me this special day…”
Teddy Pendergrass – “You’re My Latest, My Greatest Inspiration”
This heartwarming ballad showcases the transformative power of love, making it a great choice for couples.
“You’re my latest and my greatest
My latest, my greatest inspiration…”
Atlantic Starr – “Always”
“Always” is a declaration of forever love, making it an apt song for wedding vows and ceremonies.
“Girl, you are to me, all that a woman should be
And I dedicate my life to you always.”
Otis Redding – “These Arms of Mine”
Otis Redding’s soulful voice exudes pure emotion in this touching song. It’s a beautiful choice for couples wishing to express the warmth of their embrace.
“These arms of mine
They are lonely, lonely and feeling blue…”
Sade – “By Your Side”
With its calming melody, “By Your Side” assures a partner of unwavering support, making it a poignant choice for weddings.
“When you’re lost and you’re alone and you can’t get back again
I will find you darling and I will bring you home.”
Brian McKnight – “Back at One”
This song’s poetic journey through love is sure to touch the hearts of many, making it a romantic addition to any wedding playlist.
“One, you’re like a dream come true
Two, just wanna be with you…”
Patti LaBelle – “If Only You Knew”
Patti LaBelle’s emotional rendition speaks to the depths of unspoken love. It’s a soulful song that can resonate with many.
“I must have rehearsed my lines
A thousand times
Until I had them memorized.”
Keith Sweat – “Nobody”
For couples looking for a sensual slow dance, “Nobody” by Keith Sweat is a classic pick.
“Who can love you like me? Nobody
Who can sex you like me? Nobody…”
Aretha Franklin – “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman”
This iconic song celebrates the feeling of completeness a partner can bring. Aretha’s powerful voice only adds to the beauty.
“You make me feel
You make me feel
You make me feel like a natural woman.”
SWV – “Weak”
“Weak” beautifully captures the overwhelming emotions of falling in love. It’s a great addition to any wedding playlist.
“Can’t explain why your loving makes me weak.”
The Isley Brothers – “For the Love of You”
This smooth ballad is perfect for setting a romantic mood. The Isley Brothers’ harmonies make it a classic.
“Drifting on a memory
Ain’t no place I’d rather be than with you.”
Maxwell – “Fortunate”
“Fortunate” is all about appreciating the luck of finding true love. Maxwell’s soulful voice makes it a favorite for many couples.
“Fortunate to have you girl
I’m so glad you’re in my world…”
Tony! Toni! Toné! – “Anniversary”
This song celebrates the journey of love and the anniversaries that mark it. It’s a great choice for couples reflecting on their time together.
“Tomorrow will come and girl I can’t wait it’s our anniversary…”
Chaka Khan – “Through the Fire”
This song speaks of enduring challenges for love, making it a powerful anthem for couples who have faced obstacles together.
“Through the fire, to the limit, to the wall
For a chance to be with you, I’d gladly risk it all.”
Babyface – “Every Time I Close My Eyes”
Babyface’s tender ballad speaks of the dreams and hopes tied to love. It’s a dreamy song for weddings.
“Every time I close my eyes
I thank the Lord that I’ve got you
And you’ve got me too.”
K-Ci & JoJo – “All My Life”
This song’s lyrics speak of the search for love and the joy of finding it. Its heartfelt message is perfect for weddings.
*”All my life, I prayed for someone like you
And I thank God that I, that I finally found you.”*
Modern R&B Wedding Songs
John Legend – “All of Me”
“All of Me” has become a modern-day classic, with John Legend’s soulful voice capturing the essence of unconditional love.
“Cause all of me
Loves all of you…”
Beyoncé – “Love On Top”
With its upbeat tempo and joyful lyrics, “Love On Top” celebrates the feeling of finding that one special person.
“Baby, it’s you
You’re the one I love
You’re the one I need…”
Alicia Keys – “If I Ain’t Got You”
This heartfelt ballad by Alicia Keys emphasizes that material things pale in comparison to love.
“Some people want it all
But I don’t want nothing at all
If it ain’t you baby…”
Daniel Caesar ft. H.E.R. – “Best Part”
The duet captures the intimate moments and cherished memories of love, making it a perfect wedding song.
“You’re the coffee that I need in the morning
You’re my sunshine in the rain when it’s pouring…”
Miguel – “Adorn”
Miguel’s silky voice in “Adorn” paints a vivid picture of devotion and passion.
“Let my love adorn you…”
Jhené Aiko ft. Childish Gambino – “Bed Peace”
This song celebrates the simplicity and tranquility of spending time with the one you love.
“Wake up, wake up
Gotta get this paper, get this cake up
Gotta do my hair, gotta put on makeup…”
Usher – “Here I Stand”
Usher’s powerful ballad is a testament to commitment and the promise of forever.
“I’m hoping that nothing’s changed
Cause I know how I feel about you…”
Teyana Taylor – “Gonna Love Me”
With heartfelt lyrics, Teyana captures the essence of deep love and understanding.
“And oh, you’re gonna love me
You’re gonna wanna hug me and squeeze me…”
Ne-Yo – “Because of You”
Ne-Yo beautifully sings about being irresistibly drawn to someone, emphasizing the magnetism of love.
“It’s all because of you
Never get enough…”
Ella Mai – “Boo’d Up”
“Boo’d Up” captures the intoxicating feeling of being deeply in love and the desire to always be close.
“Ooh, now I’ll never get over you
Until I find something new
That get me high like you do…”
Frank Ocean – “Thinkin Bout You”
With his unique voice, Frank Ocean delivers a song about constant thoughts of a cherished love.
“Cause I been thinkin’ ’bout forever…”
H.E.R. – “Hard Place”
The song beautifully captures the dichotomy of love, especially when faced with hard choices.
“I’m gonna love you either way
Love you either way…”
Chris Brown – “With You”
A song that showcases deep affection and the desire to always be by someone’s side.
“With every kiss and every hug,
You make me fall in love…”
Solange – “Cranes in the Sky”
Though not a traditional wedding song, its hauntingly beautiful melody and introspective lyrics can resonate with many.
“I tried to drink it away
I tried to put one in the air…”
Bryson Tiller – “Exchange”
A reflective song about past relationships and the wish to make amends.
“So give me all of you in exchange for me…”
Summer Walker – “Playing Games”
This song speaks about the yearnings in a relationship and the games people sometimes play.
“Did I ever ask you to take me to go
Shopping in Paris or go
Sailing overseas and just
Drape me in Gucci? No…”
The Weeknd – “Die for You”
A declaration of love so deep, it emphasizes the lengths one would go for their loved one.
“I would die for you, baby
I would die for you…”
Snoh Aalegra – “I Want You Around”
The song beautifully expresses the desire to always have that special person by your side.
“I want you around
Around…”
PARTYNEXTDOOR ft. Drake – “Come and See Me”
An intimate song about longing and wanting to reconnect with a loved one.
“All she hit me with is come and see me for once
Come and see me for once…”
Kehlani – “Honey”
With its soft and melodic tune, Kehlani sings about pure and sweet love.
“I like my girls just like I like my honey; sweet
A little selfish…”
Khalid – “Talk”
Khalid’s smooth voice questions where a relationship is headed, perfect for couples looking to define their future.
“Can we just talk?
Talk about where we’re goin’…”
SZA – “Love Galore”
While addressing past heartaches, the song beautifully captures the intricacies of relationships.
“Long as we got
Love, love, love…”
Tory Lanez – “LUV”
An upbeat track that encourages expressing love freely and breaking down barriers.
“Everyone falls in love sometimes
I don’t know about you, but it ain’t a crime.”
HER – “Focus”
A soulful tune that emphasizes the importance of attention and connection in a relationship.
“Baby, can you focus on me?”
Sabrina Claudio – “All To You”
A sensual song that showcases the giving of oneself fully to a partner.
“I’m giving you all, giving you all my love
All to you…”
Trending R&B Wedding Songs
Giveon – “Heartbreak Anniversary”
A soulful song reflecting on past love, it resonates with emotions and vulnerability.
“Balloons are deflated
Guess they look lifeless like me…”
Jazmine Sullivan – “Lost One”
This ballad by Jazmine Sullivan encapsulates the feeling of loss and yearning.
“You know when you lost one
A good one, you know when you lost one…”
Snoh Aalegra – “Whoa”
This song exudes romance and showcases the deep feelings in a relationship.
“I’m still falling for you
For you…”
H.E.R. – “Slide”
With its catchy beat and romantic lyrics, “Slide” is perfect for setting a celebratory mood.
“You always wear them glasses
You don’t wanna let no sucka look you in your eyes, huh?”
Victoria Monét – “Moment”
A sensual and captivating song about cherishing intimate moments with a loved one.
“This your moment baby, I’m just trying not to miss it…”
Brent Faiyaz – “Dead Man Walking”
A contemporary love song that emphasizes the captivating trance of love.
“You know how far we came if you know where we been…”
Mahalia ft. Ella Mai – “What You Did”
A song about overcoming relationship hurdles and finding love again.
“I never play a victim, I’d rather be a stalker…”
Lucky Daye – “Roll Some Mo'”
This track beautifully encapsulates the feeling of cherishing every moment with the one you love.
“If you wanna go far, if you wanna be a star
Then I’m gonna make it happen for you…”
Arlo Parks – “Green Eyes”
This tune is about celebrating love, even with its complications and challenges.
“Couldn’t do it again, say it’ll always be this way…”
UMI – “Remember Me”
A touching song about memories and the lasting impact of love.
“Do you, do you, do you think about me?…”
SiR ft. Sabrina Claudio – “That’s Why I Love You”
A song that captures the purity and rawness of love.
“This ain’t no honeymoon, we’re way past that phase…”
Amber Mark – “Love Me Right”
A soulful expression of understanding and the need for love.
“You really know how to love me right…”
Omar Apollo – “Stayback”
A song that speaks about the intense feelings of longing and desire.
“And all I wanna do is make you proud of me…”
Kiana Ledé – “Mad at Me.”
This track is a testament to self-worth and confidence in love.
“You take me for granted, always want the upper hand in it…”
DVSN – “Between Us”
This song perfectly embodies the intimate moments shared between two people in love.
“I don’t wanna come between us…”
Alex Isley & Jack Dine – “Gone”
A song that showcases the feelings of cherishing moments and reminiscing about past love.
“It feels like you’ve been gone, waiting for so long…”
James Vickery – “Somewhere, Out There”
James Vickery’s soulful voice captures the essence of hope and love.
“I know you’re out there somewhere, waiting on me…”
Jorja Smith – “Be Honest”
A breezy, upbeat song that’s perfect for setting a joyful mood at a wedding.
“I know you want me, every day, tell me when you’re lonely…”
Raveena – “Headaches”
A soft and soulful track that captures the complexities of love and relationships.
“Lately, I’ve been going through a lot of things…”
Mereba – “The Jungle Is The Only Way Out”
This song is a beautiful portrayal of overcoming challenges and finding solace in love.
“Told me the jungle was the only way out…”
Tone Stith – “Devotion”
This track is all about commitment and being devoted to one’s love.
“I’m in devotion, giving you all my devotion…”
Ari Lennox – “BMO”
A fun, upbeat tune that celebrates the joys of love.
“Breaking it down, you’re playing it cool with me…”
Alina Baraz – “Morocco”
A song that exudes romance, perfect for setting a loving ambiance.
“Take me to Morocco, take me away…”
Tiana Major9 & EARTHGANG – “Collide”
This track, from the movie “Queen & Slim”, is all about the magnetic pull between two people in love.
“When we collide, it’s a beautiful disaster…”
Ryan Destiny ft. Quavo – “Pulling Up”
A modern love anthem that showcases the thrill of new love.
“I can tell you ain’t used to this side of the tracks…”
How to Choose the Perfect R&B Wedding Song
Choosing the perfect R&B wedding song can be a daunting task, but with a little guidance, you’ll find the one that perfectly captures your love story. Start by considering your personal connection to the songs and lyrics.
Think about songs that hold special meaning for you as a couple or ones that evoke strong emotions. It’s also important to think about the tone and atmosphere you want to create at your reception.
Are you looking for something romantic and slow or upbeat and dance-worthy? Don’t forget to consider the lyrics too – do they reflect your relationship and values? Once you have an idea of what you’re looking for, listen to different R&B tracks from different eras, including classic, modern, and underrated songs.
Pay attention to how each song makes you feel and if it aligns with what you envision for your wedding day. Ultimately, trust your instincts and choose a song that speaks to both of you as a couple.
Remember, this is YOUR day, so pick the perfect R&B wedding song that will make it even more memorable!
Conclusion
In conclusion, this ultimate guide to R&B wedding songs is your go-to resource for creating the perfect playlist that will keep your guests grooving all night long. Whether you’re a fan of classic hits or prefer modern soulful tunes, there’s something for everyone on this list.
So get ready to hit the dance floor and celebrate your special day with these smooth and soulful tracks! Don’t forget to subscribe for more wedding inspiration from Brides.
FAQs
Q: What is the Ultimate Guide to R & B Wedding Songs?
A: The Ultimate Guide to R & B Wedding Songs is a comprehensive list of the 75 best songs for your big day. It includes a wide range of romantic and soulful R & B songs that are perfect for various moments of your wedding, such as the first dance, entrance, ceremony, and reception. Whether you’re a fan of classic R & B or looking for new hits, this guide has got you covered.
Q: Why should I consider R & B wedding songs for my ceremony?
A: R & B wedding songs add a touch of soul and romance to your ceremony. They are known for their heartfelt lyrics and smooth melodies, creating a beautiful ambiance that resonates with couples and their loved ones. R & B songs are perfect for capturing the emotions of your special day and creating lasting memories.
Q: What are some popular R & B songs for the first dance?
A: Some popular R & B songs for the first dance include “All of Me” by John Legend, “If I Ain’t Got You” by Alicia Keys, “Here and Now” by Luther Vandross, and “Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green. These songs are timeless classics that perfectly capture the essence of love and make for a memorable first dance.
Q: Can you suggest some R & B songs for the wedding ceremony?
A: Absolutely! For the wedding ceremony, you can consider songs like “Endless Love” by Lionel Richie and Diana Ross, “At Last” by Etta James, “For You I Will” by Monica, and “You Are the Best Thing” by Ray LaMontagne. These songs are beautiful choices that will create a romantic and captivating atmosphere as you walk down the aisle.
Q: Are there any R & B wedding songs for bridesmaid entrance?
A: Yes, there are several R & B wedding songs that can be used for bridesmaid entrance. Some popular choices include “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé ft. Jay-Z, “Love on Top” by Beyoncé, “Happy” by Pharrell Williams, and “Uptown Funk” by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars. These songs are energetic, fun, and will make your bridesmaids’ entrance a memorable moment.
Q: What are some of the all-time best R & B wedding songs?
A: Some of the all-time best R & B wedding songs include “My Girl” by The Temptations, “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers, “Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder, “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston, and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. These songs have stood the test of time and continue to be popular choices for weddings.
Q: How do I select the best R & B songs for my wedding?
A: Selecting the best R & B songs for your wedding involves considering your personal preferences, the theme of your wedding, and the atmosphere you want to create. You can start by creating a playlist of your favorite R & B songs and narrowing it down to the ones that resonate with you as a couple. Additionally, you can seek recommendations from friends, family, or wedding planners who have experience in selecting wedding songs.
Q: Can I include songs from different R & B albums in my wedding playlist?
A: Absolutely! Your wedding playlist can include songs from various R & B albums and artists. Mix and match songs that you love and that fit the vibe you want for your wedding. It’s a great way to create a diverse and memorable musical experience for you and your guests.
Q: Are there any R & B songs suitable for the groom’s entrance?
A: While the groom’s entrance traditionally doesn’t have a specific song, you can choose an R & B song that resonates with the groom’s personality and style. Some options could include “Adorn” by Miguel, “I Just Wanna Love U (Give It 2 Me)” by Jay-Z, “You Make Me Wanna…” by Usher, or “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” by Lauryn Hill. Consider songs that make the groom feel confident and ready to celebrate the big day.
Q: Can you recommend some R & B party songs for the wedding reception?
A: Absolutely! For the wedding reception, you can consider some upbeat R & B party songs such as “No Scrubs” by TLC, “Blurred Lines” by Robin Thicke ft. Pharrell Williams, “Crazy” by Gnarls Barkley, and “This Is How We Do It” by Montell Jordan. These songs will keep the energy high and get your guests on the dance floor.
