Once you exchange vows and the ceremony is complete, it’s time for the newlywed couple to leave. This event is called the wedding recessional. It’s designed to send the bride and groom off. It also helps the attendees leave in an orderly fashion.
Traditionally, the wedding recessional features a song. You’ve probably heard “Wedding March” countless times at a wedding or on television. While it’s an amazing song, there is nothing wrong with breaking tradition.
Many couples like to play their favorite song during their recessional. From pop icons to legendary classical composers, there are countless songs you can use for a wedding recessional.
If you’re not sure what to use for your wedding, we’re here to help. Here are some of the best wedding recessional songs for a memorable exit.
Contents
1.“Wedding March” By Felix Mendelssohn
Song Year: 1842
We’ll kick the list off with one of the most famous wedding recessional songs of all time. “Wedding March” is a classical tune for couples that want a memorable exit for their wedding.
2. “Happy” By Pharrell Williams
Song Year: 2013
If you prefer a modern tune to celebrate your wedding, “Happy” might be the best choice. Pharrell William’s upbeat and happy tune is a must for many couples during their wedding exit.
3. “Best Day Of My Life” By American Authors
Song Year: 2014
Your wedding day will rank high on the best days of your life list. “Best Day Of My Life” proclaims how happy American Authors are, and their happiness is infectious. This makes the track an amazing recessional song.
4. “Heartbeat” By Carrie Underwood
Song Year: 2015
Carrie Underwood is a top choice for country fans. “Heartbeat” has a romantic and happy vibe that flows along a slow and melodic track.
If you’re looking for a slow, modern take on the wedding recessional song, give “Heartbeat” a chance.
5. “Lovely Day” By Bill Withers
Song Year: 1977
What’s a better way to describe your wedding day than Bill Withers’ “Lovely Day?” Withers delivers a heartfelt performance, and the backing tracks blend soul and funk perfectly.
6. “Shut Up and Dance” By Walk the Moon
Song Year: 2014
Walk the Moon picks up the pace with their tune “Shut Up and Dance.” The song is fun, clever, and comedic, but it also shows how much the bride and groom love each other.
7. “The Marriage of Figaro” By Mozart
Song Year: 1786
Mozart is a surefire pick for anyone wanting to create an epic wedding recessional. “The Marriage of Figaro” builds to a fever pitch.
8. “O God Beyond All Praising” By Gustav Holst
Song Year: 1982
“O God Beyond All Praising” is an ideal wedding exit song for couples married in their church. The hymn shows your love of God on your wedding day.
9. “(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher” By Jackie Wilson
Song Year: 1967
Couples looking for a song packed with energy can’t go wrong with Jackie Wilson. “(Your Love Keeps Lifting Me) Higher and Higher” is timeless, and everyone from your grandparents to the kids will clap along with the song.
10. “Triumphal March” By Edvard Grieg
Song Year: 1843
Trumpets are great at making an impact during a song, and Edvard Grieg's composition is one of the best at creating suspense before the song explodes.
11. “Home” By Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros
Song Year: 2009
This duet has so much love it’s addictive. “Home” is sing-along friendly, upbeat, and memorable. If you want to make your wedding exit to a modern take on old-timey music, “Home” is the best of the bunch.
12. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” By Marvin Gaye & Tammi Terrell
Song Year: 1967
Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrel give everyone a lesson in love during their duet. “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” is an all-time classic and destined to excite many wedding patrons during your recessional.
13. “Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing” By Chris Rice
Song Year: 2001
Chris Rice delivers an inspirational folk hymn that is ideal for your church wedding. Originally written in the 18th century by Robert Robinson, Rice’s piano version updates the Christian hymn for the 21st century.
14. “Livin’ On A Prayer” By Bon Jovi
Song Year: 1986
Are the bride and groom hard rockers? They’ll love celebrating their wedding and walking down the aisle to “Livin’ On A Prayer.”
Bon Jovi is at the top of their game for “Livin’ On A Prayer. They deliver the perfect mix of love songs and 80s hair metal.
15. “Signed, Sealed, Delivered” By Stevie Wonder
Song Year: 1970
Wonder celebrates love on “Signed, Sealed, Delivered. The upbeat mix of soul and funk gives the song the perfect groove for the happiest of wedding recessionals. i
16. “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” By Elton John
Song Year: 1994
Disney fans will love celebrating their big day with “Can You Feel the Love Tonight.” Elton John is at the top of his game celebrating love and Disney’s classic, “The Lion King.”
17. “(Ode to Joy) from Symphony no. 9 in D Minor” By Ludwig van Beethoven
Song Year: 1824
You can’t go wrong with this cheerful and exciting symphony from Beethoven. We suggest the full orchestra version for maximum impact. You could also hire a pianist or string quartet to perform the symphony for more intimate weddings
18. “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” By Natalie Cole
Song Year: 1975
Soul and Motown fans will instantly recognize this tune from Natalie Cole. “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” shows how much Cole loves her partner. Playing this tune for your wedding recessional shows your love and will get the fun started at your event.
19. “Good Life” By OneRepublic
Song Year: 2009
OneRepublic delivers a pop, rock, and folk ballad on “Good Life.” The song is upbeat but uses a slower tempo to add a romantic side. If you’re looking for the perfect balance of fun and romance, “Good Life” is a good pop choice for your wedding.
20. “I See Love” By Jonas Blue ft. Joe Jonas
Song Year: 2018
If you plan to start the party as soon as you finish your vows, “I See Love” will get the party started. Jonas Blue delivers a hypnotic and addictive hook that will get everyone cheering at your wedding.
21. “Hold On” By Wilson Phillips
Song Year: 1990
“Hold On” is an all-time classic and is one of the most popular wedding recessional songs. Wilson Philips takes no time getting to the sing-along chorus making this song ideal for a memorable exit.
22. “Friday I’m In Love” By The Cure
Song Year: 1992
This song is a must for any goth couple. The Cure is amazing at mixing sadness and happiness, and “Friday I’m In Love” is them at their best.
23. “True” By Spandau Ballet
Song Year: 1983
If your musical taste is stuck in the 1980s, “True” by Spandau Ballet is the perfect wedding recessional song. Slow and romantic, “True” steadily builds to an exciting conclusion that gives it so much energy.
24. “Send Me On My Way” By Rusted Root
Song Year: 1990
The guitar riff in “Send Me on My Way” instantly hooks everyone. Your wedding guests will be filled with excitement as you walk back down to the aisle as Rusted Root finally gets to the chorus of the song.
25. “(Allegro) from Spring, The Four Seasons” By Vivaldi
Song Year: 1718-1720
As soon as the strings begin, the wedding party knows it’s time to celebrate the newlywed couple. Vivaldi’s “(Allegro) from Spring, The Four Seasons” is an iconic piece of music that is instantly recognizable.
26. “Levitating” By Dua Lipa
Song Year: 2020
It takes eight beats for Dua Lipa to get right to the point of “Levitating.” Every part of “Levitating” is addictive and sing-along friendly, making this one of the best newer songs for wedding recessionals.
27. “We Are Family” By Sister Sledge
Song Year: 1979
Now that it’s official, you can celebrate your wedding nuptials by playing “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge. This upbeat mix of soul, funk, and disco is a surefire hit and party starter.
28. “On The Road Again” By Willie Nelson
Song Year: 1980
Fun and iconic, Willie Nelson delivers a stellar performance with “On The Road Again.” The song is one of the most recognizable country songs of all time. It’s a catchy tune that grooves along as well.
29. “All You Need Is Love” By The Beatles
Song Year: 1967
Many different Beatles songs work for a wedding recessional, but our top pick is “All You Need Is Love.” The song is whimsical but is grounded in its meaning. Love is all the newlyweds need.
30. “The Way You Make Me Feel” By Michael Jackson
Song Year: 1987
It was hard to pick one Michael Jackson song for the list. “The Way You Make Me Feel” gives the best mix of relevant lyrics, upbeat rhythm, and crowd interaction. The bride and groom get bonus points if they moonwalk down the aisle.
31. “A Whole New World” By Brad Kane and Lea Salonga
Song Year: 1992
Disney fans have many choices for wedding recessionals, and we had to add “A Whole New World” to our list. After the wedding vows, the newlyweds are headed to a new world together, and this song captures the feeling perfectly.
32. “Marry You” By Bruno Mars
Song Year: 2010
As soon as the kick drum starts, you know you’re in for a wild ride on “Marry You.” Bruno Mars's lyrics are on point and relevant to your wedding day. This makes “Marry You” a great way to make a memorable exit.
33. “Carry Me Away” By John Mayer
Song Year: 2021
John Mayer’s mix of soft rock and blues is a perfect fit for a romantic wedding recessional. “Carry Me Away” is Mayer at his best and features romantic lyrics coupled with his flawless guitar lead.
34. “You’re My First, My Last, My Everything” By Barry White
Song Year: 1974
Barry White can make anything sound sexy and romantic. A mix of disco and soul, “You’re My First, My Last, My Everything” is a must for couples looking to strut their stuff back down the aisle.
35. “Thank God” By Kane Brown & Katelyn Brown
Song Year: 2022
If you’re planning a religious ceremony but want an upbeat tune, Kane Brown & Katelyn Brown are a good choice. “Thank God” is a mix of country and Christian rock. The duet features beautiful harmonies that fill you with hope and joy.
36. “The Kiss” By Faith Hill
Song Year: 1998
Country music fans love Faith Hill, and “The Kiss” is one of her best songs. “The Kiss” is an upbeat love song that lets the new couple express their fun side during the wedding recessional.
37. “What A Wonderful World” By Louis Armstrong
Song Year: 1967
Trumpets are always a hit at weddings.No one does it better than Louis Armstrong. “What A Wonderful World” is one of the most iconic songs of all time and will never disappoint as a wedding recessional song.
38. “The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba” By George F. Handel
Song Year: 1749
“The Arrival of the Queen of Sheba” is a celebratory symphony and a perfect fit for wedding recessionals. The call and response during the symphony give the feeling of a couple proclaiming their love to each other.
39. “10,000 Hours” By Dan & Shay & Justin Bieber
Song Year: 2021
Pop fans can’t go wrong with a Justin Bieber tune for the recessional. “10,000 Hours” is one of the best choices from Bieber and Dan & Shay. The slow vibe adds to the romantic lyrics and a catchy hook.
40. “Now That We Found Love” By Heavy D. & The Boyz
Song Year: 1991
Do you want to dance back down the aisle? Let Heave D. & The Boyz take control of the music. “Now That We Found Love” features classic new jack swing danceable beats and 90s nostalgia.
41. “Love Story” By Taylor Swift
Song Year: 2008
While Taylor Swift usually sings about breakups, “Love Story” is Swift celebrating love. “Love Story” is romantic and builds to an exciting chorus that fits any wedding recessional.
42. “Sugar” By Maroon 5
Song Year: 2015
Maroon 5 master wedding celebration songs with their hit “Sugar.” Even the video celebrates weddings as the band travels around LA, crashing as many weddings as they can.
43. “Wouldn’t It Be Nice” By The Beach Boys
Song Year: 1966
The Beach Boys are one of the most influential bands of all time and deliver their most iconic performance on “Wouldn’t It Be Nice.” The song is a loving story that matches any wedding couple’s dreams for the future.
44. “Crazy In Love” By Beyonce
Song Year: 2003
“Crazy In Love” is the best way to describe your wedding day. Beyonce's vocals are hypnotic, and the song has several hooks that pull the audience in. “Crazy In Love” is ideal for couples looking to get straight to the party after the ceremony.
45. “Star Wars Main Title” By John Williams
Song Year: 1977
You don’t have to be a nerd to love “Star Wars.” John Williams is one of the most prolific modern composers, and his soundtrack to the original Star Wars is one of his most memorable pieces.
Cosplaying as Leia and Han Solo is not required but encouraged if you plan on using the “Star Wars Main Title” as your recessional music.
46. “Perfect” By Ed Sheeran
Song Year: 2017
There was no way we could leave “Perfect” off this list. Ed Sheeran delivers one of the most memorable love songs of the 2000s on “Perfect.” The lyrics fit perfectly with a wedding as Sheeran professes his love for his significant other.
47. “Wake Me Up” By Avicii
Song Year: 2013
A mix of EDM and pop, Avicii’s “Wake Me Up” is filled with happiness and excitement. The song captures the anticipation and excitement of a wedding.
48. “Dynamite” By BTS
Song Year: 2020
We didn’t leave the K-pop fans out. “Dynamite” is a catchy and fun tune. While you might confuse the older generations with BTS, it’s your day, and you can play whatever music you enjoy. Have fun on your wedding day and celebrate with “Dynamite.”
49. “Happy Together” By The Turtles
Song Year: 1967
“Happy Together” is a celebration of a couple’s love. The song starts soft and subdued, but once it hits the chorus, it’s time to celebrate. If you prefer a modern take on “Happy Together,” Weezer did an excellent cover of the song in 2019.
50. “Walking On A Dream” By Empire of the Sun
Song Year: 2008
EDM fans can celebrate their wedding recessional with Empire of the Sun. “Walking On A Dream” offers a mix of EDM and pop vibes that can fit any wedding.
51. “How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)” By James Taylor
Song Year: 1975
“How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)” is a love song for the ages. James Taylor performs a groovy and fun love song that has plenty of fun danceable parts for the couple to enjoy.
52. “A Sky Full of Stars” By Coldplay
Song Year: 2014
“A Sky Full of Stars” is an epic tune from Coldplay. While the band takes their time getting to the chorus, you can enjoy the anticipation for the drop. Once it hits, the joy and excitement of your wedding recessional are at their peak.
53. “You Make My Dreams” By Hall & Oates
Song Year: 1980
Another 80s classic, “You Make My Dreams,” hooks you in right from the first beats. Hall & Oates use their signature groove style to provide a bouncy song that anyone can dance to or head bob to.
54. “I Got You Babe” By Sonny & Cher
Song Year: 1965
Sonny & Cher were the ultimate power couple of the 1960s. “I Got You Babe” was their love letter to each other, making a memorable wedding recessional song.
55. “Heaven” By Bryan Adams
Song Year: 1985
“Heaven” was one of the biggest love songs of the 80s, and it’s still prevalent. The song chugs along, and once the hard rock guitars hit, it’s time to celebrate the couple’s love.
56. “Le Rejouissance” By Handel
Song Year: 1787-1797
“Le Rejouissance” is a delightful orchestral work from Handel. From quartets to piano soloists, you can celebrate your wedding day in style by walking down the aisle to “Le Rejouissance.”
57. “On Top of the World” By Imagine Dragons
Song Year: 2012
Clap along to Imagine Dragons during your wedding recessional. “On Top of the World” is a great way to describe your wedding day. The song is fun and upbeat and will excite younger wedding couples and attendees.
58. “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” By Queen
Song Year: 1979
Queen is another band that could have many entries on this list. But “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” might be the best choice. The Rockabilly vibes of the song bring you back to the 1950s and give you a high-energy, danceable love song for your celebration.
59. “Electric Feel” By MGMT
Song Year: 2007
“Electric Feel” is full of vibe, coolness, and energy. Fans of EDM, indie rock, and pop will instantly recognize the distorted bassline and kick. “Electric Feel” is a cool attitude wrapped up in a three-minute track.
60. “All I Do Is Dream of You” By Michael Buble
Song Year: 2009
Written in 1934, Michael Buble modernized “All I Do Is Dream of You” in 2009. Between the horns and Buble’s iconic voice, this love song transcends generations and genres.
61. “Now Thank We All Our God” By Johann S. Bach
Song Year: 1636
“Now Thank We All Our God” is an angelic Christian hymn ideal for any church wedding. The iconic horns make “Now Thank We All Our God” an upbeat and celebratory experience.
62. “Can’t Stop the Feeling” By Justin Timberlake
Song Year: 2016
You can feel Justin Timberlake’s excitement after every line of “Can’t Stop the Feeling.” By the time the hook hits, Timberlake will have your whole wedding dancing in their seats.
63. “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” By Natalie Cole
Song Year: 1975
Natalie Cole uses so much emotion in her hit “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love).” Couples can proclaim their love as well by celebrating their wedding with this song.
64. “Get Lucky” By Daft Punk
Song Year: 2013
No one is better at creating catchy hooks than Daft Punk. Combined with Pharrell Williams and Nile Rodgers, “Get Lucky” is one of Daft Punk’s catchiest tunes. The song is sing-along and dance-along friendly, so feel free to encourage the wedding party to join in on the fun.
65. “Walking on Sunshine” By Katrina & The Waves
Song Year: 1983
“Walking on Sunshine” is an explosive mix of energy and fun. You can feel the excitement in every beat of the song. The lyrics match the tone of a wedding day as well.
66. “Love on Top” By Beyonce
Song Year: 2011
Beyonce’s second entry on the list, “Love on Top,” is one of her best lovesongs. The mid-tempo of the song makes it easy to groove and walk down the aisle during your recessional.
67. “At Last” By Etta James
Song Year: 1960
Etta James' iconic voice hooks you right from the intro. “At Last” celebrates the end of being lonely. It’s time to enjoy your future together as husband and wife.
68. “All My Life” By K-Ci & JoJo
Song Year: 1998
R&B fans keep “All My Life” on rotation at almost every wedding. K-Ci & JoJo are slow-tempo love song masters, and “All My Life” is their best. Choose this song if you want a slow and loving wedding recessional.
69. “Let’s Go Crazy” By Prince and The Revolution
Song Year: 1984
If you prefer a high-energy exit, “Let’s Go Crazy” is the pinnacle of wedding party music. As soon as Prince delivers his sermon, you know you are in for a wild and crazy ride on “Let’s Go Crazy.”
70. “I Gotta Feeling” By The Black Eyed Peas
Song Year: 2009
The Black Eyed Peas made a career out of starting parties. “I Gotta Feeling” is our pick for their best wedding song. You know the lyrics, so feel free to sing along and enjoy your night.
71. “Come Fly With Me” By Frank Sinatra
Song Year: 2003
You can keep your wedding hip and cool with Frank Sinatra. “Come Fly With Me” shows off Sinatra’s crooning skills and has a fun groove perfect for weddings.
72. “Good Day Sunshine” By The Beatles
Song Year: 1966
The wedding recessional is the beginning of your new life, and “Good Day Sunshine” is a celebration of this new life. Whimsical and fun, you can’t hold the smiles back as McCartney leads The Beatles on this classic tune.
73. “Finesse” By Bruno Mars feat. Cardi B
Song Year: 2016
A modern take on 90s new jack swing, Bruno Mars and Cardi B are fun and sweet on “Finesse.” The song is funky and full of dancing opportunities.
74. “Maybe I’m Amazed” By Paul McCartney
Song Year: 1970
Arguably one of McCartney’s greatest love songs, “Maybe I’m Amazed,” is heartwarming and endearing. He sings with such energy and feeling it’s hard not to empathize with McCartney during the song.
75. “The Prayer” By Josh Groban and Charlotte Church
Song Year: 2001
Josh Groban and Charlotte Church perform this fantastic and hypnotizing duet. Filled with heartfelt feelings, “The Prayer” works great for your faith-based wedding.
76. “Higher Love” By Steve Winwood
Song Year: 1986
“Higher Love ” is an emotional rollercoaster of a song. It has an addicting hook filled with love. If you prefer a modernized version of the song, Whitney Houston recorded an equally impressive version in 1990.
77. “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” By Elton John ft. Kiki Dee
Song Year: 1976
Elton John and Kiki Dee are fun and clever in their duet. “Don’t Go Breaking My Heart” lets couples profess their love and have fun at the same time during their recessional.
78. “Love and Marriage” By Frank Sinatra
Song Year: 1955
If you want to give everyone a laugh during your recessional, this is the best song to pick. Thanks to the sitcom “Married With Children,” “Love and Marriage” is a must for any couple wanting to have a little fun during their wedding.
79. “I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do” By Abba
Song Year: 1975
Abba gets their vows right with their hit, “I Do I Do, I Do, I Do, I Do.” While not as famous as many of their other hits, this song fits perfectly with wedding themes thanks to its lyrical content.
80. “Get the Party Started” By P!nk
Song Year: 2001
Couples that want to pick the vibe of the wedding up should play “Get the Party Started.” P!nk is here to rock you and your wedding party. Everyone will know the chorus as well, giving it sing-along credibility.
81. “One Hand, One Heart” By Bernstein
Song Year: 1961
Fans of “West Side Story” will instantly recognize this duet. During the film, Maria and Tony sing “One Hand, One Heart” during their make-believe wedding. Don’t worry; it is still a good song for your wedding.
82. “Wedding Day” By Bee Gees
Song Year: 2001
Celebrate your wedding day by performing your recessional to “Wedding Day.” The Bee Gees offer a loving and caring ballad about the most exciting day of your life.
83. “Build Your Kingdom Here” By Rend Collective
Song Year: 2012
A mix of Irish folk and Christian rock, “Build Your Kingdom Here” lets you celebrate your heritage and love of God during your wedding recessional. The tune is foot-stomping fun, so don’t be shy. Jump up and down to celebrate your wedding day.
84. “Wind Beneath My Wings” By Bette Midler
Song Year: 1988
Bette Midler is the queen of romantic ballads. “Wind Beneath My Wings” is iconic and a must for any couple wanting to profess their love for each other.
85. “Anything Could Happen” By Ellie Goulding
Song Year: 2013
Your wedding day should be epic, and Ellie Goulding is here to help. “Anything Could Happen” is a pulse-pound adventure through sound. Goulding’s upbeat vocals combine with a hypnotic score giving the song all the energy it needs for your wedding.
86. “Wedding Song” By Noel Paul Stookey
Song Year: 1971
The song is literally called “Wedding Song.” Originally written as a gift to his band member, “Wedding Song” quickly found popularity as a wedding recessional song.
87. “One More Time” By Daft Punk
Song Year: 2000
It’s time to celebrate. Daft Punk takes your wedding to the stars and lets you dance your cares away during your wedding recessional.
The song’s title can also be tongue-in-cheek if this is your second or third marriage.
88. “Amazed” By Lonestar
Song Year: 1999
“Amazed” is one of the biggest modern country love songs to hit the airwaves. Lonestar delivers a memorable performance that ensures teary eyes during your recessional.
89. “A Thousand Years” By Christina Perri
Song Year: 2011
Christina Perri offers a romantic and celebratory vocal on “A Thousand Years.” You can feel the love and emotion after every delivered line throughout the song. Let those feelings out and profess your love for each other by using “A Thousand Years” as your recessional song.
90. “Jump In the Line” By Harry Belafonte
Song Year: 1961
“Jump In the Line” lets the couple have fun at their recessional. Older generations will remember Belafonte’s conga song from their childhood, while younger attendees will remember “Jump In the Line” from Beetlejuice
91. “Happy Trails” By Roy Rogers & Dale Evans
Song Year: 1952
We’ll close the list with a fun classic from Roy Rogers & Dale Evans. “Happy Trails” is the definitive exit song for any event. It works amazingly for weddings as well.
Top Wedding Recessional Songs, Final Thoughts
Whether you love hard rock ballads or Christian hymns, our list of best wedding recessional song has a song for everyone.
Are you planning an upcoming wedding? I hope we included a song that matches your taste and style on our list of best wedding recessional songs. If we missed your wedding recessional song, we’d love to hear about it.
