Alternative Father-Daughter Dance Songs for your Wedding

Over the years, father-daughter dances at weddings have become more common in the UK - based on their popularity in the USA. While they’re an optional part of your celebration, many couples include father-daughter or parent-child dances in their celebrations to honour those who have supported them on their life’s journey (and to reclaim this dance tradition from its patriarchal roots). But how can you make your dance unique with an alternative music choice?

Finding the right father-daughter dance song can be tricky. The most important aspect to keep in mind is that you both love the song and that you feel like it represents your relationship. This could mean something sentimental, but it could also simply be lyrics that you love to dance to, or a song that used to make you both laugh and dance around the house when you were younger.

When looking for song suggestions, you may come across tunes that sound great on the surface - but then reading the lyrics makes you realise that it’s not quite so suitable for a father-daughter duet…

With that in mind, we’ve done a lot of digging to find you alternative recommendations to the traditional playlists you’ll find online. Here, you’ll find a mix of lyrics with genuine meaning, fun songs to make you smile, and - most importantly - great tunes that you’ll want to dance to. We’ve split these into Jolly & Joyful and Sweet & Sentimental, so you can choose the right song to reflect your relationship.

Jolly & Joyful

Here Comes The Sun - The Beatles (1969)
Let’s kick things off with an optimistic tune! With lyrics singing about the joy and excitement of new beginnings - are there any better sentiments for a parent to wish their child on an important day like this?

You're My Best Friend - Queen (1976)
This sincere song is a powerful, timeless tribute to friendships and the love and support they can provide. For an alternative music choice, you can’t go wrong with this classic rock number celebrating companionship.

You've Got a Friend in Me - Randy Newman (1996)
If you’ve ever seen Toy Story, you’ll be familiar with this charming song, which is perfect for a father-daughter dance. This song reflects friendships that last a lifetime and the significance of being there for one another.

On Top of the World - Imagine Dragons (2012)
Uplifting and impactful, this song offers a great celebration backdrop for family dances. If you’re taking a moment to recognise the importance of family, or if a father wants to signify his joy on this special day, this could be the right song for you.

Happy - Pharrell Williams (2013)
Hands down, this is one of the most joyful songs to ever be recorded, making this the perfect excuse to get up and dance, and to celebrate with your family and friends. When played for a father-daughter dance, this is a lovely tribute to the happiness they both share on such an eventful day. A true alternative choice.

Sweet & Sentimental

My Girl - The Temptations (1964)
Featured in Father of the Bride, this charming song of love is filled with admiration. It’s sweet, simple, and - for the right father-daughter relationship - a beautifully emotional choice for the dance floor.

Landslide - Fleetwood Mac (1975)
An alternative one for the father’s perspective, this reflective and atmospheric song emphasises the passage of time and those personal moments when life changes.

Isn't She Lovely - Stevie Wonder (1976)
If you haven’t come across this beautiful song before, Stevie Wonder wrote the lyrics to celebrate the birth of his daughter. This is an undeniably heartwarming song to bring to the dance floor.

Wildflowers - Tom Petty (1994)
Lyrically, this is perhaps the best song to signify a parent wishing all the best for their child on the journey ahead. A sweet and slower choice.

You’ve Got a Friend - Carole King (1971)
These comforting lyrics are a symbol of the timeless power of support and empathy, and a unique, alternative choice. A truly moving melody for a softer dance.

Don’t Stop Believing - Journey (1981)
An undeniable classic - both universal and uplifting. This rock anthem is a unique choice for those who want to celebrate hope, perseverance, and the power of chasing your dreams.

True Colours - Cyndi Lauper (1986)
Recognising the power of being your true self, this alternative song for a father-daughter dance would be the ideal choice for any fathers who want to celebrate their daughters no matter what.

Home - Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros (2010)
This wholesome song with a nostalgic edge carries notes of belonging and community. A unique choice for the right parent-child relationship, this song could signify finding home in a person rather than a place.

As you can see, there are plenty of great options for alternative father-daughter dance songs out there - even if it takes a little digging. If you’d like more advice on playlists for your wedding, contact our knowledgeable team on 0800 564 2240 or Contact Us, and we’ll be happy to help.