The Top 15 First Dance Songs from the 1980s
If you’re looking for the perfect 80s song to add some nostalgia and timeless romance to your first dance, you’re in luck! The 1980s brought us some of the most iconic love songs that still grace weddings today. Here’s a list of the top 15 first dance songs from the 1980s.
1. “Endless Love” – Diana Ross & Lionel Richie (1981)
“Endless Love” is one of the most famous duets of all time and is the ultimate romantic ballad. Couples love it for its heartfelt lyrics and its portrayal of everlasting love. This song was written for the Endless Love film soundtrack and became one of the best-selling singles of all time.
2. “Time After Time” – Cyndi Lauper (1983)
This timeless love song is all about loyalty and standing by each other no matter what. Its gentle rhythm and emotional lyrics make it a favorite for first dances. Despite pressure from her label to release an upbeat single, Lauper chose this song, and it became one of her biggest hits.
3. “Take My Breath Away” – Berlin (1986)
This iconic track from Top Gun is ideal for couples looking for a dramatic, cinematic feel. It won an Academy Award for Best Original Song and continues to resonate with couples who want to capture the excitement of love.
4. “Crazy for You” – Madonna (1985)
With passionate lyrics about longing and desire, “Crazy for You” has a more upbeat tempo than many ballads, making it perfect for couples who want a romantic yet lively first dance. This track marked Madonna’s shift into ballads, proving her versatility as an artist.
5. “Every Breath You Take” – The Police (1983)
Though often misinterpreted as a love song, this haunting melody is frequently chosen for its mesmerizing rhythm and emotional depth. It stayed at the top of the Billboard charts for eight weeks, making it one of the biggest hits of the 80s.
6. “Right Here Waiting” – Richard Marx (1989)
This emotional ballad was written while Richard Marx was on tour, missing his wife, and it’s a perfect first dance song for couples who have endured long distances. It became a global hit, reaching No. 1 on charts worldwide.
7. “Heaven” – Bryan Adams (1984)
A beautiful love ballad that touches on the idea of finding paradise in a relationship, “Heaven” is a romantic choice for couples looking for a powerful, emotional song. It was originally written for the movie A Night in Heaven and later became a No. 1 hit.
8. “Faithfully” – Journey (1983)
Written about life on the road, “Faithfully” is perfect for couples looking for a song that celebrates commitment and love that withstands time and distance. Despite not reaching No. 1 on the charts, it became one of Journey’s signature hits.
9. “Eternal Flame” – The Bangles (1989)
This track’s soft, romantic melody creates an intimate and emotional moment for first dances. The idea for the song came after a visit to Graceland, where Susanna Hoffs saw the eternal flame at Elvis’s memorial.
10. “The Lady in Red” – Chris de Burgh (1986)
Written as a tribute to his wife, “The Lady in Red” became a hit for its portrayal of love at first sight. Its slow, romantic melody sets the perfect mood for a dreamy first dance.
11. “You’re the Inspiration” – Chicago (1984)
Co-written by Peter Cetera and David Foster, this song is perfect for couples who want to express their deep love and devotion. It’s one of Chicago’s most recognizable hits, often played at weddings for its powerful emotional impact.
12. “In Your Eyes” – Peter Gabriel (1986)
This song gained iconic status after its use in Say Anything during the famous boombox scene. Its lyrics about finding clarity and meaning in love resonate with couples, making it a perfect first dance choice.
13. “I Want to Know What Love Is” – Foreigner (1984)
Featuring backing vocals from the New Jersey Mass Choir, this song’s emotional depth makes it perfect for couples who want to celebrate their journey to finding love. It topped charts in multiple countries, including the U.S. and U.K.
14. “So Amazing” – Luther Vandross (1986)
Known for his soulful voice, Luther Vandross captures the beauty of love in this track. Its slow, soothing melody and emotional lyrics create an intimate atmosphere for first dances.
15. “Lost in Your Eyes” – Debbie Gibson (1989)
This song captures the innocence and excitement of falling in love, making it a sweet and romantic choice for first dances. Debbie Gibson’s No. 1 hit has remained a classic love song that resonates with couples to this day.
As you’ve seen, the 1980s produced some of the most timeless and romantic songs perfect for creating magical first dance moments.
At First Dance Mashups, I can take these timeless songs—or any of your personal favorites—and create a customized mashup that tells your unique love story. Whether you want to blend two songs that mean the most to you as a couple or create a seamless transition between a slow dance and an upbeat song, I’ll help craft a one-of-a-kind first dance that’s perfect for your wedding day.
Ready to create a moment that will last forever? Let’s work together to make your first dance truly unforgettable.
–Evan