Recommended Western ballad songs for weddings and receptions: moving classics and popular hits, both old and new.

Hold My HandMichael Jackson

Michael Jackson – Hold My Hand (Duet with Akon) (Official Video) ft. Akon

It’s a heartwarming pop ballad that delivers a message of love and unity.

Discovered almost complete, the song was released as a single in November 2010 and reached the Top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100.

In the music video, concert footage of Michael Jackson is interwoven with scenes of fans from different generations holding hands.

The lyrics, which reflect on the fragility of life and the importance of overcoming difficult times together, speak to universal themes we can all relate to.

It’s a song I hope people will listen to at weddings and receptions, taking a loved one’s hand and sharing hope for the future—those feelings are woven into this one track.

Real LoveSarah Connor

Sarah Connor – Real Love

Real Love, sung by German singer-songwriter Sarah Connor, is a sexy ballad with a strikingly beautiful piano intro and her smoky voice.

Sarah began her rise to success after singing at a Michael Jackson concert held in Germany when she was 17, and went on to release international hits such as From Sarah with Love.

As a female singer from Germany, she was the most successful artist in the early 2000s.

SheElvis Costello

Elvis Costello ‘She’

It’s a renowned ballad by Elvis Costello that exudes elegance and grandeur through its effective use of strings.

The lyrics, which sing of unwavering love for another and the resolve to embrace both joy and sorrow, resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in 1999 as part of the soundtrack for the film Notting Hill, this number also features a superb arrangement spotlighting the London Symphony Orchestra.

It’s the perfect song for nights filled with longing or when you want to pour your feelings into thoughts of someone special.

It would also work wonderfully at weddings and receptions as a moving piece that can transform the atmosphere of the venue.

This Time It’s LoveTamia

Tamia-This Time It’s Love

Tamia Washington, who has a graceful, natural, and beautiful voice, is an R&B singer from Ontario, Canada.

Her song “This Time It’s Love” carries a faint, delicate mood—a newly minted ballad that feels like happiness is pouring down on you as you listen.

The GiftBlue

Blue – The Gift (20th Anniversary) [Official Video] (Wedding Ver.)

It’s a song marked by a beautiful, heartfelt melody and profound lyrics.

Celebrating the importance of love and gratitude, this piece weaves a story about finding true happiness—something that can’t be gained by chasing material desires alone.

Recorded in 2003 as a Japan-exclusive bonus track on Blue’s third album, “Guilty,” it was later released as a single.

Long cherished as a staple Western wedding song in Japan, it was reportedly the second most selected track in the Western music category for weddings held between 2015 and 2021.

It’s a song you’ll want to play when expressing gratitude to someone special or celebrating life’s milestones.

You’re sure to be captivated by Blue’s moving world of rich harmonies and distinctive vocals.

What A Wonderful WorldStacey Kent

Stacey Kent – What a Wonderful World (Lyrics video)

Stacey Kent, a jazz singer from South Orange, New Jersey, captivates with her slightly smoky, husky voice and outstanding vocal ability.

She covers Louis Armstrong’s worldwide hit “What a Wonderful World,” rendering it as a sophisticated ballad that showcases her impeccable taste.