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It will be a wonderful experience to celebrate the special father-daughter bond with a dance. And, to make this dance unforgettable, you need heartfelt father-daughter dance songs. Fathers are their daughters’ heroes, role models, and pillars of strength. For fathers, their daughters are their entire world. They are like God-sent angels who add blessings to their lives every day. A father and daughter do not need any special occasion to dance; however, a graduation party or family get-together will be perfect moments to grab this opportunity. If you are planning a father-daughter dance, this post lists the best songs for the occasion. Pick the ones that touch your heart and create a memorable moment.
Songs For Father-Daughter Dance
The father-daughter dance is an extraordinary moment that you will cherish forever. We bring you some exceptional and meaningful songs that glorify this beautiful relationship.
1. To Make You Feel My Love by Bob Dylan
Bob Dylan sends a heartfelt message for his daughter through this simple song. “I love you now, and I will always love you. If you ever need me, I will always be there for you.”These are some emotional lines expressed by a father for his daughter.
2. My Wish by Rascal Flatts
My Wish by Rascal Flatts is considered one of the ultimate and the most sentimental father-daughter dance songs. It describes the hopes, dreams, and aspirations that fathers have for their daughters as they step into a new chapter of their lives. It is a good choice for a partner dance.
3. Daughters by John Mayer
Daughters, the third single from Heavier Things by John Mayer, was released in 2003. This critically acclaimed song won various prestigious awards. Through this song, Mayer says that the love a daughter receives from a father is almost identical to how they show the men who come into their lives after they grow up. Thus, he compels fathers to take up their roles seriously.
4. Prettiest Girl In The World by Logan Mize
Prettiest Girl in the World is a sweet and adorable song in which a father proudly talks about his daughter and says that she is the most beautiful angel in this world. In the father’s eyes, the daughter is perfect. This song brings back the sweet memory of seeing your daughter grow up into a beautiful woman.
5. How You’ve Grown by 10,000 Maniacs
Through this song, a father reminisces about the time spent with his daughter since the time she was born. He promises to cherish all the memories they have shared and says that he still remembers his daughter like a little girl and not an adult when he says goodbye to her. It is a song that will take you on a trip down memory lane.
6. I’ll Stand By You by The Pretenders
A father always stands by his daughter. Its slow music is perfect for a slow dance with your daughter.
7. Brown-Eyed Girl by Van Morrison
Has your father sung this song for you as you have brown eyes? If yes, it would be an appropriate song for a father-daughter dance as it will help you recall those good old memories.
Quick tip8. Sunshine of My Life by Stevie Wonder
For a father, his daughter is the sunshine of his life and the apple of his eyes. The beautiful song can be a good choice for a dance at her wedding or graduation party.
Father And Daughter Songs
The emotional yet celebratory dance reflects the joy of a father and daughter. Hence, the song chosen should be perfect.
9. Father and Daughter by Paul Simon
The sweet music in this song is an excellent choice for a father-daughter dance as it gives appropriate vibes. This song is an ode from Paul to his daughter as he shares his good wishes for his daughter, who is growing up fast.
10. Sweet Child O’Mine by Guns N’Roses
This song reflects a father’s love for her daughter. He says that she occupies an extraordinary place in his heart. Today when she has grown up, he reminisces about his daughter’s childhood.
11. When You Need Me by Bruce Springsteen
If you are looking for a soothing father-daughter song, you can pick this one. “If you miss me, I’ll be there” and “When you need me call my name” are a few lines that reflect the bond between a father and daughter. A father is always there to hold his princess in a warm embrace and guide her through life.
12. To Love You More by Céline Dion
This song starts with “Take me back into the arms I love.” It reminds a daughter of those childhood times when she loved being in her father’s arms. It would be a lovely song for a dance.
13. Daddy Dance With Me by Krystal Keith
A daughter will forever remain the little girl who loved to cuddle and sleep next to her father while he sang a lullaby, regardless of how much she ages. In this song, the daughter describes herself to her father on her wedding day. She tells him how she will always be his baby like she had always been.
14. You’ve Got a Friend by Carole King
If you have a strong father and daughter connection, which is similar to a friendship, you can pick this song for a beautiful dance. The lyrics express,“You just call out my name / And you know wherever I am / I’ll come running, to see you again.” Isn’t that the way a father comes for his daughter?
15. I loved her first by Heartland
While looking at a newly married daughter having her romantic first dance with her husband, a father feels emotional. In this song, he says that he was always first in his daughter’s life, but from today, things change. He says that though her priorities may change, she will be the most precious thing in his life.
Trivia16. Dance With My Daughter by Jason Blaine
Jason says that his daughter is the apple of his eyes. He is just a simple father who wants to make the most of the moment while dancing with his daughter. He says that his daughter is the greatest gift he could ever ask for.
Father-Daughter Dance Songs Country
The bride’s father is the second most important person at the wedding, and it’s a moment full of tenderness. He deserves a song that perfectly signifies and brings out his role. Listen to these songs that have some great country music perfect for a family celebration.
17. When She Grows Up by Craig Campbell
Craig Campbell’s sweetest and adorable letter for his daughter can be an emotional father-daughter song that a bride loves to play on her wedding day. The song is from a father’s perspective. These lyrics, “I still want to move mountains, I still wanna change the world. And show her no matter what happens, she’s my little girl,” tells us that even though his little girl grows up, he will always be by her side.
18. I’ll Be There by Josh Turner
It is an incredible bluegrass-inspired father-daughter dance number. The super comforting tune reassures the daughter that he will always be on her side. It is one of the most appropriate messages as a father prepares to give away his daughter.
19. My Little Girl by Tim McGraw
Co-written by Tom Douglas, ‘My Little Girl’ is one of Tim McGraw’s finest works. It makes a perfect choice to play at a daughter’s wedding. Through this song, Tim tells his life journey and what life he imagines for his little princess.
20. Butterfly Kisses by Bob Carlisle
Bob Carlisle’s song from 1995 was a country hit, and it can be an iconic wedding song. In the song, he recounts a man recalling his daughter at all the stages of her life. And the day she changes her last name is genuinely emotional for him.
21. Stealing Cinderella by Chuck Wicks
This father-daughter ballad from 2007 centers around the interaction between a father and the to-be-groom. The relationship between the two men and the daughter (cinderella) is one-of-a-kind. And it is an honor for the father to give away a daughter to an honorable man.
22. There Goes My Life by Kenny Chesney
The 2004 ballad ‘There Goes My Life’ tells us about an unplanned pregnancy and how it changes the father from a selfish person into a loving and doting father. He talks about his baby girl’s life and feels emotional when she grows up into a fine young woman and is ready to leave.
23. Diamonds and Daughters by Aaron Watson
Aaron Watson, who is a Texas country singer, describes his feelings for his daughter. He compares his daughter to diamonds and says her heart is pure in this acoustic wedding dance number. This emotional number will make your eyes wet.
24. Then They Do by Trace Adkins
The song by Trace Adkins can be easily found in the top ten father-daughter dance lists. As a father to beautiful daughters, Trace feels that this song is personal. Through this song, he explores the times he spent with his daughters, the bitter-sweet times when they had disagreements, and how they bridged the gaps. It will bring tears to your father’s eyes.
25. It Won’t Be Like This for Long by Darius Rucker
Released in 2008, Darius Rucker’s song shows us a more nuanced perspective. He describes how children grow up quickly. He wants to cherish every moment because he says the parenting phase will fly by.
Unique Father-Daughter Dance Songs
A father-daughter wedding dance is an emotional and tender moment. From heartfelt tears to tender embraces, this is a magical moment to be cherished. Find thoughtful, memorable, and unique music for this special moment.
26. God Only Knows by Kina Grannis
Through this song, a father tells his daughter that he will keep loving her as long as the stars twinkle in the sky. He says to his daughter that God only knows how he will be without her.
27. Because You Loved Me by Celine Dion
The pop-R & B ballad by Celine Dion talks about the protagonist thanking her most loved one for always being with her, guiding her, encouraging her, protecting her, nurturing her, and making her who she is now. The writer of this song, Diane Warren, wrote this song as a tribute to her father.
Did you know?28. Daughter by Loudon Wainwright III
Daughter is a cover of a tune by Peter Blegvad. Loudon Wainwright has written several songs about parenthood, out of which “Daughter” is famous. The song describes Loudon’s stressed relationship with his children and how he was not there when they needed him the most. He wishes that he was there with his children to guide them, play with them, and share things.
29. How Long Will I Love You by Ellie Goulding
Through this song, an emotional father promises to love and cherish his daughter till eternity. This song has the simplest yet powerful lyrics that carry a lot of meaning.
30. Gracie by Ben Folds
Ben Folds wrote this song in 1999 when his daughter was born. He describes his feelings for his daughter beautifully. Ben says that every moment spent with his little girl is precious for him. This song is a tear-jerker that can be played at a wedding. It is the cue to quickly hold hands and start dancing before the tears start flowing.
31. Here Comes the Sun by The Beatles
In this song, the father compares his daughter to the sunshine and reminisces about her childhood. She’s so precious to him, and she is the reason for his smile.
32. Strawberry Swing by Coldplay
The father recounts each precious moment spent with his daughter in different scenarios. He also says, “Without you, it’s a waste of time.”
33. Sweet Child O’ Mine by Sheryl Crow
The daughter compares her childhood with different things such as the sky and rain. Her father didn’t like to see the pain in her eyes and wanted to hide her from all the negativities.
Sentimental Father-Daughter Songs
The bond between a father and daughter is so unique and irreplaceable. These heartwarming songs are apt to describe the sentiments and emotions they share.
34. Every Man Should Know by Harry Connick, Jr.
Harry Connick is famous for his soothing voice. Through this song, he urges the man in a girl’s life to recognize what she is saying through her eyes and give her the strength to bear the burdens.
35. Only One by Kanye West
In this sentimental song featuring Paul McCartney, Kanye West sings to her daughter North from the perspective his mother Donda West. It provides a consoling and comforting message for his daughter when she goes through ups and downs or makes mistakes in her life.
36. Cecilia and The Satellite by Andrew McMahon
Andrew wrote this song with James Flannigan and Anders Grahn in honor of his daughter Cecelia in 2014. In this song, he speaks highly of his daughter and how he wishes to protect her from all the situations throughout her life.
37. Lullabye (Goodnight, My Angel) by Billy Joel
Through this song, Billy Joel tells his daughter to keep dreaming and never give up on her dreams. He tells her he will stand right beside her through all times.
38. Glory by Jay-Z
The song explores the new dad’s feeling and excitement as rapper Jay-Z holds his newborn daughter for the first time. He calls his daughter a child of destiny and a most incredible creation. In this song, he has even included her heartbeats and cries.
39. They Don’t Make’em Like My Daddy by Loretta Lynn
Through this song, Loretta expresses that her father was always by her side since childhood. She has beautiful memories of the time they spent together. Although her father was the most down-to-earth person, he provided her with everything she desired.
40. Daddy Lessons by Beyoncé
Through this song, Beyonce takes a chance to thank her father for preparing her to face the world. Here, she says, “Daddy made a soldier out of me” and is thankful for every moment spent with her father.
Quick tip41. Daddy’s Hands by Holly Dunn
Holly describes how her father held onto her when she had a nightmare. She remembers her father patting her back when she achieved her dreams. She remembers her father holding her hands gently and guiding her throughout.
Upbeat Father-Daughter Dance Songs
If you love rock songs or upbeat rhythms, you might be looking for the perfect music to dance to at special events. These songs are perfect for the mother and daughter pair who love to shake their legs or who are dancers. The upbeat songs will also impress the guests and can get everyone on the dance floor. Here are some songs that reflect the lovely father-daughter relationship. Play them right away and start practicing to their tunes with your beloved father/daughter. Don’t forget to record the behind-the-scenes and main dance performances.
42. Teach Your Children by Crosby Stills Nash & Young
This classic rock father-daughter dance song gives a laid-back feel. It advises parents to teach children right from wrong, and at the same time, learn from our children.
43. You’re My Best Friend by Queen
If you consider your father as your best friend ever, this song makes an ideal pick. This song’s sweet yet simple lyrics can give you a joyous feel.
44. She’s a Rainbow by The Rolling Stones
As a little girl, you might have heard this song thousands of times. In this nostalgic tune, the father compares his daughter to a colorful rainbow that spreads her colors and happiness all over.
45. Have I Told You Lately by Van Morrison
A daughter is a blessing from the divine. Play this song for a special dance with your lovely daughter.
46. In My Life by the Beatles
This song makes a perfect choice for a father-daughter dance. This song’s nostalgic lyrics will bring back lots of sweet memories for both the father and the daughter. Also, it will make the guests at the wedding emotional.
47. Wildflowers by Tom Petty
This lighthearted tune may sound a bit unusual for a classical rock father-daughter dance, but the lyrics “You belong with your love on your arm/You belong somewhere you feel free” give this song a perfect meaning for a memorable dance. The father asks his daughter to find someone special in her life and always be safe in his arms.
48. Here for You by Neil Young
Neil Young wrote this song for his college-going daughter. The song talks about how a father will always be there for his little angel no matter how far away she is.
49. When I See You Smile by Bad English
Considered one of the favorites in the classic rock genre, it is one of the most straightforward songs that can be chosen for a father-daughter dance. The lyrics “when you’re happy, I’m happy,” make this song perfect for this super special dance.
Father-Daughter Dance Songs Oldies
Listen and dance to these old father-daughter classics. They are sentimental and timeless songs that can bring back good old memories.
50. You Are My Sunshine by Johnny Cash
Johnny Cash’s timeless song works wonderfully as a father-daughter dance song. The father compares his daughter to sunshine and tells her that his whole world revolves around her.
51. Sweet Pea by Amos Lee
The Amos Lee song, Sweet Pea, is a happy-go-lucky tune that became a massive hit for a father-daughter dance. The song has the right mix of folk and rick that stirs the soul and creates a lighthearted beat encouraging everyone to sway along with it.
52. Letter to My Daughter by Quando Rondo
In this beautiful song, the Georgia rapper Quando Rondo promises his daughter Italy that he will give her everything she desires, and she will want nothing else. But more than anything, he promises to give his daughter the security that he craved from his father while growing up.
53. I Hope You Dance by Lee Ann Womack
I Hope You Dance by Lee Ann Womack is a great song for a daughter. This song offers words of encouragement to a daughter and tells her about the risks involved, loving a person wholeheartedly, and living life on her own terms.
54. It’s For My Dad by Nancy Sinatra
This song is a tribute by Nancy to her father, Frank Sinatra. She describes her father as a teacher, guide, partner in crime, a playmate, and someone who always cheered her up whenever she was sad. She also describes her father to be gentle, who gave her rock-solid support. This song will bring out lots of memories during the dance.
55. Always Be Your Baby by Natalie Grant
The emotional ballad from the Grammy-nominated singer will wet your eyes. It is about enduring and nurturing the relationship that a father and daughter share. This precious relation stays unchanged throughout their lifetime.
56. To Know Him Is to Love Him by Amy Winehouse
Through this song, Amy Winehouse says that she will be a good daughter and bring a smile to his face. The touching lyrics say that just to see him smile makes her life worthwhile.
Illustration: Best Father-Daughter Dance Songs Of All Time
Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the significance of the father-daughter dance at a wedding?
The father-daughter dance is a way for the father to acknowledge his daughter’s transition from being his little girl to being a married woman and to show his support and love for her on her special day. It is also a way for the bride to thank her father for all that he has done for her throughout her life.
2. How do I choose the right father-daughter dance song for my wedding?
While choosing the song for your father-daughter dance, it is important to consider the lyrics, tempo, and your and your father’s taste in music.
3. Should the father-daughter dance song be slow or fast-paced?
The choice depends on personal preference and the tone of the wedding. Traditionally, the father-daughter dance is slow, and many people choose a sentimental and slow-paced song to create an emotional moment between the father and daughter.
4. Can the father-daughter dance song be a non-traditional or unconventional choice?
Yes. While some classic songs are often used for this special dance, there are no hard and fast rules about what kind of music should be played.
5. Should the father and daughter take dance lessons before the wedding?
Taking dance lessons before the wedding is a personal decision that depends on various factors. They may decide to skip the lessons if they feel confident in their dancing skills and are comfortable with their chosen dance style. However, dance lessons may be worth considering if they want to make the dance a memorable and polished part of their wedding celebration.
6. Should the father-daughter dance be the first dance of the night?
Traditionally, the father-daughter dance is often held after the first dance between the newlywed couple. However, there are no set rules for the order of events at a wedding, so it’s up to the couple and their families to decide.
Every father shares a special bond with his daughter. They create memories through different activities. One of the activities that many fathers and daughters enjoy is dancing. Dancing to a melodious tune is a beautiful way to release all stress and be in the moment. So, if you love dancing or want to try it for the first time, here are some father-daughter love songs that will inspire you to tap your feet. Songs like To Make You Feel My Love, Prettiest Girl In The World, and When You Need Me are heart-touching. You don’t have to be a skilled dancer to dance to these songs. All you need is a happy heart and just the two of you creating good times.
Infographic: Best Father-Daughter Dance Songs
Fathers and daughters share a special bond. And what better way to commemorate that bond than a father-daughter dance? In the following infographic, we compiled a list of songs you can use for a father-daughter dance. So, select a song you relate to and sway along with your princess/first hero. Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
Key Pointers
- Fathers play a crucial role in their daughters’ lives, serving as heroes, role models, and pillars of strength.
- Daughters are seen as blessings, often described as angels who enrich their fathers’ lives.
- Celebrating the father-daughter bond with a dance can be a wonderful and unforgettable experience, especially when paired with heartfelt songs.
- Dancing together helps fathers and daughters create special memories, relieving stress and enjoying the moment.
- Some recommended songs for a father-daughter dance include ‘To Make You Feel My Love,’ ‘Because You Loved Me,’ and ‘Diamonds And Daughters.’
Here are 12 Father & Daughter Dance Songs! Perfect for that special moment at your wedding or special event. Get ready to dance!
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