Best Dancing Kick-Off Songs

An empty dance floor can bring an abrupt ending to an almost-perfect wedding reception. You’ve carefully chosen the best first dance song, a sentimental tune for you and your dad, and have hand-selected something memorable for the cake cutting – take just as much time deciding on the best dancing kick off song to guarantee a reception that keeps your guests entertained from beginning to end.

What Song Will Get Your Guests Dancing?

The perfect song to make toes start tapping at your reception will depend greatly on your guests.  More than likely, your guest list includes a broad range of ages and interests. Unless you’ve selected reception music to suit a theme or have chosen a particular type - like big band or 80’s music, your play list probably includes an assortment of tunes from various eras and genres. 

With so many different songs, how can you decide which one will fill the dance floor?  If you’ve hired a DJ or a band, turn to them first.  Experienced musicians and wedding DJs attend plenty of weddings so they’ll have a good idea of songs that really get people moving.  Also consider the tastes of the most outgoing guests on your lists – those that are the most likely to hit an empty dance floor and get others dancing.

Reception Dancing Kick Off Song No-No’s

The latest dance hits are usually not the best choices for your wedding reception.  There will be a variety of people attending your event, possibly including children, so stay away from songs with suggestive lyrics or offensive language as you plan your entire play list.  Line dances and other overplayed songs tend to find their way to the no-play-list of most modern couples as well.

Top 10 Dancing Kick Off Songs

1. Finally by Ce Ce Peniston

2. 1999 by Prince

3. Get the Party Started by Pink

4. Get Down Tonight by KC and the Sunshine Band

5. I Wanna Dance with Somebody by Whitney Houston

6. Let’s Get it Started by The Black Eyed Peas

7. The Twist by Chubby Checker

8. Rock Around the Clock by Bill Haley

9. Old Time Rock n Roll by Bob Seger

10. Twist and Shout by The Beatles

To keep things lively until the party’s over, choose plenty of upbeat dance hits like these to play throughout your reception.