LGBTQ+ Wedding Songs: First Dance, Ceremony and Processional Ideas

If you’ve ever searched for LGBTQ+ wedding songs or queer wedding songs, you’ve probably noticed a pattern: most wedding music roundups are still written with a bride and groom in mind. The lyrics they recommend, the traditions they reference, and even the way they’re organized often assume every couple fits the same mold. But love doesn’t, and neither should your wedding playlist.

Whether you’re planning a lesbian wedding, a gay wedding, a nonbinary celebration, or simply looking for music that feels more inclusive, you deserve a soundtrack that reflects your relationship, not hetero-driven narratives. From your processional to your first dance and every unforgettable moment in between, the songs you choose should celebrate your love story exactly as it is.

While some couples gravitate toward songs by LGBTQ+ artists, others look for gender-neutral lyrics or timeless love songs that speak to connection without relying on traditional gender roles. There isn’t one right way to build an LGBTQ+ wedding playlist — only the one that feels authentic to you. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to LGBTQ+ wedding music. Inside, you’ll find curated resources for LGBTQ+ first dance songs, gender-neutral ceremony music, and inclusive song ideas for every part of your wedding day to help you build the perfect soundtrack for every moment of your celebration.

LGBTQ+ First Dance Songs

Your first dance is one of the most iconic moments of your reception. It’s a chance to share a meaningful moment together while setting the tone for the celebration ahead.

The best LGBTQ+ first dance songs aren’t defined by gender … they’re defined by connection. Many couples choose songs with gender-neutral lyrics, while others embrace tracks from LGBTQ+ artists whose stories resonate with their own. Inclusive first dance music has become increasingly popular as couples prioritize authenticity over tradition.

For Lesbian Couples

Whether you’re looking for songs sung by women, queer artists, or tracks that beautifully capture sapphic love, we’ve rounded up first dance songs that celebrate every kind of lesbian love story.

Continue exploring:

→ 25 Lesbian First Dance Songs
→ Lesbian Wedding Ideas & Inspiration

For Gay Couples

From timeless classics to contemporary hits, these first dance songs feature heartfelt lyrics and memorable melodies that make them perfect for your wedding day.

Continue exploring:

→ 25 Amazing First Dance Songs for Gay Couples
→ Gay Wedding Ideas & Inspiration

For Nonbinary Couples

Many traditional wedding songs rely heavily on gendered language, but there are countless beautiful alternatives that center love without assumptions.

Continue exploring:

→ 25 Nonbinary First Dance Songs
→ Nonbinary Wedding Ideas & Inspiration

Gender-Neutral Wedding Songs for Your Ceremony

The ceremony soundtrack creates the emotional foundation for your wedding day. From the processional to the recessional, the right songs can make each moment feel uniquely yours.

For LGBTQ+ couples, gender-neutral wedding songs are often a natural choice. They allow the focus to remain on the love being celebrated rather than traditional gender roles. Many of today’s most popular ceremony songs avoid pronouns altogether, making them a beautiful fit for any couple.

Processional Music

Looking for a song to walk down the aisle to?

→ 10 Beautiful Gender-Neutral Songs for Your Processional

These songs create a romantic, emotional atmosphere while remaining inclusive and affirming for all identities.

How to Choose LGBTQ+ Wedding Music

When selecting your wedding soundtrack, focus less on what is traditionally expected and more on what feels meaningful to you as a couple.

Ask yourselves:

• Does the song reflect your relationship?
• Do the lyrics feel authentic to your identities?
• Does the music fit the mood you want to create?
• Will the song still feel special years from now?

Some couples choose songs by LGBTQ+ artists, while others prioritize gender-neutral lyrics or personal significance. There is no right or wrong approach. The best LGBTQ+ wedding songs are simply the ones that feel like your love story.

Should You Choose Songs by LGBTQ+ Artists?

It’s a question we hear often: should LGBTQ+ couples choose songs by LGBTQ+ artists?

The answer is simple: only if you want to.

There isn’t a checklist for creating the perfect LGBTQ+ wedding playlist, and your music certainly doesn’t have to come exclusively from queer musicians to be meaningful. If the song reminds you of your first date, was playing during the proposal, or simply makes you both smile every time it comes on, that’s reason enough to include it.

That said, many couples intentionally incorporate LGBTQ+ artists into their wedding soundtrack as a way to celebrate queer voices and representation. Hearing songs written and performed by artists who share similar lived experiences can add another layer of meaning to your celebration, especially on a day that’s all about honoring your love story. And with so many incredible LGBTQ+ musicians creating beautiful love songs across every genre, it’s easier than ever to build a playlist that feels both authentic and inclusive.

If you’re looking for inspiration, these artists deserve a spot on your radar.

Brandi Carlile

Brandi Carlile’s rich storytelling and soulful voice make her music a natural fit for weddings.

Best wedding songs:

• “The Story” – A powerful first dance or last dance for couples whose love has weathered life’s ups and downs.
• “You and Me on the Rock” – A joyful recessional or cocktail hour song celebrating building a life together.
• “The Eye” – A beautiful processional or ceremony signing song thanks to its reflective, heartfelt lyrics.

Tegan and Sara

Known for writing candid songs about love and relationships, Tegan and Sara’s catalog offers everything from emotional ballads to upbeat indie-pop.

Best wedding songs:

• “Closer” – A fun reception song that practically begs guests to hit the dance floor.
• “Call It Off” (instrumental covers work beautifully) – A moody cocktail hour addition.
• “I Was a Fool” – A quieter dinner or cocktail hour selection.

Sam Smith

With soaring vocals and emotional depth, Sam Smith’s music lends itself beautifully to romantic wedding moments.

Best wedding songs:

• “Latch (Acoustic)” – One of the most popular modern first dance songs.
• “Lay Me Down” – A dramatic ceremony or first dance option.
• “I’m Not the Only One” – Better suited for listening than weddings—skip this one for obvious reasons.

Troye Sivan

Troye Sivan blends heartfelt lyrics with polished pop production, making his music a favorite for contemporary weddings.

Best wedding songs:

• “Bloom” – A lighthearted reception or cocktail hour song.
• “Angel Baby” – A sweet first dance or private last dance choice.
• “Lucky Strike” – Perfect for getting the party started during the reception.

Hayley Kiyoko

Hayley Kiyoko’s music centers queer love stories, making her an especially meaningful addition to lesbian and sapphic wedding playlists.

Best wedding songs:

• “For the Girls” – A high-energy reception anthem.
• “Chance” – A romantic cocktail hour or dinner selection.
• “Curious” – Better saved for the dance floor than the ceremony.

girl in red

Few artists have become as closely associated with modern queer love stories as girl in red. Her dreamy indie-pop sound and intimate songwriting have made her a favorite among LGBTQ+ listeners around the world.

Best wedding songs:

• “We Fell in Love in October” – A beautiful first dance, processional, or wedding video soundtrack.
• “I’ll Call You Mine” – A romantic ceremony or dinner playlist addition.
• “Midnight Love” – A slower reception song for winding down the evening.

Elton John

A true music icon, Elton John has written some of the most enduring love songs of all time. His catalog spans generations, making it easy to incorporate into almost any wedding style.

Best wedding songs:

• “Your Song” – A timeless first dance or processional choice.
• “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” – Perfect for dinner service or a romantic slow dance.
• “I’m Still Standing” – A guaranteed crowd-pleaser once the dance floor opens.

Lil Nas X

If your goal is to throw an unforgettable party, Lil Nas X delivers confidence, personality, and infectious energy.

Best wedding songs:

• “THAT’S WHAT I WANT” – An upbeat reception favorite about finding love.
• “STAR WALKIN’” – Great for your reception entrance or late-night dancing.
• “MONTERO (Call Me By Your Name)” – A bold dance-floor moment for couples who want to lean into the fun.

No matter which artists you choose, remember that your wedding playlist doesn’t have to follow anyone else’s rules. The best LGBTQ+ wedding music is the music that feels authentic to your relationship, your guests, and the celebration you’re creating together.

LGBTQ WEDDING SONGS SPOTIFY PLAYLIST