Top Wedding Songs from the Swing Jazz Era

Weddings are joyous occasions, a celebration of love and togetherness. And no celebration is complete without some foot-tapping music. Weddings especially call for some lovely music, be it for the first dance of the couple or the merriment of the guests. And what better than the rhythmic beats of swing music for a wedding party! The big band swing music radio plays some outstanding love tracks suitable for a joyous wedding reception. In this blog, we look at some of the best swing songs you can play at your wedding.

Cheek To Cheek

Make your first dance as husband and wife all the more memorable dancing to this evergreen jazz classic, originally written for the 1935 film Top Hat starring Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers. The lyrics, penned down by Irving Berlin, seem just the perfect description of a much-in-love couple. “And I seem to find the happiness I seek, When we're out together dancing cheek to cheek.” Ah, the love! With a characteristic swing beat that is as smooth as it gets, this classic track will make a perfect addition to your wedding songs list.

All of Me

Written in 1931, by Gerald Marks and Seymour Simons, this song is a jazz standard. Originally sung by Ruth Etting, the track was subsequently recorded by Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday, Frank Sinatra, and many more great jazz artists. The lyrics of this song speak of an undying love full of passion. “Take my lips, I want to lose them. Take my arms, I'll never use them.” The Jazz Standards Guide has mentioned, “The downward thrusts of the opening phrases hint at emotional despair while the closing line, with its repeated high notes, seems almost jubilant.” So you can bring in a hint of jubilation to your wedding with this great track.

Summertime

What is a wedding playlist without a slow song! Let the couples take the stage and indulge in some slow dancing with this 1935 George Gershwin composition. Written by DuBose Heyward for the musical opera ‘Porgy and Bess’, this one too is a jazz standard. It has been sung and recorded by several artists, the most popular version being the 1936 recording by Billie Holiday. Mixing the elements of jazz with African American folk music, this classic song makes for a great track for a slow and playful waltz at your wedding.

My Blue Heaven

“Nightshades falling, Lovers calling, What makes the world go round, Nothing but love.” The lyrics paint the picture of a happily ever after as a couple builds their home and family with each other. This beautiful song written by Walter Donaldson with lyrics by George A. Whiting was first recorded in 1928 by Gene Austin. Crooning about the joys of love, it makes the perfect song choice for a night of wedding celebration!

It Don’t Mean a Thing (If It Ain’t Got That Swing)

The one definitive hit that symbolizes the spirit of big band swing songs! Composed in 1931 by Duke Ellington and written by Irving Mills, this is a perfect wedding song to uplift the mood of the party and encourage all your guests to take the dance floor. The rhythmic beats of this song are characterized by fun, flamboyance, and playfulness – a true reflection of the golden years of the swing jazz era. Make your party come alive with this evergreen recording. In fact, the song was even inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame. So why not also make it a part of your wedding playlist!

Conclusion

Weddings are meant to be happy occasions and listening through the various playlists at a big band swing music radio, you will surely find some great love songs perfect for your special day! The above list shall aid you in your search.