The new classics

The new classics

10 great wedding songs from the current millennium

By Kimberly Kirchner

All due respect to “At Last” and “Unchained Melody,” the last 20 years have turned out plenty of first dance options that can hold their own against the old wedding standards. Here are ten tunes from the 21st century worth considering for your ceremony.

1. Swept Away (Sentimental Version)

The Avett Brothers (2004)

This stripped-down ballad by altcountry outfit The Avett Brothers pairs picked guitars and swoon-inducing lyrics like “with your heart my soul is bound/ and as we dance I know that heaven can be found.”

2. Time after Time

Iron & Wine (2016)

Folk act Iron & Wine recorded this acoustic cover of the 1983 Cyndi Lauper classic for, of all things, a McDonald’s commercial.

3. Be Mine

Alabama Shakes (2012)

Lead singer Brittany Howard brings a fierce edge to “Be Mine,” a bluesy declaration of devotion. Just a warning: all that passion comes out in some strong language, so be careful if there are any delicate ears on your guest list.

4. Baby, I’m Yours

Arctic Monkeys feat. the 747s (2006)

One of the more faithful covers on this list, Arctic Monkeys’s version retains the vintage flavor of Barbara Lewis’ original 1965 recording.

5. Work Song

Hozier (2014)

With its gospel undercurrent and sweepingly poetic lyrics, Hozier’s ode to redemption is nothing short of worshipful.

6. Lullaby (Acoustic)

Sigala and Paloma Faith (2018)

Lullaby hit the charts as an upbeat dance single. Its acoustic counterpart trades the synth for swelling violins but keeps the joyful lyrics.

7. Hold You in My Arms

Ray Lamontagne (2004)

Singer/songwriter has more than his fair share of romantic folk-pop melodies, but this track from his debut album is particularly warm and tender.

8. No One

Alicia Keys (2007)

With a thumping rhythm reminiscent of a heartbeat in the background, “No One” is Alicia Key’s most romantic usagainst-the-world anthem.

9. This I Promise You

Jeremy Glinoga (2018)

Laugh if you want, but 20 years from now, NSYNC’s 2000 hit “This I Promise You” will be on every “timeless love songs” list. If you’re not ready to reembrace the boy band, Filipino singer Jeremy Glinoga’s piano-backed cover offers a slightly more elegant take.

10. Lucky

Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat (2008)

When it comes to putting love to music, nothing beats a duet. This joint effort by pop artist Jason Mraz and singer/songwriter Colbie Caillat celebrates the beauty of finding your best friend and the love of your life, all in one person.