[2026] Brighten your wedding with Western music BGM! Recommended English-language wedding songs

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and for over 18 years I’ve contributed to music magazines, disc guide books, mooks, and web media. As a writer my main field is Western music, but as a listener for over 35 years, I always try to keep my curiosity alive with the motto “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in bands, where I was a bassist who handled songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve played include bass, guitar, and piano. I began studying English in my mid-40s and continue to do so today.
Deputy Editor of RAG MUSICsasashina
Deputy Editor of RAG MUSIC. JFC-certified fact-checker. I’m Sasashina, a mom currently raising an elementary schooler and a preschooler. During my student years at Kyoto College of Science and Technology, I studied a wide range of fields including sound, lighting, and video technology, building a foundation in comprehensive stage production and creative expression. After graduation, I joined a music production company, where I still work, consistently building experience in production and engaging in a variety of music-centered tasks. Currently, I mainly handle articles for children, drawing on what I’ve learned about parenting and what I feel and discover through daily interactions with my kids. I hope my work can be of help to you, even in a small way!

We’re introducing some recommended Western songs for your wedding BGM! If you’re a couple who loves Western music, you’ll want to make your reception feel like “you” by using Western tracks throughout.

That said, if you switch out every track for each scene and for background conversations, you’ll end up needing a dozen or more songs.

Your favorite songs might not always suit a celebratory occasion, and choosing can be tough… So for those dealing with that dilemma, we’ve put together a list of Western songs that work well across various wedding moments.

We focused our research on recent hits, including the latest tracks, and we also introduce timeless classics in the latter half—so you’re sure to get compliments on your great taste.

Use this article as a guide to help you create a wedding that’s brimming with your unique personalities!

[2026] Make Your Wedding Shine with Western Music BGM! Recommended English-Language Wedding Songs (41–50)

Anyone At AllCarole King

Carole King – Anyone At All (from You’ve Got Mail)

Anyone At AllCarole King

The theme song of the movie “You’ve Got Mail.” It’s a deeply moving ballad about how strangely comfortable it feels to be together, and the feeling of being grateful that you’re the one who catches me when I fall.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Uptown Funk ft. Bruno MarsMark Ronson

Mark Ronson – Uptown Funk (Official Video) ft. Bruno Mars

Uptown Funk ft. Bruno MarsMark Ronson

This is the song “Uptown Funk” by singer-songwriter Mark Ronson, who is also active as a producer, featuring Bruno Mars, the Honolulu-born singer-songwriter and producer.

Just listening to it is so much fun—it’s a super funky track! It’s perfect for couples who love flashy vibes and for wedding entertainment!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Good TimeOwl City & Carly Rae Jepsen

Owl City & Carly Rae Jepsen – Good Time (Official Video)

Good TimeOwl City & Carly Rae Jepsen

This is the song “Good Time,” a collaboration between Canadian songstress Carly Rae Jepsen and Owl City, the solo project of American musician Adam Young.

You only get one wedding in your life, so you want it to be the best day of all, right? It’s also a day when family and friends all come together.

This track is especially recommended for couples who want everyone to have fun and get the party going!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Hold My HandMichael Jackson

Michael Jackson – Hold My Hand (Duet with Akon) (Official Video) ft. Akon

Hold My HandMichael Jackson

Although he sadly passed away, this is a song by the legendary King of Pop, Michael Jackson.

The track “Hold My Hand” is a poppy, happy R&B number that sings of a great love: no matter what happens, if you hold my hand, you have nothing to worry about.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

SugarMaroon 5

Maroon 5 – Sugar (Official Music Video)

SugarMaroon 5

This is “Sugar,” a song released in 2014 by Maroon 5, a hugely popular American pop band.

True to its title, it’s an ultra-sweet love song! Adam Levine’s romantic vocals and the band’s gentle groove are sure to make a wedding atmosphere feel even more special.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

SheElvis Costello

Elvis Costello ‘She’

SheElvis Costello

Some of you might have heard it in commercials.

This is “She,” a song by the British musician Elvis Costello.

It’s a very romantic slow ballad.

It’s also featured in the film Notting Hill.

The song is about “her.” It’s especially recommended for men who feel they can’t live without her!

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem

Live Like You’re LovedHawk Nelson

Hawk Nelson – Live Like You’re Loved (Official Lyric Video)

Live Like You're LovedHawk Nelson

This is a song called “Live Like You’re Loved,” released in 2015 by the Canadian pop-punk band Hawk Nelson.

In our daily lives, work and house chores can leave us feeling overwhelmed and short on peace of mind.

But on your wedding day—a truly special occasion—let it be a day to simply savor the happiness of being surrounded by people who love you.

It’s a perfect song to make your special day an unforgettable memory.

Raise the rankinglower

Report a problem