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

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

Last updated:2026/2/11

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 Sparkle with Western Music BGM! Recommended Western Wedding Songs (1–10)

Dance With Me TonightOlly Murs

Olly Murs – Dance With Me Tonight (Official Video)

Dance With Me TonightOlly Murs

It’s the song “Dance With Me Tonight” by British singer-songwriter Olly Murs.

It’s a lively dance number! It’s up-tempo, but it also has a nostalgic feel to it, so I think people of all ages can enjoy it.

Like in an American movie, it would be fun to play this track and have everyone dance to it as part of the performance!

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The GiftBlue

The Gift Live in Japan

The GiftBlue

This is a song called “The Gift” by the British R&B group Blue.

In fact, it was written by the singer-songwriter Noriyuki Makihara! He later released a self-cover under the title “Boku ga Ichiban Hoshikatta Mono” (“The Thing I Wanted Most”).

Having the four members sing that beautiful melody gives it real impact.

It’s a track that’s sure to move you!

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Thinking Out LoudEd Sheeran

Ed Sheeran – Thinking Out Loud (Official Music Video)

Thinking Out LoudEd Sheeran

This is the song “Thinking Out Loud,” released in 2014 by Ed Sheeran, a hugely popular singer-songwriter from the UK.

It’s a big hit in Japan as well.

The very romantic melody matches the world of the lyrics perfectly.

It’s definitely a recommended song for weddings.

It’s included on the album X.

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Hold My HandLady Gaga

Lady Gaga – Hold My Hand (From “Top Gun: Maverick”) [Official Music Video]

Hold My HandLady Gaga

It is said that the song Lady Gaga released in May 2022 was produced as the lead single for the soundtrack of the film Top Gun: Maverick.

Described as “a love letter to the world during and after a very difficult time,” the piece is a powerful message song that promises understanding and support for those overcoming hardship.

It seems to embody Lady Gaga’s deep empathy as she sings about the importance of human connection and finding hope even in despair.

It’s sure to be a moving choice for wedding BGM.

Why not use this Academy Award–nominated masterpiece for your ceremony scene?

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Capital LettersHailee Steinfeld, BloodPop®

Hailee Steinfeld, BloodPop® – Capital Letters

Capital LettersHailee Steinfeld, BloodPop®

It’s a tropical dance-pop track with a chill summer vibe.

I thought about what kind of scene it could be used for, and since it doesn’t have a big build-up feel, I personally think it works well for an exit scene.

The tempo isn’t too fast—it’s just right! The lyrics are gentle, like they softly stay by your side when you’re feeling anxious.

In married life, everyone feels uncertain about the future.

Whenever you start something new, that feeling always comes—but the punchy dance beat blows it all away.

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I Like You (A Happier Song) w. Doja CatPost Malone

Post Malone – I Like You (A Happier Song) w. Doja Cat [Official Music Video]

I Like You (A Happier Song) w. Doja CatPost Malone

The first collaboration between Post Malone and Doja Cat—artists who transcend the boundaries of pop, rap, and R&B—is a happy song brimming with a bright, positive vibe.

The lyrics, which breezily sing about their affection for each other and wanting to spend time together, make it perfect as wedding background music.

Released in June 2022, the track became a global hit, peaking at No.

3 on the Billboard Hot 100.

In the music video, Post Malone paints a colorful portrait of Doja and they frolic in a flower field—scenes that leave a strong impression.

It’s a track that warmly conveys the charm of their relationship, which began as a friendship.

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Beautiful ThingsBenson Boone

Benson Boone – Beautiful Things (Official Music Video)

Beautiful ThingsBenson Boone

Benson Boone, a multi-instrumentalist born in the United States in 2002, moves listeners with his song “Beautiful Things,” whose melodies and lyrics brilliantly capture joy, gratitude, and their fragility.

While Benson has been establishing strong international acclaim with tracks like “In the Stars” and “Ghost Town,” this work is more introspective and personal.

It expresses gratitude that comes with positive changes in life, while also portraying the anxiety that happy moments may not last forever.

Released in January 2024, the song conveys how difficult it can be to fully accept happiness even after you’ve found it.

Used as background music at a wedding to celebrate a couple’s new beginning, it’s sure to create a touching scene.

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