Recommended for 2026 weddings! A collection of classic songs by female Western artists

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.

If you’re a fan of Western music, you probably want to use your favorite classic tracks as BGM for important events.

And when it comes to a major life event like a wedding, you’ll want to be extra careful in selecting the songs you use.

With that in mind, this article introduces a curated list of classic and popular female-vocal tracks—including the latest hits—that fit a variety of wedding scenes, all under the theme of Western music.

Since it’s not uncommon in Western music for a beloved love song to actually be a breakup song, we’ve also included reviews that touch on the lyrics.

Enjoy!

[2026] Recommended for weddings! A collection of classic songs by female Western artists (31–40)

Call Me MaybeCarly Rae Jepsen

Carly Rae Jepsen – Call Me Maybe

Call Me MaybeCarly Rae Jepsen

It’s a classic not only for weddings but for all kinds of events! Carly Rae Jepsen, a popular Canadian singer-songwriter, released the smash hit “Call Me Maybe” in 2012.

In Japan, it was even used as a TV show theme song.

With its danceable beat, undeniably catchy melody, and Carly’s cute vocals, it’s an impeccable pop song.

The straightforward lyrics, which honestly express a girl’s feelings in love, remind you of that giddy, lovestruck mood anytime.

As a side note, the music video has a clever twist at the end—though it’s an unfortunate outcome for the protagonist.

If you haven’t seen it yet, definitely check it out!

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UnconditionallyKaty Perry

Katy Perry – Unconditionally (Official)

UnconditionallyKaty Perry

Katy Perry, who hails from California in the United States, is a singer of global renown who has held a queen-like position in the pop music scene since the 2010s.

She is also very popular in Japan, and her many hit songs seem like they would fit seamlessly even in settings like weddings.

Among them, the song highly recommended as wedding BGM is Unconditionally, released in 2013.

It’s an emotionally stirring power ballad showcasing Katy’s powerful vocals, and its music video, which creates a grand, cinematic image, is also memorable.

It conveys a moving message about the many forms of love and simply loving someone unconditionally.

I’d love to see this song used at the highlight—the pivotal moment—of a wedding!

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If I Ain’t Got YouAlicia Keys

Alicia Keys – If I Ain’t Got You (Official HD Video)

If I Ain't Got YouAlicia Keys

“If I Ain’t Got You” is an early career smash hit by the genius Alicia Keys—an artist who expressed R&B and soul through the sensibilities of the hip-hop generation and swiftly rose to top-star status with her overwhelming singer-songwriter talent.

Released in 2003 on her album “The Diary of Alicia Keys,” the song exudes the feel of beautifully smooth R&B woven over a gentle waltz rhythm.

Its lyrics—saying that nothing has meaning without you—are achingly poignant and deeply moving.

Of course, it can be appreciated as a timeless love song perfect for weddings, but it’s said that behind the song lie thoughts of the R&B singer Aaliyah, who tragically passed away in an accident in 2001, as well as the September 11 attacks that occurred in Alicia’s hometown of New York.

If you want to understand the feelings poured into the song more deeply, it’s worth knowing about those contexts too.

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Die With YouBeyoncé

Beyonce and Jay Z – Die With You

Die With YouBeyoncé

While Beyoncé achieved overwhelming success in the 1990s as a member of Destiny’s Child, she has gone on to shine even brighter as a solo artist and continues to be revered by many who followed in her footsteps.

She’s also famous for being one half of a loving power couple with Jay-Z, one of the wealthiest rappers in the world.

Their beautiful relationship is perfectly captured in the ballad “Die for You,” a masterpiece that would be wonderful to use at a wedding where eternal love is pledged.

The title might sound a bit ominous, but the song was actually released on their wedding anniversary and is a celebration of their marriage.

Accompanied by simple piano, Beyoncé’s stunning voice and the tender melody—sung as if cherishing their bond—are sure to move the guests to tears.

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IrisGoo Goo Dolls

Goo Goo Dolls – Iris [Official Music Video] [4K Remaster]

IrisGoo Goo Dolls

A gem-like rock ballad that tells a sweeping love story of an angel with eternal life who chooses love for a human woman and gives up immortality.

Woven by the Goo Goo Dolls, its melody—both heartrending and powerful—continues to resonate deeply with listeners.

Released in April 1998, the song was written for the soundtrack of the film City of Angels and was also included on the album Dizzy Up the Girl.

It spent 18 consecutive weeks at No.

1 on the Billboard Hot 100 Airplay chart, and its universal message of love and self-sacrifice captured hearts around the world.

In the moment of celebrating the bride and groom’s new beginning, the pure power of this song’s love will gently embrace the entire venue.

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