19 Best Slow Dance Songs to Enjoy with Your Partner

Slow dancing is a romantic and intimate form of dancing that allows couples to connect and express their love for each other. Whether you’re dancing at a wedding, prom, or a cozy night in with your partner, slow dance songs have the power to create an unforgettable moment.

Slow dance songs are often associated with classic ballads, but the genre has expanded over the years to include a wide range of musical styles. From pop to R&B, country to rock, there’s a slow dance song out there for every taste and occasion.

The best slow dance songs have a timeless quality that can transport you to a different time and place. They have the ability to evoke powerful emotions and create a magical atmosphere that makes you want to hold your loved one tight and never let go.

In this article, we will explore some of the best slow dance songs that have stood the test of time and continue to be popular today. Whether you’re looking for a classic love song or a modern hit, these slow dance songs are sure to make your heart skip a beat.

1. You Are the Best Thing – Ray LaMontagne

“You Are the Best Thing” is a soulful, upbeat love song by American singer-songwriter Ray LaMontagne. The song was released as the lead single from LaMontagne’s fourth studio album, “Gossip in the Grain,” in 2008.

The song’s instrumentation is driven by a driving rhythm section, punctuated by a soulful horn section and LaMontagne’s powerful, emotive vocals. The lyrics describe the feelings of love and devotion that the singer has for his partner, with lines like “Baby, we’ve come a long way / And baby, you know I hope and I pray / That you’ll believe me / When I say this love will never fade away.”

“You Are the Best Thing” has become a popular wedding song and a staple on romantic playlists, thanks to its infectious melody, heartfelt lyrics, and timeless soul sound. The song has also been covered by various artists, including Miley Cyrus, and has been featured in popular films and TV shows like “Up in the Air” and “The Office.”

2. Come Away With Me – Norah Jones

“Come Away With Me” is the title track and lead single from Norah Jones’ debut album of the same name, released in 2002. The song is a mellow and romantic ballad, featuring Jones’ soft and soothing vocals, accompanied by acoustic guitar, piano, and brushed drums.

The lyrics describe a desire to escape from the stresses of everyday life and to spend time with a loved one, with lines like “Come away with me and we’ll kiss / On a mountaintop come and be my love / And I’ll be yours for all time.” The song’s gentle melody and intimate lyrics create a warm and inviting atmosphere, making it a popular choice for weddings and romantic moments.

“Come Away With Me” was a critical and commercial success, earning Jones five Grammy Awards and establishing her as a major new voice in the music industry. The song has been covered by various artists and has appeared in popular films and TV shows like “The Holiday” and “Grey’s Anatomy.”

3. Harvest Moon – Neil Young

“Harvest Moon” is the title track of Neil Young’s 1992 album of the same name. The song is a romantic ballad, featuring Young’s signature guitar sound and his warm, soulful vocals.

The lyrics describe the beauty of a moonlit night, and the feelings of love and affection shared between two people. With lines like “Because I’m still in love with you / I want to see you dance again / Because I’m still in love with you / On this harvest moon,” the song captures the timeless and enduring nature of true love.

“Harvest Moon” has become one of Neil Young’s most beloved and enduring songs, and has been covered by numerous artists across different genres. The song’s gentle melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Young’s emotive delivery create a nostalgic and romantic atmosphere, making it a favorite choice for weddings, slow dances, and romantic moments.

4. Til Kingdom Come – Coldplay

“Til Kingdom Come” is a song by British rock band Coldplay, released on their 2005 album “X&Y”. The song was inspired by the country music of Johnny Cash and the Carter Family, and features acoustic guitars, harmonicas, and Chris Martin’s emotive vocals.

The song’s lyrics describe a deep and abiding love that endures despite the trials and tribulations of life. With lines like “For you I’d wait ’til kingdom come / Until my day, my day is done / And say you’ll come and set me free / Just say you’ll wait, you’ll wait for me,” the song captures the intensity and devotion of true love.

Musically, “Til Kingdom Come” has a stripped-down, folksy sound that showcases the band’s ability to create intimate and emotional moments. Martin’s vocals are particularly impressive, conveying both vulnerability and strength in equal measure.

5. First Day of My Life – Bright Eyes

“First Day of My Life” is a song by the American indie rock band Bright Eyes. It was released in 2005 as the lead single from their album “I’m Wide Awake, It’s Morning”. The song is known for its gentle acoustic guitar and Conor Oberst’s emotive vocals.

The lyrics of “First Day of My Life” describe the feeling of falling in love and the uncertainty that comes with it. The narrator sings about how their partner has changed their life for the better, and how they feel like their relationship is just beginning.

The song’s simplicity and sincerity have resonated with listeners over the years, and it has become a popular choice for wedding ceremonies and romantic playlists. Its popularity has also led to numerous covers and appearances in film and television.

6. You’re the Best Thing – The Style Council

“You’re the Best Thing” is a song by British band The Style Council, released in 1984 as a single from their album “Café Bleu”. It was a commercial success, reaching number five on the UK singles chart and earning the band their first top ten hit.

The song features a mix of soul, jazz and pop, and is characterized by its smooth groove and upbeat horn section. The lyrics express love and admiration for a romantic partner, with the narrator singing about how their lover brings happiness and positivity to their life.

“You’re the Best Thing” was a departure from The Style Council’s previous sound, which was more influenced by punk and new wave. The song’s success helped to establish the band as a mainstream act and cemented lead singer Paul Weller’s reputation as a gifted songwriter.

7. Perfect – Ed Sheeran

“Perfect” is a romantic ballad by English singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran. It was released in 2017 as the fourth single from his third studio album, “÷” (pronounced “Divide”). The song is a tribute to Sheeran’s then-fiancée Cherry Seaborn, whom he married in 2019.

“Perfect” features a simple acoustic guitar melody, with Sheeran’s soulful vocals conveying heartfelt lyrics about finding love and happiness. The song’s chorus is particularly memorable, with Sheeran singing, “Darling, you look perfect tonight.”

The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in numerous countries, including the UK and the US. It has been covered by several artists and has been used in numerous TV shows and films.

8. Lover – Taylor Swift

“Lover” is a song by Taylor Swift, released in 2019 as the title track of her seventh studio album. The song was written by Swift and produced by Jack Antonoff. It is a romantic, upbeat track that celebrates the feeling of being in love.

The song begins with a soft acoustic guitar intro, building up to a joyful, playful melody. The lyrics are filled with romantic imagery, comparing love to a variety of things such as a “sunrise on the East side” and “pink sky at night.” Swift sings about the comfort and safety she feels in her lover’s arms and the hope that their love will last forever.

Musically, the song draws on a range of influences, including pop, country, and indie folk. The use of strings and piano give the song a classic, timeless feel, while the catchy chorus and Swift’s expressive vocals make it a modern pop gem.

9. How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You) – Marvin Gaye

“How Sweet It Is (To Be Loved By You)” is a classic Motown song written by the songwriting team of Holland-Dozier-Holland and recorded by Marvin Gaye in 1964. The upbeat, catchy melody and lyrics about the joys of love and romance quickly made it a hit with audiences and cemented Gaye’s status as one of the leading soul singers of the era.

The song features Gaye’s smooth vocals backed by a lively rhythm section, punctuated by brass and percussion. Its catchy chorus and playful lyrics have made it a favorite at weddings and romantic occasions ever since its release. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including James Taylor, The Temptations, and Michael Buble.

“How Sweet It Is” has endured as a timeless love song that captures the joyful feeling of being in love and the happiness that comes from being with someone special. Its message of appreciating and savoring the moments of life with a loved one continues to resonate with audiences of all ages, making it a beloved classic that has stood the test of time.

10. Coming Home – Leon Bridges

“Coming Home” is a song by American soul singer Leon Bridges, released in 2015 as the lead single from his debut studio album of the same name. The song is a tribute to classic soul music of the 1960s and features Bridges’ smooth and soulful vocals, backed by a retro-style arrangement of horns, guitar, and organ.

Lyrically, the song is about Bridges’ longing to return home to his lover after being away for some time. The lyrics convey a sense of yearning and the desire to be close to someone special, which is a common theme in classic soul music.

The song was widely acclaimed by music critics and helped to establish Bridges as a rising star in the music industry. It has also been featured in a number of films and television shows, including the hit Netflix series “Stranger Things.” The success of “Coming Home” helped to launch Bridges’ career, and he has since become known for his unique blend of vintage soul and modern R&B.

11. If I Ain’t Got You – Alicia Keys

“If I Ain’t Got You” is a song by American singer-songwriter Alicia Keys, released as the second single from her second studio album, “The Diary of Alicia Keys,” in 2004. The song, which was written and produced by Keys herself, is a soulful and emotional ballad that showcases her impressive vocal range and piano skills.

Lyrically, “If I Ain’t Got You” is a love song that explores the idea that material possessions and wealth mean nothing without someone to share them with. The song’s memorable chorus features the lyrics “Some people want diamond rings / Some just want everything / But everything means nothing if I ain’t got you.”

The song was well received by both critics and audiences, with many praising Keys’ powerful vocals and the song’s heartfelt message. It was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in several countries, including the United States, where it peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100.

12. Wonderful Tonight – Eric Clapton

“Wonderful Tonight” is a classic love song by Eric Clapton, released in 1977 on his album “Slowhand”. It is considered one of Clapton’s greatest hits and is still a popular song today.

The song is a slow ballad that tells the story of a man admiring his partner as she gets ready to go out for the night. He is taken by her beauty and elegance, and can’t help but express his love for her. The song is filled with romantic imagery and expresses a deep sense of affection and admiration.

The melody is simple and catchy, featuring Clapton’s signature guitar playing and a smooth, soothing rhythm. Clapton’s vocals are heartfelt and emotional, conveying the depth of his feelings for his partner.

13. Can’t Take My Eyes Off You – Frankie Valli

“Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” is a classic love song originally recorded by Frankie Valli in 1967. The song has become a timeless classic and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. The song features a catchy melody with romantic lyrics that express the singer’s intense love for their partner.

The song starts off with a slow and gentle piano intro before the singer’s soulful voice comes in. The lyrics describe how the singer is completely captivated by their lover’s beauty and charm, and how they can’t take their eyes off of them. The chorus is particularly memorable, with the singer exclaiming “I love you, baby, and if it’s quite alright, I need you, baby, to warm a lonely night.”

The song’s popularity has endured for over 50 years, with covers and adaptations of the song appearing in movies, TV shows, and commercials. The song has been covered by artists such as Lauryn Hill, Muse, and Gloria Gaynor, among others. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and its ability to evoke feelings of love and romance in listeners.

14. All of Me – John Legend

“All of Me” is a soulful and romantic ballad by American singer-songwriter John Legend. The song was released in 2013 as the third single from his fourth studio album “Love in the Future”. The song was written by John Legend and Toby Gad, and it was produced by Dave Tozer and Legend. The song was dedicated to Legend’s wife Chrissy Teigen, whom he married in 2013.

“All of Me” is a piano-based ballad that features John Legend’s smooth and soulful vocals. The song’s lyrics are a heartfelt tribute to his wife, expressing his love for her in every way, including her flaws and imperfections. The song’s emotional delivery and simple melody make it a perfect choice for wedding dances and other romantic occasions.

The song became an instant hit, reaching the top of the charts in several countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. The song was certified diamond in the United States and has been streamed over a billion times on Spotify. “All of Me” earned John Legend two Grammy Awards in 2015 for Best R&B Song and Best R&B Performance.

15. Into the Mystic -Van Morrison

“Into the Mystic” is a song by Van Morrison that was released in 1970 as part of his album “Moondance”. It is a timeless classic that has become one of Morrison’s most recognizable songs. The song is known for its soulful melody, rich instrumentation, and Morrison’s emotive vocals.

The lyrics of “Into the Mystic” are somewhat cryptic, but they are widely interpreted to be about spiritual enlightenment and transcendence. The opening lines, “We were born before the wind / Also younger than the sun,” suggest a sense of agelessness and the idea of being connected to the natural world. The chorus, “Let your soul and spirit fly into the mystic,” encourages listeners to let go of their earthly worries and embrace a higher state of consciousness.

The song has been covered by many artists over the years, including Bruce Springsteen, Joe Cocker, and The Wallflowers. It has also been featured in various movies and TV shows, cementing its place as one of the most iconic songs of the 20th century. “Into the Mystic” has stood the test of time as a masterpiece of poetic songwriting and soulful performance.

16. Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley

“Can’t Help Falling in Love” is a classic love song originally recorded by Elvis Presley in 1961 for his movie “Blue Hawaii”. The song was written by George Weiss, Hugo Peretti, and Luigi Creatore, and has since become one of Presley’s most popular and enduring hits.

The song is a slow, romantic ballad featuring a simple yet beautiful melody and lyrics that speak to the depth of love and the power of fate. The opening lines, “Wise men say only fools rush in, but I can’t help falling in love with you,” have become instantly recognizable to generations of music fans.

Over the years, “Can’t Help Falling in Love” has been covered by a wide range of artists, including UB40, Andrea Bocelli, and Ingrid Michaelson. The song has also been used in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, further cementing its place in popular culture.

17. The Way You Look Tonight – Frank Sinatra

“The Way You Look Tonight” is a timeless classic by the legendary Frank Sinatra. It was written by the renowned songwriting duo Jerome Kern and Dorothy Fields in 1936 and was later introduced in the film “Swing Time” by Fred Astaire. Sinatra’s version was released in 1964 and is widely considered one of his greatest recordings.

The song is a tender and romantic tribute to a loved one, with lyrics that praise their physical beauty and inner qualities. Sinatra’s smooth and elegant vocals perfectly capture the sentiment of the song, making it a popular choice for weddings and other romantic occasions.

The melody of “The Way You Look Tonight” is simple yet captivating, with a gentle sway that invites listeners to dance. The arrangement features a lush orchestra with strings and horns, creating a warm and romantic atmosphere.

18. At Last – Etta James

“At Last” is a classic love song that was originally recorded by Etta James in 1960. The song has since become a staple at weddings and romantic events and has been covered by numerous artists over the years.

The song is a slow and soulful ballad that showcases James’ incredible vocal talent. The lyrics describe the feeling of finally finding true love after waiting for so long: “At last, my love has come along / My lonely days are over / And life is like a song.” The song’s simple melody and poignant lyrics have resonated with audiences for decades and continue to be a beloved classic.

The song has been covered by countless artists, including Beyonce, Christina Aguilera, and Cyndi Lauper. Its timeless quality and enduring popularity are a testament to its enduring appeal. Whether played at weddings or romantic occasions, “At Last” remains a powerful and moving expression of love and devotion.

19. Unchained Melody – The Righteous Brothers

“Unchained Melody” is a classic love song written by Alex North and Hy Zaret in 1955. It was originally composed as the theme for a prison film called “Unchained”, but its timeless lyrics and melody have made it a popular choice for many romantic moments over the years.

The song has been covered by many artists, but the version by The Righteous Brothers is arguably the most well-known and beloved. Released in 1965, their recording is characterized by the powerful and emotive vocals of Bobby Hatfield, supported by the soulful harmonies of Bill Medley. The song starts with a haunting melody played on a solo guitar, setting the mood for the romantic lyrics that follow. The opening lines, “Oh, my love, my darling, I’ve hungered for your touch, a long, lonely time”, perfectly capture the longing and yearning of a love that has been separated.

As the song progresses, the instrumentation gradually builds, with the addition of strings and percussion, creating a sense of urgency and intensity. The vocal performance also becomes more passionate, particularly during the iconic climax, where Hatfield’s soaring falsetto reaches its peak.