Five Types of Songs to Avoid on Your Wedding DJ Playlist

Last updated: 15 January 2025

Musical taste is deeply personal. For many, it’s an expression of identity, tied to cherished memories and emotions. Marriage, too, is an intensely personal milestone – one that brings together two lives, often celebrated with family and friends. Combining these two worlds during your wedding can be a delicate balancing act. Your wedding DJ playlist needs to reflect your unique style while also entertaining a diverse mix of loved ones. Navigating this challenge successfully can make or break the atmosphere of your big day.

Crafting the perfect wedding playlist is no easy feat. Thankfully, we’ve got expert advice from our multi award-winning team at Mighty Fine Events to help steer you in the right direction. While you may have some must-play songs in mind, there are certain types of tracks best left out. We have compiled a list of the top five categories of songs to avoid, ensuring your celebration remains unforgettable for all the right reasons.

1. Tracks with Explicit Lyrics

While it’s important to express yourself, it’s wise to steer clear of songs loaded with profanity or explicit themes. Weddings are typically family-friendly events with guests spanning generations. While gangsta rap or other explicit genres might be your personal favourite, these choices can easily alienate older relatives or unsettle young children. To keep the occasion inclusive and enjoyable for everyone, opt for cleaner tracks.

2. Misleadingly Romantic Songs

Some songs that sound romantic at first glance have lyrics that tell a very different story. For example, REM’s “The One I Love” may seem heartfelt, but it’s actually a bitter ode to a former partner. Similarly, Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” is famously about parting ways, not coming together. Even “Just the Two of Us” is a father-and-son tribute rather than a love song. Before committing to a track, take a closer listen to ensure the lyrics align with the celebratory spirit of your wedding.

3. Mood-Killing Mismatches

Have you ever been at a wedding where the music takes a sudden, jarring turn, leaving guests awkwardly standing on the dancefloor? Avoid songs that clash with the overall vibe of your playlist. Consistency is key to keeping the energy flowing and the party alive. A skilled wedding DJ can help you create a cohesive playlist and advise on timing and transitions to ensure the music flows seamlessly throughout the night.

4. Overly Obscure Tracks

While your indie playlist might be a hit among close friends, overly obscure songs can alienate guests who don’t recognise them. Dancing doesn’t come naturally to everyone, and many people feel self-conscious about taking to the floor. Familiar, crowd-pleasing tracks encourage even the shyest guests to let loose and enjoy themselves. Striking the right balance between personal favourites and universally loved tunes is crucial.

5. Excessively Cheesy Songs

We all remember that cringeworthy scene in Love Actually where the DJ plays “Puppy Love” at the wedding. While a little bit of cheese can be fun, too much can leave guests rolling their eyes. A great wedding DJ knows how to avoid clichéd choices and instead create a fresh, exciting playlist that gets everyone dancing. If you’ve attended weddings where the music leaned too heavily on tired classics, you’ll understand the importance of keeping things tasteful.

Striking the Right Chord

Your wedding playlist should be as unique as your love story. While it’s important to include songs that reflect your personality and relationship, it’s equally crucial to consider the tastes and comfort of your guests. With the help of an experienced wedding DJ and some thoughtful planning, you can create a soundtrack that resonates with everyone, turning your wedding into a joyous celebration that’s fondly remembered by all.

After all, music has the power to bring people together—and there’s no better occasion for that than your wedding day.

So these are just five types of songs to avoid on your wedding DJ playlist – contact us to day to hear in more detail how we will help you to craft the perfect playlist for your wedding.