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Writer's pictureDan Obermann

The Best Cocktail Hour Songs to Set the Mood


If you're looking for the perfect music to set the mood for your cocktail hour, look no further! We've compiled a list of the best songs to get everyone in the party spirit. Whether you're planning a casual get-together or an elegant soiree, these tunes will have your guests tapping their feet and sipping their drinks with style. So put on your favorite party playlist and raise a glass to good times ahead!


"Ain't No Sunshine" by Bill Withers

"Ain't No Sunshine" by the legendary Bill Withers is a soulful lyric that has stood the test of time since its 1971 release. It is one of the most classic songs ever written and has been featured in countless films, TV shows, and advertisements. Its timeless lyric about loneliness and longing remains prevalent today and speaks to people of all ages. The iconic lines "Ain't no sunshine when she's gone / Only darkness every day" are some of the most oft-quoted lyrics in musical history. This song's epic guitar melody continues to captivate its audience after all these years and it has become a favorite at weddings around the globe. Although "Ain't No Sunshine" may be old, its lyric has managed to touch upon life's heavy subtleties through its universal words for nearly five decades, making it an inspiring staple in contemporary music culture.


"I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor

One of the most recognizable songs of all time, "I Will Survive" by Gloria Gaynor has become an anthem of resilience and strength. Written in 1978, the lyrics offer women a message of empowerment that is just as relevant today as it was then. The song is so powerful that it has been featured in almost any type of media imaginable. It can be heard blaring through cell phones during a bustling shopping mall or rhythmically playing at a wedding reception cocktail hour. Sheer power and timelessness are two things that make "I Will Survive" stand out among the many great songs ever released. But what really makes this lyric shine is its ability to help us persevere when faced with challenging times and emotions – something everyone needs every now and again. Gloria Gaynor's iconic hit song has truly become something more than just music; it is emblematic of overcoming hurdles and staying resilient in tough moments. Sing along, dance along, or just listen along with "I Will Survive" to remind yourself that you will do anything but compromise your values--no matter the obstacle. This lyric truly lives up to its title: I will survive!


"Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey

Initially released as a single in 1981, "Don't Stop Believin'" by Journey is considered one of the greatest songs of all time. The lyrics tantalize listeners with an inspirational message: "Steppin' out tonight / You're in the light / It's gonna be a perfect day." Those words have resonated deeply with audiences worldwide and created an enduring legacy for the band. From soft rock to wedding ceremonies, "Don't Stop Believin'" is a popular cocktail songs favorite, encouraging us to remain hopeful even after the most difficult times. Even today, more than thirty years later, the song stirs up joy and emotion in both old fans and new listeners with its memorable beat and inspirational message. As long as people continue to believe, this beloved classic will remain timelessly relevant no matter what decade it's played in.


"We Are Family" by Sister Sledge

One of the most recognizable and beloved songs of all time is "We Are Family" by Sister Sledge. Written by Nile Rodgers and released in 1979, the lyric speaks to a message of unity that quickly became a global anthem. Now a timeless classic, the upbeat track will always hold a place in our hearts and serve as a reminder of family bonds regardless of age or distance. With its groovy funk-infused sound, it instantly takes us back to an era where disco was king and wedding playlists contained nothing but gold. And so it comes as no surprise that "We Are Family" remains one of the most popular tracks to hit the dance floor at almost any wedding celebration today - some 40 years after its release! Whether you hear it while scrolling through your playlist or shake your groove thing on the dance floor, there's no denying that this funk-heavy power anthem never fails to bring out the best in everyone!


"I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)" by Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston's “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” is a classic pop music song that continues to be popular today. Originally released in 1987, the song has become an iconic piece of music and a mainstay at wedding cocktail hours, with its upbeat tempo and inspiring lyrics. This powerful tune reaches out to music lovers far and wide with its inspiring message of acceptance and self-love. It expresses optimism while encouraging listeners to get up on their feet and embrace life. As classic music for the wedding cocktail hour, “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” can provide just enough background music so guests have something memorable to move their feet too while the bride and groom are off taking pictures. It’s a timeless crowd pleaser that truly speaks to any occasion. That said, it provides a clear indicator that all are welcome let loose and have a good time as we all celebrate life's many joys together. Indeed, “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)" is a perfect choice for anyone looking for music fit for such special occasions. It's sure to put your guests in the perfect mood for a day or evening of fun!


"Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis Presley

"Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis Presley is one of the most beloved ballads of all time. Written in 1961 and featured in his movie "Blue Hawaii", the simple lyric of the song speaks volumes to love and longing. The lyric, which begins “Wise men say / Only fools rush in” is often used during weddings as an ode to romantic commitment and staying true to love, making it a timeless classic. Musically, it is considered one of Elvis’ gentler, more restrained performances and has been covered by a variety of performers, ranging from UB40 to Coldplay. It continues to be a mainstay at engagements and anniversaries around the world, capturing lasting sentiment with its beautiful lyric and soulful performance. Elvis Presley’s distinctive rendition of “Can't Help Falling in Love” will no doubt remain an enduring part of our musical landscape for years to come.


"L-O-V-E" by Nat "King" Cole

Nat "King" Cole's classic love song "L-O-V-E" is the perfect choice for a wedding cocktail hour. With its upbeat tempo and inspiring lyrics, the song will set the mood for a day or evening of fun! Originally released in 1965, the track speaks to an eternal message of love and devotion that continues to resonate with listeners today. Nat “King” Cole delivers a romantic performance full of beautiful imagery, describing what it means to truly be loved by someone special. This timeless tune is guaranteed to get your guests up on their feet and singing along as they celebrate your special day! As a song about true love and commitment, "L-O-V-E" is one of those mellow songs that never gets old and will forever remain a classic choice of music for cocktail hour moments. Whether you request it from your DJ or sing it yourself, there's no denying the joy that this song brings!


"I'm Yours" by Jason Mraz

Jason Mraz's "I'm Yours" is a popular love song that has been featured at many wedding cocktail hours and never ceases to put the bridal party in a party mood. Originally released in 2008, the song has a feel-good vibe that sets the mood for a fun celebration. With its simple lyrics and upbeat tempo, "I'm Yours" is sure to get your guests up on their feet and singing along. The song's romantic message about being devoted to one another is sure to touch hearts on your big day. Jason Mraz delivers a heartfelt performance that will no doubt be remembered by guests long after the wedding is over. As a classic love song, "I'm Yours" is perfect for any wedding cocktail hour! It will set the mood for a memorable celebration and be sure to create lasting memories.


"Marry Me" By Train

Train's Marry Me is a great choice for a wedding cocktail hour song. The song has an upbeat tempo and romantic lyrics that will set the mood for a day or evening of fun! With its simple message about love and devotion, Marry Me is sure to touch hearts on your big day. Train delivers a heartfelt performance that will no doubt be remembered by guests long after the wedding is over. As a classic love song, Marry Me is perfect for any wedding cocktail hour! It will set the mood for a memorable celebration and be sure to create lasting memories.


"Just the Way You Are" by Bruno Mars

"Just the Way You Are" by Bruno Mars is a great choice for a wedding cocktail hour song. With its simple lyrics and upbeat tempo, "Just the Way You Are" is sure to get your guests up on their feet and singing along. The song's romantic message about being loved just the way you are is sure to touch hearts on your big day. Bruno Mars delivers a heartfelt performance that will no doubt be remembered by guests long after the wedding is over. As a classic love song, "Just the Way You Are" is perfect to play during cocktail hour! It will set the mood for a memorable celebration and be sure to create lasting memories.


"Better Together " By The Duo

If you're looking for a romantic and upbeat cocktail hour songs, look no further than Better Together – The Duo. This classic love song is sure to get your guests up on their feet and singing along. With its simple lyrics and beautiful melody, Better Together – The Duo is the perfect choice for any wedding celebration. Featuring soulful vocals and lush harmonies, this husband and wife duo will set the mood for a day or evening of fun!


"Millionaire" By Chris Stapleton

Chris Stapleton's "Millionaire" is a great choice for a wedding cocktail hour song. This country music song has an upbeat tempo and romantic lyrics that will set the mood for a day or evening of fun! With its simple message about love and devotion, Millionaire is sure to touch hearts on your big day. Chris Stapleton delivers a heartfelt performance that will no doubt be remembered by your wedding party and all of your wedding guests long after the wedding reception is over. As a classic love song, Millionaire is perfect for your cocktail hour music needs! It will set the mood for a memorable celebration and be sure to create lasting memories.


"Trust in Me" By Etta James

Etta James' Trust in Me is a classic love song that has been featured at many wedding cocktail hours. Originally released in 1956, the song has a timeless feel-good vibe that sets the mood for a fun celebration. With its simple lyrics and upbeat tempo, Trust in Me is sure to get your guests up on their feet and singing along. The song's romantic message about being devoted to one another is sure to touch hearts on your big day. Etta James lyrics deliver a heartfelt messsage that will no doubt be remembered by wedding guests long after the wedding is over. As a classic love song, Trust in Me is perfect for your cocktail hour music needs! It will set the mood for a memorable celebration and be sure to create lasting memories.


"You Make Me Feel So Young" By Frank Sinatra

Frank Sinatra's You Make Me Feel So Young is a perfect song choice for wedding cocktail hour music. With its simple lyrics and upbeat tempo, You Make Me Feel So Young is sure to get your guests up on their feet and singing along. The song's romantic message about feeling young and in love is sure to touch hearts on your big day. Frank Sinatra lyrics deliver a heartfelt message that will no doubt be remembered by guests long after the wedding is over. As a classic love song, You Make Me Feel So Young is perfect for any wedding cocktail hour! It will set the mood for a memorable celebration and be sure to create lasting memories.


"This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)" by Natalie Cole

This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) by Natalie Cole is a good cocktail hour song. With its simple lyrics and upbeat tempo, This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) is sure to get your guests up on their feet and singing along. The song's romantic message about finding lasting love is sure to touch hearts on your big day. Natalie Cole delivers a heartfelt performance that will no doubt be remembered by wedding guests long after the wedding is over. As a classic love song, This Will Be (An Everlasting Love) is perfect for your wedding cocktail hour music! It will set the mood for a memorable celebration and be sure to create lasting memories.


"At Last" By Beyoncé

Beyoncé's At Last is the perfect song for a wedding cocktail hour playlist. With its simple lyrics and beautiful melody, At Last is sure to get your wedding guests up on their feet and singing along. The song's romantic message about finding love is sure to touch hearts on your big day. Beyoncé delivers a heartfelt performance that will no doubt be remembered by guests long after the wedding is over. As a classic love song, At Last is perfect for any wedding cocktail hour! It will set the mood for a memorable celebration and be sure to create lasting memories.


"Dancing in the Moonlight" by Toploader

Dancing in the Moonlight by Toploader is the perfect song for a wedding cocktail hour playlist. With its upbeat tempo and feel-good vibe, Dancing in the Moonlight is sure to get your guests up on their feet and singing along. The song's simple lyrics about enjoying the moment are sure to touch hearts on your big day and makes it one of the best wedding cocktail hour songs. Toploader delivers a fun and energetic performance that will no doubt be remembered by wedding guests long after the wedding is over. As an all-time favorite party song, Dancing in the Moonlight will satisfy any cocktail hour music needs! It will set the mood for a memorable celebration and be sure to create lasting memories.


"The Way You Look Tonight" by Michael Buble

The Way You Look Tonight by Michael Buble is the perfect song if you want music for a cocktail hour playlist. With its slow tempo and romantic lyrics, The Way You Look Tonight is sure to get your guests up on their feet and singing along. The song's beautiful message about finding love is sure to touch hearts on your big day and makes it one of the best wedding cocktail hour songs. Michael Buble delivers a heartfelt performance that will no doubt be remembered by guests long after the wedding is over. As a classic love song, The Way You Look Tonight is a great choice for cocktail hour music! It will set the mood for a memorable celebration and be sure to create lasting memories.


"Here, There and Everywhere" by The Beatles

The Beatles' Here, There and Everywhere is the perfect song if you are considering cocktail hour music. With its simple lyrics and beautiful melody, Here, There and Everywhere is sure to get your guests up on their feet and singing along. The song's romantic message about finding love is sure to touch hearts on your big day. The Beatles lyrics will no doubt be remembered by guests long after the wedding party finishes helping clean up at the end of the night. As a classic love song, Here, There and Everywhere is perfect for any cocktail hour music needs and is in fact one of the best wedding cocktail hour songs! It will set the mood for a memorable celebration and be sure to create lasting memories.


Wedding season is in full swing and we are loving every minute of it! If you’re newly engaged, congratulations! This is an exciting time for you and your fiance. As you begin to plan your wedding, don’t forget about the music. The right DJ can make or break your reception so it’s important to choose wisely. That’s where we come in. We are SoundBlessed, a team of professional DJs dedicated to creating unforgettable weddings memories. From classic love songs to modern hits, we have something for everyone. Contact us today to book your date!


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