When it comes to planning a wedding, selecting the perfect song for the first dance as a married couple can be a challenging task. Some prefer classic love songs, while others opt for a modern hit. However, it’s hard to deny that “Unchained Melody” is a popular choice for many couples. The Righteous Brothers’ version holds steadfast as the most loved version, in part, thanks to its use in the 1990 Blockbuster film Ghost.
But, is it really a good wedding song? Let’s dive deeper and explore the reasons behind its popularity.
The History of Unchained Melody
“Unchained Melody” was originally written by Alex North and Hy Zaret in 1955. The song was not originally intended as a love song but focused on the theme of a prisoner who longs to be free. The first recorded version of the song was performed by Todd Duncan in the same year. The song’s popularity grew in part due to famous performances by Les Baxter and Al Hibbler, but it wasn’t until The Righteous Brothers’ rendition in 1965 that it became a mainstream success.
The group’s version features Bill Medley and Bobby Hatfield’s powerful blend of vocal harmonies that added a romantic sentiment to the song. The song quickly became a hit and has since become one of the most covered songs in history with over 1,500 versions recorded by various artists.
Why Unchained Melody is a Popular Wedding Song
Many people cite an emotional connection to the song, whether it’s through their own personal experiences or its use in the iconic pottery scene in Ghost. The song’s lyrics speak of a love that lasts beyond time and distance, which fits perfectly into the context of a wedding.
Moreover, The Righteous Brothers’ version features a slow and gentle tempo, perfectly suited to a slow dance. The song’s melody is highly memorable and easy to dance to, making it a great choice for couples who may not be confident dancers.
The Significance of Music in Weddings
Music plays an essential role in setting the tone for a wedding. It can evoke emotions, create an ambiance, and express the couple’s personalities. The first dance is a particularly significant moment that marks the start of a new stage in the couple’s life. It is a moment to cherish for years to come, and the song that accompanies it should reflect the couple’s love story.
Some couples opt for a song that reflects their own individual experiences, while others choose a song that speaks to their relationship. “Unchained Melody” is a song that fits well into the latter category. Its lyrics express a love that has overcome obstacles and lasted over time.
Alternatives to Unchained Melody
While “Unchained Melody” is undoubtedly a popular choice, it’s not for everyone. Some couples may prefer to choose a less conventional song for their first dance. Here are some alternative songs to consider:
– “At Last” by Etta James
– “Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley
– “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” by Aerosmith
– “Marry Me” by Train
– “The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra
These are just a few suggestions, but there are countless beautiful love songs to choose from that may better suit the couple’s preferences.
Conclusion
In conclusion, “Unchained Melody” is an iconic song that has stood the test of time and undoubtedly makes a great wedding song. Its powerful lyrics, beautiful melody, and sentimental value make it a popular choice for many couples. However, it’s essential to choose a song that resonates with the couple’s love story and reflects their unique personalities. Ultimately, the first dance is a moment to be cherished, and the song that accompanies it should make it even more special.
FAQ
What song should bride walk down aisle to?
Choosing the perfect song for the bride to walk down the aisle is one of the most important decisions that couples must make when planning a wedding. It’s a moment that will be immortalized in video and photographs and will be remembered for years to come. Therefore, it’s important to choose a song that reflects the couple’s love story and captures the mood and atmosphere of the wedding.
There are many songs that are traditionally chosen for the bride to walk down the aisle to, such as “Canon in D” by Pachelbel and “Here Comes the Bride” by Wagner. However, there’s no rule that says you must choose a traditional wedding song.
Modern couples often choose contemporary songs that hold a special meaning to them. Popular options include “A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri, “All of Me” by John Legend, and “Marry Me” by Train. However, there are many other factors to consider, such as the tempo of the song and its lyrics.
When selecting a song, consider the overall mood and vibe of your wedding. If you’re planning a romantic ceremony, consider choosing a sentimental song such as “At Last” by Etta James or “Over the Rainbow” by Israel Kamakawiwo’ole. If your wedding is more relaxed and casual, you may want to choose a song that’s more upbeat, such as “Lucky” by Jason Mraz ft. Colbie Caillat.
The song that you choose should reflect your love story and the unique qualities of your relationship as a couple. Take some time to listen to different options, and choose a song that feels right and meaningful to you both. Remember, it’s your special day, and the music should be a reflection of your love and commitment to each other.
What is the traditional song to walk out of a wedding ceremony?
One of the most memorable and highly anticipated moments in a wedding ceremony is the recessional, when the newly married couple walks back down the aisle after exchanging their vows and officially becoming husband and wife. A key element of this unforgettable moment is the choice of music that plays as the happy couple exits, and there are a number of traditional songs that have been used for this purpose for many years.
The most popular and well-known song for the wedding recessional is Mendelssohn’s “Wedding March,” which has been the go-to choice for generations of couples. Dating back to the mid-19th century, this composition is known for its grandeur and celebratory tone, making it a perfect selection for the joyous occasion of a wedding.
Another classic choice for a wedding recessional is Beethoven’s “Ode to Joy,” which is known for its uplifting and triumphant theme. This piece is often used as a substitute for Mendelssohn’s “Wedding March” when couples are looking for a different option that still maintains an air of tradition.
While these two compositions are the most traditional options for a wedding recessional, there are countless other songs that couples can choose from to make their ceremony something truly unique and personal. Popular contemporary choices include Bruno Mars’ “Marry You” and Stevie Wonder’s “Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I’m Yours),” while classical selections like Handel’s “La Rejouissance” and Vivaldi’s “Spring” are also great options.
The decision of which song to play as the happy couple walks out of their wedding ceremony is a deeply personal one. Whether you choose a traditional piece or something more contemporary, the most important thing is that the music reflects your love and joy on this special day.
How long should the song be for the bride to walk down the aisle?
The wedding ceremony is a special and emotional event. It’s the moment when a couple exchanges vows and becomes husband and wife. One of the most significant moments during the ceremony is when the bride walks down the aisle. The music that plays during this moment creates an atmosphere of anticipation and excitement. It’s crucial to select the right song and determine how long it should be.
The average song is 3-4 minutes long. It’s a suitable length for most situations, including walking down the aisle. However, you need to consider some factors when choosing the song’s length. First, the length of the aisle and how far the bride will walk. The more extended the aisle, the longer the song should be. On average, the distance from the entrance to the altar is around 25-35 feet. It can take 20 seconds for a couple to prepare and get from the entrance to their seats or the dance floor. During this time, the music plays in the background, creating a romantic atmosphere.
Second, you need to consider how many bridesmaids and groomsmen are in the wedding party. As the number of attendants increases, the time it takes for them to walk down the aisle increases as well. On average, each attendant takes around 20-30 seconds to reach their spot. You can adjust the song’s length, depending on the number of attendants. As you increase the number of introductions, add on another song.
Third, you need to choose a song that matches the ceremony’s theme and tone. The song selection should represent the couple’s personality and values. You can choose from various wedding genres, such as classical, contemporary, religious, or traditional. The important thing is to choose a song that speaks to the couple’s heart and soul.
When it comes to selecting a song for the bride to walk down the aisle, you need to consider the length of the aisle, the number of attendants, and the ceremony’s theme and tone. The average song is 3 minutes long, but you can adjust it depending on your situation. It’s a crucial moment during the ceremony, and choosing the right song can make it more memorable and romantic.
