Must-Play Country Wedding Songs for 2025: Timeless and New Hits

Reading Time: 4 min 20 sec

Country music runs deep in Winston-Salem, and as Greg McLeese, a Winston-Salem DJ with decades of experience, I’ve seen it light up wedding dance floors like nothing else. Its heartfelt lyrics and twangy charm capture love’s highs and lows, making it a go-to for couples tying the knot. For 2025, I’ve curated a list of 10 country wedding songs—blending classics that never fade with fresh tracks gaining traction. Whether planning a first dance or a full-on hoedown, these picks, drawn from my time spinning for DJs in Winston-Salem, will keep your guests swaying and stomping.

Key Takeaways

• Mix Old and New: Classics like “Amazed” pair well with 2025 hits like “Sweetheart.”
• Match the Moment: Use slow songs for first dances and upbeat ones for party starters.
• Know Your Crowd: Country is huge in Winston-Salem, so lean into local favorites.
• Trust Your DJ: A pro can time and blend these songs for maximum impact.

Why Country Rules Weddings

In my market, country isn’t just music—it’s a lifestyle. From barn venues to downtown ballrooms, couples lean into its storytelling to make their day feel personal. The right song can set the tone for a romantic first dance, spark a group sing-along, or get boots tapping. My list mixes timeless favorites with 2025’s rising stars based on what’s resonating locally and what I’ve seen move crowds.

Top 10 Country Wedding Songs for 2025

“Amazed” by Lone Star (1999)

• Why It Works: This classic ballad remains a first-dance staple with its soaring declaration of love. Its simplicity lets couples shine.
• Vibe: Romantic, slow, perfect for gazing into each other’s eyes.
• My Take: I’ve played this at countless Winston-Salem weddings—it never fails to bring tears and cheers.

“I Don’t Dance” by Lee Brice (2014)

• Why It Works: A modern classic about stepping out of your comfort zone for love. It’s relatable and heartfelt.
• Vibe: Mid-tempo, great for a first dance or parent dance.
• My Take: Couples love its sincerity; I’ve seen shy grooms own it on the floor.

“Die a Happy Man” by Thomas Rhett (2015)

• Why It Works: Rhett’s ode to his wife is a soulful, modern pick for hopeless romantics.
• Vibe: Slow, intimate, ideal for a spotlight moment.
• My Take: This one’s a crowd-pleaser—I cue it when I want everyone swooning.

“Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton (2015)

• Why It Works: Its soulful, whiskey-smooth groove blends country with R&B, perfect for a sultry dance.
• Vibe: Slow, sexy, and versatile for first or last dances.
• My Take: Stapleton’s grit resonates here; I’ve seen it pack the floor at barn venues.

“Forever After All” by Luke Combs (2020)

• Why It Works: Combs’ raw, forever-love anthem feels like a vow set to music.
• Vibe: Mid-tempo, heartfelt, great for a first dance or montage.
• My Take: A vast, newer classic in Winston-Salem—fans go wild for Luke.

“Buy Dirt” by Jordan Davis ft. Luke Bryan (2021)

• Why It Works: This reflective tune about life’s priorities hits home for couples building a future.
• Vibe: Uplifting, mid-tempo, for a group dance or ceremony exit.
• My Take: I love dropping this for a feel-good moment; it’s climbing 2025 playlists.

“Heartless” by Morgan Wallen (2024)

• Why It Works: A fresh, emotional track from Wallen’s evolving catalog, blending heartbreak and hope.
• Vibe: Slow, cinematic, ideal for a dramatic first dance.
• My Take: Wallen’s hot right now—I’m already getting requests for this one.

“I Hope You’re Happy Now” by Carly Pearce & Lee Brice (2020)

• Why It Works: This bittersweet duet suits couples who’ve overcome challenges.
• Vibe: Mid-tempo, emotional, great for a story-driven dance.
• My Take: Pearce’s voice cuts through; I’ve seen it spark sing-alongs locally.

“Wildflowers and Wild Horses” by Lainey Wilson (2023)

My Spin On Country Weddings

Country music is the heartbeat of Winston-Salem weddings, and I’ve seen why firsthand. Songs like “Amazed” are timeless because they’re raw and honest—couples connect to that. Newer tracks like “Wildflowers and Wild Horses” or “Heartless” bring a modern edge, keeping things fresh for younger crowds. I blend these to match each couple’s story, whether they want a tearjerker or a barn burner. My job is to read the room and keep the energy flowing; the country’s perfect for that around here.

Making These Songs Shine

A great song needs an excellent delivery. Work with a Winston-Salem DJ who knows country, like me, to time these tracks right. Slow ones like “Tennessee Whiskey” work best for intimate moments; up-tempo picks like “Sweetheart” ignite the dance floor. Share your must-plays early, and let your DJ weave them into a set that flows. Lighting matters too—soft spots for ballads, vibrant hues for bangers. Your preferences matter; I’m here to make your vision a reality. Want these at your wedding? Let’s chat!

FAQs

Why is a country so popular for Winston-Salem weddings?

It’s the heart of our culture here—its stories resonate with local couples and venues.

How do I pick the right song for my first dance?

Choose one that feels personal, like “Die a Happy Man,” and test it with your Winston-Salem DJ.

Can I mix old and new country songs?

Absolutely! Pair “Amazed” with “Sweetheart” for a crowd-pleasing range.

How does a DJ make these songs hit harder?

Timing, transitions, and lighting—pros like Greg McLeese know how to elevate each track.

What if my guests aren’t all country fans?

A skilled DJ blends genres—country with pop or R&B—to keep everyone dancing.

Final Thoughts

Country music weaves love, grit, and joy into every note, making it the soul of Winston-Salem weddings. From Lone Star’s timeless “Amazed” to Lainey Wilson’s bold new “Wildflowers,” these 10 songs for 2025 will set your day apart. As a DJ, I’ve seen how the right track, played at the right time, turns a moment into a memory. Let’s make your wedding a country celebration that keeps the dance floor packed. Want these at your wedding? Let’s chat! Contact me today to discuss how we can make your wedding a country celebration to remember.