đ” 1980s Country Wedding Songs
Top 80s Country Wedding Songs: Timeless Classics for Every Moment of Your Special Day
The 1980s were a decade of transformation for country music, blending classic honky-tonk sounds with pop-infused melodies and romantic ballads. For couples planning a wedding, 1980s country songs offer a perfect mix of heartfelt slow dances, joyful party anthems, and timeless tunes that tell the stories of love, family, and unforgettable moments.
Whether you're envisioning a romantic first dance or a lively reception filled with upbeat melodies, these 1980s country wedding songs will add an ideal touch of nostalgia and emotion to your celebration. From Garth Brooks' sentimental "If Tomorrow Never Comes" to the celebratory "9 to 5" by Dolly Parton, thereâs something for every couple's unique style.
Table of Contents
Slow dance songs
Background songs
Party songs
Spotify Playlist - 38 songs!
One condition to this list. Every song must have been released in the 1980s. Nothing from the 1970s and 1990s!
Check out the previously published 1980s R&B, 1980s Rock, and 1980s New Wave.
1980s Country Wedding Songs
Slow Dance Songs
Could I Have This Dance - Anne Murray
1980 - A popular first dance song from the era. The song was originally recorded for the 1980 film Urban Cowboy starring John Travolta and Debra Winger. Anne Murray won the Grammy for Best Female Country Vocal Performance. It reached #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
Feels So Right - Alabama
1981 - The song hit #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and reached #28 on the Billboard Hot 100. âFeels So Rightâ has become a go-to wedding song for couples seeking a romantic, slow-dance moment.
Grandpa (Tell Me 'Bout the Good Ol' Days) - The Judds
1986 - The song is perfect for couples who love country music and have their grandpa attending the wedding. The song quickly became a #1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
I'll Still Be Loving You - Restless Heart
1987 - The song reached #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and charted on the Adult Contemporary and Billboard Hot 100 charts. Restless Heart was part of a wave of country bands in the â80s that brought a polished, pop-infused sound to the genre - an early version of what some would later call âNew Countryâ.
If Tomorrow Never Comes - Garth Brooks
1989 - The song is about the love of a father for his daughter but reminds us all to tell loved ones how you feel while they are still alive. âIf Tomorrow Never Comesâ became Garth Brooksâ first #1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
Lady - Kenny Rogers
1980 - âLadyâ was written entirely by Lionel Richie, and it marked his first big hit as a solo songwriter outside of the Commodores. It hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, Adult Contemporary, and Country charts.
Love in the First Degree - Alabama
1981 - The song became Alabamaâs fifth straight #1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and made it to #15 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Stand by Me - Mickey Gilley
1980 - Gilley's "Stand by Me" was featured in the 1980 film Urban Cowboy. It reached #22 on the Billboard Hot 100 and #1 on the Country charts. "Stand by Me" was originally written in 1961 by Ben E. King.
The Chair - George Strait
1985 - This song is one of Strait's most iconic tracks because of its clever lyrics and smooth delivery. It topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The chair in the song isn't just a piece of furniture but a metaphor for the conversation and connection between the two people.
Through the Years - Kenny Rogers
1981 - A perfect song for the wedding anniversary dance. The song is a heartfelt reflection on enduring love, telling the story of a couple who has weathered the ups and downs of life together. It peaked at #5 on the Country charts.
When You Say Nothing at All - Keith Whitley
1988 - The lyrics describe how love can be communicated even without words, with nonverbal gestures like a touch or a look carrying more meaning than anything said aloud. It hit #1 on the Country chart. It was re-released in 1995 by Alison Krauss.
You and I - Eddie Rabbitt and Crystal Gayle
1982 - "You and I" reached #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and #7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. A song about a couple's enduring love and commitment, despite the challenges they've faced.
Background Songs
All Roads Lead to You - Steve Wariner
1981 - âAll Roads Lead to Youâ was Steve Warinerâs first-ever #1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. While not well known today, it could take guests back to Warinerâs beginning and a hidden gem. The track touches on themes of nostalgia, family values, and a yearning for a simpler, more honest time.
Elvira - The Oak Ridge Boys
1981 - âElviraâ became a #1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart and was also a crossover hit, reaching the top 5 on the pop charts. It features one of the most recognizable bass vocals in country music.
Forever and Ever, Amen - Randy Travis
1987 - The song reached #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. It was a Grammy Award winner for Best Country Song. The track is an anthem for couples, symbolizing lifelong commitment and devotion.
I Love a Rainy Night - Eddie Rabbitt
1980 - The song hit #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs and also #1 on the Billboard Hot 100. The songâs catchy and memorable lyrics reflect his love of rain and the peaceful, cozy feeling that a rainy night can bring - a great sing-along song.
Islands in the Stream - Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton
1983 - The song was written by Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb of the Bee Gees! It hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, Country, and Adult Contemporary charts. The chorus was reimagined in the 1998 hip-hop hit âGhetto Superstarâ by Pras, MĂœa, and Ol' Dirty Bastard.
Mama He's Crazy - The Judds
1984 - âMama Heâs Crazyâ became The Juddsâ very first #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart - and it was only their second single ever! The lyrics tell a story of falling head over heels in love and telling Mom all about it.
Meet Me in Montana - Marie Osmond, Dan Seals
1985 - This romantic duet shot to #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, giving both artists their first #1 country hit. The song taps into the idealized, wide-open romance associated with the state symbolizing peace, freedom, and a longing to reconnect in a simpler place.
One in a Million - Johnny Lee
1980 - âOne in a Millionâ became Johnny Lee's second #1 hit on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart (âLookinâ For Loveâ was the first). The songâs lyrics celebrate finding a love thatâs rare and special like being one in a million.
Slow Hand - Conway Twitty
1982 - The song reached #1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. Its blend of romantic lyrics, smooth delivery, and sultry vibe made it a standout for weddings. It was first recorded and released by The Ponter Sisters in 1981.
Smoky Mountain Rain - Ronnie Milsap
1980 - A great upbeat sing-along song for cocktail hours. The song hit number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and #24 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Theme from The Dukes of Hazzard (Good Ol' Boys) - Waylon Jennings
1980 - Jennings, a prominent figure in the "Outlaw Country" movement, brought his signature style to the theme song, blending country and rock elements. It hit #1 on the Billboard Country chart and #21 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Timber, I'm Falling in Love - Patty Loveless
1989 - A number-one country hit. The upbeat, catchy tune pairs perfectly with the playful lyrics, which describe the sudden and uncontrollable nature of love made for weddings!
Party Songs
(Warning! Below is special music inspiration for paid members only.)