A saxophone player at your wedding can transform your day from average to out-of-this-world. They are becoming more popular each year, but don’t take our word for it. “Saxophone Wedding” has been growing in searches on Google and has seen an increase of 69% over the past 5 years. In fact, in the last year alone, it increased by 2%!
When should a saxophonist play at a wedding?
A saxophonist is ideal for the ceremony, cocktail hour, or reception at a wedding, depending on your preferences and event schedule. As sax players can play a wide range of genres, there isn’t a moment they can’t liven up. J Jazz, pop, hip-hop, or even Ibiza classics. Nothing is off the menu for our saxophone players.
You know the common choices such as Ed Sheeran or Whitney Houston. But what songs should your saxophonist play? With over 20 years in the music industry and providing saxophone players to hundreds of newlywed couples, we've seen it all.
In this article, we will guide you through the best 25 saxophone wedding songs for every stage of the day, ensuring that your wedding is filled with beautiful tones and unforgettable memories.
The Best Saxophone Songs to Play When Wedding Guests Are Arriving
As your guests enter the wedding venue and make their way to their seats, it's essential to set the right mood. A saxophonist provides a soothing and welcoming atmosphere with their enchanting melodies. Here are some saxophone songs that work perfectly for this moment:
"Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis Presley
Lyric: "Take my hand, take my whole life too, for I can't help falling in love with you."
Why it's perfect: A timeless classic with lyrics that set a romantic and welcoming tone as guests arrive. It's a favourite at weddings for good reason!
"Somewhere Over the Rainbow" by Israel Kamakawiwo'ole
Lyric: "Somewhere over the rainbow, skies are blue, and the dreams that you dare to dream really do come true."
Why it's perfect: This song's dreamy and hopeful tone is ideal for the anticipation of the ceremony.
"Here Comes the Sun" by The Beatles
Lyric: "Here comes the sun, and I say it's all right."
Why it's perfect: Written by George Harrison, this Beatles song is a beloved track worldwide, often associated with optimism and new beginnings.
"What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong
Lyric: "I see friends shaking hands, saying, 'How do you do?' They're really saying, 'I love you.'"
Why it's perfect: This song has become an iconic tune, often played to evoke feelings of nostalgia and a deep appreciation for the beauty of life (and love).
"Love Me Tender" by Elvis Presley
Lyric: "Love me tender, love me true, all my dreams fulfilled."
Why it's perfect: Originally featured in the film of the same name, "Love Me Tender" showcases Elvis's "tender" side and has become a staple at weddings across the UK.
The Best Wedding Ceremony Songs for Saxophone.
Your wedding ceremony is the most intimate, heartfelt and memorable part of your special day. Including the saxophone during this moment can bring tears to your guests' eyes and create an emotional connection. I'm not crying... you are:
"A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri
Lyric: "I have died every day waiting for you, darling, don't be afraid, I have loved you for a thousand years."
Why it's perfect: This song captures the depth of love and waiting, ideal for the start of a lifelong commitment. "A Thousand Years" gained immense popularity after being featured in the "Twilight" movie series and is an anthem for long-lasting love.
"Love On Top" by Beyoncé
Lyric: "Baby, you're the one that I love. Baby, you're all I need. You're the only one I see."
Why it's perfect: Beyoncé's powerful and affectionate lyrics echo the feelings of love and commitment. Blend in some soulful sax, and you've got the perfect wedding song if you want a high-tempo wedding ceremony.
"Make You Feel My Love" by Adele
Lyric: "I could hold you for a million years to make you feel my love."
Why it's perfect: Although originally written and performed by Bob Dylan, Adele's rendition brought a new level of emotional depth to the song. This lyric speaks to the depth and commitment of true love.
"All of Me" by John Legend
Lyric: "Give your all to me, I'll give my all to you."
Why it's perfect: It reflects mutual commitment and love, ideal for the exchange of vows. This song was a huge commercial success, becoming one of John Legend's signature songs and a wedding playlist favourite.
"Only Time" by Enya
Lyric: "Who can say where the road goes, where the day flows? Only time."
Why it's perfect: Enya's ethereal tones and harmony bring a sense of peace and timelessness, ideal for the reflective moments of a wedding ceremony.
The Best Songs for Saxophone during the Drinks Reception
It's official. You're married. It's time to celebrate! These songs will uplift the mood during your drinks reception, building up the atmosphere in anticipation of the big party!
"L-O-V-E" by Nat King Cole
Lyric: "L is for the way you look at me."
Why it's perfect: This classic song, with its charming and romantic lyrics, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for the drinks reception, perfect for mingling and celebrating love.
"Fly Me to the Moon" by Frank Sinatra
Lyric: "Fly me to the moon, let me play among the stars."
Why it's perfect: Sinatra's smooth voice and the song's dreamy lyrics set a sophisticated and uplifting mood.
"Better Together" by Jack Johnson
Lyric: "It's always better when we're together."
Why it's perfect: This song's relaxed and joyful vibe is perfect for a drinks reception, reflecting the happiness and togetherness of the wedding celebration.
"Everything" by Michael Bublé
Lyric: "You're every line, you're every word, you're everything."
Why it's perfect: One of Bublé's biggest hits, with its heartfelt lyrics, adds a touch of romance whilst sipping on your fizz.
"Moondance" by Van Morrison
Lyric: "Can I just have one more Moondance with you, my love?"
Why it's perfect: With its upbeat and catchy rhythm, this song brings a lively and joyful energy to the drinks reception, perfect for setting the tone for the rest of the evening.
Best Wedding Saxophone Songs for Evening Guests Arriving
As the evening rolls in and a new wave of guests arrives, the music can shift to welcome them to the party and bring new energy to the day.
"Feels" by Calvin Harris ft. Pharrell Williams, Katy Perry, Big Sean
Lyric: "Do you feel the same as well? It's like we're standing hand in hand with all our fears up on the table."
Why it's perfect: This song’s groovy beat and playful lyrics about the excitement of love fill the room with anticipation for the big party. It also reminds single guests not to be afraid of "catching feels" and to embrace taking a leap with that someone special.
"Sugar" by Maroon 5
Lyric: "I need your loving, loving I need it now."
Why it's perfect: The music video for "Sugar," featuring the band crashing real-life weddings, went viral and added to the song's popularity. With its pop energy and lyrics about the sweetness of love, this song is guaranteed to get feet tapping and conversation flowing.
"Barbie Girl" by Aqua
Lyric: "You can brush my hair, undress me everywhere. Imagination, life is your creation."
Why it's perfect: While not a traditional love song, the 1997 "Barbie Girl" is a fun, upbeat, and quirky choice that can bring a sense of playfulness and nostalgia into the evening.
"Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson
Lyric: "But the kid is not my son."
Why it's perfect: A classic that energises any event! Obviously, the lyrics themselves aren’t directly related to love or weddings, but the song's unforgettable groove adds excitement and a nostalgic feel as guests arrive.
"This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)" by Natalie Cole
Lyric: "This will be, an everlasting love, this will be, the one I've waited for."
Why it's perfect: The contagious energy and blatant declaration of love in this song warms up evening guests nicely!
Best Songs for the DJ and Sax Evening Party
You know what time it is. Let's get the party started!
"Pasilda" by Afro Medusa
Lyric: The song is primarily instrumental with energetic vocal chants. So just dance!
Why it's perfect: This Ibizia classic is vibrant, dance-inducing and fantastic for a high-energy party atmosphere. This is a hit no matter what themed wedding you have.
Cat On Sax
"Levels" by Avicii
Lyric: "Oh, sometimes I get a good feeling, yeah."
Why it's perfect: This is a classic crowd-pleaser with a feel-good vibe that's perfect for filling your wedding dance floor. "Levels" reached No. 1 on the UK Dance charts and was a top ten hit in more than 15 countries, making it one of Avicii's most internationally successful tracks.
Dom Z
"Intoxicated" by Martin Solveig & GTA
Lyric: "Let's dance, no time for romance."
Why it's perfect: The song has a catchy melody and fun lyrics that make it perfect for keeping the party mood upbeat and energetic.
Emma Sax
"Changes" by Faul & Wad Ad vs. Pnau
Lyric: "Baby, I don't know, just why I love you so."
Why it's perfect: It's smooth yet upbeat, making it ideal for a moment when the DJ wants to mix things up while keeping everyone on the dance floor. This song became particularly famous for its saxophone riff and was widely used in advertisements and TV shows, so it always goes down a treat!
Lizzie Sax
"Head & Heart" by Joel Corry x MNEK
Lyric: "Oh my god, oh my god, this feeling's just begun."
Why it's perfect: This hit spent 6 weeks at number one for good reason. Its infectious chorus usually brings the dance floor together and picks up any stragglers. A DJ and saxophone banger!
Lucy Sax
How Much Do Saxophonists Cost?
On average, the cost of hiring a saxophonist for a wedding in the UK can range from £200 to £1000. However, keep in mind that these prices are estimates, and it's best to enquire to get an accurate quote based on your unique wedding requirements.
The cost varies because of several factors, including the level of experience, the duration of the performance, and the location of your wedding.
If you would like a quote for an incredible saxophone player for your wedding day, get in contact with us here.
Cheltenham DJs is an experienced entertainment company that provides the finest local musical talent for special events across Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds. They offer everything from DJs, sax players, percussionists, live bands, vocalists, and all the equipment needed for an incredible party!
About the author - DJ Luke
DJ Luke is the founder of Cheltenham DJs. and is a renowned professional DJ with two decades of experience. Luke is highly sought after and has performed at elite events globally. His illustrious career includes regular appearances at The Ministry of Sound, The Wimbledon Tennis Tournament, and The Emirates Stadium. His notable corporate clientele encompasses leading brands such as VW, Westons Cider, H&M, and New Look Men.