There’s a special kind of bond between a girl and her father, and dozens of popular songs that honor this strong connection. Whether you’re looking for that perfect song for a father-daughter dance, a meaningful Father’s Day tribute, or a special gift for a birthday, keep reading.
In this ultimate list of heartfelt and sentimental father-daughter songs from every genre, you’re sure to find just the right lyrics to celebrate your relationship with Dad.
What Father-Daughter Dance Song is Not Sappy?
Whether it’s for a wedding or for Father’s Day, the reality is that the typical father and daughter song often has a reputation for being overly sentimental. However, there are options that avoid this sappy feeling
- “Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder is a popular choice that celebrates the joy of parenthood without being too emotional
- “My Girl” by The Temptations is a classic option that is upbeat and fun
- “Daughters” by John Mayer is a heartfelt but not sappy choice that focuses on a father’s love and support for his daughter.
As you can see, there are plenty of father daughter songs that aren’t overly sugary, so consider these. We’ll give you even more options in this post for heartwarming songs that won’t necessarily make you cringe.
But what if you could write and perform your own song for Dad? Sign up for singing lessons, and you might be able to do just that. Check out the benefits of singing lessons by watching the video below and get yourself signed up today:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kC7nlP4FXWE
Who Picks the Song for the Father-Daughter Dance at a Wedding?
Typically, the bride chooses the song for the father-daughter dance at a wedding. The reasoning behind this is that the bride often has a closer relationship with her father, and therefore, knows what kind of music he likes. Besides, the bride also wants to make sure this moment is as special as possible for her father.
However, sometimes, fathers want to be involved in the song selection process as well. After all, this dance is just as meaningful to them as it is to their daughters. If the father has a particular song in mind, he can always suggest it to the bride, and together, they can come to a decision.
In some cases, the wedding DJ or band may also have suggestions for father-daughter dance songs. This is especially true if the bride and father are having a difficult time coming up with the right song. DJs and bands have experience providing music for weddings and can offer a range of suitable options for the father-daughter dance.
It’s important to keep in mind that the father-daughter dance doesn’t have to be a traditional slow dance. For instance, the bride and her father can opt for an upbeat song and showcase some fun dance moves. Ultimately, it’s up to the bride and her father to decide what kind of dance and mood they want to set for this special moment.
What Are Some Ways That You Can Celebrate Your Dad With Music?
Playing a heartfelt song for Dad is always a meaningful way to tell him how much he means to you, but you may want to set the stage and wait for the right moment to do so. A good opportunity to play a song that means a lot to you and reminds you of your Dad, maybe when you are having a special moment with him alone or during a holiday or as a gift during a celebration for him.
Don’t be surprised if he gets emotional when he hears the song’s message because he too has a special bond with you and most definitely feels the same way about you as his daughter.
Now let’s take a look at some good fathers and daughters songs that you can play for him.
Best Father-Daughter Songs From Every Genre
Looking for a general list of the best father-daughter songs? Here are my top 13 favorite father daughter dance songs to celebrate the special bond you have with your dad.
Don’t worry, I’ll give you even more options for father daughter wedding songs to choose from later on!
1. “My Little Girl” by Tim McGraw – Country
“You’re beautiful baby, from the outside in
Chase your dreams but always know
The road that will lead you home again”
This heartwarming song, written from a father’s perspective, is a tear-jerker right from the beginning. It’s an excellent choice for a dance, sweet 16, graduation, or any coming-of-age celebration.
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2. “Daddy’s Little Girl” by Michael Bublé – Classic
“You’re the end of the rainbow, my pot o’ gold, you’re Daddy’s Little Girl to have and hold
A precious gem is what you are, you’re mommy’s bright and shining star
You’re the spirit of Christmas, my star on the tree, you’re the Easter bunny to mommy and me
You’re sugar, you’re spice, you’re everything nice, and you’re Daddy’s Little Girl”
Michael Bublé really shows off his crooner side in this sweet melody about all the wonderful things that a man’s daughter means to him. This song makes a great daddy and daughter song and would be a great addition to a wedding or birthday party playlist.
3. “Your Joy” by Chrisette Michele – Neo Soul
“No one loves me just like you do
No one knows me just like you do
No one can compare to the way my eyes fit in yours”
This is one of those soulful songs for dad from daughter, perfect for a girl or young woman to sing to her father. Not too comfortable with your singing voice? Write the lyrics in a greeting card to add an extra nice touch.
4. “Butterfly Kisses” by Bob Carlisle – Christian/Gospel
“Oh, with all that I’ve done wrong, I must have done something right
To deserve a hug every morning, and butterfly kisses at night”
This beautiful tune, written from a father’s perspective, shares special moments throughout different stages of his daughter’s life. This is a song for daughter that could be a nice option for a wedding, or simply when you want to remind your father that you’ll always be his little girl!
5. “Daughters” by John Mayer – Acoustic Rock
“Fathers, be good to your daughters
Daughters will love like you do
Girls become lovers who turn into mothers
So mothers, be good to your daughters too”
This acoustic tune from John Mayer shares about the loving bond that exists between family members. It’s meaningful but also light-hearted, and would be a fitting addition to any family gathering.
6. “Father and Daughter” by Paul Simon – Pop
“So you’ll always know, as long as one and one is two
There could never be a father who loved his daughter more than I love you”
Slightly more upbeat but just as sentimental as the rest, this catchy tune goes with any father daughter occasion. The father and daughters lyrics represent a sweet declaration of love from a father to his daughter.
7. “I’ll Always Be Your Baby” by Natalie Grant – Contemporary Christian
“You are my hero and that will never change
You still can dry my tears with just a smile”
This Natalie Grant song is a heartwarming tribute from a daughter’s perspective. The lyrics mention walking down the aisle, so this would be a great song for a wedding reception or engagement party.
8. “Daddy” by Beyonce – Contemporary R&B
“Because you loved me I overcome, yeah
And I’m so proud of what you’ve become, yeah
You’ve given me such security
No matter what mistakes I make you’re there for me”
In this R&B number, Beyonce reminisces about all the ways her father has been there for her over the years. If you truly admire your father, this is one of the songs for dad as a token of gratitude to him.
9. “Zoe Jane” by Staind – Alternative Metal
“I wanna hold you, protect you from all of the things I’ve already endured
And I wanna show you, show you all the things that this life has in store for you
And I’ll always love you, the way that a father should love his daughter”
This beautiful song has a very powerful chorus that emphasizes just how much a father desires to protect his daughter. It’s a wonderful song for the dad who loves rock music and soulful lyrics.
10. “Dance with my Daughter” by Jason Blaine – Country
“Gonna dance with my daughter
Spin her around under the lights
‘Cause I’m just a father making the most of this moment in time”
This sentimental, country tune emphasizes the importance of enjoying every moment while your daughter is growing up. Since it’s written from a father to his daughter, it would be best for a wedding or father daughter dance.
11. “Fathers and Daughters” by Michael Bolton – Pop/Rock Ballad
“When times are hard I know you’ll be strong
I’ll be there in your heart when you’ll carry on
Like moonlight on the water, and sunlight in the sky
Fathers and daughters never say goodbye”
This emotional ballad is an appropriate choice for any milestone event, such as a graduation. It would be a guaranteed tear-jerker if sung as a duet, since it commemorates the eternal bond between a father and daughter.
12. “Cecilia and The Satellite” by Andrew McMahon – Alternative/Indie
“If I could fly, then I would know
What life looks like from up above and down below
I’d keep you safe, I’d keep you dry
Don’t be afraid, Cecilia, I’m the satellite
And you’re the sky”
This uplifting and modern tune is a poetic promise from a father to his daughter. It’s a delightful alternative song just right for a father daughter dance or is also one of the best songs for daughters birthday.
13. “I Loved Her First” by Heartland – Country
“From the first breath she breathed, when she first smiled at me
I knew the love of a father runs deep, and I prayed that she’d find you someday
But it’s still hard to give her away, I loved her first”
The fathers and daughters lyrics are truly heartwarming. This song is a testament to the pride and protectiveness a father feels toward his daughter. It’s a sincere and moving choice for a father daughter dance at a wedding.
Pop Father Daughter Dance Songs
Do you and Dad love pop music? Here are 20 songs to consider.
1. Butterfly Kisses by Bob Carlisle
This classic song is the perfect choice for a father-daughter dance. The lyrics speak to the special bond between a father and his daughter.
2. Sweet Child O’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses
This iconic rock ballad is a popular choice for father-daughter dances. It’s a bit edgy and unexpected, but still sentimental.
3. My Girl by The Temptations
This Motown classic is a feel-good tune perfect for dancing with your dad. Its upbeat melody and sweet lyrics make it a timeless choice.
4. Landslide by Fleetwood Mac
This emotional ballad is a heartfelt choice for father-daughter dances. The lyrics express the love and support a father has for his daughter.
5. Daughters by John Mayer
This modern pop song is a touching tribute to the special relationship between fathers and daughters. Its message of unconditional love is sure to make everyone tear up.
6. You Are My Sunshine by Johnny Cash
This beloved children’s song takes on a new meaning when sung by Johnny Cash. It’s a sweet and simple choice for a father-daughter dance.
7. You’ve Got a Friend in Me by Randy Newman
This popular Toy Story song is a fun and lighthearted choice for a father-daughter dance. Its playful lyrics and upbeat melody will have everyone smiling.
8. The Way You Look Tonight by Frank Sinatra
This classic love song is a romantic choice for father-daughter dances. Its timeless lyrics and melody make it a favorite for couples of all ages.
9. Isn’t She Lovely by Stevie Wonder
This funky R&B tune is a great choice for a father-daughter dance. Its upbeat tempo and sweet lyrics are perfect for celebrating the joys of parenthood.
10. My Wish by Rascal Flatts
This country ballad is a touching tribute to the dreams a father has for his daughter. Its inspiring lyrics and heartfelt message make it a popular choice.
11. Papa Don’t Preach by Madonna
This 80s pop hit is a fun and unexpected choice for a father-daughter dance. Its upbeat tempo and rebellious lyrics will have everyone tapping their toes.
12. I Loved Her First by Heartland
This country song is a tear-jerking tribute to the special bond between fathers and daughters. Its sweet lyrics and gentle melody make it a popular choice for weddings.
13. God Only Knows by The Beach Boys
This iconic tune is a perfect choice for a father-daughter dance. Its sweet melody and heartfelt lyrics are sure to strike a chord with everyone.
14. Unforgettable by Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole
This timeless duet is a romantic choice for a father-daughter dance. Its beautiful lyrics and melody are sure to create a memorable moment.
15. Stand By Me by Ben E. King
This classic song is a perfect choice for a father-daughter dance. Its powerful lyrics and memorable melody are sure to move everyone in the room.
16. Wildflowers by Tom Petty
This folk-rock hit is a heartfelt tribute to the beauty of fatherhood. Its sweet melody and poetic lyrics make it a popular choice for weddings.
17. Forever Young by Rod Stewart
This classic song is a great choice for a father-daughter dance. Its uplifting message and positive lyrics are sure to inspire everyone in the room.
18. You’ll Be in My Heart by Phil Collins
This Disney hit is a touching tribute to the love between a father and his daughter. Its sweet lyrics and gentle melody make it a popular choice for weddings.
19. My Darling by Wilco
This alternative rock song is a unique choice for a father-daughter dance. Its poetic lyrics and haunting melody are sure to create a memorable moment.
20. Father and Daughter by Paul Simon
This sentimental ballad is a beautiful tribute to the special bond between fathers and daughters. Its tender lyrics and gentle melody make it a perfect choice for a dance.
Father Daughter Dance Songs Country
Here are some country father daughter songs to consider.
1. Stealing Cinderella – Chuck Wicks
The lyrics of Stealing Cinderella will make every father feel like their daughter is still the little girl they used to hold in their arms and twirl around.
2. Daddy Dance With Me – Krystal Keith
This song by Krystal Keith is the perfect pick for a traditional father-daughter dance. It’s about a daughter asking her father for one last dance before she starts a new chapter in her life. Get ready to shed a few tears.
3. My Wish – Rascal Flatts
This country hit by Rascal Flatts is a touching song about a father wishing all the best in life for their daughter. Its lyrics will make it an unforgettable moment at your wedding.
4. In My Daughter’s Eyes – Martina McBride
In My Daughter’s Eyes by Martina McBride talks about how a daughter sees her father as her hero and role model. It’s a heart-warming song that will leave everyone feeling emotional.
5. Dance With My Daughter – Jason Blaine
Dance With My Daughter by Jason Blaine is a touching song that talks about how a father is always there for his daughter and will dance with her through life’s ups and downs.
6. Cinderella – Steven Curtis Chapman
This beautiful ballad tells the story of a father watching his daughter grow up and find love. It’s a classic father-daughter dance song that will leave everyone in tears.
7. Humble and Kind – Tim McGraw
Humble and Kind by Tim McGraw is a song that talks about all the important life lessons a father wants to teach his daughter. Its lyrics will make every father feel proud and blessed.
8. Daddy – Abby Anderson
This song by Abby Anderson will tug at your heartstrings. It’s about a daughter thanking her father for everything he’s done for her and telling him how much she loves him.
9. Father and Daughter – Paul Simon
Father and Daughter by Paul Simon is a beautiful song that talks about a father’s joy in watching his daughter grow up and become a woman.
10. Through the Eyes of My Father – Brianna Haynes
This is a song about seeing the world through the eyes of a father and how he helps and guides his daughter as she grows up and takes on the world.
11. The Best Day – Taylor Swift
The Best Day by Taylor Swift is a song about a father-daughter relationship and how the smallest things like riding in the car can become some of the best memories.
12. When You Say Nothing at All – Alison Krauss
This song by Alison Krauss is about the bond between a father and daughter and how sometimes the greatest moments are spent in silence.
Songs for a Father and Daughter – Top Rock Picks
From classic favorites to modern ballads, we’ve got you covered with these rock songs for a father and daughter.
1. “Sweet Child O’ Mine” – Guns N’ Roses
Kicking off our list is one of the most iconic rock songs of all time. Chances are, if your dad was a fan of ’80s metal, this tune is already on the playlist.
But even if you’re not a huge fan of the era, there’s something about the soaring guitar riffs and emotional lyrics that make this song a natural fit for a special Father’s Day duet. Plus, it’s just plain fun to rock out to.
2. “Dream On” – Aerosmith
Aerosmith is one of those bands that have stood the test of time, thanks in part to the raw and soulful voice of lead singer Steven Tyler. “Dream On” is a quintessential ballad that speaks to the struggles and triumphs of chasing your dreams.
For a father and daughter, it can be a poignant reminder of the sacrifices and support that come with that journey. Plus, Tyler’s signature high notes are the perfect opportunity for a little friendly competition on who can hit those high notes.
3. “Daughter” – Pearl Jam
This entry on our list is a more modern tune from the ’90s alt-rock band Pearl Jam. “Daughter” is a powerful anthem about the journey of growing up and finding one’s place in the world. If you and your dad are fans of grunge rock, this song is a no-brainer.
But even if not, the catchy chorus and driving beat make it an easy and enjoyable song for a duet.
4. “Forever Young” – Bob Dylan
Finally, we come to a classic tune from one of the most legendary singer-songwriters of all time. Bob Dylan’s “Forever Young” is a timeless ode to the unbreakable bond of family. It’s a beautiful way to remind your dad just how much he means to you and how you hope to carry his wisdom and love with you throughout your life.
Plus, the song’s simple chords and melody make it easy for even beginners to play together.
Sentimental Father Daughter Songs
Want to make Dad cry – in a good way, of course? Here are some sentimental father daughter songs.
1. “My Girl” by The Temptations
A classic ’60s hit, this song’s upbeat rhythm and sweet lyrics is sure to bring a smile to any father’s face.
2. “Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion
An iconic love ballad dedicated to fathers, this melody is a timeless expression of gratitude for a dad’s unwavering love and support.
3. “My Wish” by Rascal Flatts
A heartfelt country song that speaks of a father’s hopes and dreams for his daughter’s future. It’s a perfect tribute to the special bond between a devoted dad and his little girl.
4. “Daddy’s Little Girl” by Michael Bolton
A poignant ballad that brings out the emotions of a father watching his daughter grow up and leaving the nest. The song is a testament to the beautiful memories they’ve shared and the love that will always be there.
5. “Daughters” by John Mayer
A folk-pop song that discusses the importance of a father’s role in his daughter’s life. The song encourages fathers to support and empower their daughters, demonstrating the love that is unique between them.
6. “Father and Daughter” by Paul Simon
A great song with poetic verses that capture the love and respect shared between a father and his daughter. The song celebrates the bond between them and the happiness they have brought to each other’s lives.
7. “Daddy Lessons” by Beyoncé
A country-pop song that makes for a great bonding moment between a father and his daughter. The song is a unique tribute to the bond between a father and daughter from the perspective of a woman who found strength through her dad’s teachings.
8. “Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole and Natalie Cole
A timeless classic, this song captures the deep, precious memories shared between a father and daughter. It invokes feelings of nostalgia and a longing for the memories to last forever.
How to Choose Unique Father Daughter Dance Songs to Celebrate Your Bond
The father-daughter dance is a quintessential moment in any wedding reception. It’s an emotional moment that celebrates the bond between a father and daughter. However, choosing the right song can be tricky.
You want to choose something unique, meaningful and relevant to your relationship.
So, how do you choose the perfect song for your father daughter dance? Here’s a quick guide.
1. Consider the Lyrics
Lyrics play an essential role in making a song meaningful and relevant. When choosing a song, listen to the lyrics and ensure they resonate with the relationship between you and your father. You want to choose a song that expresses your bond, love and the journey you have shared.
2. Be Unique
There is nothing wrong with sticking to traditional father daughter dance songs, but choosing something unique will make your moment more special. You can surprise your guests by choosing a song that is out of the box but still significant to your relationship with your father.
Some examples of unique songs for father daughter dance include “The Best Day” by Taylor Swift, “Father and Daughter” by Paul Simon and “Sweet Pea” by Amos Lee.
3. Consider Tempo and Dance Style
When choosing a song, consider the dance style and tempo that would work for you and your father.
For example, if you and your dad are more comfortable with a slow dance, choose a song with a slow tempo, and if you are comfortable dancing to an upbeat song, go for it. Some great dance styles for father daughter dances include the waltz, slow dance, and swing.
4. Reflect On Special Memories
You and your father share many special moments that will make choosing a song feel overwhelming.
One way of making the process easier is to reflect on your most memorable moments together. These could be moments from your childhood, your relationship during your teenage years or even in adulthood. They could be moments of shared joys or moments in which your father was there to support you. Use these memories as inspiration for selecting a song that speaks to your father-daughter bond.
5. Think Outside the Box
If you and your dad have a unique bond, you can think outside the box and choose a song that reflects that bond.
For example, if your dad is a musician, you can choose a song he composed or arranged. If you and your father share a love for a particular genre of music, you can choose a song from that genre that speaks to your bond.
Songs for a Father and Daughter: The Options are Endless
Each of these father daughter songs has its own unique way of honoring the love between a daddy and his little girl. Choose one of them for your special event, or combine all of them into one CD to give as a special gift to your father!
Are you musically talented? You can also consider learning to sing or play one of these beautiful songs to guarantee a memory that will last him a lifetime!
Post Author: Jasmine T.Jasmine T. teaches piano, academics, yoga, and more in San Diego, CA. She has her Power Yoga Level 1 200-Hour Certification, as well as a Certificate of Merit for Piano and Theory from the Music Teachers’ Association of California. Learn more about Jasmine here!
Jessica Dais