25 Brother-Sister Song Ideas for Your Wedding
Whether you've lost a parent or you're incredibly close with your brother or sister, dancing with your sibling at your wedding reception is an extraordinarily special moment that you'll cherish for years to come.
When it comes time to select a song, keep in mind that there are no wrong choices. However, consider choosing one that holds a personal connection or that you find especially meaningful. Perhaps you and your sibling have a favorite song from childhood or are both fans of the same band. It's a good idea to make sure that the lyrics reflect your relationship with your sibling and aren't romantic. Once you select your brother-sister wedding song, pass along your request to your wedding band or DJ so that everyone is on the same page.
Need some song inspiration? We've got you covered. Keep reading for a roundup of all of our favorite brother-sister wedding songs.
"Lean On Me," Bill Withers
Lyrics you'll love: "Lean on me/When you're not strong/And I'll be your friend/I'll help you carry on..."
Show your sibling how much they mean to you by dancing with them to Bill Withers' "Lean On Me" with them. Thanks to its heartfelt lyrics about loyalty and unwavering support, the fan-favorite track has truly withstood the test of time.
"I Hope You Dance," Lee Ann Womack
Lyrics you'll love: "I hope you never fear those mountains in the distance/Never settle for the path of least resistance/Livin' might mean takin' chances, but they're worth takin'"
This Lee Ann Womack track is truly timeless—and for good reason. Its uplifting, inspiring message about living life to the fullest has made it a popular song choice for wedding receptions.
"Count On Me," Bruno Mars
Lyrics you'll love: "You can count on me like one, two, three/I'll be there/And I know when I need it, I can count on you like four, three, two/And you'll be there"
This Bruno Mars song features a catchy chorus and an upbeat rhythm. All in all, the cheery tune is sure to put a smile on everyone's faces.
"You're My Best Friend," Queen
Lyrics you'll love: "Ooh, you make me live/Whenever this world is cruel to me/I got you to help me forgive"
Your sibling is your built-in best friend, which is why "You're My Best Friend" is the perfect song for your brother and sister song. The sweet lyrics and catchy melody will have all of your wedding guests singing and dancing along in their seats.
"He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother," The Hollies
Lyrics you'll love: "For I know/He would not encumber me/He ain't heavy, he's my brother"
"He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother" by The Hollies tells the story of a supportive, devoted "brother," which can be interpreted literally or figuratively, such as a friend. Ultimately, the slow, sentimental ballad is ideal for dancing with your sibling at your wedding reception.
"Don't Have to Change," John Legend
Lyrics you'll love: "I pray to God that we can remain the same/All I'm trying to say is our love don't have to change/No, it don't have to change"
In "Don't Have to Change," John Legend croons about his childhood memories and special family moments. Despite the changing times, Legend reminds his family—and his audience— that traditions don't have to change just because time has passed. All in all, the sweet messaging makes for a beautiful song.
"You've Got A Friend in Me," Randy Newman
Lyrics you'll love: "You got troubles, I've got 'em too/There isn't anything I wouldn't do for you/We stick together and see it through"
If you and your sibling grew up watching Toy Story together, then you'll love (and recognize!) Randy Newman's "You've Got A Friend In Me" in a heartbeat. The sweet song tells the tale of true friendship and unconditional support.
"I'll Be There For You," The Rembrandts
Lyrics you'll love: "I'll be there for you/When the rain starts to pour/I'll be there for you/Like I've been there before/I'll be there for you/'Cause you're there for me too"
Invite your sibling to hit the dance floor and jam out to "I'll Be There For You" by the Rembrandts. The jam—which you may recognize as the famous Friends theme song—talks about being there for someone through thick and thin.
"Stand By Me," Ben E. King
Lyrics you'll love: "When the night has come/And the land is dark/And the moon is the only light we'll see/No, I won't be afraid/Oh, I won't be afraid/Just as long as you stand, stand by me"
If your sibling is unquestionably loyal and devoted, select "Stand By Me" as your brother-sister dance song. Besides, nobody will have your back quite like your sibling does!
"My Wish," Rascal Flatts
Lyrics you'll love: "If it's cold outside, show the world the warmth of your smile/But more than anything, more than anything/My wish, for you, is that this life becomes all that you want it to/Your dreams stay big, your worries stay small"
Calling all country music fans: This one's for you. The Rascal Flatts' "My Wish" is an uplifting, heartwarming song, to say the least. It discusses all things true love, hopes, dreams and happiness.
"What A Wonderful World," Louis Armstrong
Lyrics you'll love: "I see trees of green/Red roses too/I see them bloom/For me and you"
Louis Armstrongs' "What A Wonderful World" is a beloved jazz classic. The stunning lyrics remind us to take a step back and admire the beauty that surrounds us in everyday life.
"There You'll Be," Faith Hill
Lyrics you'll love: "When I look back on these days/I look and see your face/You were right there for me"
"There You'll Be" shows off Faith Hill's powerful vocals while the meaningful lyrics about love and gratitude will tug at your heartstrings. The string instrumentals add an extra-special touch.
"Wind Beneath My Wings," Bette Midler
Lyrics you'll love: "Did you ever know that you're my hero/And everything I would like to be?"
Bette Midler's beloved rendition of "Wind Beneath My Wings" is emotional, to say the least. The sentimental ballad is perfect for your brother-sister dance with themes of inspiration and admiration.
"I Learned From You," Miley Cyrus (ft. Billy Ray Cyrus)
Lyrics you'll love: "Did you ever know that you're my hero/And everything I would like to be?"
"I Learned From You" is a pop ballad performed by Miley Cyrus and her father, Billy Ray Cyrus. The two sing about the lessons they've learned over the years while also expressing their appreciation. The stunning harmonizing is an added bonus.
"You've Got a Friend," James Taylor
Lyrics you'll love: "When you're down and troubled/And you need some lovin' care/And nothin', nothin' is goin' right/Close your eyes and think of me/And soon I will be there"
Your sibling is your first friend, which is why "You've Got A Friend" is especially fitting for your brother-sister dance. James Taylor's cover of the classic song, which features beautiful acoustic guitar instrumentals, is oh-so-sweet. Its mellow rhythm is especially ideal for slow dancing.
"Hero," Mariah Carey
Lyrics you'll love: "There's a hero/If you look inside your heart/You don't have to be afraid"
Honor your sibling by dancing with them to "Hero." The uplifting ballad shows off Mariah Carey's famous pipes. Your sibling will be touched by the inspirational song lyrics.
"Whenever You Remember," Carrie Underwood
Lyrics you'll love: "Whenever you remember, I'll be there"
Carrie Underwood croons about unconditional love, loyalty and support in this slow and steady piano ballad. The poetic lyrics will have you and your sibling shedding happy tears as you dance together.
"Wildflowers," Tom Petty
Lyrics you'll love: "You belong among the wildflowers/You belong in a boat out at sea/You belong with your love on your arm/You belong somewhere you feel free"
Any classic rock fan will love dancing with their sibling to Tom Petty's "Wildflowers." It features cheery instrumentals and a catchy chorus that'll capture the hearts of all of your wedding guests.
"Mudfootbal," Jack Johnson
Lyrics you'll love: "Nothing's gonna change there's no need to complain"
"Mudfootbal" is a feel-good tune by singer-songwriter Jack Johnson. Its breezy, bouncy melody makes it a fun song choice for sibling dances at wedding receptions.
"Sister," Dave Matthews Band
Lyrics you'll love: "Sister, I hear you laugh/My heart fills full of love"
Opt for "Sister" by Dave Matthews Band if you prefer a slower song. Throughout the tune, Matthews reminisces about happy childhood memories with his sister.
"Brothers & Sisters," Coldplay
Lyrics you'll love: "Brothers and sisters unite/It's the time of your lives"
"Brothers & Sisters" may not be the most traditional brother-sister wedding dance song choice, but it's an excellent option for Coldplay fans of all ages. Throughout the track, lead singer Chris Martin sings passionately about spreading love "all around."
"Come Dancing," The Kinks
Lyrics you'll love: "Come on sister, have yourself a ball/Don't be afraid to come dancing/It's only natural"
If you or your sibling love to dance the night away, then "Come Dancing" by British rock band The Kinks is an obvious choice. The upbeat song will have everyone up and out of their seats. The flashy guitar solo is a fun added bonus, too.
"When We Grow Up," Diana Ross
Lyrics you'll love: "And when we grow up, do you think we'll see/That I'm still like you and you're still like me?/I might be pretty; you might grow tall/But we don't have to change at all"
Throw it back to the good ol' days with Diana Ross' "When We Grow Up." The lighthearted tune will have you cracking smiles and shedding (happy!) tears as you dance.
"We're Going To Be Friends," The White Stripes
Lyrics you'll love: "Tonight I'll dream while in my bed/When silly thoughts go through my head/About the bugs and alphabet/And when I wake tomorrow I'll bet/That you and I will walk together again/I can tell that we are going to be friends"
"We're Going To Be Friends" by The White Stripes. The alt-rock track makes an excellent sibling dance song since it depicts sweet and playful childhood memories such as walking to school, playing in the dirt and so on.
"Oh, Sister," Bob Dylan
Lyrics you'll love: "We grew up together/From the cradle to the grave"
Bob Dylans' "Oh, Sister" is a stand-out with its awe-inspiring vocal harmonizing—not to mention the harmonica and violin instrumentals. The lyrics are a little depressing, but speak to the importance of maintaining your sibling relationships as time passes.