🚫 What Brides Are Putting on Their ‘Do Not Play’ Lists in 2025

The songs couples are officially over – and what to play instead!

You’ve nailed down your dream venue, picked the perfect photographer, and now it’s time to plan the vibe for your reception. And let’s be real – nothing kills the mood faster than a song that makes your guests groan.

That’s why more and more brides in the Dallas-Fort Worth area are handing their DJs a Do Not Play List — a rundown of the songs they absolutely don’t want played on their big day.

We’ve DJ’d hundreds of DFW weddings, and here are the most common songs couples are banning in 2025 – plus suggestions for what to play instead.

@hannahhaysphotography

❌ Overplayed Line Dances

These were once go-to crowd pleasers, but many brides now see them as cheesy or outdated.

• “Cha Cha Slide” – DJ Casper

• “Macarena” – Los Del Rio

• “Cotton Eye Joe” – Rednex

• “YMCA” – Village People

What to play instead:Try modern line dances like “The Git Up” by Blanco Brown or “Fancy Like” by Walker Hayes if you still want group participation without the cringe.

❌ Breakup or Toxic Love Songs

It’s your wedding – not a karaoke night after a bad Tinder date.

• “Before He Cheats” – Carrie Underwood

• “Gold Digger” – Kanye West ft. Jamie Foxx

• “I Will Survive” – Gloria Gaynor

• “Love the Way You Lie” – Eminem & Rihanna

What to play instead:Uplifting anthems like “Good as Hell” by Lizzo or “Lover” by Taylor Swift keep the energy right where it should be — happy and hopeful.

❌ Songs With Inappropriate or Explicit Lyrics

Grandma’s on the dance floor. Your flower girl’s twirling in her tutu. Some lyrics just don’t belong.

• “WAP” – Cardi B & Megan Thee Stallion

• “Anaconda” – Nicki Minaj

• “Closer” – Nine Inch Nails (yes, someone really requested this)

What to play instead:Go for the clean, fun vibe with “Levitating” by Dua Lipa, “About Damn Time” by Lizzo, or a throwback like “Hey Ya!” by OutKast.

❌ Songs That Just Feel... Played Out

These songs had their moment, but in 2025, many couples feel they’ve lost their charm.

• “Don’t Stop Believin’” – Journey

• “Sweet Caroline” – Neil Diamond

• “Single Ladies” – Beyoncé

• “Blurred Lines” – Robin Thicke

What to play instead:Try something unexpected like “Everybody” by Backstreet Boys or a crossover country hit like “Texas Hold 'Em” by Beyoncé — especially popular at DFW weddings this year.

Pro Tip: It’s Your Day. Own It.

Your DJ should never play something that makes you cringe. A good Do Not Play list is just as important as your must-plays.

At Premier Weddings & Events, we encourage every couple to submit a Do Not Play list on their online portal. It helps us understand your vibe, avoid awkward moments, and keep the energy just right from start to finish.

@hannahhaysphotography

Final Thought 🎧

Whether you're a bride who wants to skip the overplayed, avoid the inappropriate, or simply curate a more modern dance floor experience, your Do Not Play list is a key piece of your wedding soundtrack. Don’t be afraid to say no to songs that don’t fit your story.

Need help crafting a custom playlist (or a solid “no thanks” list)? Premier weddings and events has you covered. Let's make your wedding reception one to remember — for all the right reasons.

We would love to connect with you for all your DJ needs. https://www.premierweddingsdfw.com/contact