For many couples, their wedding day is full of the most extraordinary, heartfelt memories that they will cherish forever. From the first look to the last dance, it is entirely natural that they want everything to be perfect.

On your special day, the perfect song list can be the difference between a sentimental moment and an awkward interaction that you just want to forget. Music can enhance our emotions and help us to preserve our most precious memories, so you want to be sure to only pick the best of the best.

You probably have a few songs that you plan to add to your wedding playlist, but which songs should you avoid? As you finalize your playlist, be sure to look out for some of the worst wedding songs ever played.

“Every Breath You Take” – The Police

While this classic hit from The Police may seem like a romantic tune, a closer look at the lyrics reveals an unusual theme. Those who know the real meaning behind this song understand that it is anything but wholesome.

With the repetition of the lyrics, “You belong to me” and “I’ll be watching you,” listeners can infer that the singer is more than a little obsessed with his love interest. While we can all relate to songs about unrequited love, this one may not be the best fit for your wedding day.

“Lips of an Angel” – Hinder

Released in 2006, Lips of an Angel was an incredibly popular song that took the alternative rock world by storm. However, its massive popularity can’t save this tune from ending up on our list of the worst wedding songs ever.

In this alt-rock hit, the lead singer seems to be longing for an old flame; although this may seem harmless enough, we quickly find out that while he’s pining after his ex, his girlfriend is just in the next room! As catchy as this single may be, it’s safe to say that songs referencing infidelity are a no-go.

“I Will Always Love You” – Whitney Houston (originally Dolly Parton)

One of the more surprising entries on this list, I Will Always Love You is an undeniably great song. Written by the wildly talented Dolly Parton, this popular tune has been played at a variety of major life events and ceremonies over the years.

For this reason, we highly encourage you to keep this song as far away from your wedding playlist as possible. Mega-hits like this one can come off as highly cliche, and you deserve a song list that’s just as fresh, fun, and exciting as your love story.

“Make You Feel My Love” – Adele (originally Bob Dylan)

Another powerhouse vocalist on our list, Adele has quickly become one of the most beloved female artists of all time. Unfortunately, most of her singles have a more serious, somber tone, which could potentially darken the mood on your wedding day.

Adele is known for her incredible break-up anthems like Rolling in the Deep and Send My Love (to Your New Lover). While we love jamming out to these songs in our free time, we know that wedding days are made for celebration, excitement, and most of all, romance.

“Before He Cheats” – Carrie Underwood

Before He Cheats is a classic break-up song that’s been in heavy rotation since its 2005 release. Popular among both country and pop crowds, this tune is perfect for those who have recently had their hearts broken.

However, you’re going through a completely different season right now, enjoying a secure, healthy relationship with your partner. Due to the subject matter of this hit, we’d opt for a song that’s more appropriate for celebrating your endless love.

“Ice Ice Baby” – Vanilla Ice

While you may know all of the words to this hit single by heart, that doesn’t necessarily make it a shoo-in for your wedding playlist. As a matter of fact, playing this famous song is one of the quickest ways to have a dated wedding reception.

There’s something about Ice Ice Baby that immediately transports listeners back to the 90s. If you want your wedding playlist to feel fun, dynamic, and refreshingly current, you’ll want to avoid this song.

“Jolene” – Dolly Parton

Picture this: It’s a beautiful night, you’re surrounded by some of your favorite people, and you look into the eyes of your soulmate. As you lean in for a kiss, the DJ plays a classic tune about betrayal, insecurity, and suspected infidelity.

That’s right; as catchy as this song is, it can be a real mood-killer on your wedding day. While we can’t deny Dolly Parton’s incredible talent, Jolene is still considered an inappropriate song to include on your wedding playlist.

“Bad Guy” – Billie Eilish

Billie Eilish is one of the most popular artists in the music industry, and it’s not hard to understand her celebrity status. Billie’s songwriting skill, musical ability, and unique personal style have made her a favorite among couples of all ages.

Still, her famous single “Bad Guy” isn’t the best tune to get your wedding guests out on the dance floor. We’d suggest going with something more romantic, a song that can capture the essence of your love story.

“My Heart Will Go On” – Celine Dion

When choosing a heartfelt tune to complete your wedding playlist, you’ve got plenty of great song choices to consider. With an artist as talented as Celine Dion, her catalog includes some of the most romantic love songs ever written.

Her most beloved single, My Heart Will Go On, has been featured, covered, and celebrated for several decades now. To keep your song list fresh and exciting, we’d suggest including one of Celine’s more underrated hits!

“Baby Got Back” – Sir Mix-a-lot

If you two are making a list of bad wedding songs, you’ve got to make sure you include Sir Mix-a-Lot’s Baby Got Back. When it comes to finding songs that will make your big day feel special, there’s no place for this 90s single on your playlist.

Baby Got Back, while fun and enjoyable, tends to focus primarily on a woman’s physical assets. If you’d prefer to celebrate beauty with a little more elegance, you’ll want to explore other options.

“I’m Not the Only One” – Sam Smith

Your wedding music can be one of the most important parts of the big day, setting the tone for the entire event. For this reason, you should craft a song list that honors the joy and importance of this special occasion.

I’m Not the Only One tells the story of a man who finds out that his partner has been cheating for some time. With this information, you can understand why this tune may not be the best choice for your wedding reception.

“Blurred Lines” – Robin Thicke

Robin Thicke’s 2013 single took the pop charts by storm, but it’s safe to say that this song has not aged very well. From Thicke’s infamous VMA performance to the allegations of mistreatment during the music video, Blurred Lines may not be worth the trouble surrounding it.

Controversy aside, Blurred Lines lyrics have been cringe since this song was initially released. Insinuating that a person’s “no” really means “yes” is a bad look in any context, making this one even more inappropriate for your wedding playlist.

“Macarena” – Los Del Rio

If your goal is to get your wedding guests out of their seats, it can be tempting to include songs with built-in choreography. Unfortunately, adding Macarena to the playlist can completely change the vibe of your special event.

Despite its upbeat tune and steady rhythm, this classic song is actually about a less-than-healthy relationship. While it’s hard to resist dancing to the Macarena, it’s best to save this earworm for your guilty pleasures playlist.

“Single Ladies” – Beyonce

For decades now, Single Ladies has been featured at countless weddings, dances, and a variety of celebrations. Typically played during the bouquet toss, this song has become something of a staple in the wedding industry.

Due to its repeated use over the years, we’d say it’s about time to update your wedding playlist. Instead of choosing an older song that’s been overused, we recommend going with an original hit that is more meaningful to you.

“Bad Romance” – Lady Gaga

On your wedding day, it’s a good idea to avoid playing any breakup songs during the event. This will keep the mood lighthearted and fun, encouraging your wedding guests to have the time of their lives.

If you choose to feature this catchy tune during the reception, guests may think you’re in for a turbulent marriage. As a happy couple, you two deserve a wedding playlist that celebrates the beauty of your love story.

“Thank You, Next” – Ariana Grande

In the same vein, Thank You, Next rounds out our list of songs to exclude from your wedding playlist. While extremely popular, this iconic breakup anthem can distract from the joy of your celebration.

By drawing attention to past relationships, you can miss out on the beauty of honoring the future that lies ahead. Instead, it’s better to choose a song that helps you to prepare for this new season of life together.