To paraphrase 1980s one-hit wonder Oran "Juice" Jones, a wedding reception without a love song is like cornflakes without the milk. Love songs - particularly R&B love songs - have traditionally played a significant role in weddings, be it during the actual ceremony, at the reception, or on the honeymoon. And here's some of the best wedding-themed R&B songs ever.
'Share My Life,' Kem
This song, which is on Kem's third album, Intimacy, is about a man who tells his woman that he wants to spend the rest of his life with her. For the men out there who are getting ready to propose marriage to your lady and need a little inspiration, this just might be the perfect song for you.
'One Love,' Midwest City
This song by a virtually unknown four-man vocal group from Oklahoma epitomizes what a great wedding song should be: lovely, tender and sweet.
'Never,' Jaheim
Album cover © Atlantic Records.
This song, which is on Jaheim's fourth album, The Makings of a Man, is about a man who stops being a player and settles down with his one true love.
'Little Girl,' E. Walter Smith
This warm, loving song by crooner E. Walter Smith and former "American Idol" hopeful Tatiana McConnico, is perfect for the father-daughter dance during the post-ceremony reception. It's a tasteful, classy and well-sung ode to the love a father has for his little princess.
'Ribbon in the Sky,' Stevie Wonder
One of the most beautiful, romantic songs of all time. I usually don't cry at weddings -- unless this song is played.
'Here and Now,' Luther Vandross
A classic wedding song by a classic vocalist.
R.I.P. Luther.
'Forever My Lady,' Jodeci
Possibly the best song Jodeci ever recorded. As the song's lyrics indicate, this is the perfect tune for the bride-to-be who's already expecting a child.
'Spend My Life with You,' Eric Benét & Tamia
Eric Benét, who's the ex-husband of Halle Berry, may have trouble holding onto a woman once he marries her, but this song shows exactly how he's able to get women to marry him in the first place. "Spend My Life With You," featuring Tamia, is on Eric's 2001 album, A Day in the Life.
'Back At One,' Brian McKnight
Cover © Motown Records.
This is another one of those songs that's considered melodramatic out in the real world, but within the setting of a wedding party, it fits in as naturally as a bouquet of flowers. This should be played during a slow dance at a wedding reception.
'Together,' Ruben Studdard
This song, which is on Ruben's 2009 album, Love Is, is a bold yet tender declaration of a man's love for a woman and his desire to make her a permanent part of his life.
'On Bended Knee,' Boyz II Men
This song may be a little sappy and a tad bit too melodramatic, but when it comes to bringing tears to a woman's eyes during a wedding party, few songs can do it better than "On Bended Knee."
'Let's Get Married,' Jagged Edge
Other than the chorus, which has a lame "we ain't gettin' no younger, we might as well do it," rationale for the marriage proposal, this is a very well-sung, sentimental love song.
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