Great list of Guilty Pleasure songs for a Wedding DJ that always work
First of all… what is a Guilty Pleasure Song anyways? I would say that it’s a song that you like but aren’t exactly proud of the fact that you love it. You’re not bragging about it to your buddies at beer league. Here is a small list of Guilty Pleasure songs for a Wedding that every DJ should have in their pocket.
- “Sexy and I Know It” (2010s) by LMFAO.
- “I’m Too Sexy” (1990s) by Right Said Fred.
- “Barbie Girl” (1990s) by Aqua.
- “Wannabe” (1990s) by Spice Girls.
- “I Want It That Way” (2000s) by the Backstreet Boys.
- “What Is Love” (1990s) by Haddaway.
- “Hot Hot Hot” (1970s) by the Arrows.
- “Macarena” (1990s) by Los Del Rio.
- “Don’t Stop Believin” (1980s) by Journey.
- “Dynamite” (2020s) by BPS.
I tried to pick at least on song from the last 5 decades and man… I just realized how many there are from the 90s. Interesting. Maybe I will make a Top 10 list by decade next.
Guilty Pleasure songs are like classic jokes you can tell during a speech. It’s just bound to work. Maybe you don’t want to play “I’m Too Sexy” at a 60th Anniversary Party but maybe you absolutely need to play it. It’s very hit or miss. Some people get it… some don’t.

People Love a Good Catchy Song even when they don’t want to admit it
People love guilty pleasure songs for a variety of reasons, often tied to the unique emotional and psychological benefits these songs provide. A “guilty pleasure” song is usually a track that a person enjoys. They may feel somewhat embarrassed to admit. Perhaps it doesn’t align with their usual tastes or because it’s perceived as less sophisticated or “cool” by societal standards. However, these songs offer a compelling appeal that draws people in despite any perceived shame or guilt.
One of the primary reasons people love guilty pleasure songs is because of the emotional comfort they provide. These songs often evoke a sense of nostalgia, transporting listeners back to a simpler or happier time in their lives. For instance, a pop song from a listener’s teenage years may remind them of carefree summers, first loves, or significant life events. The familiarity of these songs creates a sense of emotional warmth and comfort, allowing listeners to temporarily escape from their current stressors or responsibilities.
Guilty pleasure songs are typically catchy, upbeat, and easy to sing along to, which makes them perfect for boosting one’s mood. Listening to a feel-good song can be a quick way to elevate one’s emotional state, providing a form of escapism from the complexities and pressures of everyday life. For example, a cheesy 80s anthem or a pop song with a simple, repetitive chorus help listeners unwind and feel more lighthearted. The infectious beats and simple lyrics make it easy for listeners to let loose, dance, or sing along, allowing them to feel joy in its purest, most uncomplicated form.
It’s Science
There is also a scientific basis for why people love guilty pleasure songs. Research in psychology and neuroscience shows that catchy songs with repetitive hooks tend to be more memorable. They trigger the brain’s reward centers, releasing dopamine, the “feel-good” chemical. This reaction creates a pleasurable experience, making listeners more likely to repeat the behavior, such as listening to the song again. Even if a song is objectively considered “bad” or overly simplistic, its ability to activate the brain’s reward circuits can make it irresistibly enjoyable.
Guilty pleasure songs also foster a sense of social connection. Many people love these songs because they are often universally recognized and have a broad appeal. Singing along to a well-known pop hit at a party or karaoke bar can create a sense of camaraderie. It can create a shared enjoyment, bringing people together in a way that more obscure or niche music might not. The collective experience of enjoying a guilty pleasure song can break down social barriers. They create bonds over shared tastes, even if they are considered a bit embarrassing.
DJs should use Guilty Pleasure Songs for a Wedding but don’t go too crazy with it cause it can wear off quick. Despite any shame or guilt attached to these songs, their irresistible charm lies in their ability to make people feel good,. They are reminding us that sometimes, the music we love doesn’t need to be justified or explained — it just needs to be enjoyed.
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Carlos
www.HamiltonPartyIdeas.ca
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