First, Israel Kama-who-can-even-say-his-name?* with his beautiful rendition of Somewhere Over the Rainbow/What a Wonderful World. Dreamy, hopeful lyrics coupled with a laid back vibe. It was definitely a strong contender, but our hero and heroine needed help to picture how dancing to it would look like, or how to cut a 4+ minute song down to a more maneagable length of time. Could the happy couple resist the thought of elegant sways to this island inspired tune?
Next, Can't Take my Eyes Off of You, by Frankie Valli* and the Four Seasons. This is, in fact, "the song" of our valiant adventurers in dancing-land. And who can help but smile remembering Heath Ledger's impressive version in Ten Things I Hate About You? With an upbeat, peppy feel, the mood was juuuuuust right. But the beat changes half way through-- which means extra dance lessons when time and the budget are tight with only two months to go. Would it be worthwhile if it means dancing to their song?
Finally, a new option. Ray LaMontagne's* Best Thing. His soulful, rough-around-the-edges voice is coupled with simple, sweet, and to-the-point lyrics. And the unexpected elements of trumpets at the start and gospel singers in the background are fun and very dance-able. But this song is rapidly gaining in popularity as a first dance song (remember our hero and heroine are seeking something a bit uncommon). It also lacks the sentimentality of Can't Take My Eyes Off of You. Could it be that this song is not in fact, the best thing to twist the plot of this tale?
Still unable to make a decision before the first dance lesson, our protagonists enlisted the help of the first dance experts. The experts dismissed one immediately, then demonstrated dances to the other options. One was clearly the winner and the deciders settled on a first dance song at last. Rejoicing was heard throughout the land... yet the residents of Pick-A-First-Dance-Song-Already!-Land couldn't help but wonder... well, what was the decision?
You'll have to find out at the wedding-- any guesses? (A few people know already-- no telling anyone if Brianna has already blabbed to you!)
Source for pictures: Israel K., Frankie V., Ray L.