A New Wedding Song ∙ “Dancing in the Minefields” ∙ Andrew Peterson
For Brides, Musicians I have been a fan of Andrew Peterson since he performed at little ole Malone College about ten years ago. I fell in love with his songwriting and soothing voice. His lyrics immediately reach the heart and cause self reflection. I can hardly listen to the first three tracks of his new album, Counting Stars, without getting a little teary eyed.
“Dancing in the Minefields” is the second track on the album. It may just be the best wedding song I’ve ever heard, even for those who weren’t “19 and 21 the year they got engaged.” For a first dance, this song would make a strong statement about a couple’s commitment to one another. (It also has a really nice dancing beat that allows for a few twirls and dips.) The song speaks to what marriage is: an unconditional promise. The promise that is not to be made unless it is meant to be kept. The promise maker must consider the risks or “minefields” that lay ahead. So when the promise is made, it is made fully.
My favorite part is probably
“So when I lose my way, find me
When I loose love’s chains, bind me
At the end of all my faith, till the end of all my days
When I forget my name, remind me.”
Andrew is asking his wife to never give up on him. But he is also praying to God for the times of inevitable struggle in the future. Every true marital commitment is a promise to God and with God. There are three partners in a marriage. Ecclesiastes 4:12 “…a threefold cord is not quickly broken.”
Tell me what you think. Would “Dancing in the Minefields” be a good first dance song? What other ideas do you have for wedding songs.
PS – the next song on Counting Stars, “Planting Trees,” is my ultimate favorite on the album. One day it might just be my website theme song.
Want to know more about Andrew and other artists like him? Check out these sites: