It’s hard to believe it’s been over seven years since viewers gathered around their screens to watch Prince William and Kate Middleton tie the knot. This weekend, we get to gush all over again when prince Harry and Meghan Markle say “I do” on Saturday, May 19.
No wedding is complete without a soundtrack, which is why Billboard has brainstormed a list of songs that we might recommend to the prince and soon-to-be Royal Highness.
“L-O-V-E” by Nat King Cole
For fans of early-2000s rom-coms, this 1965 classic might recall a certain movie that also involves an international love affair: 1998’s The Parent Trap, in which separated exes from California and London reunite. Since Meghan and Harry’s relationship also stood the test of distance from the same places, this song is a shoo-in for their playlist.
“American Girl” by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers
From the title alone, this bouncy Petty hit doesn’t really require so much explanation. Although Meghan will become a duchess faster than we can recite the Pledge of Allegiance, she’ll likely still be known as the “American girl” who found her way to royalty via true love.
“My Love Went to London” by Tony Bennett
Again, this Bennett deep cut should speak for itself. Meghan will soon have plenty of time to roam around old London Town for the rest of her life (with bodyguards, of course).
“California Girls” by The Beach Boys
Although she lived in Canada during her Suits run, Meghan is a born-and-raised Southern California girl with a warm, laid-back attitude to match. After some disappointing flings with local ladies, Harry doesn’t have to “wish they could all be California girls” anymore — he finally found one willing to uproot for his side of the globe.
“Royals” by Lorde
Specifically, Meghan grew up in Hollywood, and is anything but your textbook duchess. Upon news that she was dating a prince, Meghan fell victim to nasty criticism on the Internet regarding her less-than-glamorous upbringing and then some, so much so that the palace issued a statement from Harry basically asking everyone to leave Meghan the heck alone. While she might not have been proud of her prior address, it’s safe to say she’s officially living that fantasy now, and we’re sure she can relate to this No. 1 hit to a degree.
“Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder
While this song could be a perfect fit for nearly any wedding, we think it’s a perfect ode to Meghan’s incredible characteristics that make her more than qualified for royalty.
“In My Life” by The Beatles
Being married into royalty surely comes with a whirlwind of changes. While Meghan will remember her former residences and friends from home fondly, her love for Harry surpasses them all. And what’s a British wedding without some Beatles, anyway?
“You Make My Dreams” by Daryl Hall & John Oates
Come on, is there anything more of a dream come true than a royal wedding?
“Suit & Tie” by Justin Timberlake and Jay-Z
We threw this one in just in case the dance floor gets a little sleepy, but it also serves as a nod to the legal drama television series that helped to make Meghan a known name even before Harry popped the question.
“Love On Top” by Beyoncé
Having been married and divorced in the past, we’re sure Meghan is thrilled to have finally found someone who puts her love on top by way of the prince.
“2 Become 1” by The Spice Girls
According to British tabloid The Sun, Victoria Beckham, Emma Bunton and Geri Horner have apparently made the invite list for the big day. Whether or not this turns out to be true, the playlist could use a dash of spice as the two become one in holy matrimony.
“American Money” by BØRNS
Although it appears Harry’s eyes aren’t “green like American money” (we’ve yet to see for ourselves in real life), this dreamy ballad paints a perfect paradise for the lovebirds amid the stress of being in the public eye, while also cleverly referencing Meghan’s home currency (we like themes).
“What a Wonderful World” by Louis Armstrong
Meghan and Harry have mentioned that aside from, you know, being royals, they want to focus on humanitarian work and activism. We’re thankful for high-profile couples like them that help make the world more wonderful.