Given the four-day weekend or “Valentine’s Break” coming up, I’ve put together a list of my top ten favorite love songs. From old classics to new viral hits, here’s a little way to celebrate the Day of Love.
- “Everybody Loves Somebody” (Dean Martin)
At the time of it’s release, “Everybody Loves Somebody” was a smash hit. It skyrocketed to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, dethroning the Beatles, and eventually becoming the theme for Martin’s own variety show. While it isn’t currently ruling the Billboard charts, “Everybody Loves Somebody” continues to be an all-time Valentine’s classic. For those of you who appreciate the classic sound of 1960s music, this song perfectly encapsulates the sound of retro music through Martin’s iconic voice and the backtrack of background singers.
- “Kiss Me” (Sixpence None The Richer)
For all those rom-com fans out there, this song is iconically featured in the kiss cam scene of How To Lose a Guy in 10 Days. Aside from it’s popularity on the silver screen, “Kiss Me” is such a fun love song; focusing on strong acoustic guitar chords and the unique sound of Sixpence None The Richer. Layered by electric guitar and drums in background, this song provides a unique take by breaking the mold on classic love songs through introducing a rock influence.
- “Us Someday” (Thomas Rhett)
This song is just so sweet; it’s an autobiographical love letter to singer Thomas Rhett’s wife Lauren, who he met in first grade and started dating in high school. The song revolves around how he knew he was going to marry her, even when it seemed like it wasn’t going to work out. While the story behind it makes the song even better, the song itself is really unique because it combines country acoustics with a classical string intro, highlighting the sentimental lyrics.
- “L-O-V-E” (Nat King Cole)
This song is so catchy because it combines the traditional “love song” structure with jazz influences, incorporating strong trumpet while still highlighting Cole’s smooth voice. This song also received more attention after being used in the wedding scene of The Parent Trap, solidifying “L-O-V-E”’s place as an iconic love song.
- “Forever” (Noah Kahan)
Defined by Noah Kahan’s iconic powerful acoustic guitar, this piece conveys the joy that comes from new love. Starting out slow and thoughtful, the chords pick up and become stronger with hints of drums in the background and Kahan’s voice blends beautifully with the simple instrumentals. Sprinkled with slides to higher notes and Kahan holding notes for that authentic feel, the folk vibe in this love song just adds a whole new twist.
- “I Love You So” (The Walters)
While the lyrics aren’t overly poetic, I find that’s what makes this song one of my favorites. The title – “I Love You So” – is repeated throughout the chorus, showcasing the singer’s commitment to whomever he’s singing about. The slow indie-pop backtrack adds to the bittersweet lyrics, discussing the pain of being in love with someone you know isn’t good for you.
- “Something, Somehow, Someday” (ROLE MODEL)
In this piece, Tucker Pillsbury combines clever lyrics and unique descriptions to discuss two individuals – completely different in pretty much every single way – and yet destined to be something, somehow, someday. It highlights how love can sneak up on people and plays on the classic theme of “opposites attract”, all while followed by a slow pop-folk backtrack.
- “Right About You” (Post Malone)
Similar to “Us Someday”, “Right About You” combines country chords with classical strings for a romantic, yet authentically country feel. The lyrics are clever and even connect with the chords being played, highlighting Post Malone’s talent as a songwriter and his ability to hop across genres. The message of this song is really sweet, focusing on how someone’s life can be made so much better just by finding “their person”, regardless of the other bad things that may be happening.
- “At Last” (Etta James)
Largely regarded as one of the greatest singers of her time, Etta James shook the music industry with this piece; it peaked at #2 on the R&B chart and eventually went on to become her signature song. Showcasing both the beauty of soul music and her impressive vocal range, James’ powerful notes present an emotional ballad that few others have been able to match. The classical strings with a slight jazz swing in the background give off a romantic feel while simultaneously highlighting James’ iconic voice.
- “Carry You Home” (Alex Warren)
While Alex Warren’s song “Ordinary” was the one many highlighted on social media as their favorite romantic song, I actually prefer “Carry You Home”. I find the lyrics really endearing; focusing on loyalty to a significant other despite other difficult circumstances and making them the top priority. The strong acoustic chords blend with a powerful drum backtrack, creating a folk track that borders on stomp-and-holler. This structure differs from the traditional, slower love songs and makes it really fun to listen to.
