There’s something truly special, a charmingly unique similarity, a bond very strong between love and music. Each can be used to express the other. Music can be used to express love or affection to someone, whereas love can inspire music, too. As for the latter, some of the greatest singers and artists in the history of music entertainment got the inspiration for their songs from real-life love stories of love!
Poetry and lectures aside, Enter Valentine’s Day; the season of love, when even the coldest of hearts catch a little warmth from Cupid’s arrow! Cranking up some swoon-worthy tunes is pretty much mandatory.
So, let’s talk about jams that’ll make sparks fly faster than you can say “chocolate-covered strawberries.”
1. “At Last” – Etta James
A quintessential classic that’s smoother than the finest silk, this one can be a great pick at least for boomers, a few Gen X’s, and perhaps a handful of Gen Z’s who appreciate soft music. Those first few piano notes are like a slow-dawning realization that you’ve found ‘the one.’
James’ soulful serenade wraps around you like granny’s knitted blanket, pure comfort for the heart and soul. This track isn’t just old-school cool; it’s a timeless love anthem that’s been melting hearts since the ’60s—and will probably continue to do so until we’re all cruising the galaxy in spaceships!
2. “Thinking Out Loud” – Ed Sheeran
Ed’s got a knack for crafting tunes that hit you right in the feels, and this one is no slouch in the love song department. “Thinking Out Loud” drops some sweet, sweet lyrics about enduring affection that’s sure to resonate with anyone who’s ever been in it for the long haul, no wonder it’s commonly played at weddings. Its upbeat tempo backing also makes it impossible not to sing along to the lyrics.
3. “Can’t Help Falling in Love” – Elvis Presley
Even your grandparents probably slow-danced to this one. Elvis, The King himself, brings this tender ballad with a voice that’s like a gentle river carrying you effortlessly towards love-vanilla skies.
It’s hard not to get all mushy inside when that chorus hits and you’re reminded why falling in love is as natural as the sun setting – inevitable and stunning every single time. It’s just perfect for snuggling up close and reminding each other why you’ve got it bad for one another.
4. “Make You Feel My Love” – Adele
You can bet on the soul-stirring powerhouse –Adele– to deliver a love song that feels like an embrace in sonic form. Launched in 2008, this ballad has swelled through speakers with unwavering popularity.
Rolling off her critically acclaimed album ’19’, and thanks to its raw emotional pull, it’s racked up millions of streams and covers by artists far and wide. When you’re trying to convey the depth of feeling beyond what mere words can express, this song’s got your back.
5. “Perfect” – Ed Sheeran
Back again with Ed – the dude just has a thing for churning out wedding-worthy hits. “Perfect,” from his 2017 album ‘÷,’ is basically engineered to have couples gazing into each other’s eyes like they’re the only two people in the room.
It’s all about finding paradise in your S.O.’s arms, and boy, does that message resonate—just ask the billions of streams it’s clocked on Spotify alone! Crank this one up and you’re practically guaranteed to be dancing in a love-induced euphoria.
6. “My Love Is Your Love” – Whitney Houston
Now, if you want to talk about songs that are as much anthems as they are love ballads, Whitney’s “My Love Is Your Love” has got to be on the list. Dropping in 1998, this track is a rhythmic celebration of eternal devotion—that kind where even apocalyptic scenarios can’t shake the bond between two people.
Far from being just another catchy tune, this jam became a defining moment in the late-‘90s pop culture with its blend of reggae vibes and R&B soul—a testament to Whitney Houston’s legendary voice and staying power. It can also be an excellent choice if your Valentine’s Day includes plans to take over the dance floor.
7. “Love Me Like You Do” – Ellie Goulding
Ellie Goulding’s “Love Me Like You Do” became the pulse of every romantic rendezvous when it debuted as part of the “Fifty Shades of Grey” soundtrack in 2015. It’s got that ethereal vibe and a chorus that climbs like a crescendo of passion, making it ideal for those stay-in Valentine’s dates where you transform your living room into a personal love den. Throw in some fairy lights and this track, and watch your ordinary space become an enchanting romance retreat.
8. “All of Me” – John Legend
Turn down the lights, fire up some candles, and let John Legend’s heartfelt vows in “All of Me” from 2013 set the tone for an intimate evening in. This tune is stuffed to the brim with raw vulnerability and sheer admiration for one’s partner—body and soul.
It became a monster hit for good reason; it speaks directly to lovers ready to surrender all they have to each other. With its stirring piano backing, this song is pure magic for close dancing—or even just cuddling on the couch.
Set the Mood With Flowers
Never underestimate the power of a well-crafted Valentine’s Day floral arrangement to kickstart an atmosphere ripe with romance. Imagine walking into a room scented with the subtle perfume of roses and lilacs, colors softly speaking love’s language.
Strategically placed blossoms can elevate any space from mundane to magical, offering a visual treat that complements those dulcet melodies you’ve got on repeat for the night. Let flowers be your silent love poem this V-Day.
5 More Tunes For the Valentine’s Day Couple
1. “A Thousand Years” – Christina Perri
2. Adore You” – Harry Styles
3. “Just the Way You Are” – Bruno Mars
4. “Better Together” – Jack Johnson
5. “XO” – Beyoncé
And there you have it, a playlist to turn any ordinary evening into an extraordinary ode to love. Let these songs be the soundtrack of your Valentine’s Day – because sometimes, music speaks louder than words ever could.
