The 60 Best Love Songs to Play on Valentine’s Day (or Any Day)
Updated: Mar. 15, 2023
A great love story needs an epic love playlist. These are the best love songs to play for your muse, from rock ballads to pop powerhouses.
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No romantic playlist is complete without these top love songs
Ah, love. It’s everywhere around us, engrained in our hearts and, sometimes, in our fondest memories. It’s tough to sum up exactly how you feel about the one you love, but luckily, you have the best love songs to help express your feelings.
The best love songs are timeless, sentimental, and make your heart flutter while thinking of your soul mate. Sure, there are great love and relationship quotes that sum up what love is capable of, but there’s nothing like soul-touching lyrics and sweet melodies filling your head with delightful memories and dreams. As you’re thinking of Valentine’s Day ideas for this year (like picking a romantic movie to watch with your sweetheart), consider creating the ultimate love playlist that features the songs below.
We chose songs from different genres based on a number of factors, including their popularity, influence, commercial and critical success, and, of course, the number of butterflies you get as you listen. Enjoy!
“At Last” by Etta James
Released: 1960
Album: At Last!
Most romantic lyrics: “At last/My love has come along”
This timeless love song is the perfect tune to play for your sweetheart. Etta James’ iconic and soulful version of “At Last” makes you want to drop everything and slow dance with your love on the spot. After you dance to this song, read your special someone one of these beautiful love poems.
“Thinking Out Loud” by Ed Sheeran
Released: 2014
Album: X
Most romantic lyrics: “I’m thinking out loud/That maybe we found love right where we are”
Ed Sheeran has penned and performed some great love songs, but one of his best is “Thinking Out Loud.” It topped charts across the globe, earned Sheeran two Grammys, and became a go-to wedding song. Just listen to its lyrics (which make great couple captions for Instagram) and soulful sound and you’ll understand why.
“I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston
Released: 1992
Album: The Bodyguard: Original Soundtrack Album
Most romantic lyrics: “And I’m wishing you joy and happiness/But above all this, I wish you love”
Whitney Houston’s version of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” is iconic for a reason. Houston’s vocals are nothing short of incredible as she sings about always loving someone, even if you have to part ways. And let’s be honest: Who hasn’t belted out that powerful chorus? Side note: “I will always love you” is a great Valentine’s Day wish to send someone, isn’t it?
“Stand By Me” by Ben E. King
Released: 1961
Album: Don’t Play That Song!
Most romantic lyrics: “Oh, I won’t be afraid/Just as long as you stand, stand by me”
This classic song from Ben E. King is one of the best love songs because of its soulful sound and heartfelt lyrics. It’s a perfect song for showing unity and making it through whatever life throws at you. Sometimes, just standing by someone is the best Valentine’s Day gift to give.
“Faithfully” by Journey
Released: 1983
Album: Frontiers
Most romantic lyrics: “And being apart ain’t easy on this love affair/Two strangers learn to fall in love again”
Journey showed their versatility with this romantic power ballad. Anyone who’s had to be away from their special someone relates to this song, and the lyric “I’m forever yours, faithfully” is an endearing reminder of one’s love, devotion, and appreciation. It’s also a lovely message to write in your partner’s Valentine’s Day card.
“You’re Still the One” by Shania Twain
Released: 1998
Album: Come On Over
Most romantic lyrics: “You’re still the one I run to/The one that I belong to/You’re still the one I want for life”
Shania Twain’s “You’re Still the One” is a beautiful love song that does two things: celebrates a love that beat the odds and reminds someone that they’re still the one. If you’re looking for a romantic and sentimental song, this is the one to play. It will feel like you’re getting struck by Cupid’s arrow all over again.
“We Belong Together” by Mariah Carey
Released: 2005
Album: The Emancipation of Mimi
Most romantic lyrics: “Who’s gonna take your place?/There ain’t nobody better/Oh, baby, baby, we belong together”
“We Belong Together” topped charts in 2005 for a reason. It’s a powerful love song about wanting someone back because there’s just no one that compares to them. It’s relatable, memorable, and a great love song to sing your heart out to.
“Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley
Released: 1961
Album: Blue Hawaii
Most romantic lyrics: “Take my hand/Take my whole life too/For I can’t help falling in love with you”
The King gave us one of the best love songs of all time with “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” It’s simple, romantic, and sentimental without being cliché. It’s a timeless tune you and your love will adore listening to. Something else you and your love will adore? These cute Valentine’s Day puns.
“I Want to Know What Love Is” by Foreigner
Released: 1984
Album: Agent Provocateur
Most romantic lyrics: “Through the clouds, I see love shine/Keeps me warm as life grows colder”
This power ballad is Foreigner’s biggest hit and continues to play at weddings, dances, and other celebrations of love. The song sends you into a lovely daydream where you’re with the one you love, and everything just makes sense in that moment. If you really want to crank up the romance, get a gorgeous bouquet of Valentine’s Day flowers and dance to this song in the living room.
“When a Man Loves a Woman” by Percy Sledge
Released: 1966
Album: When a Man Loves a Woman
Most romantic lyrics: “When a man loves a woman/Can’t keep his mind on nothin’ else”
If you’ve been in love, you know exactly what Percy Sledge is singing about in this classic love song. “When a Man Loves a Woman” is a soulful ode to what happens when you truly love someone and the things you’ll do to keep them happy.
“Bless the Broken Road” by Rascal Flatts
Released: 2004
Album: Feels Like Today
Most romantic lyrics: “God blessed the broken road/That led me straight to you”
“Bless the Broken Road” has been recorded by multiple artists, but Rascal Flatts knocked it out of the park with their rendition—it even got the songwriters a Grammy for Best Country Song. Listen along as they sing about seemingly bad turns in life ultimately leading to true love. Sounds like something out of a romance novel, right?
“Your Song” by Elton John
Released: 1970
Album: Elton John
Most romantic lyrics: “I hope you don’t mind/That I put down in words/How wonderful life is while you’re in the world”
Elton John proved you don’t need to be rich to be romantic with “Your Song.” The song is a simple and loving message to the one who means the most to you; even if you don’t have a lot, they’re everything to you and you wish to give them the world. “Your Song” also has some of the sweetest lyrics a love song can have. Speaking of sweet: You have to read this story about a veteran who found his long-lost love after 75 years.
“All of Me” by John Legend
Released: 2013
Album: Love in the Future
Most romantic lyrics: “’Cause all of me/Loves all of you/Love your curves and all your edges/All your perfect imperfections”
“All of Me” is a song about loving someone with everything you have. You can feel the emotion in John Legend’s voice as he sings about loving every part of your sweetheart. If you’re looking for a song to slow dance to in the kitchen, put this one on.
“Iris” by the Goo Goo Dolls
Released: 1998
Album: Dizzy Up the Girl
Most romantic lyrics: “You’re the closest to heaven that I’ll ever be/And I don’t want to go home right now”
“Iris” is easily one of the best love songs to come out of the ’90s. It’s captivating and incredibly romantic—if you listen to the lyrics, you’ll hear the story of someone who’s deeply in love with someone who’s the center of their world. The song was a crossover hit when released and remains a staple on love song playlists.
“If I Ain’t Got You” by Alicia Keys
Released: 2004
Album: The Diary of Alicia Keys
Most romantic lyric: “Some just want everything/But everything means nothing/If I ain’t got you, yeah”
Alicia Keys is flawless in her performance of “If I Ain’t Got You.” She puts her heart into singing about how the best things in life don’t have value without the one you love by your side. It’s a song that really makes you think about what’s important in life and what you’re thankful to have.
“Ring of Fire” by Johnny Cash
Released: 1963
Album: Ring of Fire: The Best of Johnny Cash
Most romantic lyrics: “The taste of love is sweet/When hearts like ours meet”
“Ring of Fire” is not only a great love song but also one of the greatest country songs of all time. It’s widely reported that June Carter Cash wrote the song while falling in love with Johnny Cash, which makes a lot of sense when you listen to it. It’s passionate, charming, and makes you want to fall head over heels in love.
“I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” by Aerosmith
Released: 1998
Album: Armageddon: The Album
Most romantic lyrics: “Then I kiss your eyes/And thank God we’re together/And I just want to stay with you/In this moment forever”
Aerosmith combines romance with rock in “I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing,” a power ballad performed for the film Armageddon. It’s about being so in love with someone that you don’t want to miss a single second with them. It may have been produced for Armageddon, but the song still holds relevance (and romance) 23 years after the film’s release.
“Be My Baby” by The Ronettes
Released: 1963
Album: Presenting the Fabulous Ronettes featuring Veronica
Most romantic lyrics: “I have been waiting for you/You know I will adore you ’til eternity”
Fair warning: “Be My Baby” is sure to get stuck in your head. It’s so catchy and fun to sing and dance to, especially when you’re with your sweetheart.
“Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper
Released: 1984
Album: She’s So Unusual
Most romantic lyrics: “If you’re lost you can look and you will find me/Time after time”
You’ll find “Time After Time” on multiple lists of the best love songs. Cyndi Lauper’s vocals are perfect for this pop ballad about always being there for the one you love. Start streaming it now to feel the love.
“Wicked Game” by Chris Isaak
Released: 1989
Album: Heart Shaped World
Most romantic lyrics: “I never dreamed that I’d love somebody like you”
If you’re looking for a soulful and passionate song to add to your playlist, add “Wicked Game” right now. Chris Isaak’s hauntingly beautiful vocals combined with the unique guitar line make it a timeless love song for everyone to enjoy.
“Amazed” by Lonestar
Released: 1999
Album: Lonely Grill
Most romantic lyrics: “I’ve never been this close to anyone or anything/I can hear your thoughts, I can see your dreams”
Have you ever been so in love that everything they do simply amazes you? If so, this song’s for you. “Amazed” is a beautiful song that celebrates love and all the amazing things that come with it.
“I Got You Babe” by Sonny & Cher
Released: 1965
Album: Look At Us
Most romantic lyrics: “They say our love won’t pay the rent/Before it’s earned, our money’s all been spent/I guess that’s so, we don’t have a pot/But at least I’m sure of all the things we got”
Who needs material things when you have the one you love? That’s the message in Sonny & Cher’s hit song “I Got You Babe.” This song is still as charming and sentimental now as it was back in 1965.
“In Your Eyes” by Peter Gabriel
Released: 1986
Album: So
Most romantic lyrics: “I wanna touch the light, the heat I see in your eyes”
“In Your Eyes” is a timeless love song that perfectly sums up what it’s like to finally find the one you’ve been looking for. There’s a reason John Cusack played this song for Ione Skye during the iconic boom box scene in Say Anything…—it’s perfect for expressing how much you truly care about someone.
“Make You Feel My Love” by Adele
Released: 2008
Album: 19
Most romantic lyrics: “When the evening shadows and the stars appear/And there is no one there to dry your tears/I could hold you for a million years/To make you feel my love”
Adele’s cover of Bob Dylan’s song is raw and beautiful. It makes you think of your love and everything you’d do to make them feel loved. Start streaming now, or send it to your special someone.
“Eight Days a Week” by The Beatles
Released: 1964
Album: Beatles For Sale
Most romantic lyrics: “Hope you need my love babe/Just like I need you”
The Beatles released a lovely ode to loving someone 24/7 (or 24/8, in this case) with “Eight Days a Week.” It’s nothing but love and sweet melodies with this tune!
“Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol
Released: 2006
Album: Eyes Open
Most romantic lyrics: “All that I ever was/Is here in your perfect eyes, they’re all I can see”
“Chasing Cars” was a global hit in 2006, and once you listen it’s easy to understand why. It’s dreamy and endearing without being corny, and as soon as you hear it, you think of your love and get butterflies.
“Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” by Frankie Valli
Released: 1967
Album: Solo
Most romantic lyrics: “You’re just too good to be true/Can’t take my eyes off of you”
Upbeat, fun, and incredibly romantic, “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” remains one of the best love songs more than five decades after its release. We won’t judge if you serenade your love with this one.
“Angel of Mine” by Monica
Released: 1998
Album: The Boy Is Mine
Most romantic lyrics: “Nothing means more to me than what we share/No one in this whole world can ever compare”
“Angel of Mine” is a tune about the right person coming into your life when you need them most. Sound familiar? It’s a great love song to play during a slow dance with your partner.
“Maybe I’m Amazed” by Paul McCartney
Released: 1970
Album: McCartney
Most romantic lyrics: “Maybe I’m amazed at the way you pulled me out of time/You hung me on the line/Maybe I’m amazed at the way I really need you”
This is another romantic track that’s about being in awe of the person you’re with and how they make you feel. Your sweetheart is sure to smile when you dedicate this to them.
“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri
Released: 2011
Album: The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn – Part 1 (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)
Most romantic lyrics: “Darling, don’t be afraid, I have loved you for a thousand years/I’ll love you for a thousand more”
“A Thousand Years” was written for Twilight: Breaking Dawn – Part 1, but this song resonates with anyone who’s been in love. It’s beautifully composed and Perri’s vocals are superb as she sings about loving someone unconditionally throughout time.
“My Girl” by The Temptations
Released: 1964
Album: The Temptations Sing Smokey
Most romantic lyrics: “I don’t need no money, fortune, or fame/I’ve got all the riches, baby, one man can claim”
The Temptations gave us one of the best love songs of all time when they released “My Girl” back in 1965. It was The Temptations’ first number one song in the United States and remains one of their most famous songs. It’s lovely and soulful, and you can’t help but think of the one you love while listening to it.
“How Do I Live” by LeAnn Rimes
Released: 1997
Album: You Light Up My Life: Inspirational Songs
Most romantic lyrics: “You’re my world, my heart, my soul, and if you ever leave/Baby you would take away everything good in my life”
LeAnn Rimes sings of powerful love and its impact on our lives in “How Do I Live.” It’s hard to picture your life without your loved one by your side, and this song does a great job of expressing the need for that person in your life.
“Kiss From a Rose” by Seal
Released: 1994
Album: Seal II
Most romantic lyrics: “There is so much a man can tell you, so much he can say/You remain my power, my pleasure, my pain, baby”
This Grammy-winning love song is one you definitely need to add to your playlist. “Kiss From a Rose” was a global hit when it was released and continues to be a staple song on love playlists. You’ll get lost in your love’s eyes while listening to this enchanting ballad.
“I Melt With You” by Modern English
Released: 1982
Album: After the Snow
Most romantic lyrics: “There’s nothing you and I won’t do/I’ll stop the world and melt with you”
“I Melt With You” is one of the most iconic new wave love songs, and it’s stood the test of time almost four decades after its release. Saying you’ll stop the world for someone? Now that’s romantic.
“You’re the Inspiration” by Chicago
Released: 1984
Album: Chicago 17
Most romantic lyrics: “You’re the meaning in my life/You’re the inspiration”
“You’re the Inspiration” by Chicago has it all: romantic lyrics, heartfelt melodies, and big ballad chords. What more could you want from a rocking love song?
“In My Life” by The Beatles
Released: 1965
Album: Rubber Soul
Most romantic lyrics: “But of all these friends and lovers/There is no one compares with you”
“In My Life” by The Beatles is simple, delightful, and beautifully crafted, making it one of the best love songs to listen to. The lyrics can be interpreted for romantic and platonic love, so you can play it to celebrate the relationships you have with everyone in your life.
“Perfect” by Ed Sheeran
Released: 2017
Album: ÷
Most romantic lyrics: “Be my girl, I’ll be your man/I see my future in your eyes”
Ed Sheeran makes this list again with “Perfect,” and you’ll understand why after listening to the first 30 seconds of the song. The lyrics are so heartfelt that you can’t help but melt inside while listening.
“Halo” by Beyoncé
Released: 2009
Album: I Am…Sasha Fierce
Most romantic lyrics: “Baby I can see your halo/You know you’re my saving grace”
Beyoncé created a love song for the ages when she released “Halo.” It’s a pop ballad that perfectly expresses how much you love and appreciate your partner. Don’t be shocked if you put this one on repeat.
“Wonderful Tonight” by Eric Clapton
Released: 1977
Album: Slowhand
Most romantic lyrics: “I feel wonderful because I see the love light in your eyes”
You can’t help but smile and feel your heart flutter when listening to “Wonderful Tonight.” Clapton’s guitar skills and the beautiful harmonies in the song make it a mellow tribute to the one you love.
“Remember When” by Alan Jackson
Released: 2003
Album: Greatest Hits Volume III
Most romantic lyrics: “Brought back the love, we found trust/Vowed we’d never give it up”
“Remember When” is a country love song reflecting on the beautiful ups and downs of love. It’s about a love that’s been through the ringer, but nonetheless remains strong. It’s definitely a song you’ll want to dedicate to your sweetheart.
“God Only Knows” by The Beach Boys
Released: 1966
Album: Pet Sounds
Most romantic lyrics: “So what good would living do me/God only knows what I’d be without you”
“God Only Knows” is an influential song that’s sentimental and sweet on the ears. It’s also incredibly catchy and has that signature Beach Boys sound.
“Truly Madly Deeply” by Savage Garden
Released: 1997
Album: Savage Garden
Most romantic lyrics: “I’ll love you more with every breath/truly, madly, deeply do”
“Truly Madly Deeply” is romantic, dreamy, and makes you want to fall head over heels in love if you aren’t already. The lyrics, impressive vocals, and catchy chorus make it a touching ode to the power of love. There’s a reason it topped charts in several countries and continues to be a go-to slow song.
“I Cross My Heart” by George Strait
Released: 1992
Album: Pure Country
Most romantic lyrics: “You will always be the miracle/That makes my life complete”
Even if you aren’t a fan of country, you need to give this song a listen. “I Cross My Heart” is a powerful love song that topped country charts upon its release. It’s the perfect song to play for someone you want to spend the rest of your life with.
“All My Life” by K-Ci and JoJo
Released: 1998
Album: Love Always
Most romantic lyrics: “And you are the only one, my everything/And for you this song I sing”
“All My Life” is another chart-topping tune to add to your playlist. It’s soulful and filled with romantic lyrics you can (and should) dedicate to your special someone.
“(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” by Bryan Adams
Released: 1991
Album: Waking Up the Neighbors
Most romantic lyrics: “Oh, you can’t tell me it’s not worth tryin’ for/I can’t help it, there’s nothin’ I want more”
The fact that this song charted so well globally makes it one of the best love songs. Chart performance aside, though, “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” is a sentimental ballad anyone who’s been in love can relate to.
“How Deep Is Your Love” by Bee Gees
Released: 1977
Album: Saturday Night Fever (The Original Movie Soundtrack)
Most romantic lyrics: “You know the door to my very soul/You’re the light in my deepest, darkest hour”
The Bee Gees proved disco had a romantic side with the release of “How Deep Is Your Love.” It’s catchy, full of emotion, and makes you want to get out on the dance floor with your sweetheart.
“Just Like Heaven” by The Cure
Released: 1987
Album: Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me
Most romantic lyrics: “I kissed her face and kissed her head, and dreamed of all the different ways I had/To make her glow”
’80s alternative got a love song for the ages when “Just Like Heaven” was released. The lyrics and upbeat tempo make you smile while thinking about the person you want most. Don’t be surprised if you catch yourself humming it after you’ve listened.
“You and Me” by Lifehouse
Released: 2005
Album: Lifehouse
Most romantic lyrics: “And I don’t know why/I can’t keep my eyes off of you”
If you think back to the mid-2000s, there’s a good chance you heard “You and Me” on either the radio or in your favorite television show. It’s a tender song that captures that feeling of being the only two people in the world when you’re in love. It charted all over the world and is one of Lifehouse’s most popular songs to date.
“Purple Rain” by Prince
Released: 1984
Album: Purple Rain
Most romantic lyrics: “I only wanted to see you laughing in the purple rain”
“Purple Rain” is one of Prince’s most iconic and influential songs. It’s a ballad that combines multiple genres to create a unique and mesmerizing listening experience—and we totally understand if you put it on repeat.
“Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
Released: 1967
Album: United
Most romantic lyrics: “Ain’t no river wide enough/To keep me from getting to you, baby”
Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell released a soulful tribute to the power of love with “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” It’s a timeless duet that sounds electric and passionate each time you listen.
“Say You Won’t Let Go” by James Arthur
Released: 2016
Album: Back From the Edge
Most romantic lyrics: “Darling, your love is more than worth its weight in gold”
“Say You Won’t Let Go” is a raw and sentimental song that anyone who’s been in love can relate to. People all over the world loved this song when it was released, so much so that the song claimed the number one spot on several charts globally.
“Tennessee Whiskey” by Chris Stapleton
Released: 2015
Album: Traveller
Most romantic lyrics: “But when you poured out your heart I didn’t waste it/’Cause there’s nothing like your love to get me high”
Chris Stapleton’s cover of “Tennessee Whiskey” is a country love song with a soulful touch of R&B. It’s the perfect song to serenade your love with (even if country typically isn’t your genre of choice).
“Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green
Released: 1971
Album: Let’s Stay Together
Most romantic lyrics: “’Cause you make me feel so brand new/And I want to spend my life with you”
50 years after its release, “Let’s Stay Together” remains one of the best love songs recorded. It’s an iconic soul song that’s been covered by numerous artists and featured in movies and television. Start streaming now to feel the soul—and the love.
“I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz
Released: 2008
Album: We Sing. We Dance. We Steal Things.
Most romantic lyrics: “This, oh this, this is our fate, I’m yours”
Endearing and upbeat, “I’m Yours” is a love song you’ll find stuck in your head long after it’s concluded. It’s got this folk-pop sound that’s so soothing to listen to, especially when you’ve got love on the brain.
“Yellow” by Coldplay
Released: 2000
Album: Parachutes
Most romantic lyrics: “Look at the stars, look how they shine for you/And everything you do”
“Yellow” makes our list of the best love songs for multiple reasons, but the romantic and thoughtful lyrics really make the song shine. They’re so good, in fact, that they helped make “Yellow” an international hit. After creating a powerful love song like that, it was only a matter of time before Coldplay took the world by storm.
“Mirrors” by Justin Timberlake
Released: 2013
Album: The 20/20 Experience
Most romantic lyrics: “‘And now it’s clear as this promise/That we’re making two reflections into one”
“Mirrors” is a tribute to finding your other half and creating a beautiful life with them. It’s a powerful and catchy song you may put on repeat a time or two.
“Can’t Fight This Feeling” by REO Speedwagon
Released: 1984
Album: Wheels Are Turnin’
Most romantic lyrics: “You’re a candle in the window on a cold, dark winter’s night”
REO Speedwagon added another number one hit to their collection with “Can’t Fight This Feeling.” Anyone who’s ever had a crush can relate to the powerful feeling that’s sung about. It makes you want to run to the person you want ASAP and hold them in your arms.
“We Found Love” by Rihanna featuring Calvin Harris
Released: 2011
Album: Talk That Talk
Most romantic lyrics: “We found love in a hopeless place”
Rihanna and Calvin Harris struck pop-techno gold with “We Found Love.” It found love on the charts, claiming the top spot across the globe—and even won a Grammy for Best Short Form Music Video. It’s fast-paced, electric, and makes you want to fall in love.
“Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler
Released: 1983
Album: Faster Than the Speed of Night
Most romantic lyrics: “Forever’s gonna start tonight”
You know we couldn’t make a list of the best love songs and not include this iconic ballad. “Total Eclipse of the Heart” is compelling from start to finish—both you and your sweetheart will be belting out the chorus in no time.
“You’re My Best Friend” by Queen
Released: 1976
Album: A Night at the Opera
Most romantic lyrics: “And I want you to know that my feelings are true, I really love you/Oh, you’re my best friend”
Some of the best love songs reflect on love in a realistic and sentimental way, which is exactly what “You’re My Best Friend” does. Queen’s hit song tells the truth, plain and simple: “You’re the best friend that I’ve ever had.” Sound like your special someone?
Now that you have a stellar playlist, check out how to celebrate Valentine’s Day, according to your zodiac sign.
