Valentine’s Day is rolling around again making us feel very lovey-dovey indeed. We’ve pulled together a list of the most heartfelt songs from classic romantics like Sade to modern heartthrobs like the Weeknd. Whether you are taken or crushing hard this Valentine’s Day we’ve got the playlist to make your evening extra special.
The Weeknd – ‘Call Out My Name’
The Weeknd is this generation’s master of love songs so it was tough to pick just one song of his our playlist. We settled on ‘Call Out My Name’ the stripped-back R&B ballad with a booming bassline that you’ll want to serenade your lover with. The lyric ‘call out my name when I kiss you so gently’ is sure to have them swooning.
Al Green – ‘Let’s Stay Together’
The smoothest love song around. Al Green’s ‘Let’s Stay Together’ is essential in any Valentine’s playlist. Play this heartfelt slow number this year and promise your partner you’ll love them “whether times are good or bad, happy or sad”.
Sade – ‘By Your Side’
This lush laid-back number from Sade will set the mood for a romantic evening whatever your plans are this Valentine’s Day. In the lyrics to ‘By Your Side’ Sade promises to always comfort her lover and lift them up. How much more romantic can you get?
Beyoncé – ‘Love On Top’
Beyoncé’s ‘Love on Top’ will have you feeling like Juliet as you bop along to this throwback with your Romeo. With four key changes and that beautiful whistle tone, the singer demonstrates why she’s number one on this track. Just like Beyoncé sings we hope you’ll be smiling ear to ear with this jubilant showstopper.
Frank Ocean – ‘Thinkin Bout You’
The certified platinum song ‘Thinkin Bout You’ is the perfect way to hint to your crush your feelings for them. The lyrics in the smooth modern R&B classic intimately express the longing that Ocean feels towards his crush and how he wonders if they feel the same way back. The silky production and Ocean’s gorgeous falsetto will have you feeling some type of way.
Steve Lacy – ‘Bad Habit’
‘Bad Habit’ took the world by storm last year with the song trending on TikTok and peaking at number one on the Billboard top 100. The yearning Lacy expresses in the lyrics paired with the dreamy backing vocals and sweet guitar riffs makes this song totally romantic. You and your crush will be harmonising to it together in no time.
Lana Del Rey – ‘Video Games’
‘Video Games’ is an early number from Lana’s catalogue but it’s still romantic as ever detailing Lana’s devotion to her lover. The singer is at the height of her glamourous Americana tragedy in this sweet song you can sway with your partner to. Lana’s crooning “it’s you, it’s you, it’s all for you/everything I do” is bound to get you feeling soppy.
Rihanna – ‘Love On the Brain’
Rihanna’s doo-wop and soul-inspired ballad ‘Love on the Brain’ has us all making gooey eyes. Rihanna channels a mix between Amy Winehouse and Etta James to bring us a romance song for the ages. It’s another necessity for a magical Valentine’s evening.
Prince – Purple Rain
The late great Prince knew the secrets to the heart. Though it’s sort of a breakup song it still conveys deep love and soul that means it would be a shame to discount it. This timeless classic is full of emotion and perfect for slow dancing with your lover around the living room.
Words By: Molly Sutherland
Graphics Header Image By Mia Washbrook
