Love can be expressed in many ways.
From romantic dinner dates to wearing a matching outfit and watching a romantic movie together, there’s no right or wrong way to express affection to your significant other.
But true love can also arrive in the form of soothing lyrics.
Below, we’ve got a list of the best love songs of all time to spice up your romantic moments.
1. “We Belong Together” – Mariah Carey
Coming in at number #1 is Mariah Carey’s “We Belong Together,” the embodiment of modern love with a self-explanatory message about breaking from a relationship.
It blends an almost perfect music video with emotional lyrics, bringing back the original Mariah Carey everyone fell in love with her music.
2. “You Belong With Me” By Taylor Swift
“You Belong With Me” is like most of Taylor Swift’s sensational hits, only this time, the talented American songwriter describes an unspoken love.
In the track, Swift is secretly attracted to her neighbor. However, the guy doesn’t seem to reciprocate the love, choosing to love another girl instead.
It is a classic teenage love story packed with jealousy, romance, and unrequited love.
3. “Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran
Songs about love don’t come any better than Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud.” The soulful song is about romance, referencing the idea of being deeply in love with someone forever.
“Thinking Out Loud” is yet another example of Sheeran’s songwriting prowess and won’t be a bad option if you want to spice up your intimate moments.
4. “Die A Happy Man” – Thomas Rhett
If anyone wants to talk about romantic lyrics, they’d probably start by mentioning Thomas Rhett. He’s given us amazing songs in the past, and this 2015 romantic love song is about his wife.
So beautifully sung the track is almost flawless. And as the great poet he is, Thomas describes his wife as a ‘goddess,’ a ‘masterpiece,’ and a ‘saint,’ showering her with the highest level of praise anyone can give.
5. “Love Me Like You Do (From “Fifty Shades Of Grey”)” By Ellie Goulding
This smooth, 2014 mid-tempo ballad is the glue that will hold your relationship together. The narrator gets an indescribable sensation every time her lover touches her.
Besides topping the UK singles chart for 4 straight weeks, this track was also nominated for the 58th Grammy Awards in the category of Best Solo Performance.
Its success was reflected by its increased popularity in the mainstream market, boasting 1 billion views on YouTube.
6. “Let It Go (From ‘Frozen’)” – Demi Lovato
Demi Lovato’s “Let It Go” is one of the most relatable tracks on our list. It has remained relevant because of the strong message about letting go and accepting to move on.
You can interpret it as a truly inspiring song encouraging everyone to accept themselves without worrying about the haters’ opinions.
Lovato was inspired to write this song by her life story, recalling her dark past and her ultimate rise to stardom.
7. “Battlefield (Feat. Jordin Sparks) – Jonas Brothers
“Battlefield” is a 2009 Jordin Sparks ballad that compares love to a real battlefield.
The storyline is about a troubled relationship because no party is willing to calm down.
Perhaps the simplest interpretation of the lyrics is that passionate relationships require strength and perseverance, just like a battlefield.
And without that, things can get worse pretty quickly.
8. “Someone Like You” – Adele
Lyrically, Adele’s 2011 ballad is about the end of her relationship with her first boyfriend. It is a moving track that again shows Adele’s lyrical prowess when creating romantic songs.
Commercially, “Someone Like You” is one of the best songs ever, peaking in many countries, including Ireland, Australia, the UK, New Zealand, and the US.
By 2015 alone, Adele had sold more than 1.5 million copies of the song. Perhaps Adele’s most memorable performance of this track was at the 2011 BRI Awards, propelling her to stardom status.
9. “All I Have To Give” – Backstreet Boys
“All I Have To Give” is a tender ballad that expresses the desire to do everything it takes to maintain a relationship.
It is an exciting addition to any playlist because of the compelling lyrics that mean so much to any lovebirds.
The track debuted at #2 on the UK Singles Chart and peaked at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming the band’s 3rd track to appear on the top 10 list.
10. “I Want You To Need Me” – Celine Dion
If you hear a lovely voice and a beautiful composition in a 90s track, it’s probably Celine Dion.
Isn’t it impressive how some artists produce timeless classics without appearing to try so hard?
Celine Dion’s “I Want You To Need Me” was one of the greatest songs in 1999 and early 2000s, receiving plenty of attention from music lovers for all the good reasons.
The highlight of its success was topping the Canadian Singles Chart in 2000, with many impressed by the singer’s lyrical prowess.
The track is about getting attracted to someone but being reluctant to say the 4 letter word because “you want them to need you.”
11. “Careless Whisper” – George Michael
“Careless Whisper” is a 1980 romance song about George Michael and his lover. The singer cheats on his lover and can’t get over the guilt accompanying his actions.
While the song was recorded and released almost two decades ago, it hasn’t lost relevance in the modern dating market, with relatable lyrics to any heartbroken fellow.
12. “You’re Still The One” – Shania Twain
Shania Twain is famous for his pop vocals and country melodies, becoming one of the best artists in the 1990s.
In this popular song about love, the Canadian singer reflects on her love life with Robert John, a union that attracted plenty of criticism because of John’s age.
“You’re Still The One” was considered a clap back to Twain’s haters, with the two lovebirds using the criticism to build their brand.
Reflecting on their deep affection, one can’t help but admire Twain’s narrations in this track, emphasizing that they’ve won against all odds and won’t succumb to the negative vibes.
13. “Crush” – David Archuleta
“Crush” is a 2008 debut single by the American pop artist David Archuleta.
As the title suggests, David only talks about what everyone goes through when crushing on someone; the physical rush, the electric spark, and the intense attraction.
The track debuted at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, selling over 160,000 copies within the first week. This also made it one of David’s best-performing songs ever.
14. “Forever And For Always” – Shania Twain
Shania Twain’s “Forever And For Always” is an undisputed love anthem from her 2002 ‘Up’ album.
It had an impressive performance in the mainstream market, getting nominated for two slots at the 2004 Grammy Awards (Best Female Vocal Performance and Best Country Song).
As the smooth lyrics go, the message in this song becomes crystal clear, one of joy, love, and satisfaction.
15. “Love Like Woe” – The Ready Set
The message in this track becomes clear in the lines, “I’m giving all I got to make you stay/Or am I just a roadblock in your way?”
Besides carrying the romantic lyrics, this song also idealizes a sad feeling because the person doesn’t replicate the singer’s love.
It is one of those upbeat tunes you should listen to when creating a killer playlist.
16. “Lay Me Down” – Sam Smith
In this track, the narrator is filled with a somber mood as he describes the end of a chapter.
It’s about a strong desire to reunite with your loved one who’s either far away or dead.
The music video was the subject of heavy criticism from some sections, thanks in part to its gay content.
17. “Come Away With Me” – Norah Jones
A slow, peaceful track, Norah Jones’ “Come Away With Me” is a passionate plea to someone she loves.
In the slow, soothing tune, the narrator is asking his significant other to “Come Away With Me,” no matter the circumstances.
The tune is refreshing, and it’s quite a shame it never peaked in any of the popular charts.
18. “Try a Little Tenderness” – Otis Redding
Of course, some of the most romantic songs in history were purely based on love advice.
And going back to 1967, we find Otis Redding’s classic tune about women’s happiness.
Listen to the lyrics yourself and be the judge when it comes to misogynistic claims.
19. “Just The Way You Are (Feat. Bridget Kelly)” – Bruno Mars
A simple, soothing, and comforting R&B song, “Just The Way You Are” is a romantic song that describes a man who’s deeply in love with his better half.
It is the ultimate romantic song, with the narrator asserting that his significant other doesn’t have to change anything to earn his love.
The track boils down to the singer’s feelings, declaring that he will never grow tired of his lover, no matter how situations change.
Isn’t that what everybody desires from a romantic relationship?
20. “Hey There Delilah” – The Plain White T’s
Many people can attest to the struggles of long-distance relationships. This track describes two lovers in a similar arrangement and the challenges they have to contend with.
The song was a huge success for The Plain White T’s, with many impressed by the clear lyrics and plain message even though the narrator never dated Delilah in real life.
21. “If I Didn’t Have You” – Thompson Square
“Sometimes it feels like, I’m gonna break/Sometimes, this world gives more than I can take/Sometimes, sunshine gets lost in the rain.”
These are the first three lines in Thompson Square’s 2012 country song.
We all need someone to walk with us through life’s journey, which is what Thompson expresses in this track.
22. “At Last” – Etta James
“At Last” is a wedding staple about finding the perfect lover.
It became James’ signature track with passionate lyrics about what true love really is.
23. “Something” – The Beatles
“Something” is a powerful love song that brought George Harrison into the limelight as one of the greatest songwriters ever.
It is still one of the band’s best-performing tracks that will get you in the mood with your better half, a classic love song.
24. “Part-Time Lover” – Stevie Wonder
We’ve all had some troubles in our relationships. And this track by Stevie Wonder fits the same context, describing a cheating partner.
They are part-time lovers because they have to keep their relationship secret.
But in a classic turn of events, Wonder finds out that her partner is in another ‘secret relationship,’ making for an intriguing end for the listeners, but not quite so for the heartbroken singer.
Wonder released this track as part of his 1985 ‘In Square Circle’ album, peaking at #3 on the UK singles chart.
25. “How Deep Is Your Love” – Bee Gees
This song is a mix of R&B, pop, and disco, written by the three brothers, Maurice Gibb, Robin, and Barry. It is one of the most poetic, romantic love songs anyone can relate to.
In this track, the narrator wants to know how deep the addressee’s love is. One could say that the vocalist simply needs assurances from his partner that her love is just as strong as he thinks.
“How Deep Is Your Love” was a massive hit around the world, becoming a number one track in many countries, including the US.
26. “Purple Rain – Prince
Prince shares his passionate lyrics in this 11-minute track about being with that one person that completes your world during an apocalypse.
A chart-topping tune that sold millions of copies, there’s no reason not to include this track in your romantic playlist.
27. “I Knew I Loved You” – Savage Garden
Savage Garden’s “I Knew I Loved You” describes the satisfying feeling of finding a soul mate.
It was is chart-topping 1999 piece that followed closely in the footsteps of the duo’s other hit song, “Truly Madly Deep.”
For the romantic guys that have just fallen in love, this is the perfect track to describe your feelings.
28. “Thinkin’ About You” – Britney Spears
This track sums up the feeling when you can’t stop thinking about your lover and need their company.
Lyrically, it was one of the best songs from the “Princess of Pop,” becoming a staple in romantic events.
29. “Love The Way You Lie (Feat Rihanna)” – Eminem
This masterpiece is for a dramatic couple that can’t stop fighting every day but still goes out looking for one another.
It is a love song about the experiences of an abusive relationship. While the narrator knows his partner is dramatic, he simply can’t walk away because he’s madly in love with her.
Intense, frightening, and compelling at the same time, listening to this track will doubtless evoke different emotions.
30. “I Need To Know” – Marc Anthony
“I Need To Know” is a track from Marc Anthony’s 1999 album where the singer is attracted to a woman but wants to know if the lady has the same feelings for him.
The singer shows his expertise in this track by blending Latin music and R&B tune to send a powerful message about love.
Following its release, this track received impressive reviews from music lovers and critics, getting nominated for the 2000 Grammy Awards in the Best Male Pop Vocal Performance category.
The Spanish version of the track would go on to win the Song of the Year award at the Latin Grammy Awards.
31. “Hero/Heroine” – Boys Like Girls
“Hero/Heroine” by Boys Like Girls starts with the line, “It’s too late baby, there’s no turning around/I got my hands in my pocket and my head in a cloud.”
To cut the long story short, this track is about the uncertainties of life and how having that one caring person means a lot.
Boys Like Girls first released this song in 2006.
Unfortunately, the track never attracted huge commercial success at the time, prompting the band to re-release it in 2007, with the official music video premiering in November of the same year.
32. “Just The Way You Are” – Billy Joel
Billy Joel’s “Just The Way You Are” is an exceptional track expressing the purest form of unconditional love.
It was a dedication to his wife, illustrating the little things that make his lover special.
33. “Love On Top” – Beyoncé
Queen B needs no introduction to the R&B music industry. And “Love On Top” is the American singer at her best, oozing romantic lyrics that will make you appreciate the beauty of love.
If you haven’t listened to this beautiful piece, it certainly deserves a place in your greatest love song playlist.
34. “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” – Lauryn Hill
Lauryn Hill’s “Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” is one of the greatest love songs.
It is part of her 1998 ‘The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill’ album about finding a perfect match.
The track emphasizes that nothing feels better than two lovebirds in a perfect relationship.
If you need a beautiful love song for your better half, this song should be part of your romantic playlist.
35. “Love Of My Life” – Harry Styles
You simply can’t get enough of this Harry Styles piece of art.
The emotional ballad is about longing for lost love after realizing that you might have lost a gem by ending a relationship.
36. “Take My Breath Away” – Berlin
Many people will probably remember it from the 1986 ‘Top Gun’ film. But “Take My Breath Away” was Berlin’s narration about romantic longing.
It is a classic tune in all senses, topping the UK singles, the US Billboard Hot 100 charts, and many other music charts in the Netherlands, Ireland, Canada, and Belgium.
37. “By Your Side” – Sade
You won’t find a more sensual song than Sade’s 2000 soft rock.
The singer describes loyalty in love, talking about the role and strength of her lover while promising not to make him lonely.
The vibrant music video is one to remember, perfectly matching the soulful and sincere lyrics typical of the singer.
38. “You Are Everything” – The Stylistics
When you love someone, you feel like they complete your world. In some way, you start believing that nothing can go wrong in their company.
That’s what this flawless tune is all about, a British hit song written by Linda Creed and Thom Bell.
39. “Can’t Help Falling In Love” – UB40
“Can’t Help Falling in Love” is a 1961 song by Elvis Presley from his “Blue Hawaii” album. The UB40 version came out in 1993 as part of their ‘Promises and Lies’ album.
The track stayed at the #1 slot on the US Billboard Hot 100 for 7 straight weeks and has been used in several movies including Silver, Fools Rush In, and Hindsight.
UB40’s exemplary work on this song marked their short-term transition from reggae to reggae-pop, contributing to their success on the global landscape.
40. “Yellow” – Coldplay
“Yellow” is a simplistic song by the British rock band that has stood the test of time.
It is one of those songs that never goes away, receiving massive airplay since its release in 2000.
Yellow in this track is symbolic, representing brightness, hope, and devotion, the three elements defining true love.
41. “Your Love Is My Drug” – Kesha
In this track, Kesha compares her relationship to a drug, illustrating the deep euphoric thoughts someone gets when they are madly in love.
It is one to dedicate to your significant other to appreciate their presence in your life.
42. “You Are So Beautiful” – Joe Cocker
“You Are So Beautiful” has been recognized as one of the best love songs in history. However, the English singer clarifies that he dedicated the track to his mother.
Still, there’s no denying the lyrics would perfectly fit a romantic context, with the standard “You are so beautiful/to me” refrain.
43. “No Ordinary Love” – Sade
This song is for anyone who’s been in a relationship where their love was unrequited. It describes the sad moment a lover gives everything in a relationship, but it isn’t reciprocated.
In the midst of the sadness and confusion, Sade still craves the addressee’s love, believing that love isn’t just an ordinary feeling.
44. “Love Story” – Taylor Swift
Ever experienced a forbidden love where for some reason, your family or friends didn’t endorse your relationship?
That was the inspiration behind Taylor Swift’s excellent composition.
It is about a guy, or rather Joe Jonas, a celebrated American pop star whose relationship with Taylor Swift didn’t get her parents’ approval.
While the track has a happy ending, Jonas broke Taylor’s heart in real life in a 27-second phone call that set tongues wagging.
45. “I Wanna Love You Forever” – Jessica Simpson
“I Wanna Love You Forever” is obviously about love, with Jessica Simpson singing to someone she would like to be with forever.
This track is for you if you know how it feels to be in love.
46. “Truly Madly Deeply” – Savage Garden
Another one from Savage Garden.
While “I Knew I Loved You” was an instant hit, “Truly Madly Deeply” was even more successful, crowned the single of the year at the 1997 ARIA Music Awards.
The song portrays a theme of love, with the singer narrating his troubled past and how he’s willing to settle with that one person.
47. “Drunk In Love” – Beyonce
Beyonce just seems to get it right every time she gets into a studio to record a romantic song.
And in this 2013 track, Queen B becomes overtly romantic, singing, rapping, and sharing the moment with her husband, Jay-Z.
As the name alludes, “Drunk In Love” is about being lost in love. It is wild, energetic, sweet, and romantic. And who wouldn’t like that combination for a perfect love song?
48. “My Heart Will Go On” – Celine Dion
Celine Dion’s “My Heart Will Go On” is about enduring love. It is the perfect dedication to someone you love.
When people say true love never fades and endures any storm, Dion shows it in her music.
“My Heart Will Go On” is a beautiful composition with compelling lyrics, and the more you listen to it, the better you understand why it was the 1997 Titanic movie theme song.
49. “Crazy For You” – Madonna
“Crazy For You” is one of the greatest songs from the queen of pop and remains her best-ever love song to date.
Madonna’s magical voice makes the lyrics sweeter in a full confession of her love and sexual desire.
50. “Perfect” – Ed Sheeran
Nothing compares to Ed Sheeran’s magical voice in this 2017 love ballad. “Perfect” is one of those tracks that will make you appreciate true love.
There’s nothing to say about the vocals except for the sweet lyrics, “But darling, just kiss me slow/Your heart is all I own.”
51. “You Are The Best Thing” – Ray LaMontagne
Ray LaMontagne starts with the lyrics, “Baby/It’s been a long day, baby/Things ain’t going my way/You know I need you here.”
It is the perfect romantic song for the heartbroken fellows reminiscing about the good old days.
The track reached #5 on the Billboard Adult Alternative Songs chart and was Ray’s only track to appear on the US Billboard Hot 100.
52. “I Say A Little Prayer” – Aretha Franklin
This is a simple song describing the singer’s devotion to her lover. She is so deeply in love that she says a little prayer to him.
Aretha Franklin shows why she might be one of the most underrated artists of all time in a track that inspires, moves, and soothes.
53. “Stay With Me” – Sam Smith
“Stay With Me” is a sentimental track about one-night stands. It is about getting attached to someone you shouldn’t even be with and who doesn’t seem to reciprocate your love.
Smith’s song is just a beautiful work of art, combining creativity with passionate lyrics to keep his fans fully entertained.
54. “Endless Love” – Lionel Richie and Diana Ross
It will go down as one of the greatest love songs in history.
The 1981 ballad is self-explanatory, revealing a deep romantic bond between two lovebirds.
The song was featured in a 1981 movie with a similar name before climbing the Billboard charts to occupy the #1 slot the same year.
55. “Stand By Me” – Ben E. King
True love is everlasting affection. It is an unparalleled fondness for one another. It is all about being there for one another, even in adversity.
And “Stand By Me” was Ben E. King’s show-stopping tribute to his partner, Betty Nelson.
Benjamin King was a master of his craft, and even though he sadly passed away in 2015, his tracks still inspire many generations of musicians.
56. “Wish You Were Here” – Avril Lavigne
This love song is about losing someone important in your life and wishing to be with them again.
It is a 3-minute track that had a lasting impression on music critics, with many viewing it as the highlight of Avril’s 2011 album, ‘Goodbye Lullaby.’
57. “Take Me To Church (Feat. Nicole Atkins)” – Hozier
Hozier demonstrates his lyrical prowess in this track by using religious expressions when describing a romantic relationship.
It is a mid-tempo song with funny lyrics like, “Take me to church/I’ll worship like a dog at the shrine of your lies/I’ll tell you my sins, and you can sharpen your knife.”
Interestingly, this track became the highlight of Hozier’s career, propelling him to success when Columbia Records signed him.
58. “Right Here Waiting” – Richard Marx
Richard Marx was paying tribute to his wife, Cynthia Rhodes, in this 1989 soft rock track.
It is a reassuring song for a heartbroken lover or the loneliness of staying away from someone you love.
59. “Before He Cheats” – Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood’s “Before He Cheats” is a single from her debut album, ‘Some Hearts’ that talks about revenging on a potentially cheating partner.
It’s the perfect tune for anyone who’s ever fallen in love and topped the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for 5 weeks.
60. “Rock with You” – Michael Jackson
Is there a better way to round up our list than including a popular masterpiece from the ‘King of Pop’?
The gentle track references the magical nature of love, expressing the feelings of being with someone you adore.
Best Love Songs – Final Thoughts
Now, that’s a comprehensive list of the best love songs of all time to spice up your romantic moments.
Whether you are staying at home, battling a heartbreak, or relaxing with your significant other, our list has something for you.
Similar Playlists:
