As social media stories light up with couples galore, flowers and chocolates sell out in stores and love is running rampant, choosing the right tune can help set the mood. Whether this Valentine’s Day is spent out at dinner with a partner, friends, family or spending an evening alone, here are some good picks to accompany the Hallmark holiday.
“It Had to Be You” by Frank Sinatra
Leave it to “Swoonatra” to sing jazz about the thrill that is love. “It Had to Be You” is a contrast to that thrill. Rather, it speaks to the comfort that love can bring. Famously featured in the soundtrack of “When Harry Met Sally,” the sound of serenading strings, a low voice of a lover and a tranquil trumpet line congregate to parade the feeling only that special someone can give.
Best enjoyed with a glass of wine, champagne or potion of your preference, pair it with the sweetness of chocolate and love. After all, Sinatra always did.
“Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars
This debut solo single off Bruno Mars’ debut album “Doo-Wops & Hooligans” was an instant hit. Even 16 years later, the song is just as touching as the day it was released in 2010.
“Just the way you are,” Bruno Mars sings that he wouldn’t change anything about his girl, assuring the listener that they are perfect as is and that “when you smile, the whole world stops and stares for a while.”
This pop ballad reinforces an unconditional love that does not require the other person to change, but celebrates them just the way they are.
“Be My Baby” by The Ronettes
Inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999, “Be My Baby” by the bad girl group of the 1960s is an all-time favorite by several generations. Used all over TikTok, Gen Z has particularly acclimated themselves to this selection, as well as several others by The Ronettes.
The way to describe this classic: the butterflies one feels on that first date. The prolonged, exhilarating episode of fantasization that hits in the middle of class as you begin believing that this may actually be the one. Naturally, this is a great one for all the singles out there.
“L-O-V-E” by Nat King Cole
An oldie but a goodie, “L-O-V-E” was originally released in 1964. The soft, swingy jazz song immediately sets a romantic mood. The jazz icon Nat King Cole croons, “take my heart and please don’t break it. Love was made for me and you,” as he assures the listener of his affection.
In a fun wordplay similar to an acrostic poem, Nat King Cole spells out the word love and what it means to him. Fans of the 1998 family comedy “The Parent Trap” may recognize the song from the movie’s opening sequence.
“Kiss Me Quick” by Elvis Presley
Wouldn’t anyone love to kiss him quick? For readers who are without love this year, no need to fret — Elvis always makes the heart dance. From the “Pot Luck with Elvis” album, the combination of The King’s voice and ceaseless charisma will make anyone want to fall in love.
A pop ballad featuring The Jordainaires, a rock pulse is certainly evident, perhaps alluding to an intermittent relationship. Nonetheless, his pleading melodic lines remind one of the insistent nature that frequently arises in a certain kind of fling.
“I’m Gonna Love You” by Cody Johnson and Carrie Underwood
Released in 2024, this song is the lead single off the deluxe edition of Cody Johnson’s ninth studio album, “Leather.” The two country stars join up to intertwine their vocals for a laid-back song, acknowledging the hardships of life, but regardless of them, they sing to each other of a persistent love. A low-profile production allows the singers to shine, as they compare their lasting and true love to other inevitabilities of life.
“Everybody Loves Somebody” by Dean Martin
A tune written by the composer, lyricist and screenwriter Irving Taylor and pianist Ken Lane, Martin released his recording of the song in 1964. Near the time of its debut, the Italian American entertainer’s hit dethroned The Beatles’ “A Hard Day’s Night” from the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100, catapulting straight to the top.
The “King of Cool” who hosted his own series “The Dean Martin Show,” frequently sang on air about longing, love, devotion, heartbreak and all that lies between. The chart-topping single echoes the purest form of love and affection: the kind you hope that every single person experiences.
“XO” by John Mayer
Beyoncé originally released “XO” as the lead single on her 2013 studio album simply titled “Beyoncé.” Her version is an electro-pop ballad that makes heavy use of electronic instruments. Two years later, John Mayer received permission to cover the song and put his own unique spin on it.
Mayer’s rendition changes the feel of the song, removing the electronic sound and replacing it with just a piano and harmonica. This version of the song is now more plaintive and simple, but all the more intimate and romantic for the changes. While Beyoncé’s version was deservedly popular, John Mayer adds a certain sweetness and gentleness to the song.
“I Only Have Eyes for You” by The Flamingos
“You are here and so am I. Maybe millions of people go by, but they all disappear from view and I only have eyes for you.”
Moving slowly, stuck in time, wishing that special moment would never end. The ambiance of “I Only Have Eyes for You” sincerely feels like a daydream. Just two people, locking eyes, forgetting there is an entire world outside of the infatuation they possess for each other — the type of endearment that feels hypnotic.
“Bones – Wedding Version” by Russell Dickerson
The lead single on “Famous Back Home,” Russell Dickerson’s fourth studio album, “Bones” is an anthem to a love that lasts until death. Dickerson wrote the song for his wife, Kailey, who married him over a decade ago and now has two children with him.
The song covers the span of a relationship, from the nervous moments of first meeting, through marriage, and all the way until death after many long and fulfilling years together. The wedding version of the song replaces the original driving guitar strum with a string and piano instrumental accompaniment that makes the song that much more tender and meaningful.