Valentine's Day Songs

Valentine's Day Songs

Sarah Riccio

It's that romantic time of year again and you're wondering about the best Valentine's Day songs, right? Well, you've come to the right place! Here you'll find the top 25 best songs for Valentine's Day, from legendary classics to the big hits of today. And don't worry — I picked something for folks not feeling the holiday spirit too. 

Read on for my list of the 25 best Valentine's Day songs!

1. "A Thousand Years" by Christina Perri (2011)

The message behind this charming tune is simple: "I've loved you for a thousand years. I'll love you for a thousand more." Three cheers for everlasting love! 

2. "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" by Roberta Flack (1968)

This is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful love songs ever written, and I'm not here to argue. Its slow and intentional lyrics hit you right in your feels! Roberta Flack's angelic voice transports you back to the '60s, making it a great Valentine's Day song for seniors. 

3. "Just the Way You Are" by Bruno Mars (2010)

Looking for a way to tell your lover they're perfect exactly as they are? Let Bruno Mars do the talking (well, singing, that is). This romantic pop hit is upbeat and happy, just like Valentine's Day should be!

4. "Let's Stay Together" by Al Green (1971)

This unforgettable chart-topper is more than just romantic — it's culturally and historically significant (and not just because Barack Obama sang it to an audience at the Apollo Theater in 2012). Rolling Stone ranked it the 60th greatest song of all time, and it definitely deserves a spot on your Valentine's Day playlist. 

5. "You Are The Best Thing" by Ray LaMontagne (2008)

For those in search of romantic Valentine's Day songs in the American-folk genre, this is a must-play. And hey, if you're looking for a way to express your feelings through song, this title doesn't leave a lot of room for interpretation! 

6. "Stay With Me" by Sam Smith (2014)

This slow, gospel-style ballad from Sam Smith brings unexpected and very welcome romance to the one-night-stand. "Stay With Me" debuted in 2014, quickly topped all the charts, and remains Smith's most successful song today.  

7. "Tennessee Whiskey" by Chris Stapleton (2015)

This sultry country tune was originally written in the '80s, but there's just something about Chris Stapleton's cover that moves the soul. Its lyrics are smooth, evocative, and perfect for your Valentine's Day collection of songs.

8. "Adore You" by Harry Styles (2019)

Even if you aren't a Harry Styles stan, there's no denying how catchy and romantic this song is. If you're gearing up for a Valentine's date, don't forget to add this gem to the playlist. 

9. "Let's Get It On" by Marvin Gaye (1973)

If you're wondering what's the most played song on Valentine's Day, here it is. Well, it's one of them, anyway. This is the kind of love song you add to the end of your Valentine's Day playlist, so it plays toward the end of the night... 

10. "Crash" by Dave Matthews Band (1996)

This romantic tune is perfect for a Valentine's Day slow dance, and blends influences from folk, rock, and alternative genres. And I think I speak for everyone when I say there's just something special about romantic guitar songs. 

11. "Thinkin' Out Loud" by Ed Sheeran (2014)

We can't talk about the best Valentine's songs without mentioning Ed Sheeran. But if you're trying to narrow his works down to one must-have song, his fans consider this one of the most romantic songs ever sung. 

12. "I Have Nothing" by Whitney Houston (1992)

You knew Whitney Houston was going to be on this list. Even if this hit song didn't feature some of the most romantic lyrics ever written (which it totally does), Whitney's voice gives us chills all by itself. 

13. "All of Me" by John Legend (2013)

The romantic piano chords in this chart-topping tune set the perfect mood for a Valentine's Day date. Bonus points for playing this song over a candlelit dinner! 

14. "Can't Take My Eyes Off Of You" by Frankie Valli (1966)

"You're just too good to be true, can't take my eyes off you." The romantic lyrics in this classic Frankie Valli song are as flattering as they are blunt, making it a perfect pick to send to your Valentine's crush. 

15. "I'm On Fire" by Bruce Springsteen (1984)

This American classic has a soft rock/rockabilly mood that's perfect for cuddling to. If you're enjoying a relaxed and romantic Valentine's Day date, queue this up, close your eyes, and enjoy your company.

16. "Because You Loved Me" by Celine Dion (1996)

This mega-hit is the theme song from the movie Up Close & Personal, but actually became more popular than the movie itself! If that's not a ringing endorsement for this romantic tune, I don't know what is. 

17. "Make You Feel My Love" by Adele (2008)

Yes, this is a cover of a Bob Dylan song, and we wouldn't dare deny credit to the King of lyricism. But Adele's rich vocals combined with romantic piano chords make this song a wee bit more romantic than the original, in my opinion (don't hate me, Dylan fans!).

18. "Valentine's Day" by Linkin Park (2007)

I told you I picked an anti-Valentine's Day song for folks not really feelin' it this year. If you're having a very broody holiday (but still want to listen to songs with "Valentine" in the lyrics), throw on his heartbreaker and wail away! 

19. "God Only Knows" by The Beach Boys (1966)

This avant-pop love song by The Beach Boys takes us in and out of feeling totally in love, and being terrified of what life would be like without that love. Another great Valentine's Day song for seniors! 

20. "Can't Help Falling In Love" by Haley Reinhart (2016)

This is one of the most beautiful love songs ever written, and has been covered again and again. This particular version made the list because Haley Reinhart's fresh and whispery vocals feel especially romantic and suitable for Valentine's Day festivities!