Valentine's Day Songs

I must admit, I do like Valentine’s Day. Yes- I know people think it is over-commercialized, over-done, and out of style. However, if you focus on the meaning of Valentine’s Day, there is no reason to dislike the holidayJ. The true meaning is of course love, but that could mean parental love, romantic love, family love, sibling love, or friendship love. Instead of posting about gift ideas (since I am probably the worst gift-giving person ever), I have decided to provide a list of songs for Valentine’s Day (or really any day for that matter).  Side note and example: One year, my husband bought me an iPad mini. What did I get him? A waffle maker…….I’m so ashamed haha. I'm awful at gift giving! Most of the songs on this list are romantic in nature, but others are songs that are the perfect message for a family member or friend. Many of these songs hold a special place in my heart, and I hope you enjoy them too!

                                                                                                               Image Courtesy of  Feelart at FreeDigitalPhotos.net

1. Thinking Outloud by Ed Sheeran

Our wedding song—and the inspiration for my blog J This song is about growing old with someone and how although physical appearance and age may change, the love you feel will never fade. Can I also just say that Ed sounded INCREDIBLE Sunday night at the Grammys? I am so happy we chose this song to be our wedding song.

2. The Way You Look Tonight by Michael Buble (or if you are my husband—by Harry Connick, Jr. Yes we fight over which crooner we like best haha.)

The song my father and I danced to at my wedding. A truly special song—from one of our favorite films: “Father of the Bride.”

3. All of Me by John Legend

Our “song” before it became way too popular! We opted for a different song (#1) for our first dance, but this song is so beautiful I had to put it on the list.

4. Home is Wherever I’m With You by Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros

An upbeat, cute, song with a simple, but true message.  

5. Give Me Love by Ed Sheeran

Bittersweet but beautifully written and sung.

6. Crazy Love by Michael Buble

I love Michael Buble (whom my husband refers to as Michael Bubbles). Not only is this song perfect because I can actually sing along with it, but I think you can really sense his emotions. This song is romantic, sweet, and a great tribute to someone you love.  

7. Falling Slowly by Glen Hansard & Marketa Irglova

This is the central song from the film “Once.” If you have not seen “Once” you must put it on your watch list immediately. This movie is a musical based in Ireland (need I say more?), and provides the perfect example of “fate” and how you might meet people exactly when you need them most. A meaningful song from a meaningful movie.

8. Just the Way You Are by Billy Joel

Any song that Billy Joel sings belongs on some sort of list. He is probably one of my favorite singers of all time. I think what I love most about this song is its simple message: don’t change who you are. Your “person” fell in love with YOU! The good times, the bad times, they will stick by you no matter what.

9. I Choose You by Sara Bareilles

I love Sara Bareilles. I had the lucky, accidental chance to see her at a “Life is Good” concert a few years ago (the first concert my husband and I attended together—also the same day that I started to fall deeply in love with him—I will save that story for another day ;)). This song would be a great choice for a first dance song—might be a little hard to dance to—but the lyrics are on point. Also- if you haven’t seen her music video for this song you must watch it now!!! She helps two people with their proposals! Seriously—she is such a cool and kind person. She seems like someone who would be a great friend. And yes—the music video might bring you to tears… I am not talking from experience or anything. (I just watched it again as typing this—gosh darn! Gets me every time!)

10. Remember When by Alan Jackson

Want another song that will make you cry? (In a good way of course). Then listen to this song by Alan Jackson. This song is my parent’s song now. This is also the song that we played at our wedding for the “Anniversary Dance.” This is what love is about: loving through the years. The ups, the downs, having children, seeing those children grow up, and growing old together. Love and marriage is such a blessing. You get to spend your life with someone—from the younger years to the older years. Seeing my parents, Jim’s parents, and my grandparents dancing together to this song was beautiful.  

11. When I Say I Do by Matthew West

This song is faith-based, and would be a beautiful first dance song or song during the wedding ceremony. My aunt actually had her daughter sing this song at her wedding this summer and it was so touching. If you get a chance, read the lyrics. They reiterate the notion that your vows aren’t just words to say one day of your life—they are the words you will live by, you will honor, and act upon each and every day.  

12. Your Song by Elton John

I have always loved this song. This song could be for anyone you love—friend, mother, father, sister, brother, friend, etc. It’s just an all around wonderful song.

13. All You Need is Love by The Beatles

I had to include this song. Upbeat, honest, and simple. Again, this song could be for anyone in your life. Love is such a powerful gift—sometimes people forget that it is the best gift you can give to someone.

14. Fly Me to the Moon by Frank Sinatra

I first heard this song in my uncle’s car with the top down when I was probably ten. This song has a special place in my heart—whenever I hear it I think of my uncle. This song is for anyone—a catchy, jazzy, and timeless song.

15. L.O.V.E  by Nat King Cole

The voice of Nat King Cole was a staple at my parent’s house at Christmastime. So naturally, I had to include at least one of his songs on here. This song reminds me of “The Parent Trap” with Lindsay Lohan, which my sisters and I were obsessed with. This song is a great, catchy, love-based tune.

16. What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong

A pure classic. This song, again, could be for anyone you love. The song details the day-to-day happenings, but in a way that makes them seem extraordinary. The little things in life are what are important, and I love the way this song describes them.

I hope you have enjoyed my list of “love” songs! What are your favorite songs? I would love to hear from you!

Happy Tuesday J