107 Best Love Songs Of ALL Time! Inspire Romantic Moments

It’s often been said that music is a universal language, but perhaps the same could be said for love. Not surprsing, then, that music and love are deeply connected.

There is a near endless number of songs written about love, and some songwriters even hold up love as being the most powerful force in existence.

In this guide, we’ll look at the best love songs of all time to inspire romantic moments.

“Layla” by Derek And The Dominos

Song year: 1970

I’m not saying “Layla” by Derek and the Dominos isn’t a little scandalous. After all, Eric Clapton wrote it for George Harrison’s wife, Pattie Boyd.

But honestly. Can you think of a better song to put at the top of this list? This is an epic song, no matter how you look at it, and the guitar riffs are simply unforgettable.

When you can’t imagine your life without that someone special, there’s “Layla.”

“Can’t Help Falling In Love” by Elvis Presley

Song year: 1961

With a melody based on “Plaisir d’amour,” The King’s “Can’t Help Falling In Love” is unforgettable to put it mildly. The sparse lyrics seem to speak of quickly falling in love with someone special.

I’m sure most if not all of us can relate to that.

“Endless Love” by Lionel Richie & Diana Ross

Song year: 1981

When you know you’ve found someone amazing and want to spend the rest of your life with them, there’s “Endless Love.”

A little over the top? Maybe so. But it’s kind of hard to resist when it’s Lionel Richie and Diana Ross singing it.

“Wonderful Tonight” by Eric Clapton

Song year: 1977

Sometimes you just feel lucky to be with the person you’re with. They take your breath away, or they catch you off guard. You can hardly believe they’re in your presence.

“Wonderful Tonight” is all about admiration for the kindness and love someone treats us with.

“Stand By Me” by Ben E. King

Song year: 1961

I always thought of “Stand By Me” as a song about seeking and asking for support. But the repeated calls of “darling, darling” certainly make it seem like a love song as well.

Either way, it’s a classic and an incredible song, worthy of the high spot it occupies on this list.

“My Girl” by The Temptations

Song year: 1964

Have you ever felt so good about someone you love that you barely noticed anything else that was going on around you? I guess that’s what some call “being on cloud nine.”

“My Girl” by The Temptations is one of those songs that expresses that feeling well.

“I Will Always Love You” by Dolly Parton, A Top Country Love Song

Song year: 1974

You probably know the Whitney Houston version better, and to be fair, she really made it her own.

But Dolly Parton’s country ballad “I Will Always Love You” is where it all started. And her version isn’t too shabby either.

“You Make My Dreams” by Hall & Oates

Song year: 1980

This bouncy pop classic is sure to get you up on your feet. And I don’t think it matters much whether you’ve found someone that makes your dreams comes true, or if you’re still looking for them. Just get up and dance, and something good is bound to happen!

“That’s How Strong My Love Is” by Otis Redding

Song year: 1964

Love is a powerful emotion. But how exactly can you express it?

Well, in “That’s How Strong My Love Is,” the narrator isn’t exactly grasping at words. He expresses these feeling in a variety of ways.

“Friday I’m In Love” by The Cure

Song year: 1992

If you were to take the lyrics to “Friday I’m In Love” literally, you’d probably conclude that it’s a song about loving Friday. Not that there’s anything wrong with that… We’ve all felt the exhilaration of working hard all week, finally to make it to the weekend.

And, well… that’s basically what the song is about. Songwriter Robert Smith said it was a song about thanking god it’s Friday and wanting more of that feeling.

“The Very Thought Of You” by Billie Holiday

Song year: 1934

What are jazz songs about? Well, inevitably, they are about love. And that goes for the classic “The Very Thought Of You” too.

And it’s about how foolish you can feel being so in love, another common theme in jazz.

“Higher” by Harem Scarem

Song year: 2003

On a list like this, I always like to splash in a few of my personal favorites. But if you haven’t heard “Higher,” the ultimate modern power ballad, seriously, you’re missing out.

This song is insanely catchy, and it features some great guitar and vocal work besides.

The lyrics seem to evoke trouble and difficulty, but in the end the narrator declares: “When all is aid and done / You’re still the one / Taking me higher.”

“Time After Time” by Cyndi Lauper

Song year: 1983

Cyndi Lauper’s “Time After Time” hardly needs an introduction because it practically represents an era. Both the music and lyrics are impeccably written.

This song seems to be depicting a couple who sometimes finds themselves on different wavelengths or a little out of sync. But the narrator offers to stand by her special someone no matter what.

“When A Man Loves A Woman” by Percy Sledge

Song year: 1984

“When A Man Loves A Woman” is all about falling madly and deeply in love, expressing what you would do for someone just to hold onto them. You might be more familiar with the Michael Bolton version.

Don’t worry too much about the pronoun. Just enjoy the slow, lovely groove.

“Your Song” by Elton John

Song year: 1970

Even if you don’t recognize the title, there’s a good chance you’ve heard Elton John’s “Your Song.”

Although the word “love” never appears in this song, it is clearly dedicated to someone important. And it even says: “How wonderful life is while you’re in the world.”

“I Knew I Loved You” by Savage Garden

Song year: 1999

Have you ever met someone that seems to be straight out of your dream? Do you feel like you spent so much time imagining them, that when they finally appeared before you, it was as if you brought them to life?

That’s what this delicate love ballad, “I Knew I Loved You” is all about.

“I Love You Always Forever” by Donna Lewis

Song year: 1996

In the 90s you could hardly escape from Donna Lewis on easy listening radio, and “I Love You Always Forever” was the it song. It has a bit of a unique vibe, with a sparse and open soundscape, with Lewis’ vocals shining through as if a whisper.

Well, maybe that’s too much of a word picture. But I like this song.

“When You Love A Woman” by Journey

Song year:1988

Many people say they can see their future in their partner’s eyes. Journey’s “When You Love A Woman” expresses similar sentiments.

It reminds me a little bit of a Peter Cetera/Chicago style song, which is not a bad thing.

“Is This Love” by Whitesnake

Song year: 1987

The emotive “Is This Love” has got a beautiful chord progression. Of course, as with most ballads of its time, it quickly evolves into an all-out power ballad.

The narrator finds himself questioning whether he’s found the love he’s been looking for, but then concludes “This must be love / ‘Cause it’s really got a hold on me.”

I enjoy the guitar solos in this song too. They aren’t overdone and they fit in with the song amazingly.

“Faithfully” by Journey

Song year: 1983

The gigging life isn’t always easy. And it can test a relationship. But at the end of the day, if you love someone, you’ve got to show them that you care and that you’ll be there for them no matter what. That seems to be what Journey’s “Faithfully” is saying.

“You’re The Inspiration” by Chicago

Song year: 1984

It’s hard not to hear wedding bells in Chicago’s “You’re The Inspiration,” a song about having found meaning in someone special.

Some love the Adult Contemporary tinged Peter Cetera era of Chicago, some don’t. But this still stands as an incredible song.

“Everlong” by Foo Fighters

Song year: 1997

How many ways are there to say, “I love you?” As Foo Fighters’ “Everlong” proves, there are more ways than you might think.

Although even songwriter Dave Grohl has offered different interpretations of this song, we’ll hold what he said about being connected to someone physically and spiritually as true.

“Chasing Cars” by Snow Patrol

Song year: 2006

While not one of my favorites, “Chasing Cars” was kind of a big deal in 2006 when it was released.

Its “us against the world” sentiment is surely relatable to anyone who has been madly in love to the point where they’re jealous of their significant other spending time with anyone else. Intense.

Well, apparently it resonated with the 2006 audience, because it won multiple awards, including the Grammy Award for Best Rock Song.

“I’m Yours” by Jason Mraz

Song year: 2008

Of the beach dwelling, sun tanned, island feel acoustic acts of the early to mid-2000s, Jason Mraz kind of stood out. And that might be because the man is legitimately talented.

As is the case with many of his songs, “I’m Yours” is a wordy tune. Its core message might be to love yourself more than anyone else, though.

“Ain’t No Other Man” by Christina Aguilera

Song year: 2006

There’s no holding back or apologizing in Christina Aguilera’s “Ain’t No Other Man.” And its title, as well as its lyrics, couldn’t be more straightforward.

This song incorporates elements from 30s and 40s music, which is probably the best part about it.

“The Lady In Red” by Chris de Burgh, A Famous Love Song

Song year: 1986

If I told you that Chris de Burgh’s “The Lady In Red” was about his wife, then you’d have gotten the essence of the song.

Its premise, though, is based on the idea that a man never remembers exactly what his wife was wearing when he met her.

“(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” by Bryan Adams

Song year: 1991

Bryan Adams’ “(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” communicates what several other songs on this list have already given voice to.

What would you do for the person you love? How far would you go?

Only you can answer those questions, but the narrator in this song knows everything he does he does for his partner.

“Take My Breath Away” by Berlin

Song year: 1986

I don’t know if you can call this a straight up love song, but the music certainly seems to evoke that mood. And unquestionably it is about a couple who’s enthralled with each other.

The music is hard to forget. The title alone seems to bring it to mind. It’s just one of those songs.

“Can’t Stop Loving You” by Van Halen, Another Love Songs For Couples

Song year: 1995

With Sammy Hagar as their singer, for better or for worse, Van Halen started to show some musical range. “Can’t Stop Loving You” is a peppy rock-pop song with a simple message.

The lyrics made it sound as though the couple might be in trouble, but the narrator is convincing his partner to stay.

“I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” by Michael Jackson

Song year: 1987

How this song belongs on the Bad album beats me (get it?).

Kidding aside, this is a gentle piano ballad.

“Truly Madly Deeply” by Savage Garden

Song year: 1997

We often search for meaning in the ones we love. They give us a purpose, a reason for living, as it were.

There’s not a whole lot more to say about Savage Garden’s “Truly Madly Deeply” except that it gets stuck in your head incredibly easily.

“Just The Two Of Us” by Grover Washington, Jr.

Song year: 1981

Before Will Smith hijacked it (I say that in jest), “Just The Two Of Us” was a simple tune about love via Grover Washington, Jr. and Bill Withers. And like other songs already mentioned on this list, it’s got a bit of that “us against the world” feel to it.

I’m a big fan of the chord progression, arrangement, and groove. It’s smooth.

“When You’re Gone” by Bryan Adams ft. Melanie C

Song year: 1998

In the late 90s, we were treated to this collaboration between Canadian rocker Bryan Adams and Spice Girl Melanie C. The result is a catchy rock-pop tune destined to hit the airwaves.

When you’re deeply in love with someone, you end up missing them a lot. In some ways, you could say that’s a measure of how much you love them.

“When You’re Gone” should speak to you if you’ve been there.

“This Is Forever” by Hellberg feat. Danyka Nadeau, Best Modern Love Song

Song year: 2014

I admit that this is one of my personal favorites from the “golden age” of EDM that ran from about 2011 to 2014.

A catchy beat is accompanied by a simple vocal declaring the love “forever.” It might be lyrically sparse, but the feeling is contagious.

“Miss You In A Heartbeat” by Def Leppard

Song year: 1992

If there’s anything Def Leppard was masterful at, it was attracting both the male and female hair rocking contingent to their music. And they did this by writing and recording power ballads like “Miss You In A Heartbeat.”

I’ve beaten this dead horse, so I don’t need another listen through “Miss You In A Heartbeat” myself, but suffice it to say, like “When You’re Gone,” this is a song about missing someone you love when they’re not around.

“Nothing But Love” by Mr. Big

Song year: 1993

Mr. Big did everything so masterfully… including power ballads. I can think of so many that aren’t anywhere near as satisfying as this one.

Be it Eric Martin’s powerful vocals, the chord progression, the guitar playing, the melody and harmonies, or otherwise, there’s a lot to love about this tune.

“All My Lovin’” by Dan Reed Network

Song year: 1989

Dan Reed Network is a funk rock band that’s most famous for almost making it. Kind of a weird reputation to have, right?

The band was legitimately talented. I suppose I should say is talented because they’re back together making music again.

Anyway, “All My Lovin’” finds the band tapping into their gentler side to offer up a ballad.

Not much of a wordsmith, Reed’s lyrics are spare and simplistic. We’re sure even a first grader could figure out this one.

“I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing” by Aerosmith

Song year: 1998

I’d heard a rumor that Aerosmith singer Steven Tyler had heard this song while he was out and about, after which he told his band they should record a song like it.

I can’t confirm or deny this rumor. But “I Don’t Want To Miss A Thing” was a big thing in the late 90s, and it’s still remembered by many today.

“You Are So Beautiful” by Joe Cocker

Song year: 1974

Sometimes you don’t need to express your love in poetry. It can be as simple as saying “you are so beautiful.” Let the music do the rest. That’s the essence of this Joe Cocker tune.

But if your partner means everything to you, it will hit you between the eyes.

“Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion, A Love Song For Him

Song year: 1996

Celine Dion’s love of her late husband Rene Angelil is well-known, and the two were basically inseparable.

I don’t think we need to speculate on whether this is another tribute to him. But if you’ve ever appreciated someone deeply and have had a long-lasting relationship through thick and thin, you will certainly appreciate this one.

“Amanda” by Boston

Song year: 1986

Couples often talk about the first moment they declared love for the other. For men, it often occurs in a fit of passion. Which is exactly what Boston’s “Amanda” seems to be hinting at.

The song is orchestrated masterfully, with layers of instruments, builds, peaks and valleys, and guitar solos.

Boston may have taken a long time between albums, but they sure made great music.

“Love Me Tender” by Elvis Presley, Another Popular Love Song

Song year: 1956

This was one of the popular love songs of the 50s, which is still loved by many today. Who likes a simple, sweet song about love? Plenty of people I’m sure. And The King’s “Love Me Tender” seems to scratch itches many other songs simply cannot.

Presley adapted it from the melody of “Aura Lee,” which was a sentimental Civil War ballad.

“Open Arms” by Journey

Song year: 1982

It sounds as though the narrator may have gotten himself into a bit of trouble with his lover. But once she returns, he says he will show her what her love means to him, with “open arms.”

Love can have its own ups and downs, which is clearly reflected in this tune.

“Nothing Compares 2 U” by Sinead O’Connor

Song year: 1990

Should you banish images of shaved Sinead O’Connor closeups? Well, we’ll leave that to you. But here’s the thing – Prince was the one to pen this long-remembered hit.

This song is more so about troubled love than anything, as indicated from the second verse: “It’s been so lonely without you here / Like a bird without a song / Nothing can stop these lonely tears from falling.”

But sometimes you want someone back, right? And this is a good song for those moments.

“I Got U Babe” by Sonny & Cher

Song year: 1965

Things didn’t exactly work out between Sonny and Cher, but at one point, the two were clearly in love, and that no doubt inspired “I Got U Babe.”

This song is all about a couple overcoming together.

Ok we're about half way, let's look at some more songs about love. 🙂

“You Are The Sunshine Of My Life” by Stevie Wonder

Song year: 1973

This 1973 single won the Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. It features a bit of a jazzy, lighthearted vibe.

Though there’s probably nothing strange or unusual about the lyrics, the “Forever you’ll stay in my heart” line, if taken the wrong way, would suggest a love gone. That’s probably not what’s meant here.

“Keep On Loving You” by REO Speedwagon

Song year: 1980

You get the sense that the narrator in this song isn’t having an easy time with his girl. But he says he’s just going to keep on loving her.

It’s kind of a cheesy song, but the chorus is well-remembered.

“I’ll Be There For You” by Bon Jovi, A Famous Love Song

Song year: 1988

You can’t say Bon Jovi wasn’t romantic, even in their earlier hair metal days, and that is certainly reflected in the female contingent of their fan base.

Here we have “I’ll Be There For You,” which out the gate, sounds a bit like a blues song. But as it builds to the chorus, we find the narrator professing his love to his partner, who may be long gone.

Maybe she comes back? We don’t have the full story from the lyrics.

“Beth” by KISS

Song year: 1976

KISS certainly showed their sensitive side on “Beth,” in which the narrator reveals his wife, Beth, is waiting up for him while he’s busy working with the band.

It sounds like nothing if not autobiographical. I suppose it’s an example of how love works when you’re a performer or when you’re married to a performer.

“We Belong” by Pat Benatar

Song year: 1984

In “We Belong,” the narrator seems to be describing a bit of a troubled relationship, but in the end feels “we belong together.”

We’ve all met someone that made us feel like they belonged to us and we belonged to them. This is one of the best songs carrying that sentiment.

“When It’s Love” by Van Halen

Song year: 1988

When people point to Van Halen’s “uninspired” power ballads, generally they’re referring to “When It’s Love,” which, when subjected to lyrical scrutiny, basically collapses in on itself.

How do you know when it’s love? Sammy can’t tell you. No, literally – that’s what the lyrics say.

Better enjoy this one for the music. Because as you would expect from Van Halen, there’s plenty to listen to and grab hold of.

“Crazy For You” by Madonna

Song year: 1985

“Crazy For You” is your run of the mill pop song about being crazy for someone. There’s no ambiguity in the message either.

It is, however, a ballad instead of being a dance song. But it is of the good kind.

“I Would Die 4 U” by Prince

Song year: 1984

You can’t take Prince songs at face value. “I Would Die 4 U” certainly seems to carry sentiments of love, but the lyrics go on about the narrator being a messiah and unlike anything anyone has encountered.

Apparently, the songs is about the Holy Trinity in the Christian (or in this case Jehova’s Witness) tradition – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Of ccourse, godly love could be considered another kind of love too.

The song is insanely catchy.

“Kiss From A Rose” by Seal

Song year: 1994

“Kiss From A Rose” went onto become a big hit, even though the song was written many years before release and went through many changes.

You’ve got to ask yourself whether Seal thought it a blessing or a curse, because he was kind of embarassed about it, but now he can’t play a show without performing it.

Don’t be fooled by the poeticism, though – this song is mostly about being addicted to someone.

“Lucky” by Jason Mraz feat. Colbie Caillat

Song year: 2008

“Lucky” is the ultimate cutesy male-female duo acoustic ballad that, if you were subjected to it too many times, it would just drive you nuts. I try no to think about that too much and instead try to focus on Jason’s voice.

The lyrics are a bit ambiguous, leaving some things open to interpretation. But it’s clear the couple feel lucky being in love with their best friend.

“Still Into You” by Paramore

Song year: 2013

Paramore’s sugary sweet rock-pop “Still Into You” carries with it a decidedly different message than most love songs, which are about being “in love,” being in lust, or being obsessed – not about sustaining love.

So, even if you aren’t “into” the pop learnings of this tune, you can rest assured the lyrics challenge the fleeting concept of love embraced by the mainstream.

“All My Life” by K-Ci & JoJo

Song year: 1998

Love and spirituality are interconnected. At the very least, you can’t help but come to that conclusion listening to K-Ci & JoJo’s “All My Life,” which expresses a yearning and longing of someone hoped for, and the elation of finally finding that special someone.

We should all be so lucky to find that person.

“Ho Hey!” by Lumineers

Song year: 2012

The resurgence of folk rock brought to the fore the likes of the Lumineers’ “Ho Hey!” Catchy melodies, hooky choruses, simplistic lyrics, acoustic instruments, and, well… cheesy gang vocals.

Yeah, I’m not exactly partial to the novelty genre I jokingly refer to as “stomp,” but if this one strikes a chord with you, I’m not going to judge, okay? We can coexist peacefully.

“Love Walks In” by Van Halen

Song year: 1986

Van Halen’s “Love Walks In” reflects on the haunting, unexplainable beauty of love. In this song, it’s referred to as “an alien.”

The way I think about it is that Sammy is trying to say love happens when you least expect it.

“Somebody Like You” by Keith Urban

Song year: 2002

I certainly wouldn’t call country my favorite genre in the world, but Keith Urban’s “Somebody Like You” is just a great song through and through.

Romantic to the core, it’s hard not to hear wedding bells in this song. Lyrically, though, it’s just about the joys of being with someone you love.

“I Love You” by Celine Dion, A Happy Song

Song year: 1996

Celine Dion’s “I Love You” has got a bit of a whimsical quality to it. Its slow groove accompanies the narrator’s story – being in love with someone who may have already moved on. There does seem to be a happy ending to the song though, so it’s not unrequited love.

“I Love You More Than Words Can Say” by Otis Redding, A Love Song For Her

Song year: 1968

“I Love You More Than Words Can Say” features a slow R&B groove with Otis Redding’s vocals at the forefront.

The lyrics seem to carry some sadness, though it’s clear the narrator is in love and wants his love to be around, because he’s lonely without her.

“I Just Called To Say I Love You” by Stevie Wonder

Song year: 1984

Ever wanted to do something special for your partner?

“I Just Called To Say I Love You” is all about surprising your special someone with a call on an otherwise ordinary day.

Simplistic though it may be, it’s a great song.

“I Love You” by Avril Lavigne, A Sweet Romantic Tune

Song year: 2011

A simple and sincere song about being in love. Avril Lavigne’s “I Love You” is sickly sweet, with a coat of polished production.

For all those times you need a song that says, “I like you for you.”

“Baby I Love You” by Tiffany Alvord

Song year: 2012

Sometimes you just can’t deny it anymore. You can’t hold back your feelings. They just need to be expressed.

Sometimes people say, “I would shout it from the rooftops.”

Well, Tiffany Alvord’s delicate ballad “Baby I Love You” bundles all those feelings and presents them in a slowly unfolding piano and acoustic guitar song.

Not one of my favorites, but hey, to each their own.

“I Love You” by Barenaked Ladies

Song year: 1992

The Barenaked Ladies are what frustrated jazz musicians sound like, and “I Love You” offers considerable credence to this statement.

The band was known for their comedic antics at the time, and this song is no doubt imbued with a sense of humor. Just check out these lines:

“I like soup, and I like ice cream sandwiches too / I love fish sticks, but I love you.”

“Just The Way You Are” by Billy Joel

Song year: 1977

Billy Joel apparently came up with the chord progression and melody for “Just The Way You Are” while dreaming.

The song contains a simple message, namely that the narrator loves his partner just as they are.

“I’ll Be There” by The Jackson 5

Song year: 1970

This Jackson 5 classic is a tribute to unfaltering friendship and love.

Our loved ones sometimes go through difficulty and we want to be there for them. That’s what “I’ll Be There” is all about.

“Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours” by Stevie Wonder, An Upbeat Love Song

Song year: 1970

This upbeat soul classic describes a relationship that has gone through some challenges. But the narrator offers, “here I am, I’m yours.”

Impossibly catchy and memorable, this is a great song to dance along to.

“Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love For You” by George Benson

Song year: 1985

One of the best parts of listening to George Benson is his guitar playing. Well, it’s not on full display in this ballad, but I can’t deny that it’s still a great song.

It’s a comforting feeling knowing that someone loves you because they love you – not because you’ve merited it in some way.

“The Power Of Love” by Huey Lewis And The News

Song year: 1985

Most will remember this as one of the main themes from the unforgettable movie Back to the Future.

The song is mostly about how love can make you feel powerful and even save you from difficult situations.

The song is insanely good – it’s groovy, melodic, uplifting, and even a touch emotional.

“Crazy Little Thing Called Love” by Queen

Song year: 1979

This seemingly lighthearted classic is about how love can become impossible to manage and difficult to handle. “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” compares it to caring for a baby.

Anybody who’s experienced love knows it can be maddening and intense. This song captures that feeling in a rather carefree way.

“Brown Eyed Girl” by Van Morrison

Song year: 1967

Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl” is more about young love and infatuation than anything.

Still, that can be an important part of anyone’s journey when it comes to love and relationships.

“Your Love Is King” by Sade

Song year: 1984

From the opening beat, Sade’s “Your Love Is King” is smooth, romantic, and sexy. This soul song is all about being in love. One of my personal top love songs.

“Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley

Song year: 1987

Okay, yeah, we might have Rick rolled you (slightly)…

This catchy (but cheesy) 80s hit has got some weird lyrics: “A full commitment’s what I’m thinking of / You wouldn’t get this from any other guy.”

I suppose the sentiment rings true. But if the narrator loves her, surely, she could find another if it came to that.

Either way, this song is a declaration of love.

“(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life” by Bill Medley & Jennifer Warnes

Song year: 1987

Love can come along suddenly, and you can get swept up in it, as if a tidal wave. It can sharpen your senses, which can cause you to experience life as if you never had before. “(I’ve Had) The Time Of My Life” is a celebration of those feelings.

“Angel” by Aerosmith

Song year: 1987

Have you ever felt like someone completed you? Aerosmith’s “Angel” is a catchy rock song about feeling incomplete without your special someone.

It’s got a bit of a Chicago vibe to it, but it doesn’t seem out of character for Aerosmith, who always seem to know who to take “inspiration” from (get it?).

Either way, I’m picking up what you’re putting down, Aerosmith.

“I Melt With You” by Modern English

Song year: 1982

When I think new wave, it’s hard not to think of this song. But in terms of love songs, it is a little unusual.

Vocalist Robbie Grey wrote it during an economic downturn. That, along with his fears of nuclear war inspired “I Melt With You,” which depicts a couple making love while an atomic bomb is being dropped.

“Eternal Flame” by The Bangles

Song year: 1988

With a title like “Eternal Flame,” you can guess that this song is all about love that’s meant to be.

The tune should be quite familiar, as this is a singalong favorite.

“Straight Up” by Paula Abdul

Song year: 1988

In this 80s pop novelty, the narrator finds herself confused as to the sincerity of her partner’s love.

The lyrics aren’t deep by any means, but the music still holds up.

“Heaven” by Warrant

Song year: 1989

Here’s another power ballad love song, this time via Warrant, best known for “Cherry Pie.”

There’s a good chance you’ve heard this song because it often appears in media. I rather like the chorus.

“Head Over Heels” by Tears For Fears

Song year: 1985

Here’s another song that should be familiar thanks to its placement in various films. “Head Over Heels” finds the narrator in love with someone who doesn’t seem to be reciprocating. Yep. This might be a song about unrequited love.

“Smooth Operator” by Sade

Song year: 1984

Looking at the title, you’d be forced to guess this was either a song about a guy who knows how to satisfy a woman, or a guy who’s a bit of a player. In this case, the latter is true.

Love can sometimes be difficult like that!

“When I Think Of You” by Janet Jackson

Song year: 1986

Does everything seem to turn from wrong to right when your partner is around? Does everything feel like its in its proper place when that special someone is near?

Janet Jackson’s “When I Think Of You” is like a summary of those feelings.

“Rosanna” by Toto, A Top Love Song

Song year: 1982

Supergroup Toto certainly cranked out some classics, and the groovy “Rosanna” is one of their most memorable.

The narrator indicates that he’s lost Rosanna, but he’s looking to get in her good graces again.

“Kiss On My List” by Daryl Hall & John Oates

Song year: 1980

In the 80s, Hall & Oates showed us what a pop song was all about. And “Kiss On My List” epitomizes all the qualities they came to be known for.

The verses are all over the place, but at the end of the day, it sounds like the narrator can’t stop thinking about her kiss.

“Addicted To Love” by Robert Palmer

Song year: 1986

Robert Palmer was another artist to dominate the airwaves of the 80s with songs like “Addicted To Love,” which have been parodied ruthlessly (even by “Weird Al” Yankovic).

There aren’t any hidden messages here. The physical aspects of love can be quite addictive.

“Let My Love Open The Door” by Pete Townshend

Song year: 1980

The Who guitarist Pete Townshend is responsible for this sugary pop number heard in virtually every feel-good movie.

The essence of the song is that the narrator loves someone so much, they’ll do anything for them.

Be careful – this one will get stuck in your head.

“Magic” by The Cars

Song year: 1984

At one point, I got addicted to this number. The Cars sure know how to make a melody come alive.

The song doesn’t necessarily have anything new to say (it feels like magic when I’m with you), but the sentiment is received.

“Heaven In Your Eyes” by Loverboy

Song year: 1986

“Heaven In Your Eyes” is another power ballad done right. The narrator indicates his partner has been hurting, and he may have even been responsible for it. But he says he can see heaven in her eyes.

“Oh Sherrie” by Steve Perry

Song year: 1984

Even apart from Journey, Steve Perry did some excellent solo work, and it’s hard not to think of “Oh Sherrie” when you think of Perry.

This song is about love enduring through hardship and difficulty. Love isn’t always easy. But love that endures is hard to find and something to be treasured.

“Fall In Love With Me” by Earth, Wind & Fire

Song year: 1983

“Fall In Love With Me” is a funky, danceable tune. I’m rather fond of it myself.

This might be more of a song about wooing than being in love, but hey, the chase can be quite fun too.

“Do You Believe In Love” by Huey Lewis And The News

Song year: 1982

As with other songs on this list, it’s quite possible you’ve heard this one in feel-good movies.

In “Do You Believe In Love,” we find the narrator going out and looking for someone special and finding someone. But that love continues to evolve and grow through the song.

“As Long As You Love Me” by Backstreet Boys

Song year: 1997

Some readers are going to remember this Backstreet Boys song (along with maybe a couple of others) from their jr. high dance or high school dance.

The Boys had some cheesy, sentimental tunes in their time, and this one is vague lyrically. But that was getting to be more common in 90s pop.

Don’t care who you are or where you’re from as long as you love me? Not sure what that’s supposed to mean. I think it probably does matter where they’re from or what you did.

That level of loneliness is unhealthy!

(Just take my commentary in good humor, okay?)

“Kiss Me” by Sixpence None The Richer

Song year: 1997

If you love romantic love songs, then you’ll love “Kiss Me” by Sixpence None The Richer, which paints a beautiful word picture.

This still stands as a legitimately great song from the late 90s though.

“Always” by Bon Jovi

Song year: 1994

It’s often thought of as a love song, but the melodramatic “Always” is more a song about love lost than anything else. Funny how the perception or impression of a song can be impacted by the visuals (i.e. music video) or how it sounds.

Mind you, the narrator does declare “And I will love you, baby, always,” so I guess in that sense it’s romantic.

“You’re Still The One” by Shania Twain

Song year: 1997

Love can last a long time. And when it does, contrary to what some think, it can still be amazing.

If you don’t believe me, have a listen to Shania Twain’s “You’re Still The One,” which proves long lasting love can be great.

“Can You Feel The Love Tonight” by Elton John

Song year: 1994

Best known as “that song from Lion King,” “Can You Feel The Love Tonight” is still quite romantic when it comes right down to it.

Some vague mentions of wanderers, kings, and vagabonds can certainly evoke images of kingdoms and unfolding adventures.

But look past it and you see that it’s a song about relief in love.

“Love Will Keep Us Alive” by The Eagles

Song year: 1994

If you haven’t watched The Eagle’s Hell Freezes Over concert, then I’d highly recommend it – it’s one of the best performances of all time. “Love Will Keep Us Alive” was one of many classics they chose for that performance.

That aside, this is a simple, beautiful heartfelt tune.

“Always Be My Baby” by Mariah Carey, A Classic Love Song

Song year: 1998

This is one of those classic love songs everyone knows. Though romantic sounding Mariah Carey songs aren’t hard to find, most of them are about breakups and unrequited love. Shocking, I know.

And even “Always Be My Baby” is about a relationship that turned sour. Yep. Oh well, the song has positive vibes, and you can still enjoy it for what it is.

“All I Have To Give” by Backstreet Boys

Song year: 1998

Here’s another romantic Backstreet Boys number that epitomized the 90s. Again, the lyrics are a little vague. If anything, it’s a little bit like Mr. Big’s “To Be With You,” where the narrator is trying to show someone how much better he is than the jerks she’s been with.

“Change The World” by Eric Clapton

Song year: 1996

What is “Change The World” if not a love song of epic proportions? It’s often forgotten, but the narrator says he would give his all to his love.

I suppose the song is open to interpretation, but I think it’s fair to say it carries a romantic sentiment.

“Crash Into Me” by Dave Matthews Band

Song year: 1996

Dave Matthews Band stumbled onto something good with “Crash Into Me.” And romantic though it is, it’s written from the perspective of a boy who wants his girl back.

You can count on Dave Matthews for songs with some sophistication to them.

“Show Me Love” by Robyn

Song year: 1995

“Show Me Love” is another hard to avoid 90s pop tune.

The song is all about finding someone you never thought you would and falling in love with them.

“All Of Me” by John Legend

Song year: 2013

John Legend loves his melodramatic piano ballads, and what is “All Of Me” if not for that?

The lyrics kind of seem to “equal out” as evidenced by contrasting words like “winning” and “losing.” So, this is a song about balance.

“Everything” by Michael Bublé

Song year: 2007

For all those times when you feel like your special someone brightens your day. Here’s a gentle, whimsical tune about being in love.

“Sunshine Of Your Love” by Cream

Song year: 1967

Okay, so you could give a strong case for this song being about hooking up… Then again, they thought about such matters quite a bit differently in the 60s.

Still, classic song with classic riffs. Regardless of the intent, it surely deserves a place on this list.

Best Love Songs Of All Time, Final Thoughts

There are many steps, phases, and seasons to love.

There’s romantic love. And there is more all-encompassing, unconditional love. There's godly love. And more.

So long as music exists, there will always be more songs about love in its many forms.

Which of these 100 love songs is your favorite? Did you discover some tunes you’d never heard before?

We hope you enjoyed this guide with our favorite love songs, and we’ll see you again next time.