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I know at least half of the people that are reading this either A) legitimately forgot that today is Valentine’s Day or B) are choosing to forget it is Valentine’s Day. Whatever the case maybe, a stellar playlist will make the day ten times better. In case your knowledge in love songs is lacking, never fear Wicked Theorists! I am graciously coming to your rescue with a swoon-worthy playlist that will make you laugh, cry, and dance with your loved one or your friend.
“Valentine”- Kina Grannis
Let’s start off this playlist with the song that inspired the whole idea of even making one, shall we? “Valentine” meets the formula of a care-free love song to the T, with sugary sweet vocals, the acoustic guitar accompaniment, and the simple, but heart-felt lyrics. This the perfect song to ask your last minute crush if they would be your honey bee. Even if you hate Valentine’s day, I can probably bet you will find yourself whistling or humming this song at least once during the day.
“I Want To Hold Your Hand”- The Beetles
I have a confession: this song was chosen because it was mentioned in an awesome quote in the romantic comedy “Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist”. In the scene, Thom, is giving a pep talk to one of the protagonists, Nick on why he should go after Norah, the other protagonist. He is explaining how the Beetles had the big picture of love figured out with their music by telling him “ Look, other bands, they want to make it about sex or pain, but you know, The Beatles, they had it all figured out, okay? "I Want to Hold Your Hand." The first single. It's effing brilliant, right?... That's what everybody wants, Nicky. They don't want a twenty-four-hour hump sesh, they don't want to be married to you for a hundred years. They just want to hold your hand.” It’s a nice reminder every once in a while, but especially on a day where commercialism reigns.
“Oh It is Love”- Hellogoodbye
Once upon a time, there was a period where every scene kid would break out his guitar or ukulele and play this song to proclaim his love to his lady. While I do not miss the sound of poor singing or misplayed chords to this song, I do miss hearing it. It follows the aforementioned cute love song formula, but levels up the cuteness factor by employing the ukulele instead of a guitar. So, if you have a few hours and an iota of musical ability, get to work learning this song so you can woo your significant other later in the night.
“Lucky”- Jason Mraz and Colbie Caillat
Now, I could have chosen any Jason Mraz song because that man is one of the masters of the modern love song, but this one stuck out. By adding Myspace discovered Colbie Caillat to the mix, this song gains more emotion. The duet aspect makes it different from most love songs by illustrating that the feeling is mutual. However, my favorite part of this song is the constant reference to being “lucky to have fallen for my best friend”. Cue the “awwws” at this moment.
If you still need help falling for the best friend part, I will suggest impressing him or her with “Geek in the Pink” and asserting your swagger above the other suitors.
“Belong”- Penny Black
This was a recommendation from my friend Patricia when I was searching for cutesy love songs. I consider it the better version of what message Taylor Swift was trying to get across in her song “You Belong With Me”. I’m fond of the “there are flaws in our relationship, but I’m willing to work it out because my heart is telling me it is right”. Also, the piano is a nice change from the typical guitar oriented love song formula.
“Remember the Time”- Michael Jackson
Before you ask, yes, you have to sit through all nine minutes of the video. Think of it as music video appreciation (we can talk about authenticity of the Egyptian theme later). Anyways, the lyrics tell the story of a youthful love, but it can be applied to any period in life. The new jack swing instrumental makes this song danceable, while Michael Jackson’s R&B style vocals still
make the song romantic enough to be accepted as a bona-fide love song. This song is ideal for those that love to cut a rug with their special someone.
“Summer Romance (Anti-Gravity Love Song)” – Incubus
I am going to abuse my powers as creator of this playlist and place a song from one of my favorite bands on here (mwahaha?). This is such a sexy, bluesy, funky track that you cannot help jamming along to. Like many of the other love songs on this list, it deals with the topic of finding freedom in love and the transcendental qualities that come along with it.
“(You’re) Timeless to Me”- Hairspray (embedding blocked)
This track gets me teary-eyed every time I hear it. It is an endearing moment in the swirl of bright colors that make up “Hairspray”. It’s playful, but this song, like the Penny Black one, illustrates the concept that true love conquers all. It may seems like a Disney concept in modern times, but trust me, it does still exist, especially on Valentine’s Day.
“Anything For You”- Ludo
This song was another recommendation from my friend Patricia. If you are planning on proposing this Valentine’s Day, this song will set the mood. The folksy style makes the lyrics seem so much more sincere and drive the point home that the person in question is the one and the only one that they love. If the person you are proposing to has doubts, I am sure the “growing old with you” line will convince her or him this is the real deal.
“Love and Happiness”- Al Green
I know I called Jason Mraz one of the masters of the modern love song, but Al Green occupies one of the top spots for the old-school love song. I am sure this track choice is a result from watching “Soul Train: The Hippest Trip in America” and listening to Mama White reminisce about good music, but I stand by it. Anytime the phrase “the power of love” is used and it does not sound cheesy makes it a classic love song. I leave you all with the “Soul Train” performance of “Love and Happiness”. Dancing with your loved one down the Soul Train line while it is playing is optional, but encouraged.
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