It’s that dreaded time of year again. Not only are the temperatures hitting a record rock bottom and the snow just doesn’t seem to stop, but it’s also the most feared week for all of us singles out there. Valentines Day. These are the two most horrible words in the English language for those unattached, for they must find some other kind of entertainment this Friday. For those of you who enjoy wallowing in self-pity by listening to sappy music, or for those of you looking for that perfect song to play for that special someone this Friday, here are the best romantic songs of all time.
Journey: “Open Arms”
Steve Perry’s raspy vocals and the delicate and beautiful piano playing in this best known Journey number is a great number for snuggling up with that special someone or for kicking back by yourself with a pint of Ben and Jerry’s. This 80s classic is a regular on the New England Love Songs play list, and is perfect background music for a candlelit dinner for two, or a box of Russell Stovers for one.
Cher and Peter Cetera: “After All”
Some of Cher’s finest work, and Peter Cetera is best known for his ability to croon out the sappily romantic numbers. Put the two of them together and you have a lyrically beautiful song about love and all kinds of other mushy crap. This is another Bedtime Magic favorite and belongs on the soundtrack of any Valentines Day endeavor, whether it is in a solo or group setting.
Boyz 2 Men: “I’ll Make Love to You”
Nobody can quite pull of the tear-jerking power ballad quite like Boyz 2 Men. “I’ll Make Love to You” is probably the best off their album “II,” and although its probably not ideal if you’re spending Valentines Day with your cat, it makes a tender and romantic gesture to someone you’ve been dating for some time. Note: If you’re a guy, do not play this one for a girl on a first (or second or third) date. You might send the wrong message.
REO Speedwagon: “Can’t Fight this Feeling”
REO Speedwagon epitomized the 80s power ballad, and “Can’t Fight this Feeling” is still a soft rock classic on nighttime radio broadcasting. The lyrics read like a romantic Hallmark card, and it’s a must have for any soundtrack to a tender and passionate evening. And if you’re flying solo this Valentines Day, it’s a good song to sing to your roommate after you’ve had a couple shots of Smirnoff.
Elvis: “Can’t Help Falling in Love with You”
Leaving The King off of this list would be a true travesty, and this touching number is one that has been part of many Valentines Days past. And it should remain a part of any romantic repertoire. From the car ride on the way to a romantic dinner at Spolettos to a bunch of singles driving downtown for a night of bitter boozing, this is a classic Valentines Day number that serves a purpose no matter how you celebrate on Friday.
DJ Sammy featuring Yanou: “Heaven,” Candlelight version.
This truly beautiful rendition of the Bryan Adams original is just a delicate solo piano with Yanou’s angelic voice serenading the lyrics. It’s a great song to sing to any kind of date, whether it is a love interest or a best friend or your goldfish, and its beautiful to boot.
Lauryn Hill: “Tell Him”
By far the best track on Lauryn Hill’s “The Miseducation of Lauryn Hill,” this song is great for when one is harboring a crush on another, and better when sitting around nuzzling with someone you care about, whether it be a significant other, another single and bitter friend, or the latest edition of “Cosmo.” Romantic, simple and very sweet, Hill offers a must have for any Valentines Day soundtrack.
So there you have it, the best love songs to play for yourself or someone else this Valentines Day. These are perfect for any nighttime soundtrack, but have a special meaning this Valentines Day. No matter what your status, a little romantic music makes everything just a little bit more enjoyable.
