Crushes are an integral part of the human experience, and music has always been a powerful way to express the emotions that come with them. Whether it’s the nervous excitement of a new attraction, the heartache of unrequited love, or the joy of finally being with the one you adore, songs about crushes have a timeless quality that speaks to people of all ages. From classic ballads to modern pop anthems, the best songs about crushes are often the ones that capture the delicate balance of hope and uncertainty that characterizes the early stages of love. In this article, we’ll be exploring the top 20 songs about crushes, taking a closer look at what makes each one special, and what they have to say about the human experience of falling in love. Whether you’re reliving memories of past crushes, or just looking for a soundtrack to help you navigate your current romantic endeavors, this list has something for everyone.
1. “Crush” by David Archuleta
“Crush” by David Archuleta is a pop ballad about the powerful feelings of a crush. The song features David’s smooth and soulful voice, and the upbeat production sets the mood for the lighthearted and optimistic lyrics. The song’s chorus is infectious and memorable, and David delivers the verses with a mix of tenderness and enthusiasm. “Crush” is a standout track from David’s debut album “David Archuleta”, and the song’s positive and upbeat energy has made it a fan favorite. David’s powerful voice and relatable lyrics have helped make “Crush” one of the most memorable love songs of the late 2000s, and it remains a popular choice for those looking for an upbeat anthem about the joys of having a crush.
2. “Can I Be Him” by James Arthur
“Can I Be Him” is a soulful ballad by British singer-songwriter James Arthur. Released in 2017, the song features a tender piano melody and showcases Arthur’s powerful and emotive voice. The lyrics explore themes of unrequited love, with Arthur delivering an introspective and personal performance. The song’s raw emotion and heartfelt delivery have made it a fan favorite, and its popularity has only continued to grow in the years since its release. “Can I Be Him” is a standout track from James Arthur’s critically acclaimed second studio album, and its impact on his career and the world of pop music cannot be overstated. With its powerful message and memorable melody, “Can I Be Him” remains a standout moment in James Arthur’s discography.
3. “You Belong with Me” by Taylor Swift
“You Belong with Me” is a hit single by American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, released in 2009. The song is a charming and upbeat country-pop track that tells the story of a young woman who is in love with a man who is with someone else. The lyrics express her feelings of longing and unrequited love, with lines like “She wears high heels, I wear sneakers” highlighting the differences between her and the object of her affection’s girlfriend. Despite its sad subject matter, “You Belong with Me” has a lively and infectious chorus that has helped make it one of Taylor Swift’s most popular and enduring songs. The song won a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance and has since become a staple of Swift’s live shows and a fan favorite.
4. “Crush” by Jennifer Paige
“Crush” by Jennifer Paige is a pop song about the emotions that come with having a crush on someone. The song was a hit in the late 1990s and helped establish Jennifer as a pop star. The production is upbeat and energetic, and Jennifer’s strong and confident vocals are backed by a catchy chorus that’s hard to forget. The lyrics express the excitement of having a crush, and the upbeat melody helps convey the joy and optimism that come with new love. “Crush” is considered a classic of 1990s pop music, and Jennifer’s powerful voice and memorable chorus have earned her a dedicated following of fans. The song remains a popular choice for those looking for a feel-good anthem about the powerful feelings of a crush.
5. “Beautiful Soul” by Jesse McCartney
“Beautiful Soul” is a pop ballad by American singer-songwriter Jesse McCartney. Released in 2004, the song features a catchy piano melody and showcases McCartney’s smooth and soulful voice. The lyrics celebrate the beauty and innocence of youth, with McCartney delivering a hopeful and uplifting performance. The song’s upbeat and positive tone, combined with McCartney’s memorable delivery, have made it a fan favorite and a staple of pop radio. “Beautiful Soul” is a standout track from Jesse McCartney’s debut album, and its impact on both his career and the world of pop music cannot be overstated. With its catchy hook and memorable melody, “Beautiful Soul” remains a beloved classic of 2000s pop.
6. “Close ft. Tove Lo” by Nick Jonas
“Close” is a hit single by American singer-songwriter Nick Jonas, released in 2016. It features Swedish singer Tove Lo and is a sultry and sensual pop track that showcases the smooth vocals of both artists. The lyrics describe a steamy and intimate relationship, with lines like “We go deep into the night, yeah” conveying a strong physical connection. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat production have helped make it a popular and enduring hit, with its sensual themes resonating with listeners. “Close” marked a new direction in Nick Jonas’ musical career, establishing him as a versatile and talented pop artist.
7. “Smile” by Uncle Kracker
“Smile” by Uncle Kracker is a upbeat pop-rock song about the power of a smile. The song features Uncle Kracker’s distinctive voice, and the production is characterized by a catchy and upbeat melody. The song’s lyrics are simple but effective, with Uncle Kracker singing about the joy and happiness that a smile can bring. The upbeat and optimistic message of “Smile” has made it a popular choice for those looking for a feel-good anthem, and the song’s memorable chorus and catchy melody have earned it a place among the classic feel-good songs of the early 2000s. “Smile” is one of Uncle Kracker’s biggest hits, and it remains a popular choice for those looking for a song that will lift their spirits and put a smile on their face.
8. “One Thing” by One Direction
“One Thing” is a upbeat pop song by British-Irish boy band One Direction. Released in 2011, the song features a catchy guitar riff and upbeat rhythm, and showcases the members’ tight harmonies and playful energy. The lyrics express the feeling of being completely enamored with someone, with the members delivering a fun and playful performance. The song’s catchy chorus, memorable melody, and upbeat energy have made it a fan favorite, and its popularity has only continued to grow in the years since its release. “One Thing” is a standout track from One Direction’s debut album, “Up All Night,” and its impact on both the group and the world of pop music cannot be overstated. With its upbeat energy and contagious hook, “One Thing” remains a beloved classic of early 2010s pop.
9. “Jessie’s Girl” by Rick Springfield
“Jessie’s Girl” is a classic rock single by Australian musician Rick Springfield, released in 1981. The song is a power ballad that tells the story of a man who is in love with his best friend’s girlfriend, Jessie. The lyrics express the narrator’s feelings of unrequited love and longing, with lines like “I wish that I had Jessie’s girl” encapsulating the heartbreak of being in love with someone who is unattainable. Despite its sad subject matter, “Jessie’s Girl” has a upbeat and catchy chorus that has helped make it one of Rick Springfield’s most recognizable and beloved songs. The song reached number one on the US charts and has since become a staple of classic rock radio.
10. “Sucker –” by Jonas Brothers
“Sucker” by Jonas Brothers is a pop-rock song about being in love. The song features the Jonas Brothers’ distinctive harmonies, and the production is characterized by a catchy and upbeat melody. The lyrics express the excitement of being in love, with the Jonas Brothers singing about their devotion to their partners. “Sucker” is a standout track from the Jonas Brothers’ comeback album, and the song’s upbeat and optimistic energy has made it a fan favorite. The song’s memorable chorus and catchy melody have earned it a place among the best pop-rock anthems of the 2010s, and it remains a popular choice for those looking for a feel-good love song. Whether you’re a fan of the Jonas Brothers or just looking for a fun and upbeat anthem about the joys of being in love, “Sucker” is sure to put a smile on your face.
11. “Treat You Better” by Shawn Mendes
“Treat You Better” is a pop ballad by Canadian singer-songwriter Shawn Mendes. Released in 2016, the song features a tender acoustic guitar melody and showcases Mendes’ emotional and soulful voice. The lyrics explore the theme of toxic relationships, with Mendes delivering a heartfelt plea to a loved one to leave a bad situation and be treated better. The song’s impactful message, combined with Mendes’ emotional delivery, have made it a fan favorite and a staple of pop radio. “Treat You Better” is a standout track from Shawn Mendes’ critically acclaimed album, “Illuminate,” and its impact on both his career and the world of pop music cannot be overstated. With its powerful message and memorable melody, “Treat You Better” remains a beloved classic of early 2010s pop.
12. “Crush on You” by Lil’ Kim ft. Lil’ Cease
“Crush on You” is a popular hip-hop single by American rapper Lil’ Kim, released in 1997. It features fellow rapper Lil’ Cease and is a sassy and confident track that showcases the female MC’s skills. The lyrics describe a romantic infatuation, with Lil’ Kim expressing her desire for a specific man over a smooth and upbeat beat. Despite its playful subject matter, the song has a strong and assertive delivery that has helped make it a standout track from Lil’ Kim’s debut album, “Hard Core”. The song was a commercial success, reaching the Top 40 on the US charts and helping to establish Lil’ Kim as a leading voice in hip-hop.
13. “Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen
“Call Me Maybe” by Carly Rae Jepsen is a pop song about the excitement of a new crush. The song features Carly’s upbeat and cheerful voice, and the production is characterized by a catchy and infectious melody. The lyrics express the hopefulness of a new romance, and the upbeat melody helps convey the joy and optimism that come with new love. “Call Me Maybe” became a worldwide hit in 2012, and the song’s upbeat energy and catchy chorus have earned it a place among the classic pop songs of the decade. The song remains a popular choice for those looking for a feel-good anthem about the excitement of a new crush, and it’s hard not to smile and sing along to the memorable chorus. Whether you’re a fan of Carly Rae Jepsen or just looking for a fun and upbeat love song, “Call Me Maybe” is sure to put a smile on your face.
14. “Can’t Get You out of My Head” by Kylie Minogue
“Can’t Get You Out of My Head” is a dance-pop song by Australian singer Kylie Minogue. Released in 2001, the song features a catchy synth melody and upbeat dance rhythm, and showcases Minogue’s energetic and infectious vocals. The lyrics explore the theme of an obsessive love, with Minogue delivering a playful and seductive performance. The song’s memorable hook, combined with Minogue’s magnetic delivery, have made it a fan favorite and a staple of dance and pop radio. “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” is a standout track from Kylie Minogue’s album “Fever” and its impact on both her career and the world of pop music cannot be overstated. With its infectious hook and upbeat energy, “Can’t Get You Out of My Head” remains a beloved classic of early 2000s dance-pop.
15. “Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover” by Sophie B Hawkins
“Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover” is a hit single by American singer-songwriter Sophie B. Hawkins, released in 1992. The song is a powerful and soulful ballad that expresses the narrator’s desire to be in a romantic relationship with someone she admires. The lyrics are intense and passionate, with lines like “I’m in love with you, I’ll do anything to be near you” conveying the depth of the narrator’s feelings. Despite its sad subject matter, the song has a uplifting melody and strong vocals that have helped make it a standout track from Sophie B. Hawkins’ discography. “Damn I Wish I Was Your Lover” was a commercial success, reaching the Top 5 on the US charts and helping to establish the singer as a talented and distinctive artist.
16. “Teenage Dream” by Katy Perry
“Teenage Dream” by Katy Perry is a pop song about the excitement of young love. The song features Katy’s powerful and confident vocals, and the production is characterized by a catchy and upbeat melody. The lyrics express the joy and optimism of a new romance, and the upbeat melody helps convey the feeling of being on top of the world. “Teenage Dream” was a huge hit in 2010, and it helped establish Katy as one of the biggest pop stars of the decade. The song’s memorable chorus and catchy melody have earned it a place among the classic pop anthems of the 2010s, and it remains a popular choice for those looking for a feel-good love song. Whether you’re a fan of Katy Perry or just looking for a fun and upbeat anthem about the joys of young love, “Teenage Dream” is sure to put a smile on your face.
17. “Crush” by Yuna Ft. Usher
“Crush” is a smooth and soulful R&B duet by Malaysian singer-songwriter Yuna and American R&B legend Usher, released in 2016. The song is a slow and sensual track that showcases the rich vocals of both artists. The lyrics describe the rush of feelings that come with a new crush, with lines like “I’m under your spell, every moment is heaven” capturing the excitement of a new romance. The song’s mellow beat and romantic themes have helped make it a popular and enduring hit, with its sensual and heartfelt delivery resonating with listeners. “Crush” marked a departure for both Yuna and Usher, showcasing their versatility and ability to collaborate on a standout R&B track.
18. “I’ve Got A Crush On You” by Ella Fitzgerald
“I’ve Got a Crush on You” is a classic jazz standard sung by the legendary Ella Fitzgerald. Originally written in 1928, the song has been covered by numerous artists and remains a staple of the jazz genre. Featuring a playful and upbeat melody, “I’ve Got a Crush on You” showcases Fitzgerald’s signature scatting and intricate phrasing, as well as her effortless ability to convey the emotion of the lyrics. Ella’s performance of this song is a masterclass in jazz singing, and her interpretation remains one of the most beloved and influential renditions of the classic tune. With its playful energy and timeless appeal, “I’ve Got a Crush on You” remains a beloved classic of jazz music, and Ella Fitzgerald’s timeless interpretation of the song continues to inspire and delight audiences to this day.
19. “Into You” by Ariana Grande
“Into You” is a pop and R&B song by American singer Ariana Grande. Released in 2016, the song features a seductive and catchy melody, and showcases Grande’s powerful and sultry voice. The lyrics explore the theme of falling deeply in love, with Grande delivering a confident and alluring performance. The song’s upbeat energy, combined with Grande’s infectious vocal delivery, have made it a fan favorite and a staple of pop radio. “Into You” is a standout track from Ariana Grande’s critically acclaimed album “Dangerous Woman,” and its impact on both her career and the world of pop music cannot be overstated. With its memorable hook and catchy beat, “Into You” remains a beloved classic of early 2010s pop.
20. “Ooh La La” by Britney Spears
“Ooh La La” is a upbeat and infectious pop track by American singer Britney Spears, released in 2013. The song is featured on the soundtrack of the movie “The Smurfs 2” and is a playful and catchy tune that showcases Britney’s vocal abilities. The lyrics are a playful ode to a fun and carefree love affair, with lines like “Ooh la la, it feels like love, love, love” capturing the feeling of falling for someone new. Despite its lighthearted subject matter, “Ooh La La” has a upbeat and energetic melody that has helped make it a standout track from Britney’s extensive discography. The song was well-received by fans and helped to further establish Britney’s status as a pop icon.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
