Love and romance are powerful emotions that have been the subjects of countless artistic expressions, including music. From slow ballads to upbeat tunes, the history of popular music is filled with timeless love songs that have captured the hearts of listeners for decades. These songs have the power to make us feel all the emotions that come with love – joy, pain, longing, and hope.
In this article, we have compiled a list of the 35 best romantic songs of all time. These songs have stood the test of time and continue to be beloved by audiences of all ages. From classic tunes of the 1950s and 60s to modern hits, we have carefully selected songs that are sure to tug at your heartstrings and bring back fond memories.
Our list includes a wide range of musical styles and genres, including rock, pop, R&B, country, and more. We have also included songs from a diverse range of artists, from Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley to Adele and Ed Sheeran. Whether you’re looking for a song to dance to with your significant other or a soundtrack to a romantic evening, our list has got you covered.
So sit back, relax, and prepare to be serenaded by the 35 best romantic songs of all time.
1. Come Away With Me – Norah Jones
“Come Away With Me” by Norah Jones is a soulful, jazz-influenced song that captivates listeners with its smooth, melodic piano and Jones’ rich, sultry voice. The lyrics convey a sense of longing for escape and connection, as Jones invites her love interest to “come away with” her and leave the troubles of the world behind. The song’s simple yet emotive arrangement is a hallmark of Jones’ style and has earned her critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase.
2. A Thousand Years – Christina Perri
“A Thousand Years” by Christina Perri is a heartfelt ballad that speaks to the timeless nature of true love. The song’s haunting melody, delicate piano, and poignant lyrics make it a popular choice for weddings and romantic occasions. Perri’s powerful vocals convey the depth of emotion behind the song’s words, which express a longing to spend eternity with a beloved partner. The song’s popularity has earned it a place in popular culture, including the Twilight film series, where it was prominently featured.
3. If I Ain’t Got You – Alicia Keys
“If I Ain’t Got You” by Alicia Keys is a soulful and introspective song that explores the importance of love and relationships. The song’s slow, bluesy groove and powerful vocals showcase Keys’ immense talent as a singer and songwriter. The lyrics express a sense of gratitude for the people and experiences that bring meaning and purpose to life, while also acknowledging the fear and uncertainty that can come with love. The song has become a fan favorite and a classic in Keys’ discography, solidifying her status as a leading voice in contemporary R&B and soul music.
4. The Way You Look Tonight – Frank Sinatra
“The Way You Look Tonight” by Frank Sinatra is a timeless classic that captures the essence of romantic love. The song’s lush orchestration and Sinatra’s smooth, velvety vocals create a warm and intimate atmosphere, while the lyrics express admiration and affection for a loved one’s beauty and grace. The song has become an enduring favorite and a standard in the American songbook, with its sentiment and style evoking the glamour and romance of a bygone era.
5. Perfect – Ed Sheeran
“Perfect” by Ed Sheeran is a modern love song that speaks to the power of genuine connection and affection. The song’s gentle melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Sheeran’s distinctive voice create an emotional and tender mood that resonates with listeners. The lyrics express a deep appreciation for a partner’s qualities and an eagerness to build a life together. The song’s popularity and relatability have made it a favorite for weddings and other special occasions, while also earning it critical and commercial success.
6. All of Me – John Legend
“All of Me” by John Legend is a soulful and introspective ballad that celebrates the beauty and complexity of a loving relationship. The song’s delicate piano, smooth vocals, and heartfelt lyrics create a sense of intimacy and emotional depth, while the melody builds to a powerful and cathartic climax. The lyrics express a deep sense of commitment and vulnerability, acknowledging the ups and downs of love while also celebrating its transformative power. The song’s popularity has made it a signature piece for Legend and a beloved classic in the contemporary R&B and pop canon.
7. God Only Knows – The Beach Boys
“God Only Knows” by The Beach Boys is a timeless classic that showcases the band’s signature harmonies and evocative sound. The song’s wistful melody and poetic lyrics express a deep sense of love and devotion, while also acknowledging the transience of life and relationships. The lush orchestration and soaring harmonies create a sense of majesty and wonder, elevating the song to a level of artistry that has earned it critical and popular acclaim. The song has become a cultural touchstone, appearing in films, TV shows, and commercials, and inspiring generations of musicians and listeners.
8. I’m On Fire – Bruce Springsteen
“I’m On Fire” by Bruce Springsteen is a haunting and atmospheric song that captures the tension and desire of a passionate romance. The song’s sparse instrumentation, Springsteen’s husky vocals, and the hypnotic rhythm create a smoldering and intense mood, while the lyrics express a longing for physical and emotional connection. The song’s simplicity and raw power have made it a favorite of Springsteen’s fans and a staple of his live performances, showcasing his skill as a storyteller and musician.
9. Because You Loved Me – Celine Dion
“Because You Loved Me” by Celine Dion is a soaring and emotional ballad that celebrates the transformative power of love and support. The song’s lush production, Dion’s powerful vocals, and the poignant lyrics create a sense of gratitude and joy, while also acknowledging the challenges and obstacles that life can bring. The song has become a beloved classic and a fixture in weddings and other romantic occasions, thanks to its relatable and uplifting message. The song’s success and impact have solidified Dion’s status as one of the most iconic voices in contemporary pop music.
10. I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing – Aerosmith
“I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” by Aerosmith is a power ballad that captures the intensity and passion of romantic love. The song’s soaring melody, Steven Tyler’s emotive vocals, and the driving instrumentation create an epic and cinematic feel, while the lyrics express a deep yearning and desire to be present and connected to a loved one. The song’s popularity has made it an iconic anthem of the late 90s and early 2000s, appearing in numerous films and TV shows and earning it critical and commercial success.
11. At Last – Etta James
“At Last” by Etta James is a soulful and elegant song that celebrates the joy and excitement of finding true love. The song’s lush arrangement, James’ powerful vocals, and the graceful lyrics create a timeless and romantic mood, while also showcasing the singer’s immense talent and artistry. The song’s popularity has made it a staple of weddings and other special occasions, while also earning it critical and popular acclaim and solidifying James’ status as one of the greatest vocalists in the history of popular music.
12. Unchained Melody – The Righteous Brothers
“Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers is a haunting and passionate song that captures the longing and devotion of romantic love. The song’s distinctive melody, the duo’s soaring harmonies, and the evocative lyrics create a sense of yearning and intimacy that has resonated with generations of listeners. The song’s iconic status has been cemented by its use in the film “Ghost,” which has become a cultural touchstone and an enduring symbol of the power of love and connection. The song has been covered by countless artists and remains a beloved classic in the American songbook.
13. You Send Me – Sam Cooke
“You Send Me” by Sam Cooke is a timeless soul classic that showcases Cooke’s smooth and silky vocals and his ability to convey deep emotion with ease. The song’s simple, yet effective melody and the romantic lyrics create a sense of intimacy and longing, while the lush orchestration and Cooke’s signature delivery add to the song’s charm and appeal. The song’s success helped establish Cooke as one of the most important and influential artists of his time, and has continued to inspire and influence musicians across genres for decades.
14. Moon River – Frank Ocean
“Moon River” by Frank Ocean is a modern interpretation of the classic song that pays homage to the original while adding a contemporary twist. The song’s stripped-down production and Ocean’s tender and vulnerable vocals create a sense of intimacy and delicacy, while the subtle electronic elements add a layer of depth and texture. The song’s nostalgic and dreamy vibe is enhanced by Ocean’s unique style, which combines elements of R&B, hip-hop, and indie pop, resulting in a sound that is both familiar and innovative.
15. My Girl – The Temptations
“My Girl” by The Temptations is an iconic Motown hit that captures the joy and exuberance of young love. The song’s upbeat and catchy melody, the group’s harmonies, and the playful lyrics create a fun and lighthearted mood, while also conveying a sense of innocence and purity. The song’s popularity has made it a cultural touchstone and a staple of classic soul music, while also earning it critical and commercial success. The song’s enduring appeal has solidified The Temptations’ status as one of the most important and beloved groups in the history of popular music.
16. Ho Hey – The Lumineers
“Ho Hey” by The Lumineers is an upbeat and catchy folk-pop song that features a simple yet effective melody, accompanied by handclaps, tambourine, and acoustic guitar. The song’s earnest lyrics about the joys of love and companionship create a sense of intimacy and optimism, while the band’s vocal harmonies add a layer of warmth and sincerity to the track. The song’s popularity and success helped establish The Lumineers as one of the most important and beloved indie folk bands of the modern era.
17. How Sweet It Is (to Be Loved by You) – James Taylor
“How Sweet It Is (to Be Loved by You)” by James Taylor is a classic soul-pop hit that features Taylor’s signature smooth and soulful vocals, accompanied by a groovy rhythm section and catchy horn arrangements. The song’s catchy melody and joyful lyrics create a sense of exuberance and celebration, while also conveying a sense of gratitude and appreciation. The song’s enduring popularity and critical acclaim have solidified Taylor’s status as one of the most important and influential singer-songwriters of the 20th century.
18. Let’s Stay Together – Al Green
“Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green is a classic soul and R&B hit that features Green’s silky-smooth vocals, accompanied by a funky rhythm section and lush string arrangements. The song’s romantic lyrics and infectious groove create a sense of passion and sensuality, while also conveying a sense of commitment and devotion. The song’s success and popularity helped establish Green as one of the most important and influential artists in the history of soul music, and has continued to inspire and influence generations of musicians across genres.
19. When a Man Loves a Woman – Percy Sledge
“When a Man Loves a Woman” by Percy Sledge is a classic soul and R&B hit that features Sledge’s raw and emotional vocals, accompanied by a powerful horn section and lush string arrangements. The song’s evocative lyrics and dramatic arrangement create a sense of intensity and passion, while also conveying a sense of vulnerability and tenderness. The song’s enduring popularity and influence have solidified its status as a timeless masterpiece of soul music, and have continued to inspire and influence generations of musicians across genres.
20. The Book of Love – Peter Gabriel
“The Book of Love” by Peter Gabriel is a beautifully crafted and heartfelt ballad that features Gabriel’s tender and emotive vocals, accompanied by a simple yet effective arrangement of acoustic guitar, piano, and subtle electronic textures. The song’s poignant lyrics and gentle melody create a sense of intimacy and longing, while also conveying a sense of wonder and awe. The song’s popularity and critical acclaim have solidified Gabriel’s status as one of the most important and influential singer-songwriters of the modern era.
21. When I Fall in Love – Nat King Cole
“When I Fall in Love” by Nat King Cole is a timeless jazz and pop standard that features Cole’s smooth and velvety vocals, accompanied by a lush string orchestra and subtle piano and percussion arrangements. The song’s romantic lyrics and timeless melody create a sense of elegance and sophistication, while also conveying a sense of warmth and tenderness. The song’s enduring popularity and influence have solidified its status as a classic masterpiece of the Great American Songbook, and have continued to inspire and influence generations of musicians across genres.
22. I Will Always Love You – Whitney Houston
“I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston is a timeless ballad that features Houston’s powerful and emotive vocals, accompanied by a dramatic orchestral arrangement and soaring guitar solos. The song’s poignant lyrics and iconic melody create a sense of epic romance and heartbreak, while also conveying a sense of strength and resilience. The song’s enduring popularity and influence have solidified its status as a classic masterpiece of contemporary pop music, and have continued to inspire and influence generations of singers and songwriters across genres.
23. A Thousand Miles – Vanessa Carlton
“A Thousand Miles” by Vanessa Carlton is a catchy and upbeat pop hit that features Carlton’s playful and whimsical vocals, accompanied by a dynamic piano riff and driving percussion. The song’s joyful lyrics and infectious melody create a sense of youthful exuberance and adventure, while also conveying a sense of yearning and longing. The song’s popularity and critical acclaim have solidified Carlton’s status as one of the most promising and talented singer-songwriters of the early 2000s.
24. Beyond – Leon Bridges
“Beyond” by Leon Bridges is a soulful and introspective ballad that features Bridges’ smooth and soulful vocals, accompanied by a simple yet effective arrangement of acoustic guitar, piano, and subtle brass and percussion. The song’s poignant lyrics and haunting melody create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, while also conveying a sense of hope and optimism. The song’s popularity and critical acclaim have solidified Bridges’ status as one of the most exciting and innovative young artists in contemporary soul and R&B music.
25. Just the Way You Are – Bruno Mars
“Just the Way You Are” by Bruno Mars is a romantic and uplifting pop hit that features Mars’ smooth and soulful vocals, accompanied by a catchy melody and lush instrumentation of piano, strings, and subtle percussion. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and charming melody create a sense of unconditional love and acceptance, while also conveying a sense of joy and optimism. The song’s popularity and critical acclaim have solidified Mars’ status as one of the most talented and versatile singer-songwriters of the 2010s.
26. Baby Love – The Supremes
“Baby Love” by The Supremes is a classic Motown hit that features the group’s iconic harmonies and catchy melodies, accompanied by a driving rhythm section and vibrant brass and strings. The song’s playful lyrics and infectious groove create a sense of youthful energy and fun, while also conveying a sense of longing and infatuation. The song’s enduring popularity and influence have solidified The Supremes’ status as one of the most successful and innovative girl groups of the 1960s.
27. Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley
“Can’t Help Falling in Love” by Elvis Presley is a timeless ballad that features Presley’s rich and emotive vocals, accompanied by a simple yet effective arrangement of acoustic guitar, piano, and subtle percussion. The song’s romantic lyrics and haunting melody create a sense of epic love and devotion, while also conveying a sense of vulnerability and longing. The song’s enduring popularity and influence have solidified Presley’s status as one of the most iconic and beloved singers in the history of popular music.
28. Wonderful Tonight – Eric Clapton
“Wonderful Tonight” is a timeless classic written and performed by Eric Clapton, released in 1977. It is a slow, romantic ballad that captures the essence of true love and admiration. The song’s tender guitar melody and Clapton’s soulful vocals take the listener on a journey of a man expressing his love and admiration for his partner. The lyrics are simple yet powerful, describing the beauty of his beloved’s appearance and the wonderful feeling of being together. The song’s emotional impact has made it a popular choice for weddings and special occasions and continues to be a beloved classic.
29. My Heart Will Go On – Celine Dion
“My Heart Will Go On” is a powerful and emotional ballad that was featured in the 1997 film Titanic, which became a worldwide sensation. Sung by Canadian singer Celine Dion, the song was written by James Horner and Will Jennings and produced by David Foster. It starts with a soft piano melody, and Dion’s passionate vocals soon kick in, building to an epic crescendo in the chorus. The lyrics speak of enduring love and how even though a loved one may be physically gone, their memory and spirit will always remain in the heart. The song became one of the best-selling singles of all time and won numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
30. How Deep is Your Love – The Bee Gees
“How Deep is Your Love” by the Bee Gees is a romantic ballad that expresses the deep feelings of love between two people. The song features soft and gentle harmonies, with Barry Gibb’s falsetto taking center stage, creating a dreamy and timeless sound. The lyrics speak of the emotional intensity of love, questioning how deep it truly is and longing to know the extent of the other’s devotion. The song’s popularity has lasted for decades and it is considered one of the greatest love songs of all time, winning numerous awards and accolades for its enduring appeal.
31. Endless Love – Lionel Ritchie and Diana Ross
“Endless Love” is a classic duet by Lionel Richie and Diana Ross, which speaks to the infinite and undying love between two people. The song was written for the 1981 movie “Endless Love” and became a massive hit, reaching number one on the charts in the US and several other countries. The soulful and romantic ballad features lush orchestration and the heartfelt vocals of both Richie and Ross, making it a timeless favorite for weddings and other romantic occasions.
32. (Everything I Do) I Do It For You – Bryan Adams
“(Everything I Do) I Do It For You” is a power ballad by Canadian singer-songwriter Bryan Adams, featured in the 1991 film “Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves”. The song became a huge success, reaching number one in many countries and staying at the top of the UK singles chart for a record-breaking sixteen weeks. The song features a slow and steady beat, with Adams’ distinctive raspy voice delivering the lyrics that express an undying love for someone. The song is well known for its soaring guitar solo and its passionate, emotional performance, making it a classic love song that continues to be popular today.
33. I Just Can’t Stop Loving You – Michael Jackson Feat. Siedah Garratt
“I Just Can’t Stop Loving You” is a duet by Michael Jackson and Siedah Garrett that was released in 1987 as the first single from Jackson’s album “Bad”. The song is a slow ballad that features Jackson’s trademark falsetto vocals and a gentle melody that perfectly captures the feeling of being in love. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top five on the charts in the US and several other countries, and its sentimental lyrics and romantic vibe have made it a popular choice for weddings and other romantic occasions.
34. Your Song – Elton John
“Your Song” is a classic love song by Elton John that expresses a deep appreciation for a special person in one’s life. With its beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics, the song has become a popular choice for weddings and romantic occasions. The song’s simple but elegant arrangement, featuring Elton’s piano and soaring vocals, perfectly captures the emotions of love and devotion.
35. The Lady in Red – Chris De Burgh
“The Lady in Red” by Chris De Burgh is a romantic ballad that tells the story of a man’s love for a woman he sees across the room in a crowded party. The song’s melody and lyrics create a dreamy and passionate mood that perfectly captures the feeling of falling in love.
Macey West 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.
