Love songs in Western music: classic and popular tracks to listen to when a romance begins

I Really Like YouCarly Rae Jepsen

Carly Rae Jepsen – I Really Like You

Canadian songstress Carly Rae Jepsen captivates fans around the world with her poppy melodies and down-to-earth lyrics.

One of her most beloved signature works is this track, released in March 2015.

It captures a rush of overflowing feelings—too soon to say “I love you,” yet too much for just “I like you”—sung over a sparkling synth-pop sound that evokes the ’80s.

Premiered as the lead single from the acclaimed album E•MO•TION, it also drew major attention for its music video featuring actor Tom Hanks.

In Japan, it’s well known as the song used in a LINE MUSIC commercial starring Nana Komatsu.

It’s a perfect pick for anyone looking to confess their feelings or for wedding background music.

If I Can’t Have YouShawn Mendes

Shawn Mendes – If I Can’t Have You (Official Music Video)

Shawn Mendes is a Canadian singer-songwriter known for his sweet, captivating vocals.

Did you know that this track, released in May 2019, was actually written for Dua Lipa? The earnest lyrics insisting that everything is meaningless without the one you love tighten the chest all the more because of their contrast with the sparkling, upbeat melody.

As he himself has said, it’s a work he’s truly proud of, brimming with energy that uplifts its listeners.

Included on the deluxe edition of the album “Shawn Mendes,” it became so beloved that it racked up over a billion plays on U.S.

radio.

It’s the perfect song for anyone caught up in a one-sided crush or for those moments when you want to boost your mood and feel more positive!

Call Me MaybeCarly Rae Jepsen

Carly Rae Jepsen – Call Me Maybe

This song became a hot topic after Justin Bieber tweeted about it, and it was Carly’s first to reach No.

1 in the U.S.

Her sweet vocals fit perfectly with the lyrics that capture a girl’s feelings of love at first sight.

The story-style music video is cute as well.

Worth It ft. Kid InkFifth Harmony

Fifth Harmony – Worth It (Official Video) ft. Kid Ink

This song portrays the strength of a girl in love.

Its bold, confident lyrics and cool sound make a striking impression, bursting with girl power.

It’s perfect for those moments during a relationship when you’re feeling timid—you might just regain your confidence.

Baby IAriana Grande

Ariana Grande – Baby I (Official Video)

This song captures the cute feelings of a girl in love.

It portrays a down-to-earth romance that anyone can relate to—like being so in love that you can’t even put your feelings into words! Be sure to listen to it when you’re in love.

If I Ain’t Got YouAlicia Keys

Alicia Keys – If I Ain’t Got You (Official HD Video)

It’s that beautiful piano ballad released as a single in February 2004 by New York–born singer-songwriter Alicia Keys.

Included on the acclaimed album The Diary of Alicia Keys, the song celebrates the preciousness of having the one you love by your side over wealth or fame.

It was reportedly written in response to the tragic events of 2001 and the state of the world, imbued with love for someone more important than diamonds or success.

In 2023, an orchestral version was featured in the Netflix series Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, bringing it back into the spotlight.

It’s a timeless track perfect for weddings, or for an evening when you want to reaffirm your feelings for your partner.

All of MeJohn Legend

John Legend – All of Me (Official Video)

A genius who has led the R&B scene and achieved the coveted EGOT, John Legend.

This masterpiece, All of Me, is a song in which he expresses his deep love for his wife, Chrissy Teigen.

Included on the 2013 album Love in the Future, it impressively reached No.

1 on the U.S.

charts in May 2014.

Composed with just piano and vocals, its lyrics resonate as a portrait of unconditional devotion—loving someone wholly, awkward parts and all.

The music video, which features footage from their actual wedding, also drew attention.

Now a timeless wedding song around the world, it’s a perfect track to listen to while thinking of someone special.