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

7 ThingsMiley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus – 7 Things

It’s said to be a song about Miley’s ex-boyfriend, Nick Jonas.

The lyrics are simply perfect: while listing seven things she hates about the boyfriend who hurt her, she ultimately confesses seven things she loves about him.

It makes my heart flutter with its cute, girlish feelings.

What Makes You BeautifulOne Direction

One Direction – What Makes You Beautiful (Official Video)

It’s One Direction’s debut single.

If someone sings, “You don’t know you’re beautiful, but you really are,” what girl wouldn’t fall in love? The members’ charm is maxed out, and it’s the ultimate love song.

I Will Never Let You DownRita Ora

Rita Ora – I Will Never Let You Down (Video)

It’s a love song with a positive message.

Calvin Harris, Rita’s ex-boyfriend, was involved in the production, and he does a great job bringing out her charm.

The music video, which showcases Rita’s sense of style, is very chic.

A Song About LoveJake Bugg

Jake Bugg – A Song About Love

Jake Bugg is a genius—this song makes me feel that all over again.

The lyrics portray a love that carries a hint of sadness, unusually emotive for him, yet still unmistakably in his style.

I want everyone in love to hear it.

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.

ChemicalPost Malone

Post Malone – Chemical (Official Music Video)

Contrary to his tough, tattooed appearance, Post Malone is known for his delicate melodic sensibility.

If you focus only on the melodies, the songs feel like exhilarating pop rock, but the lyrics are actually quite serious.

Chemical portrays a relationship that’s almost like an addiction—two people who can’t let go even though they know they’re hurting each other.

The contrast between the bright, upbeat sound and the messy emotions vividly captures an inescapable inner conflict.

Released in April 2023 as the lead single from the album Austin, it became a beloved track worldwide and climbed to No.

13 on the U.S.

charts.

It’s perfect for nights spent untangling a complicated love or for a drive when you want a change of pace.

Definitely give it a listen.