Whether you’re single or in a relationship this Valentine’s Day season, here’s a solid selection of songs that will make your heart flutter in all the right ways.
Uncharted – Sara Bareilles
This has been one of my favorite songs for the past five years, since the vocals are so pure and the lyrics are encouraging but never overbearing. It’s honest, sweet, and has a little bit of attitude—which is the perfect combination.
John Mayer – You’re Gonna Live Forever in Me
I recently stumbled upon this single, and it is one of the loveliest pieces I’ve heard so far this year. It is definitely bittersweet, but the sentiment is just so beautiful and relatable. You have to listen to it at least once, even if only for the instrumentals and John Mayer’s gorgeous whistling. These two aspects definitely evoke the feelings that a particular Pixar movie had bombarded me with (because come on, Up broke all of our hearts) and that made it all the more enjoyable.
And if you prefer female vocals for this sort of thing, Kina Grannis released a banging cover.
Leon Bridges – River
This is all the evidence your parents would need to believe that there is still good music out there. Leon’s vocals are phenomenal and he has the capacity to make you feel two very conflicting emotions at the same time. It’s quite beautiful, to say the least.
Quiet Nights – Catching Flies
I am so in love with this melody right here. It is the perfect background music for a quiet night of studying or a special, life-changing encounter. The vocals are not at all intrusive and although I am definitely one for profound lyrics, sometimes, it’s nice to just sit back and not have to worry so much about the artist’s purpose.
Tessa Rose Jackson – Lost and Found
Whereas I can pinpoint exactly what I appreciate in all the other songs, this one is hard to put my finger on. I don’t care too much for the lyrics, but the feelings that are evoked mean everything to me. I know that my heart is beating to the gorgeous frequencies of Tessa’s voice; and even if the song is so dynamic, I know that I’m following all the way through.
Matt Simons – Catch and Release (Deepend remix)
My roommates hate me at the moment, because I have been absolutely obsessed with this mellow song. I just feel so calm and happy when I hear these sorts of rhythms, and I can’t imagine it being very different for you.
Boyce Avenue and Kina Grannis – Fast Car