21 Timeless Anthems: Best Classic Songs About Loving
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Songs about loving someone is a unique way of expressing our strongest feelings.
It [love] is a theme as old as time itself and has been a profound source of inspiration for musicians across the globe overall, in all spheres of life.
David, in the Bible, is a prime illustration of the significant role that music plays in our lives—he sang till his garments fell off. Likewise, the biblical book of Songs of Solomon is a whole book with lyrical verses. In fact, songs soothed and calmed angry monarchs.
By comparison, today’s world is full of music from all genres and cultures. But of significance is the fact that songs about loving take center stage and affect people, especially. I’m sure these songs occupy a special place in your heart too.
We explore the vast collection of timeless love songs in this carefully chosen playlist, which have impacted generations and still arouse strong feelings regardless of the time the artists wrote them.
You may or may not be familiar with some of these tunes, but they offer you the chance for exploration.
Take a moment to go through the list and thereafter, hopefully discover new tunes as you enjoy the meaning of loving through melodious tunes.
Love, as we know, isn’t always both sunshine and rainbows. The playlist thus embraces not only sweet loving but also bittersweetness (aka breakup).
1. Because You Loved Me
Celine Dion (1996)
Genre: Pop
This timeless ballad by the Canadian pop singer has found its way among the top love songs of all time.
In addition, it became the theme song for the movie Up Close & Personal, a romantic American drama film, underscoring its role as a classic song about loving.
Céline Dion – Because You Loved Me (Theme from “Up Close and Personal”)(Audio)
2. Lady in Red
Chris de Burgh (1986)
Genre: Rock/Pop
The British singer invokes memories of the lady (his wife Diane), who was wearing red, and how she made him feel—a feeling he would subsequently never forget.
It is a song reminiscent of how love takes one’s breath away and makes one want to be by their side, as a result.
Do you remember what your significant other wore today? (Just an afterward thought of how minor details could matter in love.)
3. I Will Always Love You
Whitney Houston (1992)
Genre: R&B/Pop
The late Whitney Houston’s powerful rendition of this Dolly Parton original (1974) soon became an instant classic.
Dolly had written the song as a parting shot with her mentor Porter Wagoner in the hope that she would always have the memories.
The emotional intensity Whitney infused into the heartfelt lyrics continues to make it a go-to song for expressing deep and everlasting love.
In a word, it is a good song to listen to when someone breaks your heart and you are ready to move on.
Whitney Houston – I Will Always Love You (Official 4K Video)
4. The Way You Look Tonight
Fred Astaire (1936)
Genre: Jazz
A hilarious 1936 song where Fred appreciates a woman named Ginger who is in the bathroom washing her hair.
And he liked the way she looked with her soapy head, regardless.
The man apologized for an unknown mistake and was leaving the room when the woman asked him to stay, as she bore responsibility for the mistake.
He then sits down at the piano to sing.
The song got featured in a musical comedy movie called Swing Time.
5. Unchained Melody
The Righteous Brothers (1965)
Genre: Soul
This soul-stirring ballad has stood the test of time.
The iconic vocals of The Righteous Brothers paired with the timeless theme of enduring love undeniably make “Unchained Melody” a classic oldie love anthem.
To this end, it is common to hear it in wedding balls and has been relevant for many generations. The lyrics are simply to die for.
6. Something
The Beatles (1969)
Genre: Rock
A masterful creation by George Harrison, the British rock band lead guitarist, “Something” captures the essence of a profound and evolving love.
With both its exquisite melody and wonderful lyrics, it has solidified its place among the Beatles’ best songs about loving.
By the same token, the guitar solo is just amazing… something you wanna listen to over again.
7. Stand By Me
Ben E. King (1961)
Genre: R&B/Soul
It’s hard to believe that this song is 63 years old. It sounds like Ben sang it only yesterday since it rules radio airwaves throughout the world.
With its enduring message of loyalty and support, the song has become an anthem for love that withstands the trials of time.
Following its heartfelt simplicity, it continues to resonate across generations, and to show its popularity, various artists have made its rendition many times.
Ben E. King – Stand By Me (1961)
8. Can’t Help Falling in Love
Elvis Presley (1961):
Genre: Pop/Rock
It is debatable if the butterflies-in-your-stomach excitement captured in Elvis Presley’s “Can’t Help Falling In Love” is the greatest love song ever written. Nevertheless, it shall occupy a prominent place in many people’s hearts for ages to come.
Another key point, Elvis Presley’s timeless croon in “Can’t Help Falling in Love” is synonymous with great romantic sentiments.
This timeless ballad captures the tenderness and unavoidable nature of a profoundly romantic relationship so wonderfully.
Elvis Presley – Can’t Help Falling In Love (Official Audio)
9. At Last
Etta James (1960):
Genre: R&B/Blues
Etta James’ soulful rendition of “At Last” celebrates the discovery of genuine love and the happy knowledge that you have found your missing piece.
10. Unforgettable
Nat King Cole (1951)
Genre: Jazz
Whenever Nat King Cole’s velvety voice comes on air, especially in “Unforgettable,” it creates an atmosphere of romance and longing.
This jazz classic is a testament to the enduring power of love and unforgettable moments.
11. I Can See Clearly Now
Johnny Nash (1972)
Genre: R&B/Soul/Reggae
The success of the song finally saw it reach number one on the US billboards.
Jimmy Cliff, the legendary reggae artist, further released a version of the song in 1993.
12. My Girl
The Temptations (1964)
Genre: R&B/Soul
This is a timeless tribute to a love’s unwavering commitment. In the meantime, the comparisons with the girl are extraordinary…
She is
“More honey than the bees.”
“Sweeter song than the birds in the trees.”
13. When a Man Loves a Woman
Percy Sledge (1966)
Genre: Soul
This is a soulful song that paints a picture of passionate dedication and a timeless classic as well.
Percy Sledge – When A Man Loves A Woman (Live)
14. Ain’t No Mountain High Enough
Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell (1967)
Genre: Soul/Pop
15. Wonderful Tonight
Eric Clapton (1978)
Genre: Soft rock
Eric Clapton – Wonderful Tonight [Official Live]
Other Classic Songs About Loving
At length, no timeless love anthem playlist would be complete without a nod to playful romance and the dancefloor. Here are the best:
16. Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours
Stevie Wonder (1970)
Genre: Soul
Stevie Wonder – Signed, Sealed, Delivered I’m Yours
17. Fly Me to the Moon
Frank Sinatra (1964)
Genre: Jazz
Besides the above, and for those who want a little humor in their love, here are some more classics:
18. Simply the Best
Tina Turner (1973)
Genre: Rock/Pop
Basically, this song is a reminder that sometimes self-love is the ultimate anthem.
19. What’s Love Got to Do With It
Tina Turner (1984):
Genre: Rock/Pop
With her exploration of the intricacies and realities of relationships, Tina Turner’s upbeat ballad is a passionate song that questions traditional ideas of love.
Tina Turner – What’s Love Got To Do With It (Official Music Video)
All in all, we must complete the list with a special mention of Kenny Rogers and Don Williams, both icons of songs about loving.
Although they have many hits, here we only highlight a few of their best classics that you can listen to.
20. Kenny Rogers’ Songs About Loving
- Through the Years (1981)
- You Decorated My Life (1979)
- I Can’t Help Falling in Love with You (1996)
- The Gambler
21. Don Williams’ Songs About Loving
- Turn out the Lights and Love Me Tonight
- It Must Be Love
- You Are My Best Friend
Don Williams – You’re My Best Friend
Conclusion
In summary, through this compilation of classic love anthems, we’ve traveled through time, revisiting songs that have become the soundtrack of enduring romance
Whether you’re reminiscing about first loves, celebrating enduring partnerships, or simply yearning for a touch of romance, these timeless love anthems have something for everyone.
So, put on your headphones, turn up the volume, and let the music remind you that the power of love never fades.
This playlist is, in any event, just a starting point, a love letter to some of the greatest songs ever written.
What are your favorite timeless love anthems? Share them in the comments, and let’s keep the melody of love alive.
James is a published author, blogger, and content writer.
He writes about relationships, marriage, and self-improvement to bring out the best in you.
When not writing, he enjoys having a bourbon and coke, playing with his cat, and traveling the world to discover new places.
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