Ah, the Valentine’s Day playlist. The pressure’s on to find or create a mix that makes you say, “This one has everything.”
The day dedicated to love should have a soundtrack that balances the romance, passion and heartache that come with it. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, here are five songs to give you starting points to help match the mood.
“It’s Been a Long, Long Time” by Harry James and Kitty Kallen
Recently repopularized by several appearances in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, this jazz classic has been mesmerizing listeners since 1945, as couples reunited after World War II. In a modern context, couples can find solace after coming out of long-distance or COVID-induced separations. Whatever the reason, dim the lights and sway along to the sweet, soothing sounds of the big band era.
“Dizzy” by THEory DROPOUTS and Connor Billard
This one goes out to everyone spending Valentine’s Day wishing they were by someone’s side. Driven by a catchy bass riff, surf-style guitars and melancholy horns, “Dizzy” melds genres together to create a soothing, almost lullabying sound. With solid songwriting and powerful vocals, this song is definitely one to keep in mind for the day, and this up-and-coming band from Peoria is certainly one to keep in mind all year long.
“A Sunday Kind of Love” by Etta James
While the big romantic gestures seen around this time of year are nice, some would rather hope for something more steady the whole year long. If your V-Day plans are more casual, this song would pair well with sitting on the couch with that special someone. Even though Feb. 14 falls on a Monday this year, there’s always time for a Sunday kind of love.
“Falling Slowly” by Steve Kazee and Cristin Milioti
For those relationships just starting to go head over heels, why not choose the Oscar, Grammy and Tony Award-winning acoustic ballad “Falling Slowly”? Although it was first recorded for the 2007 film “Once,” I included the version from the Broadway adaptation because stars Steve Kazee and Cristin Milioti’s voices just match perfectly with each other.
“Put a Little Love in Your Heart” by Jackie DeShannon
While most people think about romance on Feb. 14, it’s important to remember that love is for more than just people in relationships. The song serves as an upbeat reminder that a little kindness and empathy can go a long way. Originally recorded by Jackie DeShannon in 1968, several artists have put a little love in their hearts over the years, including Mr. Spock himself, Leonard Nimoy, as well as Darren Criss and the cast of “The Flash” for a special musical episode in 2017.
