What is better than love?

Quite possibly music.

The combination of music and love though, now that is a stellar duo. I can confidently say that each one of us has that one song, or maybe more, that transports them back in time to first kisses, sixth grade dances, mom and dad dancing in the living room and your first ever “I will love you forever” type crush.

So without further ado, after taking a poll on Facebook, and racking my brain for some suppressed memories, in no particular order, here are the all time favorite love songs that have made my list.

Unchained Melody, The Righteous Brothers:

I still cry when this starts to play during Ghost.

Have I Told You Lately, Rod Stewart:

This song will forever remind me of my parents, still very much in love, dancing in the living room. That memory alone, sans soundtrack, makes my breath hitch.

Into The Mystic, Van Morrison:

Lazy summer days, salt water, humidity, hand holding, this song has all of the perfect ingredients—and Van’s voice is like melted butter.

Lullaby, Billy Joel:

The piano man. This tune makes the list because I danced to it at my wedding, with my father, and now I’m crying again.

When a Man Loves a Woman, Percy Sledge:

I think we can all agree this song holds its own on this list.

(Everything I Do) I Do It For You, Bryan Adams:

I’ll Be, Edwin McCain

Now I am showing my age. This is my sixth grade dance song. How silly to think I was going to be with my sixth grade boyfriend forever. I still wouldn’t trade that memory for anything, though, it’s part of growing up.

Thank You, Led Zeppelin:

A Facebook fan suggested this one, and I absolutely agree! These are the classics, man!

Maybe I’m Amazed, Paul McCartney:

“Maybe I’m amazed at the way I really need you.” The video for this song gives me goosebumps.

In Your Eyes, Peter Gabriel:

All I can think of is Benny and Joon, and I love that movie in an unhealthy way, ha ha.

Can’t Help Falling In Love, Ingrid Michaelson:

This is the only cover that made this classic list, but it deserves its spot. It’s so raw and beautiful, I get goosebumps when I hear it.

Always on My Mind, Willie Nelson:

To me, this song represents my in-laws and the intense love they have for each other, which through my father-in-law’s illness has shone through so bright and beautiful. I can only hope that when I am their age, I have a fraction of what they have, they are one person, it’s superb.

For some love songs with an edge click here.

Want some music to feed your playlist? How about 30 of the best songs of the year?

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