10. John Denver – “Annie’s Song”

Released as a single from his 1974 album, “Back Home Again,” “Annie’s Song” is regarded as one of the most beautiful songs ever composed. John Denver sings to a lover who brings him immense happiness and validation similarly achieved by connecting with nature. He vows to devote his life to her and to spend the rest of his days with her. The song is deeply touching and speaks to the devotion that comes with love.

9. Iron and Wine – “Such Great Heights”

This is a cover of a song originally performed by The Postal Service. However, the Iron and Wine version, featured on his 2009 album “Around the Well,” is the definitive version. The song discusses the concept of being meant for another person by using the metaphor of puzzle pieces. The track talks about a relationship that blossoms to the point that the couple is “Waving from such great heights” and cannot be persuaded to come back down to Earth.

8. Animal Collective – “Bluish”

The swirling and experimental electronic instrumentation of this Animal Collective track mimics the joy and happiness felt as a direct result of love. “Bluish” was featured on the group’s 2009 album “Merriweather Post Pavilion.” The lyrics talk about simple moments such as getting lost in the other’s curls, holding hands, and relishing in each other’s presence. The song is so effective in being romantic because it recognizes the deep emotional quality of love and describes it in a genuine and authentic manner.  

7. Elvis Presley – “Can’t Help Falling in Love”

Elvis Presley’s iconic voice is featured in a more laid-back and emotive manner in “Can’t Help Falling in Love.” The song was featured in his 1961 film titled “Blue Hawaii.” It is a touching song about falling in love uncontrollably and passionately with another person. The tropical tone and gentle instrumentation make the song even more heartfelt.

6. Nick Drake – “Northern Sky”

This simple piano and acoustic guitar track is the perfect backdrop for the soothing and gentle voice of Nick Drake. This song was featured on Drake’s 1970 album, “Bryter Layter.” The lyrics include beautiful imagery of nature and describe the emotions of a person who felt lost and disconnected from the world until they found their significant other. The song’s title and final line of the chorus, “Brighten my northern sky,” touches its listeners by describing falling in love as a beautiful natural phenomena.

5. Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone – “City of Stars”

Featured in the 2016 film “La La Land,” “City of Stars” has quickly proven itself to be one of the most beautiful and heartfelt love songs ever composed. The haunting piano riff that begins the song soon gives way to vocals from Ryan Gosling and Emma Stone. Their performance is so powerful because it is slightly unrefined and humanized with them breaking into laughter at one point. The song talks about seeing beauty in someone else and finding strength, support, and hope in the other person through the power of love. The song is gorgeous, and due to its short length, has a high replay value.

4. Beach Boys – “God Only Knows”

The luscious harmonization and instrumentation featured on this Beach Boys track mimics a love-filled heart beating with elation. “God Only Knows” was featured on the group’s iconic 1966 album, “Pet Sounds.” The song deals with the theme of devotion as the speaker promises his lover that they must not fear his love waning as long as there are stars in the sky. The track’s chorus of “God only knows what I’d be without you” conveys a deep sense of loyalty and steadfast love.  

3. The Smiths – “There is a Light that Never Goes Out”

The Smiths are known for the intense emotional qualities of their songs. “There is a Light that Never Goes Out” is a key example of the lead singer Morrissey’s passionate, yet relatable, lyricism. The track was released as a single for The Smiths’ 1986 album titled, “The Queen is Dead.” This song is incredibly dramatic in describing a relationship. The lovers are so passionate that they dream of being hit by a double decker bus in order to die together and avoid separation. “There is a Light that Never Goes Out” perfectly encapsulates the brash and blind thinking of young love.  

2. The Beatles – “Something”

Penned by George Harrison and featured on the iconic 1969 album, “Abbey Road,” “Something” remains one of the most definitive love songs of music. The heartfelt vocals, beautiful keys, and soft guitar riff blend seamlessly into pure romance. The lyrics display a man’s emotions as he feels a strong devotion to the woman of his dreams yet also fears the uncertainty of the relationship due to the fact that he cannot predict the outcome of it. The song resonates with many listeners due to its raw emotion and beautiful depiction of falling in love.

1. The Cure – “Just Like Heaven”

“Just Like Heaven” is one of The Cure’s most timeless and popular songs. It was released as the third single from their 1987 “Kiss Me, Kiss Me, Kiss Me” album. The song features wonderful uses of synthesizers, climbing guitar riffs, and powerful drums. Robert Smith’s quirky voice is the center of the track. The lyrics describe the utter elation one feels when falling in love in addition to the feelings of self-discovery that come from being in a relationship. Describing a relationship as “just like heaven” is a touching and inspiring gesture and has cemented the track as the most essential love song in history.

Edward Benner is an Entertainment Editor for The Patriot and jcpatriot.com.