Love songs in Western music: classic and popular tracks to listen to when a romance begins

Close To YouCarpenters

Carpenters Close To You

This is a single by the Carpenters released on May 20, 1970.

The Japanese title is “Harukanaru Kage,” but as the more literal title “(They Long to Be) Close to You” suggests, it’s a powerful love song: I love you so much that birds, stars, and every girl in town would all want to be by your side.

It’s a recommended track for anyone who loves someone with that kind of intensity.

Oh LoveGreen Day

Green Day – Oh Love [Official Music Video]

This is a Green Day song released on July 16, 2012.

Being in love often comes with worries and moments of hesitation.

When that happens, give this song a listen.

Its lyrics encourage you to face your feelings honestly, take action, and not overthink—sure to give you courage!

I Wanna KnowJoe

Joe – I Wanna Know (Official Video)

Born on July 5, 1973, he is an American R&B singer-songwriter and music producer.

When it comes to ballads, it’s Joe—and when you think of Joe, you think of ballads.

He sings about the feeling that inevitably comes in love: wanting to know everything about the person you adore.

How about listening to it with someone you have a crush on?

ImagineJohn Lennon

John Lennon – Imagine HD

This is a song by John Lennon released in 1971.

It’s a universally acclaimed masterpiece.

While the original lyrics seem to carry a different message, they can also be applied to romance.

Rather than simply forcing your own feelings onto someone, imagining the other person might be the key to building a wonderful relationship.

DespacitoJustin Bieber ft. Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee

Justin Bieber – Despacito [Music Video] ft. Luis Fonsi & Daddy Yankee

As a love song, this track is a true classic among classics.

It carries a bittersweet yearning for a woman over a Latin rhythm—melancholic yet uplifting.

Many artists have covered it, but I recommend this version where the original artist collaborates with Justin! It’s perfect for those who want sweet romance—or are already in one.

EmotionsMariah Carey

Mariah Carey – Emotions

A song from diva Mariah’s second album.

It topped the U.

S.

singles chart for three consecutive weeks.

The lyrics, which revel in unrequited love, are perfect for cheerfully supporting a girl’s romance! Her emotional vocals resonate even more with a heart in love.

Let Me Love YouMario

Mario – Let Me Love You (Official Video)

Mario is an American singer-songwriter born on August 27, 1986.

Sometimes it happens that the person you like already has someone else they like! If you feel you could love that person more but can’t convey it well, you’ll surely relate to this song.