Set the Mood for Valentine’s Day

Set the Mood for Valentine’s Day 

By: Sophie Smith

Valentine’s Day approaches to follow up on the holidays and interrupt the seasonal blues. The holiday commemorates Saint Valentine for ministering forbidden love and makes us think of those dear to us. Valentine’s Day is notorious for its romantic ambiance which is heavily influenced by music. Love songs and all sentimental music are stories of desire and emotions. This selection of songs and genres compliments whatever your plans are on February 14 and embodies all that the holiday celebrates.

According to Billboard’s analytics, “Endless Love,” sung by Lionel Richie and Diana Ross, ranked number one for nine weeks, making it the longest reigning love song at the top of the charts. The song debuted in the 1981 film of the same title starring Brooke Shields.

Jazz, soul, and R&B are among the most popular genres for passionate ballads. The combination of instrumentals and lyricism provokes a soulful feeling. Etta James’s “At Last” is a profound record released in 1960 that is still recognizable to all generations. Films can amplify the popularity of a song as well; Al Green’s “Let’s Stay Together” showcases on the soundtrack of Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction and remains a classic hit.

On a more light-hearted note, “Friday I’m in Love” describes the hot and cold dynamic of a relationship with an upbeat and sarcastic tone. Originally released by The Cure in 1992, the song has resurfaced by going viral on TikTok. In 2018, Phoebe Bridgers covered the song on piano with a more somber approach, making the lyrics feel more introspective. 

The current most popular feel-good songs on the charts and TikTok are Lana’s Del Ray’s “Let the Light in” featuring Father John Misty and “My Love All Mine” by Mitski. Del Ray’s record is on her most recent album, Did You Know There’s a Tunnel Under Ocean Boulevard, which was Grammy nominated. “MLAM” earned Mitski her first Hot 100 entry and recognition as one of the best songs of 2023 by Rolling Stone, Billboard, and more. In her lyrical analysis interview with Genius, Mitski explained that she wanted her love for life to be immortal, so she captured it in song. 

Music preferences are different for every listener, but these songs represent affection for everyone. Love and longing are universal experiences, which is why, as a collective, we think of these tracks and others when celebrating a sentimental time like Valentine’s Day. 

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