Regardless of your relationship status (or lack thereof), I think we can all agree that love, in every form, is a pretty wonderful thing.
It's also inspired some good music throughout the years. Even though there are about a million, I'd like to take the time to honor ten products of that inspiration.
1. "The Power of Love"
We can't say "thank you" enough to 80's power ballads. Originally written and recorded by Jennifer Rush, my personal favorite version is Céline Dion's, because no one else can rock a power ballad like her. While we're on the subject, "It's All Coming Back to Me Now" is hands down the greatest Dion power ballad-mini opera-masterpiece ever recorded.
2. "Can't Help Falling in Love"
"The King of Rock n' Roll" made this number famous and it's truly timeless. Favorite covers: Patti Page and (much more contemporary) Ingrid Michaelson
3. "When a Man Loves a Woman"
Michael Bolton's 1991 version has overshadowed Percy Sledge's original version a bit. There's not many better choruses to belt out. Even my mom would agree. I have so many vivid memories of her jamming to Michael Bolton while vacuuming.
4. "To Know Him is To Love Him"
Straight from the 50's, The Teddy Bears' tune has been covered by powerhouse artists like Dolly Parton and Linda Ronstadt. Amy Winehouse's version is pretty fantastic.
5. "I Can't Make You Love Me"
Originally recorded by Bonnie Raitt in 1991, the song has been covered numerous times since and is a classic in my book. It's the perfect characterization of the heartbreaking effects of unrequited love. Two recent covers that are quite easy on the ears: Bon Iver's & Adele's.
6. "At Last"
Etta James. Enough said.
7. "I Love You Always Forever"
It may be personal taste, but every part of me lights up when I hear this song. It's the perfect 90's mix that makes you feel part of love that just makes you want to dance. And Donna Lewis rocks it.
8. "Make You Feel My Love"
Not many lyrics are as beautifully descriptive of the lengths we'll go to for the ones we love. Bob Dylan wrote the song but Billy Joel made it the kind of famous only Billy Joel can make songs. But I'm partial to Adele's version.
9. "Bridge Over Troubled Water"
Filled with gospel undertones, this powerful song covers so many special forms of love, most importantly the endlessly encouraging and supportive kind. Simon & Garfunkel released it in 1970 and it has been tastefully (and soulfully) done numerous times since.
10. "Endless Love"
What are the perfect ingredients for a love song? Lionel Ritchie, Diana Ross, and a pinch of soul. If it is indeed true that the greatest love songs are perfectly cheesy, this one's a rare and expensive form of gouda.
