Let's face it - nobody enjoys listening to sappy love songs 100% of the time. Even if they are your cup of tea, most of them only promote the idea of a perfect fairy-tale love story, or the absolute agony of a devastating breakup. Real life exists much more frequently in the space between these two ends of the spectrum, which is why I've taken the liberty of compiling a list of songs that talk about more relatable and, frankly, more realistic relationship dynamics.
Whether you're currently single, taken, or involved in a more complicated situation, give these a listen... You can thank me later.
1. No Goodbyes // Dua Lipa
I first heard this song when Dua opened for Bruno Mars on his 24K Magic World Tour. I immediately fell in love with it because of the honestly in the lyrics, the beautiful phrasing, and because it is JUST. SO. CATCHY. No Goodbyes is a total ear worm, and I guarantee you will have it on repeat for days.
2. Say It First // Sam Smith
As a big fan of his, I feel confident in saying that this song is a change of pace for Sam Smith. Where most of his lyrics are usually geared toward disappointment and love lost, those in Say It First are different, carrying a touching message of hope for the start of something new.
3. Let's Hurt Tonight // OneRepublic
I've recently started listening to more OneRepublic than ever before, but this particular track will never lose it's grip. Frontman Ryan Tedder exercises his powerful vocal range, emphasizing the equally powerful sentiment that real love can be hard, but is always worth the effort.
4. LOVE. FEAT. ZACARI // Kendrick Lamar
This song reveals a much softer side of Kendrick than some of his past hits. I am absolutely positive that loving someone for what they're worth is a concept that can resonate with everyone on some level... Plus, the soothing beat and mesmerizing hook don't hurt either.
5. The Middle // Zedd, Maren Morris, Grey
Plain and simple, this song is an absolute JAM. The Middle refers to love as a two-way street, calling for compromise to make a relationship actually work. It's upbeat, it's dance-able, and the surprising combination of EDM artist, Zedd, and country star, Maren Morris, is a match made in heaven.
6. May I Have This Dance (Remix) [feat. Chance the Rapper] // Francis and the Lights
A prime example of leaving it all out in the open in the abstract way that only Francis can. A haunting bassline lays the groundwork for this track, under lyrics about taking the plunge to expose your feelings for someone special. Not only is this song about to become your next go-to, but it's also accompanied by my favorite music video of all time. Check it out here.
7. Sweet Creature // Harry Styles
Appropriately titled, this has to be the sweetest song on Harry's debut solo album. Sweet Creature explores the relationship between two young people whose only constant in life is each other. If that's not enough, the beautifully innocent lyrics play over a simplistic acoustic guitar instrumental that is sure to make you swoon.
8. Sippin' On Fire // Florida Georgia Line
On this track, Brian Kelley and Tyler Hubbard croon about the complications of receiving mixed signals from someone who just know you're meant to be with. Whether or not you can relate to this special case, Sippin' On Fire is going to be your next new-old favorite.
9. Gorgeous // Taylor Swift
This one, from Taylor's most recent album, is an absolute anthem for anybody with a crush that they're too shy to pursue. Gorgeous is a hilariously true take on the thoughts that may or may not cross your mind when you spot that special someone from across the room.
10. Touch and Go // Ed Sheeran
I literally LIVE for Ed Sheeran, so this may be a bit biased, but Touch and Go became an instant favorite of mine from first listen. Ed's alternative approach to the "What are we?" conversation, this track details an up-in-the-air relationship that's been weighing on his mind more than usual.