We’ve all been there—sitting in a restaurant, trying to have a moment while someone’s “ultimate romance” playlist cycles through the same Ed Sheeran songs for the fifth time. This Valentine’s Day, whether you’re driving to dinner, cooking at home, sharing a bottle of wine, or just hanging out, ditch the predictable same old songs and spice things up with any of these 5 albums. From sultry classics to modern gems, here’s your soundtrack to Valentine’s night that feels authentic—no Perfect or All of Me in sight.
Snoh Aalegra’s Ugh, Those Feels Again
Considered by many as a modern classic, Snoh Aalegra captures that warm, fuzzy feeling of being around your boo in 14 songs of Ugh, Those Feels Again. Songs like Whoa, Love like that, I want you around, and Love like that fill you up with those butterflies you read about in books. And if your relationship is a little …complicated…, Situationship has you covered. Think of this album as that first cup of coffee on a lazy Saturday morning—familiar, comforting, and just what you need.
Sade’s Love
Yes, playing an album called “Love” on Valentine’s Day might seem obvious, but Sade isn’t here for subtlety; she’s here to set the mood. Her velvet voice wraps around jazz instruments like silk, creating an atmosphere that says everything you’re trying to find words for. When No Ordinary Love kicks in, you’ll understand why this album has soundtracked countless romantic evenings since 1992. From the slow-burning desire of Cherish the Day to the intimate whispers of Like a Tattoo, this is what they mean when they say music speaks louder than words. Think of it as your personal backup singer for those moments when you’re feeling too shy to say it yourself.
Marvin Gaye’s I Want You
You probably know Marvin Gaye’s Sexual Healing and Let’s Get it On, as well as his critically acclaimed What’s Going On. But, let me introduce you to I Want You, an album that drips with passion, blending soul, funk, and a quiet storm into a hypnotic, seductive experience. From the yearning title track to the smooth, lingering After the Dance, Marvin holds nothing back, making his desire unmistakably clear. Think of I Want You as a soundtrack to a night where every glance, touch, and sigh says more than words ever could.
Waithaka’s Soul’d Duets
Soul’d Duets is the youngest entry in this list; however, it’s got an old soul’s wisdom about love. Through intimate duets, Waithaka and his collaborators weave together two perspectives of a relationship like a conversation you’re lucky enough to overhear. Be Mine Forever captures that giddy feeling on the first link-up, while tracks like The Way It Should Be explore the deeper waters of long-term romance. Tracks like My Boo (Got You) and Searching ooze desire that is characteristic of a loving relationship. Soul’d Duets is like eavesdropping on love stories at different chapters, from the butterflies of the first dates to the comfortable silence of Sunday mornings. It’s fresh enough to feel current and timeless enough to make you nostalgic for moments you haven’t had yet. Stay tuned for a full album review here!
Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak’s An Evening with Silk Sonic
Bruno Mars and Anderson .Paak created a love letter to 70s soul, and in the process, made what I consider a required listening during this Valentine season. From the bold come-ons of Leave the Door Open to the playful bounce of Skate, An Evening with Silk Sonic feels like it should be played on vinyl in a room lit by lava lamps. Perfect for when you want your Valentine’s night to feel less like 2024 and more like Studio 54. Just try not to break out the chest hair and gold chains; unless that’s your thing, in which case, respect.
There you have it—five albums that will save you from the dreaded “Valentine’s Hits” playlist your local restaurant has been recycling since 2010. From modern classics to timeless soul, each one brings something special to the table without trying too hard. So this Valentine’s Day, skip the algorithm-approved love songs and give these records a spin. Your ears (and your date) will thank you.
