Love songs are like old friends, comforting and familiar. They have the power to make you sing in the shower, dance in the kitchen, and yes, even embarrassingly bust a move in public. These tunes tap into the depths of your emotions, whether you’re basking in the glow of newfound love or nursing a heartache.

In a world saturated with love songs, we’ve sifted through the noise to bring you the cream of the crop. From classics in iconic movies to powerhouse performances by Beyoncé and Adele, our definitive ranking celebrates the greatest love songs of all time.

1. “At Last” by Etta James: A Timeless Classic

Etta James’s 1960 rendition of “At Last” is the epitome of a romantic slow dance, a wedding anthem, and the backdrop to iconic love scenes. While some may label it as cliché, there’s an undeniable magic when James’s soulful voice kicks in. Even at President Obama’s inauguration ball in 2009, everyone, including the First Lady, couldn’t help but be swept away.

2. “All of Me” by John Legend: A Decade of Love

For a solid decade, “All of Me” has reigned as the go-to wedding song worldwide. John Legend’s dedication to his wife, Chrissy Teigen, is a heartfelt ballad that celebrates love in all its imperfections. The moving lyrics, like ‘Love your curves and all your edges, all your perfect imperfections,’ resonate with millions, making it the most-added song in ‘love’ playlists on Spotify.

3. “Let’s Stay Together” by Al Green: A Reverend’s Serenade

Al Green’s 1971 love song, “Let’s Stay Together,” goes beyond mere promises of marriage. When sung by Green, those vows take flight. Noteworthy moments include its feature in Pulp Fiction and the unforgettable rendition by Barack Obama in 2012 at a fundraising event.

4. “All Night” by Beyoncé: Healing Hearts in Harmony

Beyoncé’s “All Night,” part of her Lemonade visual album, stands out as a powerful love ballad. Released in 2016, it explores the spectrum of emotions tied to marital challenges. Unlike revenge-driven tracks, this soulful anthem serves as a compassionate ode to healing heartbreak and moving forward, a rarely explored theme in love songs.

5. “Nothing Compares 2 U” by Sinéad O’Connor: A Haunting Tribute

Originally penned by Prince, Sinéad O’Connor’s rendition of “Nothing Compares 2 U” became an iconic ’90s anthem. O’Connor’s ethereal vocals inject the song with raw intensity, creating a timeless symbol of heartbreak that resonates even with the stiffest of upper lips.

6. “Something” by the Beatles: A Swirling Triumph of Infatuation

George Harrison’s “Something” captures the swirling triumph of infatuation, earning its place as the second-most-covered Beatles song. More than 150 artists, including Frank Sinatra and James Brown, have tried their hand at this dreamy ode to love.

7. “God Only Knows” by the Beach Boys: Heavenly Harmonies

In 1963, Brian Wilson’s obsession with Phil Spector’s orchestral vision led to the creation of “God Only Knows.” This song elevates the sophisticated love song to heavenly heights, blending uncertainty with heartbreakingly tender expressions of yearning, devotion, and fidelity.

8. “I Will Always Love You” by Dolly Parton: A Timeless Farewell

Dolly Parton’s 1974 farewell to her mentor, Porter Wagoner, resonates with the sentiment of ‘if you love something, set it free.’ While few can hit those high notes like Whitney Houston, the passion embedded in the chorus invites everyone to sing along with equal fervor.

9. “My Girl” by the Temptations: A Sugary ’64 Chart-Topper

The Temptations’ 1964 chart-topper, “My Girl,” stands as the epitome of puppy-love songs. With its instantly recognizable guitar riff, peppy finger snaps, and comforting harmonies, this track has the power to warm even the coldest hearts.

10. “Someone Like You” by Adele: The Ultimate Ode to Former Lovers

Adele’s “Someone Like You” is the quintessential ode to former lovers. Released in 2011, the song, written from the perspective of heartbreak, resonates with anyone struggling to move on. Adele’s passionate vocals bring color to the fantasy of reconnecting with the one who got away.

11. “Hello” by Lionel Richie: A Timeless Build of Anticipation

Lionel Richie’s 1984 No. 1 hit, “Hello,” may have a somewhat cheesy video, but its slow build of anticipation, accompanied by a tender vocal delivery, has stood the test of time.

12. “Wonderful World” by Sam Cooke: A Drum Flutter of Sweetness

Sam Cooke’s 1960 swoon, “Wonderful World,” opens with a drum flutter that melts hearts. Its lullaby simplicity echoes the undeniable truth that when love feels right, it’s a blend of a no-brainer and a miracle.

13. “Maps” by Yeah Yeah Yeahs: A Repetitive Mantra of Heartbreak

Yeah Yeah Yeahs’ early aughts classic, “Maps,” may have repetitive lyrics, but they become a haunting mantra of heartbreak. The sentiment of ‘Wait, they don’t love you like I do’ resonates as relationships start to unravel.

14. “When a Man Loves a Woman” by Percy Sledge: Love’s Powerful Impact

Percy Sledge’s 1966 R&B staple is one of the most romantic-sounding songs, despite its lyrics highlighting the havoc love can wreak on judgment, pride, friendships, and more.

15. “Nothing Even Matters” by Lauryn Hill: A Sensual Showcase

Lauryn Hill’s “Nothing Even Matters” may not have received as much recognition as other singles, but it’s a near-perfect showcase for ’90s neo-soul. This restrained and simple love song between Hill and D’Angelo is a testament to their talent.

16. “That’s How Strong My Love Is” by Otis Redding: Heartbreakingly Reassuring

Otis Redding’s 1965 cover of O.V. Wright’s original is a heartbreakingly reassuring declaration of love. His soulful rendition makes you feel adored just by listening.

17. “I Say a Little Prayer” by Aretha Franklin: Devastating Love in F Minor

Set in F minor, Aretha Franklin’s “I Say a Little Prayer” hits like a breakup. Burt Bacharach’s genius paired with Aretha’s powerful delivery makes it a classic in the upper echelons of love songs.

18. “Running Up That Hill” by Kate Bush: Strangely Beautiful Love

Kate Bush’s 1985 smash, “Running Up That Hill,” defies the conventional definition of a love song. Its electronic drum figure, swooping synths, and Bush’s vocals create an impressionistic masterpiece centered around love as a transformative force.

19. “Everywhere” by Fleetwood Mac: Pre-Chillwave Bliss in 1987

Fleetwood Mac’s 1987 track “Everywhere” precedes the chillwave era by perfectly stacking blissful sighs, shimmering arpeggios, and breezy drum gallops. It’s a testament to the band’s ability to innovate within the realms of love songs.

20. “Vision of Love” by Mariah Carey: A Romantic Debut

Mariah Carey’s debut single, “Vision of Love,” released in 1990, remains irresistibly romantic. This gospel-tinged pop-soul ballad showcases Carey’s vocal prowess, building towards a thrilling climax with her signature whistle notes.

In a world where love songs abound, these timeless tunes have etched their place in our hearts. Each melody captures the essence of love in its various forms, making them the perfect soundtrack for every romantic journey. Whether you’re dancing at your wedding or singing in the car, let these songs serenade you through the highs and lows of love.