Valentine-Themed Playlist: A Musical Journey Through Love and Heartache

Introduction to the Valentine Playlist

Every once in a while, I love to curate playlists filled with songs that share the same title. This time, in honor of Valentine’s Day—a holiday that can evoke both joy and heartache—I’ve compiled a playlist of seven tracks titled “Valentine.” These songs, spanning various genres and emotions, capture the complexity of love and longing. Whether you’re celebrating romance, reflecting on past relationships, or simply need a soundtrack for your mood, this playlist has something for everyone.

Love’sjoyful and Heartfelt Expressions

The playlist begins with Laufey’s charming 2022 single, “Valentine,” a jazz-pop tune that captures the whimsical feeling of falling in love after years of solo celebrations. Laufey, an Icelandic artist with an old-soul vibe, expresses her hesitation and joy in a Weightless croon, concluding, “I blinked and suddenly I had a valentine.” On the other end of the spectrum, The Replacements bring a shambolic yet sweet track from their 1987 album Pleased to Meet Me. Paul Westerberg’s lyrics are quintessentially romantic in their own rough way, comparing love to downing a pill with “something sweet and strong.” Together, these tracks remind us that love can be both tender and wild.

Heartbreak and Longing in Valentine’s Shadow

Not all Valentine’s Day stories have happy endings, and some tracks lean into the pain of love. Snail Mail’s title track from their 2021 album is a blistering indie-rock song filled with raw emotion. Lindsey Jordan’s voice cracks as she seethes, “Why’d you wanna erase me, darling valentine?” Meanwhile, Orion Sun’s “Valentine” offers a soulful, intimate snapshot of a relationship that wasn’t meant to last. Tiffany Majette’s vivid lyrics paint a picture of a love that might have thrived in another lifetime, leaving listeners with a sense of bittersweet longing.

Instrumental Interludes and Unexpected Gems

Justice’s “Valentine” is an instrumental track from their 2007 album Cross. While it has no lyrics, its ethereal, electronic beats provide a moment of calm amidst the emotional highs and lows of the playlist. It’s a perfect invitation to pause, reflect, or even dance. This breather reminds us that sometimes, music doesn’t need words to evoke feelings or tell a story.

Unrequited Obsession and Vicarious Love

Fiona Apple’s “Valentine” from her 2012 album The Idler Wheel… is a masterclass in lyrical brilliance and emotional depth. Her sparse arrangement highlights her expressive vocals as she unravels a tale of unrequited obsession. Lines like, “You didn’t see my valentine / I sent it via pantomime,” showcase her unparalleled ability to weave words into heart-wrenching imagery. This track is a poignant reminder of the pain of loving someone who doesn’t love you back.

Nostalgia and Teenage Heartache

The playlist closes with The Get Up Kids’ “Valentine,” a cult-favorite emo ballad from their 1999 album Something to Write Home About. This track is a love letter to long-distance relationships and the enduring memories of teenage heartache. Lead singer Matt Pryor’s croaky delivery captures the vulnerability of yearning for someone far away, leaving listeners nostalgia for their own youthful romances.

Bonus Tracks and Musical Treats

This year, Valentine’s Day coincides with exciting new releases from artists like Sabrina Carpenter, Selena Gomez, and Drake. Carpenter’s deluxe edition of her Grammy-winning album features a duet with Dolly Parton, while Gomez and Benny Blanco tease their upcoming collaboration. Meanwhile, Drake drops a 21-track album titled Some Sexy Songs 4 U, promising to spice up playlists. Whether you’re in the mood for love or looking for a distraction from it, there’s no shortage of music to explore.

This Valentine’s Day, let these tracks guide you through the highs and lows of love. Whether you’re celebrating romance, reflecting on heartache, or simply need a soundtrack for your mood, this playlist—and the bonus tracks beyond—offers a little something for everyone. So sit back, hit play, and let the music do the talking.