18 Forgotten Love Songs From The Past That Are Underrated
Looking for the perfect tune for your first dance at your wedding? You’re in the right place to discover your new favorite love song.
Previous eras also featured legendary artists whose love songs remain timeless, much like the current-day popularity of John Legend and Ed Sheeran.
These tracks, from various genres and eras, connect listeners through love, heartbreak, and emotion, with legendary artists like Elvis Presley and Otis Redding.
1. To Love Somebody – Nina Simone
Nina Simone’s rendition of “To Love Somebody” is a heart-wrenching masterpiece.
Her soulful voice captures the profound longing and bittersweet pain of unrequited love. Originally by the Bee Gees, Simone transforms this classic into a hauntingly beautiful expression of vulnerability and heartache.
Her powerful delivery, paired with expressive piano playing, elevates the song to a journey through love’s complexities.
2. Love Song – Lesley Duncan
“Love Song” is a tender ballad that feels like a warm embrace. Her soothing voice paired with delicate acoustic guitar creates an intimate atmosphere that draws listeners in.
Duncan’s sincerity shines through every word, making this track a comforting and timeless piece.
Though lesser-known, “Love Song” is a hidden treasure that resonates deeply with those who discover it.
3. A Song for You – Donny Hathaway
A soul-stirring declaration of love and regret? That’s exactly what it is. Written by Leon Russell, Hathaway’s rendition is a masterclass in emotional delivery.
His rich, velvety voice carries a weight of yearning and apology that is both heartbreaking and beautiful. The simplicity of the arrangement allows Hathaway’s vocals to take center stage, creating a timeless connection with listeners.
4. Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley
What an epitome of a timeless love anthem! “Can’t Help Falling In Love” is a universal favorite for weddings and romantic moments.
Plus, Presley’s charismatic delivery adds a layer of depth that feels both personal and universal.
This classic track captures the essence of falling in love, solidifying its place as one of the most enduring love songs of all time.
5. Try a Little Tenderness – Otis Redding
“Try a Little Tenderness” is a soulful masterpiece that builds from a gentle plea to a powerful crescendo. Redding’s emotive delivery makes the song a heartfelt anthem of compassion and understanding.
The dynamic arrangement mirrors the complexities of love, drawing listeners into its emotional depth.
Redding’s ability to mix emotion with musical brilliance makes this track a classic that continues to inspire.
6. Dedicated to the One I Love – The Mamas & The Papas
The Mamas & The Papas’ “Dedicated to the One I Love” is a harmonious ode to unwavering devotion. The gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics evoke a sense of warmth and sincerity, making it a comforting reminder of love’s enduring power.
Interestingly, the song was originally written in 1957 by Lowman Pauling of The “5” Royales and was later covered by The Mamas & The Papas in 1967. After that, it became one of their most memorable hits.
7. Baby I’m Yours – Barbara Lewis
Looking for a soulful ballad? Barbara Lewis’s “Baby I’m Yours” is it. Her voice effortlessly flows over the soft melody, creating a timeless, intimate vibe. The simple arrangement lets her lyrics shine, making this track a comforting classic.
Released in 1965, “Baby I’m Yours” became an R&B hit, reaching the top of the charts and solidifying Lewis’s place in music history.
This hidden gem continues to resonate with listeners, capturing the essence of love’s purest moments. Have you listened to this classic hit yet?
8. This Guy’s in Love with You – Herb Alpert
Herb Alpert’s “This Guy’s in Love with You” is a heartfelt confession of love! His gentle and vulnerable delivery, combined with a smooth, jazzy arrangement offers the ultimate romantic setting. Needless to say, the song touched hearts with its honest portrayal of love.
Released in 1968, it became one of Alpert’s biggest hits. The song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, solidifying his place as a beloved musical figure.
9. Loving You – Minnie Riperton
Minnie Riperton’s “Loving You” is a mesmerizing celebration of love’s purity. Her ethereal voice and exceptional vocal range create a sense of awe and enchantment.
Riperton’s emotive delivery makes this track a timeless classic, beautifully capturing love’s tender moments.
“Loving You” remains one of the most beloved songs in R&B and pop. It was frequently featured in films, TV shows, and romantic playlists. In other words, it soon became the anthem of affection everywhere!
10. I Only Have Eyes for You – The Flamingos
This dreamy love ballad feels like an eternal declaration of devotion. With a gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics, the song expresses longing and unwavering commitment, making it a timeless classic.
“I Only Have Eyes for You” remains one of the most iconic love songs. Its ethereal beauty and emotional depth ensure its lasting appeal in the hearts of listeners.
11. I’ve Been Loving You Too Long – Otis Redding
Are you ready to feel the intensity of love in its truest form?
Otis Redding’s “I’ve Been Loving You Too Long” is a soulful expression of love and longing. His emotive voice brings raw emotion to every word.
This overlooked classic continues to resonate with its powerful feeling, making it a must-listen for anyone who’s experienced love’s bittersweet depth.
12. The Look of Love – Dusty Springfield
Released in 1967, “The Look of Love” became an instant hit and remains one of the most iconic tracks of the ’60s.
Dusty Springfield’s smooth, velvety voice creates a romantic atmosphere that draws listeners in from the first note. The gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics evoke intimacy and longing, securing its place as a timeless classic.
13. Cherish – The Association
Have you ever had a song make you feel this cherished? Let this timeless ballad remind you of the beauty of true devotion.
Released in 1966, “Cherish” became one of The Association’s biggest hits, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its blend of pop, folk, and easy listening influences made it an instant favorite.
The Association’s “Cherish” is a heartfelt ode to love and appreciation. Their harmonious vocals create a sound that is both nostalgic and timeless
14. When a Man Loves a Woman – Percy Sledge
Percy Sledge’s ‘When a Man Loves a Woman’ is a soul-stirring tribute to love’s raw power and selflessness. With a voice that resonates with both vulnerability and passion, Sledge delivers each line as if laying bare his heart.
The haunting lyrics and unforgettable melody have woven it into the very fabric of music history.
As one of the most iconic love songs ever written, it continues to inspire and move audiences, appearing in films, TV shows, and playlists.
15. Wonderful World – Sam Cooke
Did you know this song, released in 1960? A true masterpiece that continues to make listeners smile every time it’s played!
Sam Cooke’s “Wonderful World” is a cheerful, optimistic love song that radiates joy and innocence.
His smooth, velvety voice creates a warm, uplifting atmosphere that captivates listeners from the very first note. The catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics evoke pure happiness!
16. Baby I Need Your Loving – Four Tops
The Four Tops’ “Baby I Need Your Loving” is a soulful call for affection, with powerful harmonies that draw listeners in from the very first note.
Released in 1964, it marked the group’s breakthrough, propelling them into stardom. Its emotional depth and lasting charm have made it one of the most iconic love songs of all time.
The sincere lyrics and dynamic melody express profound longing, solidifying it as a timeless classic.
17. Unchained Melody – The Righteous Brothers
Have you ever had a moment where this song captured your heart?
The Righteous Brothers’ “Unchained Melody” is a beautiful love song that feels both timeless and deeply personal.
Their vocals create a sound that is both nostalgic and enchanting. The gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics evoke a sense of longing and devotion, making it a beloved classic.
18. The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face – Roberta Flack
Roberta Flack’s “The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face” is an exquisite, heartfelt expression of love’s purity and depth.
The gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics evoke a sense of wonder and enchantment, making it a timeless classic.
Flack’s ability to convey deep emotion through her vocal delivery ensures that this track remains a beloved favorite, capturing the essence of love’s tender moments.