Wiles Tunes: “IN THE MOOD” MUSIC

 

What sort of music gets you in the mood for romance?  Is it the prospect of a passion that just won’t quit, or the promise of a love that will never die?  Whatever it takes to get you going, we guarantee, you’ll find a love song on this list that will set your heart aflutter!

 

“Besame Mucho” – Julio Iglesias.

American Idol fans may remember when, in April of 2007, eclectic fan favorite Sanjaya Malakar wowed the crowd (and then-guest mentor Jennifer Lopez) with his rendition of this classic love song. Please enjoy legendary crroner Julio Igesias’ version here.

 

 

“Wrapped Around Your Finger” – The Police

The symbolic band of gold takes center stage in this ethereal offering from the 1980’s New Wave/Rock/Reggae-fusion band The Police. A unique blend of Sting’s haunting lead vocals and lofty lyrics, this single from the 1983 album Synchronicity is often overshadowed by the uber-popular “Every Breath You Take” on playlists featuring the group, but it’s a song that no list of romantic ditties should overlook.

 

“Adore” – Prince

Of course this song made our list – after all, who among us doesn’t want to be adored?  Interestingly, this is a song that is a favorite love song for men and women, alike – a true testament to Prince’s universal artist appeal.  The Purple One’s vocals literally soar into the stratosphere toward the end of this song – transporting the listener to a place that is primed for a romantic interlude.

 

“Between the Sheets” – The Isley Brothers

In addition to being sampled over the years by notables like Biggie Smalls, A Tribe Called Quest and Gwen Stefani, this song has, no doubt, aided more than a few Don Juans (and Dona Juanas!) in the art of seduction.  If you don’t have this one on your playlist, please prepare to turn in your “Player Card” immediately!

 

“We’ve Only Just Begun” – The Carpenters

This 1970 ballad—oozing with optimism and hope for the future—became the signature song for The Carpenters and a favorite of brides then and ever since.  Karen Carpenter’s rich lead vocals and overdubbed harmonies courtesy of her and her brother Richard blend seamlessly in this timeless love song.

 

“Your Song” – Elton John

A single from Elton John’s self-titled second album, “Your Song” was originally released as a B-side cut.  But with lyrics like “I hope you don’t mind that I put down in words, how wonderful life is while you’re in the world,” it’s no wonder that the ballad soon emerged as an enduring love song that stirs souls more than 40 years after its initial release.

 

“My Cherie Amour” – Stevie Wonder

Quite possibly one of the sweetest songs ever recorded, this offering from mega hit-maker Stevie Wonder is a veritable postcard from an unrequited love to the object of his affection “on a distant cloud.”

 

 

“The Lady in My Life” – Michael Jackson

From an album that produced an unprecedented number of hits in 1982, “The Lady in My Life” shines on Michael’s Jackson’s “Thriller” as an intimate interlude and a rare glimpse into the King of Pop’s sensual side.

 

 

“Endless Love” – Diana Ross and Lionel Richie

No list like this would be complete without at least one duet; and when it comes to love songs, few have done it better than Ms. Ross and Mr. Richie.  The theme song to the 1981 romantic drama of the same name, the song’s success would go on to eclipse the film’s success and became the biggest-selling single in Ms. Ross’ long and illustrious career.


“At Last” – Etta James

It’s no wonder that President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama chose this number, arguably one of the greatest love songs of all time, for their first dance as the United States’ first couple during Inauguration ceremonies in 2009.  Written in 1941 and recorded, famously, by Glenn Miller and his orchestra in 1942, Ms. James, affectionately known as “The Matriarch of R & B,” covered the song in 1960 and transformed it into one of the most enduring ballads of all time.  Ms. James’ voice was silenced when she passed away on January 20, 2012, but her version of “At Last” will live in the hearts and memories of music lovers all over the globe forever.

 

Did one of your favorite romantic songs not make our playlist?  If so, please “Join the Conversation” on Facebook and let us know what mood music moves you!

 

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