Valentine’s Day date ideas for music lovers

Whether you stay in or go out with your boo, let music take the lead.

By Isabella Soares

A romantic occasion made special with a curated playlist. (Isabella Soares/CanCulture)

February is here, meaning that the clock is ticking when it comes to planning a romantic hangout with your partner for Valentine’s Day. Although going to the movies or eating a three-course meal at a bougie restaurant seems like the way to go, there is more in store for couples that want to add music to this special occasion. From pairs that want to keep it casual to love birds that want to enjoy an epic night out, the list below has several music-centred ideas to help you find the perfect way to celebrate.

Go Record Shopping

If there is one place that music lovers can’t help but swing by from time to time, it’s a record store. There is something about roaming through the aisles filled with albums from a variety of genres that is appealing to any music enthusiast. In the case you and your significant other share the same desire to purchase vinyl or CDs, what better way to enjoy Valentine’s Day than shopping together? Maybe once you get past the cashier, you can give each other a record as a gift.

See a musical at a local theatre

Musicals aren’t for everybody, since they often have more singing and dancing than wordy dialogues. Yet, for those couples that do enjoy a dramatic story accompanied by upbeat tunes, attending a musical production at a local theatre is a must. You’ll laugh at the occasional jokes, hold hands when the characters fall in love, and will surely have a new repertoire to sing together after the curtains close.

Attend a Candlelight concert

You have probably seen ads promoting a Candlelight concert on your Instagram feed, but never actually purchased a ticket to experience one in person. Well, Valentine’s Day seems like an ideal occasion to give it a try. After all, there is nothing more romantic than being in a dimly lit room next to your soulmate, listening to orchestral versions of your favourite songs.

Enjoy a meal to the sound of a curated playlist

With so many people making reservations in advance to eat out, enjoying a meal together at home might be a cozy way to go. To make the night even more intimate, come up with a playlist filled with tunes that you both enjoy—or remind you of each other—and listen to it while having dinner. Once a ballad begins to play, you can always seize the opportunity to slow dance with your partner in the living room.

Sing at a karaoke bar

Listening to music 24/7 means you probably know several songs by heart and sing them in the shower. Why not get out of your comfort zone and belt out the lyrics with your significant other at a karaoke bar? The whole point of karaoke is to have fun and let go of the pressure of sounding good to a picky crowd. Putting your names on the list and hitting the stage will make the night nothing short of exciting!

Watch an artist or band perform live

If an artist or band that you and your partner love is planning a concert on Valentine’s Day (or maybe during that week), then purchasing a ticket to see them live should be a given. Yet, in the case that they aren’t performing in your hometown anytime soon, why not see a local band or a cover group instead. They might not seem as exciting as the person on your concert bucket list, but you might leave their show with a new local talent to add to your playlist afterward.

No matter the date idea you and your boo settle on, the truth is that music has the power to make a special occasion even more significant. After all, songs can evoke emotions and remind us of a moment in our lives better than words can. When the right tune plays at the right time, magic happens and a simple get-together with the person that you love becomes an everlasting memory.

Canadian love songs to add to your Valentine’s playlists this month

A list of lovely valen-tunes to play for your sweetheart this snowy season

By: Nalyn Tindall

a pair of black earbuds shaped into a heart on a red background

Tune into love this Valentine’s Day (pixelheart via pixabay)

Nothing is more romantic than singing a love song to your partner. A carefully curated playlist, however, is the ideal alternative for those of us who lack musical talent. So whether you want to enhance your own Valentine's Day playlist or are looking for the perfect tune for that special someone, here are some ideal love songs from Canadian artists.

Only The People That Love - Rufus Wainwright

The two-time Juno Award winner and eight-time nominee is no stranger to themes of love, often writing about heartbreak, family and short-lived love. “Only The People That Love” highlights the importance of love in our lives, despite its complexities, reminding us of its significance.

(Everything I Do) I Do It For You - Bryan Adams

This ‘90s classic is sure to bring not only swoons but nostalgia. Best-selling artist Bryan Adams is best known for “Summer Of ‘69”, but don't let that stop you from blasting his music from your boombox this winter. This slow jam will surely win your partner over with its themes of commitment and loyalty.

Head Over Feet- Alanis Morisette

Another ‘90s classic from the renowned album Jagged Little Pill, “Head Over Feet” details falling in love with a friend. Alanis Morissette admires not only her confidant’s care and devotion, but also their friendship. She discusses the complicated dynamic of being both friends and lovers. If your partner is also your best friend, this might be the song for you.

I'm Yours- Joel Plaskett Emergency

Let celebrated songwriter and Nova Scotian, Joel Plaskett take you away with this acoustic serenade as he tries to convince the one he loves to love him too. Recounting a relationship of true love, Plaskett reminds us that soulmates might exist after all.

Put Your Head On My Shoulder- Paul Anka

Time travel back to the ‘60s with Canadian crooner Paul Anka and one of his biggest hits, “Put Your Head On My Shoulder.” The hit regained popularity online in 2017, circulating on social media, igniting a love for similar music in many young people. If you're looking for a sweet, simple serenade, this is the song for you.

Love Always- Said The Whale

The Vancouver-based indie-rock band reminds us that “the answer is love, always” with this upbeat and optimistic tune. If you’re ever in doubt, don't hesitate to turn on this song and remind yourself of all that love can do.

Slip Into Your Skin- Patrick Watson

This intimate and gentle song is a personal favourite. Watson's soft singing, accompanied by twinkling piano, sets the mood for a quiet night in. The song expresses the joy and intimacy of being with someone else, holding them and calling them yours.

The Power Of Love- Celine Dion 

Canada’s sweetheart Celine Dion is known for her vocal chops and love songs — and “The Power Of Love” is a prime example of one. Originally written and recorded by Jennifer Rush, the song has been covered numerous times and has become one of Dion’s biggest hits. This song has everything you could hope for from Dion, with soul, emotion, riffs and belts galore. 

Less Than Love- Bahamas

Raised in Barrie, Ont., singer-songwriter Afie Jurvanen — better known by his stage name Bahamas — details his love life, the struggles that come with relationships, and the perseverance that’s needed to make romance last. True love is about more than just the easy times; in the end, those who truly love are the ones who can endure the challenges.

I Can Feel It- Sloan

Originally from Halifax, the Toronto-based rock quartet Sloan has delivered a chill yet joyous account of love with “I Can Feel It.” Infatuation is at the heart of this song. Crushes without conditions and the hope for mutual admiration carries the melody forward. 

Now that you have 10 love songs to impress that special someone, invite them out of the cold to cuddle up and listen together this Valentine’s Day. You can find our carefully curated Valentine’s Day playlist on Spotify or Apple Music.