In late January, I proposed a Facebook meme to share a love song a day for February that contains Valentine’s Day. Here are the first seven songs of my list and some short commentary with each.

Carmen McRae made this song magical for me because she sung it like she meant it. She’s got the definitive version for me… just on her phrasing.

[Jazz]

One of two songs I have on my iRace playlist for when I need to pick up the tempo in running with my iPod. The song’s fun nature also adds a little swagger to my stride.

[60s rock]

This song was originally from a little known musical called Kismet, and from Alexander Borodin’s Polovtsian Dances originally, but Tony Bennett did a magnificent version of it. I’m much more of a Sinatra fan than Tony fan, but Tony was something else here.

[Musicals]

Simple, right on, and just so romantically sung with captivating harmonies.
[Doo Wop]

A modern selection, from 2010. I’m pretty cynical when it comes to good modern music, but every now and then, a song like this comes along and renews my faith. It’s kind of like the subject of the song who renews the singer’s faith in love in her cynicism.

[Alternative]

This stunning gem was created from Frederyk Chopin’s Etude in E Major, Op 10 No 3, and Jo Stafford was the perfect fit for it. There are so many other gorgeous classical music melodies waiting to be used in music today, maybe I’ll take advantage of the niche!

[50s easy listening]

The first duet among my list for February. From Avenue Q, this song is not only delightful in its lyrics and melodies, but especially performance with all the little nuances of someone in love. I love duets so much I’ve seriously considered marrying only women who could sing. 🙂

[Musicals]

Please click on this link to see my next 7 great love songs shared.