Valentine’s Day for girls with big feelings

Cecelia Moore

Music Journalist

Valentine’s Day is upon us, and whether you’re celebrating with a significant other or having a “Galentine’s,” you’ll need a soundtrack to accompany the festivity. I’ve created a playlist titled “Valentine’s Day for Girls with Big Feelings.” Whether you’re in love, wistfully yearning or wanting a good love song, here are the tracks that exemplify romance from a female perspective.

“To Love” by Suki Waterhouse

In this indie rock ballad, Waterhouse contemplates the serendipity of love and how this feeling creeps up when you least expect to find love. She opens the song with “Is there a universe / Where our paths never crossed?” The song takes a 50’s rock ballad style as Waterhouse muses on past lovers and clandestine affairs, leading her to the love she has now. The mellow drums and guitar build into a banging bridge, a moment of overwhelming disbelief and gratitude, as Waterhouse sings, “Now I found myself this kind of love, I can’t believe it / I’ll never leave it behind.” This song is for hopeless romantics and will take a number one spot in your rotation.

“Caroline Shut Up” by Caroline Polachek

In this atypical left-field pop ballad, Polachek reassures herself in her relationship. The relatable chorus sings, “Sometimes I wonder / Do I love you too much? / Then I tell myself, ‘Caroline, shut up.’” This song resonates with me as someone who feels deeply and digs into the vulnerability that comes with being in love. The lyric “I dare you to stay with me / You know I get low sometimes” speaks to the truth of love being more than a feeling but a commitment. 

Polachek’s stunning vocals fly into the bridge, singing, “And this is hardcore / Give me scissors and I’m running on a tightrope / And I’ve gotta trust it now.” This electronic-pop ballad empathizes with the struggles of being in a relationship while validating the untrustworthy feelings of euphoria in love. 

“On Your Side” by The Last Dinner Party

This song was an instant favorite when I first heard the track, with Kate Bush influences from an all-female indie rock band. The song speaks of the commitment of romance, how you’d be there for this person, even if they need someone there all night. The singer’s strong vocals are cathartic and honest, expressing her devotion on multiple levels throughout the song. If you’re a fan of British rock, this band is a must listen and this song will have a spot on your Valentine’s Day tracklist. 

“Love song” by Lana Del Rey

This song is from the artist’s critically acclaimed album, Norman F****** Rockwell. However, this song, I feel is often overlooked for some of the more sonically dynamic moments. Lana Del Rey’s attention to detail in her lyrics makes this song so authentic and intentional, painting out the honesty of being in love.

Singing, “Oh, be my once in a lifetime / Lyin’ on your chest, in my party dress / I’m a f****n’ mess but I,” shows the acceptance and sensitivity of being in love. “The taste, the touch, the way we love / It all comes down to make the sound of our / Love song,” is a very personal yet applicable lyric to any romantic relationship and makes this song feel that the lyrics are written directly about your life. This Lana Del Rey deep cut is not one to skip, easily earning a spot on this playlist.

This Valentine’s Day, get in your feelings and let them be big! If you’d like to check out the rest of my playlist, listen here.