Love, in its myriad forms, has always been a muse for musicians across genres and generations. From heartfelt ballads to electrifying anthems, songs about love’s highs and lows consistently dominate the airwaves and capture the collective consciousness. Payoffsong.com delves into the heart of this phenomenon, counting down the Most Epic Love Songs that have not only topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart but have also become timeless testaments to romance, passion, and devotion.
This curated list, inspired by Billboard’s own rankings, celebrates the enduring power of love in music. We explore hits from the dawn of the Hot 100 in 1958 to contemporary chart-toppers, demonstrating that while musical styles evolve, the universal appeal of love songs remains constant. These aren’t just songs; they are cultural touchstones, each with its own story of creation, impact, and lasting legacy. From the innocent adoration of the 50s to the passionate declarations of today, prepare to rediscover the most epic love songs that have soundtracked our lives.
Lovin’ You – Minnie Riperton (1975)
Minnie Riperton’s ethereal vocals and the song’s delicate melody made “Lovin’ You” an instant classic. Peaking at No. 1 in 1975, this track, initially a B-side, showcased Riperton’s incredible five-and-a-half-octave vocal range and her ability to convey pure, unadulterated affection. Its simplicity and sincerity resonated deeply, proving that sometimes the most epic love songs are the most tender. Before her solo success, Riperton honed her craft with the soul group Rotary Connection and even provided backing vocals for Stevie Wonder, experiences that undoubtedly contributed to the unique artistry displayed in “Lovin’ You.”
You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin’ – The Righteous Brothers (1965)
A powerhouse of emotion and vocal performance, “You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feelin'” by The Righteous Brothers topped the Hot 100 in 1965 and remains a definitive breakup anthem. Written by the legendary duo Barry Mann and Cynthia Weil, the song’s dramatic arrangement and soaring vocals captured the agony of love fading away. Producer Phil Spector’s “Wall of Sound” production amplified the song’s epic scale, making it a timeless portrayal of heartbreak. The iconic opening lines and the building intensity throughout the song solidify its place as one of the most epic expressions of lost love.
This Guy’s In Love With You – Herb Alpert (1968)
Herb Alpert’s smooth vocals and the gentle melody of “This Guy’s In Love With You” offered a softer, more vulnerable side of love. Reaching No. 1 in 1968, this Burt Bacharach and Hal David composition was initially sung by Alpert to his wife on a TV special. The overwhelming public response led to its release as a single, demonstrating the song’s immediate and widespread appeal. Its unassuming charm and heartfelt delivery made it an epic declaration of love in its simplest, most genuine form.
Don’t Let Go (Love) – En Vogue (1997)
En Vogue brought their signature harmonies and powerful vocals to “Don’t Let Go (Love),” a song that soared to No. 2 on the Hot 100 in 1997. Featured on the Set It Off soundtrack, this track is a potent blend of R&B and soul, exploring the complexities of holding onto love even when it’s slipping away. The song’s emotional depth and the group’s impeccable vocal performance make it an epic portrayal of love’s tenacity. It stands as En Vogue’s biggest hit, showcasing their enduring impact on the music scene.
Justify My Love – Madonna (1991)
Madonna’s “Justify My Love” pushed boundaries and sparked controversy while topping the charts in 1991. The song’s sexually suggestive lyrics and groundbreaking music video, initially banned by MTV, made it a cultural phenomenon. Beyond the controversy, “Justify My Love” is an epic exploration of desire and intimacy, delivered with Madonna’s characteristic confidence and artistic vision. Its impact on pop culture and its unapologetic expression of sensuality solidify its place among epic love songs that dare to challenge conventions.
That’s The Way Love Goes – Janet Jackson (1993)
Janet Jackson’s smooth and sensual “That’s The Way Love Goes” dominated the Hot 100 for eight weeks in 1993. This track, the lead single from her janet. album, marked a new era in her career, showcasing a more mature and confident artist. Sampling James Brown, the song is a masterclass in understated cool, celebrating the effortless flow of love and attraction. Its record-breaking chart reign and its influence on R&B and pop music cement its status as an epic love song of the 90s.
The Power of Love – Celine Dion (1994)
Celine Dion’s powerful vocals and emotional delivery transformed “The Power of Love” into a global anthem. Reaching No. 1 in 1994, Dion’s rendition of this Jennifer Rush song became her signature power ballad. Her soaring vocals and passionate performance perfectly capture the overwhelming force of love. Dion herself recognized the song’s vocal strength, stating its unparalleled capacity for powerful singing. This epic ballad remains a karaoke staple and a testament to the sheer force of love.
I Love You Always Forever – Donna Lewis (1996)
Donna Lewis’s “I Love You Always Forever” offered a sweet and enduring declaration of love, peaking at No. 2 in 1996. This song, characterized by its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, became a defining sound of the late 90s. Its simple yet powerful message of everlasting love resonated with audiences, making it an epic ode to enduring romance. Despite being held off the top spot by Los Del Rio’s “Macarena,” the song’s lasting popularity proves its epic status.
I Just Called to Say I Love You – Stevie Wonder (1984)
Stevie Wonder’s “I Just Called to Say I Love You” is simplicity and sincerity at its finest. Topping the charts in 1984 and winning an Oscar for Best Original Song, this track, written for the film The Woman in Red, is a testament to love’s everyday expressions. Its straightforward lyrics and Wonder’s unmistakable voice made it a global phenomenon. While some critics found it overly simplistic, its undeniable popularity and emotional resonance solidify its place as an epic love song that speaks to the heart.
Greatest Love of All – Whitney Houston (1986)
Whitney Houston’s “Greatest Love of All” is an empowering anthem of self-love and inner strength. Reaching No. 1 in 1986, this song, originally recorded by George Benson, became one of Houston’s signature tracks. While not strictly romantic love, its message of self-belief and finding strength within resonated deeply with audiences. Houston’s powerful vocals and the song’s uplifting message make it an epic anthem of self-empowerment disguised as a love song. Its journey from a B-side to a chart-topping hit underscores its epic trajectory.
The Power of Love – Huey Lewis & the News (1985)
Huey Lewis & the News brought their energetic rock sound to “The Power of Love,” a song that became synonymous with the movie Back to the Future. Reaching No. 1 in 1985, this track perfectly captured the film’s adventurous and optimistic spirit. Its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus made it an instant classic. Initially a last-minute addition to the soundtrack, “The Power of Love” became the movie’s breakout hit, proving its epic ability to capture a moment in pop culture.
Dreamlover – Mariah Carey (1993)
Mariah Carey’s “Dreamlover” is a breezy and optimistic ode to finding the perfect partner. Dominating the charts for eight weeks in 1993, this song showcased Carey’s signature whistle register and her knack for crafting catchy melodies. Its upbeat vibe and relatable lyrics about longing for a dream lover made it a summer anthem and one of Carey’s most enduring hits. The song’s lightheartedness and massive success solidify its place as an epic pop love song of the 90s.
Love Hangover – Diana Ross (1976)
Diana Ross’s “Love Hangover” is a disco-infused journey through the intoxicating effects of love. Reaching No. 1 in 1976, this track seamlessly blends a slow, seductive opening with an explosive disco second half. Ross’s vocal performance perfectly captures the song’s dynamic shifts, making it an epic exploration of love’s euphoric highs. Initially hesitant about the disco elements, Ross embraced the track, resulting in a career highlight and a disco classic.
Can’t Help Falling in Love – UB40 (1993)
UB40’s reggae-infused rendition of “Can’t Help Falling in Love” brought a fresh perspective to this Elvis Presley classic. Topping the charts in 1993, this version, featured in the film Honeymoon in Vegas, gave the song a new lease on life. UB40’s smooth reggae groove and the song’s timeless melody created a laid-back yet deeply romantic atmosphere. Its unexpected resurgence and chart-topping success decades after the original underscore the song’s epic and enduring appeal.
I’d Really Love to See You Tonight – England Dan and John Ford Coley (1976)
England Dan and John Ford Coley’s “I’d Really Love to See You Tonight” is a soft rock classic that peaked at No. 2 in 1976. Its gentle melody and sincere lyrics about longing for connection made it a staple of 70s radio. The song’s understated charm and relatable theme of yearning for someone’s company make it an epic expression of simple, heartfelt desire. Penned by Parker McGee, this song became a defining hit for the duo, showcasing their harmonies and soft rock sensibility.
I Knew I Loved You – Savage Garden (2000)
Savage Garden’s “I Knew I Loved You” is a soaring pop ballad that topped the charts in 2000. This song, born from label pressure to replicate their previous hit “Truly Madly Deeply,” became their second No. 1. Darren Hayes’s emotive vocals and the song’s anthemic chorus make it an epic declaration of destined love. Its creation story, born out of pressure but resulting in another chart-topper, adds to its epic narrative.
I Want to Know What Love Is – Foreigner (1985)
Foreigner’s “I Want to Know What Love Is” is a power ballad that transcends genre. Reaching No. 1 in 1985, this song, initially met with skepticism by some band members, became one of their biggest hits. Its powerful vocals, gospel choir, and yearning lyrics about seeking true love made it an epic anthem of romantic longing. Mick Jones’s vision for a Christmas release, combined with the song’s universal theme, propelled it to chart-topping success.
What’s Love Got to Do With It – Tina Turner (1984)
Tina Turner’s “What’s Love Got to Do With It” marked a triumphant comeback and a No. 1 hit in 1984. This song, initially recorded by Bucks Fizz, became Turner’s signature track, showcasing her raw energy and powerful vocals. Its cynical yet catchy lyrics about love as a “second-hand emotion” offered a more mature and complex perspective on romance. Turner’s iconic performance and the song’s message of independence solidified its place as an epic anthem of resilience and self-discovery.
She Loves You – The Beatles (1964)
The Beatles’ “She Loves You” ignited Beatlemania in America and topped the charts in 1964. This song, written by John Lennon and Paul McCartney, is pure youthful exuberance and infectious energy. Its iconic “yeah, yeah, yeah” chorus and upbeat tempo captured the excitement of early love. Producer George Martin’s suggestion to start with the chorus proved genius, making it an instantly memorable and epic start to the British Invasion in the US.
Love Child – Diana Ross & the Supremes (1968)
Diana Ross & the Supremes’ “Love Child” tackled a socially conscious theme while topping the charts in 1968. Moving away from their usual Holland-Dozier-Holland collaborations, this song explored the stigma of out-of-wedlock birth with sensitivity and soul. Ross’s powerful vocals and the song’s narrative depth marked a shift towards more socially relevant themes in Motown’s music. Its chart-topping success and thematic boldness make it an epic and important song in music history.
(Love Is) Thicker Than Water – Andy Gibb (1978)
Andy Gibb’s “(Love Is) Thicker Than Water” showcased his smooth vocals and pop sensibility, reaching No. 1 in 1978. This song, co-written with his brother Barry Gibb, is a classic example of the Bee Gees’ family musical talent. Its catchy melody and relatable lyrics about the strength of love in overcoming obstacles resonated with audiences. Gibb’s personal investment in the song’s chart performance highlights its epic journey to the top.
I Think I Love You – The Partridge Family (1970)
The Partridge Family’s “I Think I Love You” was a pop sensation born from a TV show, topping the charts in 1970. David Cassidy’s teen idol appeal and the song’s infectious bubblegum pop sound made it an instant hit. Shirley Jones’s involvement, albeit minimal, adds a touch of authenticity to the TV-generated group. Its meteoric rise and cultural impact as a pop phenomenon make it an epic example of manufactured yet undeniably successful love songs.
Love Rollercoaster – Ohio Players (1976)
Ohio Players’ “Love Rollercoaster” brought funk and excitement to the love song genre, reaching No. 1 in 1976. Known for their energetic performances and funky sound, this track perfectly captures the thrilling ups and downs of love. Its distinctive sound effects and infectious groove made it a standout hit. After years of struggle, this song cemented their status as funk icons and an epic force in 70s music.
I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me) – Whitney Houston (1987)
Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” is an exuberant anthem of longing for love and companionship. Topping the charts in 1987, this song, written after initial rejections for other tracks, became another signature hit for Houston. Its upbeat tempo, infectious energy, and Houston’s powerful vocals make it an epic celebration of the desire for connection. Its creation story, born from perseverance, adds to its epic narrative.
Love Will Keep Us Together – Captain and Tennille (1975)
Captain and Tennille’s “Love Will Keep Us Together” is a sunny and optimistic classic that topped the charts in 1975. This cover of a Neil Sedaka song, discovered by Kip Cohen, became their signature hit. Its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and the duo’s charming performance made it an instant favorite. Sedaka’s return to the top as a songwriter, thanks to this cover, highlights the song’s epic reach and timeless appeal.
Roses Are Red (My Love) – Bobby Vinton (1962)
Bobby Vinton’s “Roses Are Red (My Love)” is a classic ballad that saved his career and topped the charts in 1962. This song, found in a reject pile, became Vinton’s breakthrough hit. Its romantic lyrics, gentle melody, and Vinton’s heartfelt vocals made it a defining sound of early 60s pop. Its journey from rejection to chart-topping success is an epic underdog story in music history.
Crazy in Love – Beyoncé featuring Jay-Z (2003)
Beyoncé’s “Crazy in Love” featuring Jay-Z is a high-energy anthem of infatuation and excitement. Topping the charts for eight weeks in 2003, this track marked Beyoncé’s solo debut after Destiny’s Child. Its infectious beat, Beyoncé’s powerful vocals, and Jay-Z’s verse created an instant classic. Beyoncé’s last-minute request to Jay-Z to feature on the song highlights its spontaneous and epic creation.
Love the Way You Lie – Eminem feat. Rihanna (2010)
Eminem and Rihanna’s “Love the Way You Lie” is a raw and powerful portrayal of a tumultuous relationship. Reaching No. 1 in 2010, this song, exploring themes of abuse from both perspectives, resonated deeply with audiences. Eminem’s intense rapping, Rihanna’s emotive vocals, and the song’s stark honesty made it a cultural phenomenon. Its 12x platinum status and powerful message solidify its place as an epic and impactful love song of the 21st century.
To Sir With Love – Lulu (1967)
Lulu’s “To Sir With Love” is a heartfelt tribute and a chart-topping hit from the film of the same name, reaching No. 1 in 1967. Initially disliking other soundtrack options, Lulu’s request for a title song led to this instant classic. Its sincere lyrics, Lulu’s warm vocals, and its association with a beloved film made it a cultural touchstone. Its quick creation and lasting impact as a film theme song underscore its epic charm.
Vision of Love – Mariah Carey (1990)
Mariah Carey’s “Vision of Love” launched her career and topped the charts in 1990. This debut single showcased Carey’s incredible vocal range and songwriting talent. Its gospel-infused melody and lyrics about finding love after hardship resonated deeply with audiences. Carey’s description of it as a celebration of her life at the time adds personal depth to this epic debut.
It Must Have Been Love – Roxette (1990)
Roxette’s “It Must Have Been Love” became a global phenomenon thanks to the film Pretty Woman, topping the charts in 1990. Originally a Christmas song in Sweden, it was revised for the soundtrack and became their signature hit. Per Gessle’s story of the director loving the song so much he re-edited the movie highlights its epic impact on the film and music charts.
Love Takes Time – Mariah Carey (1990)
Mariah Carey’s “Love Takes Time” is a soulful ballad that quickly followed “Vision of Love” to the top in 1990. This song, added to her debut album at the last minute, further cemented her status as a vocal powerhouse. Its emotional delivery and relatable lyrics about patience in love made it another chart-topping hit. Its late addition to her debut album, deemed a “career-maker,” underscores its epic importance in Carey’s early success.
Woman in Love – Barbra Streisand (1980)
Barbra Streisand’s “Woman in Love” is a sophisticated ballad that topped the charts in 1980. Written by the Bee Gees, this song showcases Streisand’s legendary vocals and dramatic delivery. Barry Gibb’s acknowledgment of Streisand’s significant contribution to the song’s success highlights her epic artistry. Its mature themes and Streisand’s iconic performance make it a timeless classic.
Someone You Loved – Lewis Capaldi (2019)
Lewis Capaldi’s “Someone You Loved” is a modern piano ballad that resonated globally, topping the charts in 2019. This sleeper hit, written about Capaldi’s late grandmother, showcases his raw emotion and powerful vocals. Its slow burn to the top and its emotional depth make it an epic example of a contemporary love song that connects deeply with listeners.
Love Is Blue – Paul Mauriat (1968)
Paul Mauriat’s instrumental “Love Is Blue” offered a unique take on love songs, topping the charts in 1968. This instrumental cover of a Eurovision song contest entry became a surprise hit in the US. Its lush orchestration and melancholic melody made it a distinctive and epic instrumental love song. Its unexpected chart-topping success as an instrumental piece highlights its unique appeal.
To Know Him Is to Love Him – The Teddy Bears (1958)
The Teddy Bears’ “To Know Him Is to Love Him” marked Phil Spector’s early songwriting success, topping the charts in 1958. Inspired by his father’s tombstone inscription, Spector crafted a simple yet poignant ballad. Its innocent charm and Spector’s early production touches foreshadowed his later “Wall of Sound” style. Its origin story and early success for Spector make it an epic starting point in the history of love songs on the Hot 100.
Crazy Little Thing Called Love – Queen (1980)
Queen’s “Crazy Little Thing Called Love” brought rockabilly energy to the love song genre, topping the charts in 1980. Written by Freddie Mercury in his bathtub, this song is a burst of pure rock and roll fun. Its catchy melody, energetic performance, and Mercury’s iconic vocals made it a global hit. Its spontaneous creation and chart-topping rock and roll spirit solidify its epic status.
Because You Loved Me – Celine Dion (1996)
Celine Dion’s “Because You Loved Me” is a powerful ballad of gratitude and devotion, topping the charts in 1996. Written for the film Up Close and Personal, this Diane Warren composition became another signature hit for Dion. Its heartfelt lyrics about unwavering support and Dion’s emotive vocals make it an epic anthem of appreciation. Warren’s inspired songwriting and Dion’s powerful delivery created a lasting classic.
My Love – Paul McCartney and Wings (1973)
Paul McCartney and Wings’ “My Love” is a tender ballad dedicated to Linda McCartney, topping the charts in 1973. This song, written about his wife, is a deeply personal and romantic declaration. Its sentimental melody and McCartney’s heartfelt vocals made it a timeless love song. Its inspiration and enduring popularity as a classic ballad underscore its epic romantic quality.
Bleeding Love – Leona Lewis (2008)
Leona Lewis’s “Bleeding Love” is a powerful ballad of love’s pain and intensity, topping the charts in 2008. Written by Ryan Tedder and Jesse McCartney, this song, initially intended for McCartney himself, became Lewis’s breakthrough hit. Her soaring vocals and the song’s dramatic melody made it a global anthem of heartbreak and passion. Its journey to Leona Lewis and subsequent global success adds to its epic story.
I Can’t Stop Loving You – Ray Charles (1962)
Ray Charles’s “I Can’t Stop Loving You” is a soulful and timeless rendition of a country classic, topping the charts in 1962. Originally written by Don Gibson, Charles transformed it into a soul-stirring ballad for his Modern Sounds in Country and Western Music album. His emotive vocals and the song’s raw honesty made it a crossover hit. Charles’s soulful interpretation and the song’s enduring appeal solidify its place as an epic classic.
Best of My Love – The Emotions (1977)
The Emotions’ “Best of My Love” is a disco-infused celebration of love’s joy, topping the charts in 1977. Written by Maurice White and Al McKay of Earth, Wind & Fire, this song perfectly blends funk and disco with The Emotions’ harmonies. Its upbeat tempo, infectious groove, and positive message made it a feel-good anthem. Its creation by Maurice White and its chart-topping disco energy make it an epic dance-floor love song.
Because I Love You (The Postman Song) – Stevie B (1990)
Stevie B’s “Because I Love You (The Postman Song)” is a freestyle classic that topped the charts in 1990. This song, with its synth-heavy sound and heartfelt lyrics, became a defining track of the freestyle genre. Warren Allen Brooks’s description of it as a “spiritual song” adds an unexpected layer to its meaning. Its freestyle origins and chart-topping success in that genre make it an epic and unique love song.
Let Me Love You – Mario (2005)
Mario’s “Let Me Love You” is a smooth R&B ballad that topped the charts for nine weeks in 2005. This song, with its heartfelt lyrics and Mario’s soulful vocals, became a defining sound of mid-2000s R&B. Mario’s surprise at its massive success highlights its unexpected yet epic impact. Its emotional depth and long chart reign solidify its place as a modern R&B classic.
I Will Always Love You – Whitney Houston (1992)
Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” is arguably the most epic love song of all time, topping the charts for a record-breaking 14 weeks in 1992. Originally written and recorded by Dolly Parton, Houston transformed it into a vocal powerhouse for The Bodyguard soundtrack. Her breathtaking vocals, the song’s emotional intensity, and its cinematic association made it a global phenomenon. Its record-breaking chart reign and enduring legacy as a vocal masterpiece cement its undisputed epic status.
Silly Love Songs – Wings (1976)
Wings’ “Silly Love Songs” is a playful yet chart-topping response to critics, reaching No. 1 in 1976. Paul McCartney wrote this song to defend the genre of love songs itself. Its catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and McCartney’s signature songwriting made it a global hit. Its meta-narrative about love songs and its chart dominance in a year filled with love songs underscore its epic and ironic place in music history.
We Found Love – Rihanna feat. Calvin Harris (2011)
Rihanna and Calvin Harris’s “We Found Love” is a dance anthem about finding love in unexpected places, topping the charts for 10 weeks in 2011. This song, with its pulsating beat and Rihanna’s emotive vocals, became her biggest hit and the top “love” song of the 21st century so far. Its unexpected setting of finding love in a “hopeless place” and its massive chart success make it an epic and modern love anthem.
How Deep Is Your Love – Bee Gees (1977)
Bee Gees’ “How Deep Is Your Love” is a smooth and romantic ballad from the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack, topping the charts in 1977. This song, written without seeing the film script, became a defining track of the disco era. Its lush harmonies, tender melody, and romantic lyrics made it a global phenomenon. Its unexpected origin and its iconic status as a disco ballad solidify its epic place in music history.
I’ll Make Love to You – Boyz II Men (1994)
Boyz II Men’s “I’ll Make Love to You” is a sensual and chart-dominating ballad, topping the charts for 14 weeks in 1994. Written by Babyface, this song, initially met with reservations by the group, became one of their biggest hits. Its smooth harmonies, romantic lyrics, and Babyface’s signature production made it a 90s R&B classic. Its initial hesitation and subsequent massive success add to its epic story.
Endless Love – Diana Ross & Lionel Richie (1981)
Diana Ross and Lionel Richie’s “Endless Love” is a timeless duet and a chart-topping classic from the film of the same name, reaching No. 1 in 1981. Originally intended as an instrumental, it evolved into a vocal duet and became a global phenomenon. Ross and Richie’s vocal chemistry, the song’s romantic melody, and its cinematic association made it an epic and enduring love song. Its evolution from instrumental to iconic duet highlights its unexpected and epic journey.
These songs, spanning decades and genres, represent the most epic love songs to have graced the Billboard Hot 100. They are more than just chart-toppers; they are cultural artifacts, each telling a story of love, loss, joy, and everything in between. payoffsong.com celebrates these timeless classics and their enduring power to move us, inspire us, and remind us of the universal language of love.
