Ah, love: the foundation that music is built on. Love songs are what we turn to when emotion overwhelms us, when simply talking isn't good enough, when a note captures more than a thousand words could. Here are 2009's top songs d'amour.
1. "Knock You Down" by Keri Hilson, Kanye West, and Ne-Yo
Keri's voice booms with strength and perseverance in this slick, catchy collaboration about how love "knocks you down" when you're least expecting it.
2. "Little Bit" by Lykke Li
This Swedish singer's spare, techno ditty is all about saying those three little words. She knows she's in love, but she won't be the first to say it. Sound like anyone you know? Which Love Language Do You Speak?
3. "Use Somebody" by Kings of Leon
Who thought the phrase "use somebody" could reveal such soft, vulnerable yearning? This sweet 70s-style rock melody will hook you after one listen.
4. "Sweet Dreams" by Beyonce
Part-sexy, part-romantic, and all parts lovable, Beyonce's pop-tacular hit has a way of making us feel loved just by her voice and her smile. This dancing diva's come-hither dance moves make us want to test them out on our own lovers.
5. "Meet Me Halfway" by Black Eyed Peas
Because compromise can be romantic, this song about two lovers traveling halfway around the world to see each other reminds us that long-distance love takes work. How To Make Long-Distance Love Work
6. "Fallin' For You" by Colbie Caillat
This hit describes the powerful feelings at the beginning of a crush. We think we're falling for this song, Colbie.
7. "This Is It" by Michael Jackson
In this posthumous romantic ballad MJ croons about a new love he feels like he's known "since 1,000 years." Rest in peace, MJ.
8. "Lucky" by Jason Mraz and Colbie Callait
This duet's sentimental lyrics, beautiful harmony and seemingly simple structure will make you smile and appreciate love. It's the perfect song to sing along to—or play yourself as you serenade your lover.
9. "Us" by Regina Spektor
This joyful piano and strings song from singer-songwriter Regina Spektor is about a couple who can't trust each other, which makes sense for a song from 500 Days Of Summer, a movie about how being in love with someone doesn't mean you're right for each other. My One Great Love...Wasn't
10. "Love Story" by Taylor Swift
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Taylor's tune tells a typical Romeo & Juliet love story, except with a happy ending—the white dress, the ring, and the fairy-tale "please, say yes" moment little girls dream of. Sometimes it's nice to escape from the complications of real-life love. I Want A Fairy-Tale Wedding (Though I Know It's Gauche)!
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