Top Ten Songs for a Romantic Dinner

We've all seen those movies where the male lead wants to woo his future lover with romantic songs at their first dinner together. Too often, the songs they choose come off as cheesy and forced. It is painfully obvious that the romantic song list has no thought behind it; every song is dripping with sentimentality or lust. With a romantic playlist that has a blend of song styles, subjects, and singers, however, I believe you can both woo someone and look good in the process.

So What by Miles Davis
Jazzy, melodic and just a bit sexy, "So What" is the perfect opening song for your romantic song list. The drums make you want to tap your foot while the wind instruments and bass lend the song warmth amidst its cool vibes. This song is a longer selection, which also makes it a great start to your romantic evening; giving you time to set the table and settle down for the evening. The high energy of "So What" also has adds a hint of anticipation, perfect for the start to your playlist of romantic songs.

Magpie in the Morning by Neko Case
Neko Case's deep, throaty voice makes every song sound romantic, no matter what she's saying. "Magpie in the Morning" sounds like a love song, but in it she's actually complaining about noises outside bothering her, among a few other things (FYI: she does swear once in this song). In my opinion, this contrast makes for an excellent addition to a romantic song list; it isn't too heavy handed, but it still sounds wonderful. It is also a great modern day addition to your playlist, showing an appreciation for a wide range of music which your guest might appreciate.

Tonight Will Be Fine by Teddy Thompson
The cover of this Leonard Cohen song is upbeat and is a pure love song for your romantic song list. Teddy Thompson's full , rich voice, the female background vocals, and the slide guitar join together, creating the perfect song for a romantic dinner. It is one of my personal favorites and I hope it will become one of yours!

In a Sentimental Mood by Duke Ellington and John Coltrane
Think of a rainy fall day in Central Park and you've got the basic feeling of this classic, romantic song. During the melody, Coltrane's saxophone soothes and his improvisational rifts burst forth with exciting energy, meanwhile, the soft piano ties the whole song together with its rhythmic melody. A truly romantic song that will bring the tempo of the music down from Teddy Thompson's tune and bring a more intimate feeling as your evening and playlist of romantic songs progresses.

Time After Time by Chet Baker
Chet Baker's unique voice in this beautiful jazz song is lush with sincerity. When he sings, "Time after time, you'll hear me say that I'm so lucky to be loving you," one can't help but feel a little tickle in their throat. This song is simple and beautiful all at once and is a must-have for any romantic playlist.

Two by Ryan Adams
Ryan Adams is another one of those people who has a voice made for love songs. "Two" is an upbeat, alt country song about struggling with the desire to settle down. Adams's lyrics such as, "It takes two when it used to take one," are honest and longing and his harmonies are beautiful. "Two" is an excellent addition to the contemporary selections in this playlist of romantic songs.

I was the One by Elvis Presley
This romantic song selection from the 1950's is a lesser known Presley song bound to impress your date. Presley sings of the woman he taught to kiss who is now with someone else. Sad? Yes. Romantic? Absolutely! Presley reminds us of the temporal nature of romance and inspires us to embrace the moment; and he does it in the 50's rockabilly style for which he is so well known. It is an impressive and fun addition to your romantic songs playlist.

Mr. Bojangles by Nina Simone
Another great cover for your romantic song playlist, the Nina Simone cover of this Bob Dylan song is bound to be a conversation starter. The song's familiar melody, mixed with the familiar Nina Simone twist, has a warm, soft sound. "Mr. Bojangles" adds nicely to the blend of love songs and songs that simply sound romantic which, in the process, keep it from being over the top with romance for your intimate evening.

I Made a Lovers Prayer by Gillian Welch
The strumming guitar, gorgeous vocals, soft piano, and somber harmonica solo in "I Made a Lovers Prayer" not only create the perfect song for winding down your romantic song list, but they also showcase what makes Gillian Welch so great. Her sad, deep voice and beautiful lyrics are a cornerstone of Welch's music. Having this song at the end of your romantic song playlist will give you the opportunity for a slow dance once you've finished your meals.

Blue Light by Mazzy Star
Remember Mazzy Star? Her chocolaty voice still packs a punch over ten years later. While "Fade Into You" is an excellent selection, too, it doesn't quite fit in this particular romantic song playlist. Instead, "Blue Light" has the same soft, retro sound without being too familiar or too focused on love. Organ chords, a beautiful guitar solo and, of course, Star's rich sound, make for a great finish for your romantic song playlist.