Are you looking for that one rock song to play to your loved one on a special day? Do you want to emulate what Sir Paul McCarteney said about love? ‘In the end, the love you take is equal to the love you make.’ It seems pretty accurate and the same could be said about music. Make some epic, memorable music and your fans will give you back love tenfold. Today we’re going to see who made it onto our list of the best rock love songs of all time.
What Makes A Rock Song?
A rock song typically features a strong beat, electric guitars, bass guitar, drums, and vocals. The songs are often characterized by their intensity and energy. The lyrics often focus on themes such as rebellion, love, and personal struggles.
What Makes A Good Rock Love Song?
A good rock love song typically has emotionally charged lyrics, a memorable melody, and a powerful vocal performance. It should also have a strong sense of authenticity and sincerity in its expression of love and romance. Additionally, the instrumentation and arrangement should complement the song lyrics and enhance the emotional impact of the song.
Best Rock Love Songs
1. I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing by Aerosmith – Rock Love Songs
“I Don’t Want to Miss a Thing” by Aerosmith is a well-known love song from the film Armageddon. It conveys the desire to be present for every moment, including those in dreams, with a significant other.
2. I Want to Know What Love Is by Foreigner
“I Want to Know What Love Is” by Foreigner is a song about the search for true love. And also the longing to understand its meaning. The lyrics express a desire to experience a deep, unconditional love. But also the frustration of not being able to fully grasp its essence. The song has been interpreted as a plea for spiritual guidance. Additionally, as a search for meaning in life beyond superficial pleasures.
3. Faithfully by Journey
“Faithfully” by Journey is a love song. It expresses the devotion and commitment of a musician’s life on the road to his significant other. The lyrics convey the challenges of being away from home and the sacrifices made to maintain a long-distance relationship. The song is a tribute to the enduring power of love and the importance of staying true to one’s partner.
4. You’re My Best Friend by Queen – Rock Love Songs
“You’re My Best Friend” is a song by the British rock band Queen, written by bass guitarist John Deacon. It’s a tribute to the close friendship between Deacon and his wife. The lyrics express gratitude for the unconditional love and support provided by a best friend. The song has a cheerful melody and features a prominent piano riff. It became one of Queen’s most popular and enduring hits.
5. You Make Loving Fun by Fleetwood Mac
“You Make Loving Fun” is a love song written by Christine McVie of Fleetwood Mac. It was inspired by her affair with the band’s lighting director, Curry Grant. It expresses the joy and excitement of being in a new and fulfilling relationship. The song was released as a single in 1977 and became one of the band’s biggest hits.
6. Sweet Child o’ Mine by Guns N’ Roses
Sweet Child o’ Mine is a love song written by Guns N’ Roses guitarist Slash. It was about his girlfriend at the time, who later became his wife. The lyrics express the singer’s deep affection for his partner and his desire to be with her forever. The song has become a classic rock anthem. It is widely regarded as one of the greatest rock ballads of all time.
7. American Girl by Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers
“American Girl” is a song by Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers that tells the story of a young woman who is searching for freedom and adventure in America. It has been interpreted as a tribute to the American spirit and a celebration of the country’s ideals of individualism and perseverance. The song’s catchy melody and lyrics have made it a beloved classic in American rock music.
8. Whole Lotta Love by Led Zeppelin
“Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zeppelin is a song about sexual desire and passion. It features suggestive lyrics and a heavy, blues-inspired sound that is meant to convey the intensity of the emotions being expressed. The song is widely regarded as one of the band’s most iconic and influential tracks, and has been covered by many other artists over the years.
9. Love of a Lifetime by Firehouse
The song “Love of a Lifetime” by Firehouse is about finding true love and committing to a lifelong relationship with that person. The lyrics express the desire to spend the rest of one’s life with their soulmate and the belief that their love will last forever.
10. More Than Words by Extreme
The song “More Than Words” by Extreme is about expressing love through actions rather than just words. The lyrics encourage the listener to show their love through gestures and deeds, rather than just saying “I love you.”
11. Keep on Loving You by REO Speedwagon
“Keep on Loving You” by REO Speedwagon is a love song about a person who is determined to continue loving their partner despite any challenges or obstacles that may come their way. The lyrics express the singer’s unwavering commitment to their loved one, and their belief that their love can overcome any difficulties they may face in their relationship.
12. Something by The Beatles
“Something” is a love song written by George Harrison of The Beatles. It expresses his feelings of admiration and devotion towards his lover, although he never explicitly mentions her name in the lyrics. The song has been interpreted to have a universal message of love and has become one of the band’s most popular and enduring songs.
13. I’ll Stand By You by Pretenders
“I’ll Stand By You” by Pretenders is a song about unconditional love and support. It’s a promise to be there for someone through their struggles and to offer comfort and strength during difficult times. The lyrics encourage the listener to lean on the singer for emotional support and to trust that they will always be there to provide it. Overall, the song is a powerful message of loyalty and devotion.
14. Maybe I’m Amazed by Paul McCartney
“Maybe I’m Amazed” is a love song written by Paul McCartney for his wife Linda McCartney. It expresses his feelings of amazement and gratitude for her love and support.
15. Iris by Goo Goo Dolls
“Iris” by Goo Goo Dolls is a love song that expresses the singer’s desire to see and understand the true essence of his beloved. The lyrics also touch upon the singer’s feelings of vulnerability and the fear of losing his beloved.
16. Everlong by Foo Fighters
“Everlong” by Foo Fighters is a love song that expresses the desire for a relationship that lasts forever. The lyrics touch on themes of longing, commitment, and the fear of losing someone special. The song’s title is a play on words, combining the words “ever” and “long” to create a word that represents the idea of eternal love.
17. To Be With You – 2010 Remastered Version by Mr. Big
“To Be With You” is a love song that expresses the desire to be with someone and the happiness that comes from being together. The lyrics suggest that the singer has been waiting for this person and is now ready to commit to a relationship with them. It’s a popular song that has been interpreted in different ways by listeners.
18. Wild Horses by The Rolling Stones – Rock Love Songs
The meaning behind “Wild Horses” by The Rolling Stones is open to interpretation, but it is generally believed to be about the pain of lost love and the difficulty of letting go. Some have also interpreted it as a reflection on the band’s own struggles with fame and the toll it takes on personal relationships.
19. Wonderwall by Oasis
The meaning behind “Wonderwall” by Oasis is somewhat ambiguous, but it is generally interpreted as a song about a person who is a source of comfort and protection for the singer. Some have suggested that the song is about the relationship between brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher, while others believe it is about a romantic partner. Ultimately, the meaning of the song is left up to interpretation by the listener.
20. God Only Knows by Beach Boys
“God Only Knows” by Beach Boys is a love song that expresses the depth of the singer’s feelings for their lover. The lyrics suggest that the singer’s love is so strong that only God could possibly know the full extent of it. The song is often interpreted as a tribute to the power of love and the mysteries of the human heart.
21. Lady by Styx
“Lady” by Styx is a love song that expresses the singer’s admiration and devotion to a woman he loves. The lyrics describe the singer’s desire to be with her and his willingness to do anything to make her happy. It is a romantic and sentimental song that has become a classic in the rock genre.
22. Just Like Heaven by The Cure
“Just Like Heaven” by The Cure is a love song about the feeling of being in love and the desire to be with someone forever. The lyrics describe the joy and happiness that love brings, as well as the fear of losing it. The title refers to the idea that being in love feels like being in heaven, and the song’s upbeat melody reflects this feeling of elation.
23. This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody) by Talking Heads – Rock Love Songs
“This Must Be the Place (Naive Melody)” by Talking Heads is a love song about finding a sense of belonging and contentment in a relationship. The lyrics express a feeling of comfort and security in being with someone, and the music’s repetitive, simple melody reinforces the idea of finding simplicity and happiness in life’s little moments.
24. Yellow by Coldplay
“Yellow” by Coldplay is a song about the feeling of being in love and the beauty of the world around us. The color yellow is often associated with happiness and optimism, and the lyrics suggest that the narrator sees the world in a new light because of their love for someone.
25. Love Conquers All by Deep Purple
“Love Conquers All” is a song by Deep Purple that expresses the idea that love is a powerful force that can overcome all obstacles and bring people together. It encourages listeners to have faith in the power of love to conquer hate and division.
26. Friday I’m In Love by The Cure – One Of The Rock Love Songs?
“Friday I’m In Love” by The Cure is a song about the joy and excitement of being in love. The lyrics describe the feeling of anticipation and happiness that comes with spending time with a loved one, particularly on a Friday. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody reflect the positive emotions associated with being in love.
27. Always by Bon Jovi – Rock Love Songs
“Always” by Bon Jovi is a song about a person’s unwavering love and commitment to their partner. The lyrics express the desire to always be there for their loved one, through both good times and bad, and to never give up on their relationship.
28. Wonderful Tonight by Eric Clapton
“Wonderful Tonight” is a love song written by Eric Clapton. The song describes how beautiful and elegant his partner looks while getting ready for a night out, and how proud he is to be with her. It is a tribute to the love and admiration he feels for his partner.
29. Heaven by Warrant – Rock Love Songs
“Heaven” by Warrant is a love song that expresses the desire to be with someone forever, even after death. The lyrics suggest that the love shared between two people is so strong that it transcends mortal life and continues into the afterlife, where they will be reunited in heaven.
30. Can’t Fight This Feeling by REO Speedwagon – Rock Love Songs
The song “Can’t Fight This Feeling” by REO Speedwagon is about a person who has developed romantic feelings for a friend and is struggling to express them. The lyrics describe the internal conflict of wanting to reveal their true feelings but also fearing the potential consequences and risking the friendship. Ultimately, the singer realizes that they can’t deny their emotions any longer and must take a chance on love.
31. November Rain by Guns N’ Roses
“November Rain” is a power ballad that explores the themes of love, loss, and the passage of time. The song is believed to be inspired by the tumultuous relationship between Guns N’ Roses frontman Axl Rose and his then-girlfriend, model Erin Everly. The lyrics suggest that despite their love for each other, their relationship is doomed to fail, and the protagonist is left to deal with the pain and sadness of their breakup. The song’s iconic music video, which features Rose marrying and burying a woman, has been interpreted as a metaphor for the death of his relationship with Everly.
32. Best of My Love by The Eagles
“Best of My Love” by The Eagles is a love song about a relationship that has gone through ups and downs, but despite the challenges, the singer is committed to giving their best love to their partner. The lyrics express a desire for a deeper connection and a willingness to work through any difficulties to make the relationship last.
33. Crazy On You by Heart
“Crazy On You” by Heart is a song about the intense and overwhelming feelings of love and infatuation. It describes the physical and emotional sensations of being in love, and the way that it can consume a person’s thoughts and actions. The lyrics suggest that love can be both exhilarating and frightening, and that it can drive people to do things that they might not otherwise do. Overall, the song is a celebration of the power of love and the way that it can transform people’s lives.
34. When I See You Smile by Bad English
“When I See You Smile” is a love song about the power of a person’s smile to bring joy and happiness to the singer’s life. The lyrics suggest that the singer is deeply in love with the person they are addressing and that their smile is one of the things that makes them happiest. The song expresses the idea that love can be a source of great joy and that the simple act of smiling can have a profound impact on a person’s life.
35. Thank You by Led Zeppelin – Rock Love Songs
The meaning behind “Thank You” by Led Zeppelin is a message of gratitude and appreciation towards a loved one, possibly a romantic partner. The lyrics express the desire to repay the kindness and love shown by the recipient, and the recognition that the relationship has brought joy and meaning to the singer’s life.
36. Waiting for a Girl Like You by Foreigner
“Waiting for a Girl Like You” is a love song about a man who has been searching for the perfect woman to love and share his life with. He feels lonely and incomplete without her, and he hopes that she will come into his life soon. The song expresses the longing and anticipation of finding true love.
37. Still Loving You by Scorpions
“Still Loving You” by Scorpions is a power ballad about a man who is still deeply in love with his partner despite their past struggles and disagreements. The lyrics express the emotions of regret, longing, and the hope for reconciliation. The song has become a popular classic and is often associated with romantic relationships.
38. Nothing Else Matters by Metallica – Rock Love Songs
“Nothing Else Matters” by Metallica is a love song written by lead vocalist and guitarist James Hetfield. The song is about putting aside everything else in life and focusing on the love and connection between two people. It is also a reflection on the band’s own struggles and the importance of staying true to oneself and one’s passions.
39. If You Want My Love by Cheap Trick
“If You Want My Love” by Cheap Trick is a love song about a person who is willing to give their all to their partner, but only if their love is reciprocated. The lyrics express the desire for a deep emotional connection and the willingness to work through any challenges that may arise in the relationship.
40. Maps by Yeah Yeah Yeahs
“Maps” by Yeah Yeah Yeahs is a love song about the lead singer Karen O’s relationship with her then-boyfriend, Angus Andrew of the band Liars. The lyrics describe the ups and downs of their relationship, including moments of doubt and insecurity, but ultimately express a deep love and commitment to each other. The chorus, “Wait, they don’t love you like I love you,” is a plea to her partner to recognize the depth of her feelings for him.
Conclusion – Best Rock Love Songs
Do you agree with our list of the best rock love songs of all time? Are there plenty of tunes that we have missed? Well, today this will have just got you started and you can spend as much time researching the ultimate rock tracks as you see fit. Hopefully this will have inspired you to play one of these songs for someone special. You can’t really go wrong with lyrics like,’I could stay lost in this moment forever. Every moment spent with you is a moment I treasure.’