This Playlist Will Get You In The Mood This Valentine’s Day

Romance is serious business for many Spotify listeners, and they’re clearly in the mood by February 1; we’ve noticed listeners start creating love-themed playlists and following (or subscribing to) other’s nearly two weeks before Valentine’s Day.  Spotify is home to a whopping 10 million playlists of the romantic variety. And, because sharing is caring, on Valentine’s Day itself we see playlist-sharing soar by 746% compared to January. This suggests listeners are offering their playlists to their loved ones as a gift.  We’ve also noticed that streaming on Feb 14 peaks at about 7 p.m. — possibly because lovebirds are providing the soundtrack to romantic dinners (or another activity, cough cough).  As for songs lovers turn to in order to set the vibe, last year, ladies under the age of 34 added John Legend’s “All Of Me” most frequently to their romantic playlists, while ladies over 35 were into Pink’s “Just Give Me A Reason.” “I Will Always Love You” by Whitney Houston and “My Heart Will Go On” from the Titanic soundtrack registered as popular choices for ladies in their fifties and beyond.  As for the dudes, tastes are a little more unexpected: male listeners between 35 and 44 are into Bon Jovi’s “You Give Love A Bad Name,” while the 45-54 age group is partial to “I Love Techno 2009 (Continuous Mix)” by Italian DJ act Crookers — a track that lasts longer than an hour.  Smash Mouth’s “All Star” is a favorite with male listeners over 55.    But, above all, the most frequently-occurring song in love-themed playlists is Haddaway’s '90s hit “What Is Love.” A curious choice when you examine the lyrics: Baby don’t hurt me, don’t hurt me, no-more. Great song, though!  Bruno Mars’ sweet tune “Just The Way You Are,” was the most streamed song on Valentine’s Day last year, followed by Ed Sheeran’s “Give Me Love,” and then Kina Grannis’ “Valentine.” Other top choices: James Blunt’s “You’re Beautiful,” Jason Mraz’s “I’m Yours,” Sixpence None The Richer’s “Kiss Me” and Boyz II Men’s “I’ll Make Love To You.” Our listeners have spoken — these are the tracks that bring on the warm and fuzzies: