Love is the inspiration for countless songs. With Valentine’s Day coming up, romantic music is in the air. But what if, instead of a slow ballad, you’re in the mood for something that shreds?
In honor of Valentine’s Day, we’ve rounded up the most enduring (and hard-rocking) love songs out there. Check out our list below!
“Crazy on You” by Heart
From its galloping guitar line to Ann Wilson’s wailing chorus, Heart’s ode to love in a time of despair is pure rock magic. The lyrics shift from talk of “bombs and the devil” to “the gentle sweet singing on leaves in the wind” and back again seamlessly. Crank this one up and see how crazy you can get.
“Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground” by The White Stripes
One of the biggest singles from their breakout album White Blood Cells, “Dead Leaves and the Dirty Ground” sounds like a rather bleak title. That is, until you hear the second part of that phrase – “when I know you’re not around.” The White Stripes’ minimalist blues-meets-garage rock sound is so driving that the sweetness of lines like “If I could just hear your pretty voice I don’t think I’d need to see you at all” is easily overlooked.
“Sweet Child O’ Mine” by Guns N’ Roses
Who would think that an album titled Appetite For Destruction would contain a song with such heartfelt lyrics? Easily the most famous Guns and Roses tune, “Sweet Child O’ Mine” shreds but also contains the line “She’s got a smile that seems to me/Reminds me of childhood memories”, perhaps the most sentimental lyric in ANY rock tune.
“Love is a Battlefield” by Pat Benatar
Comparing your love to a war zone may not indicate an ideal relationship. Yet this tale of heartache and yearning set to shimmering synths and Pat Benatar’s howling vocals is so catchy you’ll be dancing anyway. Globalsound Studio’s Advanced Band have been adding this 80’s number to their repertoire lately – we love seeing out students rock out to this classic love tune!
“Whole Lotta Love” by Led Zepplin
Quite possibly the most rocking song ever written about love. Willie Dixon may have originally composed this tune, but there’s no denying that Led Zeppelin breathed new life into it. From the lyrics to the grinding guitar riffs, this 70s ode to love is not for the faint-hearted.