Mariah Carey’s Best Love Songs for Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is all about love, and few artists embody romance better than Mariah Carey love songs. Over the course of her legendary career, she has crafted some of the most touching, emotional, and unforgettable love songs. Whether you’re setting the mood for a romantic night, reflecting on cherished memories, or embracing self-love, Mariah’s music offers the ideal soundtrack for every moment.
Valentine 2025
Mariah is also jumping on the Valentine bandwagon, but for a good cause: charity. Through the charity auction website Fandiem, she is offering fans a chance to win a special Valentine’s trip to meet her in Las Vegas and attend her residency show, The Celebration of Mimi Live in Las Vegas, at Dolby Live at Park MGM. The proceeds from this initiative will go to Altadena Girls Fire Recovery, supporting teenage girls who were impacted by the Eaton Fire that devastated their community on January 8.
Winners will enjoy a luxurious trip to Las Vegas, including round-trip travel, a three-night hotel stay for two, prime tickets to her February 15 show, an exclusive preshow reception, limited-edition merchandise, VIP gifts, a meet-and-greet photo opportunity with Mariah, and a ride-share voucher for convenience.
With Fandiem, your donations determine the number of contest entries you receive. A $10 donation grants 100 entries, while a $50 contribution earns 1,000 entries, increasing your chances of winning.
The donations will buy clothes, beauty and hair care products, and personal items for the girls. As the auction states, “[T]he basics they need to feel like themselves… everyday things that are vital for these girls to feel seen, supported and ready to take on life again.”
You have until Feb. 8 to enter, so don’t miss your chance to support a great cause while celebrating the season of love.
So, to set the mood for a romantic Valentine’s Day and maybe a surprise trip to Vegas, here are some of Mariah Carey’s best love songs to add to your playlist:
1. Love Takes Time
Mariah Carey’s Love Takes Time is a powerful ballad that became her second number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. Known for its raw emotion and heartfelt lyrics, the song beautifully captures the pain of lost love and the lingering hope for reconciliation. Its enduring appeal was highlighted when it was featured in the hit TV series Pose, introducing it to a new generation of listeners. Decades later, Love Takes Time remains one of Mariah’s most classic love songs, making it an essential addition to any Valentine’s Day playlist.
2. Can’t Let Go
A stunning ballad from Emotions, Can’t Let Go showcases Mariah’s soaring vocals and deep emotional expression. Meant to be a number one hit, the song reached number two before Sony, under Tommy Mottola, pulled physical singles from circulation to boost album sales, ultimately blocking its chart-topping potential. Despite this, Can’t Let Go remains an angelic love-longing anthem, capturing the agony of lingering love and the difficulty of moving on, making it a perfect addition to any Mariah Carey Love Songs playlist.
3. Till The End of Time
A hidden gem from Mariah’s debut album, Till The End of Time is a deeply emotional ballad that beautifully conveys devotion and the promise of lasting love. With its soaring vocals and heartfelt lyrics, the song remains a beloved favorite for those seeking a classic love anthem, and where Mariah Carey love songs are concerned, this is a must-listen.
4. Just To Hold You Once Again
A heartfelt ballad from Music Box, Just To Hold You Once Again captures the yearning and deep emotion of lost love. With its tender lyrics and soaring vocals, the song beautifully expresses the desire to rekindle a past romance. Her soaring belts in this ballad are a crazy overlook, showcasing the full range of her vocal power and emotional depth, making it a perfect addition to any Valentine’s Day playlist.
5. Without You
One of Mariah’s most powerful ballads, Without You became a global hit, showcasing her unparalleled vocal ability and raw emotion. Originally recorded by Badfinger and later made famous by Harry Nilsson, Mariah’s rendition takes the song to new heights. This song brought Mariah to global fame and became her first number one in multiple countries, including the UK. The hauntingly beautiful track captures the anguish of losing a loved one, making it a poignant choice for those experiencing longing and heartache on Valentine’s Day.
6. Endless Love (with Luther Vandross)
When Mariah suggested this duet for Luther’s covers album Songs to Tommy Mottola in the car on their way home, little did she know this Lionel Richie and Diana Ross cover was bound to become a classic due to the beauty of their blended voices.
A timeless duet that celebrates unwavering devotion, Endless Love is a Valentine’s Day staple for couples who have stood the test of time.
7. Always Be My Baby
A beloved classic, Always Be My Baby captures the essence of everlasting love with its breezy melody and sentimental lyrics. This chart-topping hit remains one of Mariah’s most recognizable songs, evoking nostalgia and deep emotional connection. The song was even the soundtrack to the entire awkward love-making scene between Joaquin Phoenix and Parker Posey in Beau Is Afraid, further cementing its place in pop culture. A must-have on any Valentine’s Day playlist.
8. My All
A passionate ballad from Butterfly, My All tells the story of deep longing and sacrifice for love. Written with Derek Jeter in mind, the song reflects an intimate and deeply personal moment in Mariah’s life. With its Latin-inspired instrumentation and soaring vocals, this track remains one of Mariah’s most captivating and emotional love songs, making it a perfect addition to Mariah Carey love songs playlist.
9. Whenever You Call
A breathtaking ballad from Butterfly, Whenever You Call is a song about unwavering love and devotion. Mariah’s soaring vocals paired with heartfelt lyrics create a deeply emotional experience. The song was later re-recorded as a duet with Brian McKnight, further enhancing its romantic appeal and making it a stunning addition to any Valentine’s Day playlist.
10. The Roof (Back in Time)
A more sensual tone, the song reminisces about a specific moment during Mariah and Derek’s love affair. The beat and sultriness make it perfect for a sensual moment.
For those who love a song with deep storytelling and sensual energy, The Roof is a mesmerizing depiction of an unforgettable romantic moment.
11. After Tonight
A breathtaking ballad from Rainbow, After Tonight captures the passion and intensity of love that feels too good to be true. Initially recorded and intended as a duet with her then-lover Luis Miguel, the collaboration never materialized, as Luis reportedly disliked how their voices blended, according to his Netflix bio series. However, Mariah’s solo version, enriched by her deep harmonizing vocals, remains just as romantic. Her soaring vocals and orchestral arrangement create a cinematic experience, making it a standout love song. Its sweeping melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a perfect addition to any Valentine’s Day playlist.
12. Thank God I Found You
Even though Thank God I Found You is often considered one of her lesser-loved number one hits, it remains a triumphant celebration of finding true love. Featuring Mariah collaborating with Joe and 98 Degrees, this uplifting ballad expresses gratitude for a love that feels like destiny. With its heartfelt lyrics and soaring harmonies, the song captures the joy of finding that special someone, making it one of the happiest of Mariah Carey’s Love Songs.
13. Reflections (Care Enough)
A deeply introspective ballad from Glitter, Reflections (Care Enough) explores feelings of love, loss, and self-worth. Mariah’s delicate delivery and poignant lyrics convey the pain of longing for love that was never truly reciprocated. This emotionally raw song resonates with anyone who has questioned their worth in a relationship, making it a heartfelt addition to any Valentine’s Day playlist.
14. We Belong Together
One of Mariah’s most iconic love songs, We Belong Together became a defining hit of the 2000s. This Grammy-winning ballad tells the story of heartbreak and longing for a lost love, resonating deeply with listeners worldwide. This is a no-brainer when it comes to Valentine’s Day playlists—its soaring vocals, emotional delivery, and unforgettable melody make it a must-have in Mariah’s discography and beyond.
15. Don’t Forget About Us
A powerful follow-up to We Belong Together, Don’t Forget About Us became another number-one hit for Mariah, reaffirming her dominance in romantic ballads. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and emotive vocal delivery capture the pain of love lost while holding onto cherished memories. While you’re not expected to roll around in the football field like Mariah in her video, the softness of the song will definitely make for some romantic moments. A must-have for those reminiscing about a past love on Valentine’s Day.
16. I Stay in Love
A beautifully haunting ballad from E=MC², I Stay in Love tells the story of struggling to let go of a love that lingers despite the pain. Mariah’s heartfelt delivery, combined with the melancholic piano melody, creates a song that resonates with anyone who has ever held on to love a little too long. The emotional depth and raw honesty of this track make it a touching addition to any Valentine’s Day playlist.
17. I Want to Know What Love Is
Mariah’s stunning rendition of Foreigner’s classic I Want to Know What Love Is takes the song to new emotional heights. With her signature vocal runs and gospel-inspired climax, she transforms this power ballad into a deeply personal and uplifting anthem about love, hope, and longing. Although the video features questionable low-budget CGI, it’s the thought that counts, and it beautifully showcases love in all its forms. The song’s message of longing and emotional vulnerability makes it a standout moment in her discography and an unforgettable addition to any love-themed playlist.
18. Angels Cry
An emotional and introspective ballad from Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel, Angels Cry captures the pain of love that has drifted apart. Mariah’s ethereal vocals soar over a delicate piano melody, conveying both heartbreak and the hope of reconciliation. The song was later re-recorded as a duet with Ne-Yo, adding even more emotional depth and vocal power. Its stirring harmonies and poignant lyrics make it a standout track for anyone reflecting on love and loss.
19. You’re Mine (Eternal)
A dreamy and passionate ballad from Me. I Am Mariah… The Elusive Chanteuse, You’re Mine (Eternal) is a declaration of love that refuses to fade. Mariah’s signature breathy vocals glide over a smooth R&B production, creating an intimate and romantic atmosphere. If you want an additional layer of R&B smoothness, check out the remix featuring Trey Songz. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and captivating melody make it a beautiful addition to any Valentine’s Day playlist.
20. One Mo’ Gen
A smooth and sultry track from Caution, One Mo’ Gen captures the excitement of rekindling a passionate love. Mariah’s seductive vocals and hypnotic R&B production create an intimate atmosphere, making it perfect for a romantic night in. This is actually one mo’ gem that has been overlooked and underappreciated by fans. With its sensual lyrics and laid-back groove, it’s a track that deserves more recognition for setting the mood just right.
21. Made for Me (with Muni Long)
One of Mariah’s latest collaborations, Made for Me with Muni Long, blends smooth R&B melodies with heartfelt lyrics about a love that feels destined. The song’s gentle harmonies and lush production make it a perfect modern addition to any romantic playlist. With both artists delivering mesmerizing vocals, Made for Me embodies the kind of love that feels truly meant to be. Mariah’s deeper, more sultry tone in this duet gives it an even sexier edge than the original version.
Wrapping Up: Mariah’s Love Songs for Every Mood
Mariah Carey’s love songs span a wide range of emotions, from blissful devotion to heart-wrenching longing. Whether you’re celebrating love with a partner, reminiscing on past romances, or embracing self-love, her music provides the perfect soundtrack for Valentine’s Day. From heartfelt ballads to sultry R&B jams, her songs capture every shade of love and longing. So whether you’re lost in passion, reminiscing about a past romance, or dreaming of the one, Mariah’s timeless vocals will set the perfect mood. Light some candles, pour a glass of wine, and let the queen of love songs serenade your heart.
