Love is in the air, and it’s time to propose! But how do you make that moment super special and memorable for the rest of your lives? Have a proposal playlist—that’s how!
From dreamy romantic songs to bold, declaratory songs, this list of the best proposal songs should provide you with plenty of ideas for your special moment when you get down on one knee (or, I don’t know, take your partner up in a hot air balloon?) and pop the question.
Contents
- Marry You – Bruno Mars
- All of Me – John Legend and Lindsey Stirling
- Marry Me – Train
- I Swear – All-4-One
- Just Say Yes – Snow Patrol
- Marry Me – Jason Derulo
- Perfect – Ed Sheeran
- I Do – Colbie Caillat
- Make You Feel My Love – Adele
- Love Story (Taylor’s Version) – Taylor Swift
- Better Together – Jack Johnson
- Truly Madly Deeply – Savage Garden
- Let’s Get Married – Jagged Edge
- I Was Made for Lovin’ You – Kiss
- I Choose You – Sara Bareilles
- Let’s Stay Together – Al Green
- A Thousand Years – Christina Perri
- Just the Way You Are – Bruno Mars
- True Companion – Marc Cohn
- Spend My Life with You – Eric Benét
- Love Me Like You Do – Ellie Goulding
- Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley
- I Do (Cherish You) – Mark Wills
- Waiting for a Girl Like You – Foreigner
- The One – Kodaline
- I Was Made for Loving You – Tori Kelly
- Golden Hour – Kacey Musgraves
- XO – Beyoncé
- Every Little Thing She Does is Magic – The Police
- Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran
- Chapel of Love – The Dixie Cups
- I Wanna Grow Old with You – Westlife
- Lover – Taylor Swift
- Love is a Verb – John Mayer
- Right Here Waiting – Matt Scannell and Richard Marx
Marry You – Bruno Mars
This happy, upbeat love song from Bruno Mars, ‘Marry You’ is a brilliant way of proposing to the one you love. Apparently, Mars wrote the song while playing with the chords and freestyled the lyrics “I think I wanna marry you.” He realized the song was perfect for the happy vibe of a proposal moment, so he ran with it and created this stunning song for saying, “yes!” It’s definitely a beautiful night!
Related: Prepare for your wedding day with our songs about weddings playlist.
All of Me – John Legend and Lindsey Stirling
This incredibly sweet, romantic song by John Legend, ‘All of Me,’ was inspired by his wife, Chrissy Teigen. Legend told Fuse that the song is about balancing each other as you walk through life together, equally invested, equally in love. When you give up everything to be together, you gain everything. “All of me loves all of you. Love your curves and all your edges, all your perfect imperfections.”
Marry Me – Train
‘Marry Me’ from Train is a beautiful, acoustic song about saying “I love you” and proposing and getting married. The song is about taking that chance on each other, committing to each other, and promising to spend the rest of your lives together. “You’ll wear white, and I’ll wear out the words, ‘I love you.'” The sweet lyrics express the longing for your partner in ways most of us could never muster, so it’s a brilliant way to let your love know you mean it when you ask, “Marry me?”
I Swear – All-4-One
Originally written as a country song for John Michael Montgomery, the R&B group, All-4-One turned this romantic, rhythmic song into a group vibe song. The lyrics promise a lifetime of commitment “til death do us part” in ‘I Swear,’ a song perfect for proposing to. This is a great song for dreamers, as the lyrics lean into building your dreams together and celebrating life together in your own unique way.
Just Say Yes – Snow Patrol
From Northern Irish rock band Snow Patrol, ‘Just Say Yes’ is perfectly suited as a proposal song. The piece was originally written by Gary Lightbody, frontman of the group, for Gwen Stefani to sing. The band took the song back, though, after it was shelved, and the band’s label was shocked they hadn’t originally planned it for themselves. The song was originally written as a ballad, but as it changed hands a few times and then came back home, Snow Patrol ultimately changed the song to an electronic-infused 80s vibe track that encourages that momentous romantic occasion to be all “yes.”
Marry Me – Jason Derulo
Jason Derulo wrote ‘Marry Me’ when reflecting on how amazing it would be for him when he was ready to propose to Jordin Sparks, his partner at the time of writing the song. The song is about getting ready for that moment when you get down on one knee and is easily the perfect song to play as you take that moment in hand and present a ring, asking that all-important question. The beautiful song is celebratory and amazingly exciting while also being sweet and romantic.
Related: This song features on our playlist of songs about finding love.
Perfect – Ed Sheeran
Ed Sheeran is known for his incredibly romantic love songs, and ‘Perfect’ is undoubtedly a great marriage proposal song. The waltz-time love song was written for Sheeran’s girlfriend at the time, Cheryl Seaborn, a long-time school friend. The sweet song reflects on everything you’ve done together from the early days until now, so this is a wonderful proposal song choice for any pair of childhood sweethearts finally ready to say “I do.”
Related: Need help picking your first dance? Here are the best songs to slow dance to.
I Do – Colbie Caillat
When you’re asking someone to say “I do,” why not pop in a fun, upbeat, romantic song by the same name? ‘I Do’ by Colbie Caillat is a happy song reflecting on the exciting part of romance and love when wedding bells are nearing. The upbeat song isn’t about marriage, but actually that stage as you’re getting ready to pop the question, when you’re building up to the most important three words, “I love you.” If you’re ready to say those words forever, this is the perfect song for an upbeat or even quirky proposal.
Related: Cut the cake to the tune of these wedding cake songs.
Make You Feel My Love – Adele
Covering Bob Dylan’s song, Adele really brings it home in this romantic ballad of ‘Make You Feel My Love.’ The incredibly romantic love song is one of those for a slow dance proposal, under the starlight, with rose petals scattered, champagne, and a picnic cloth nearby. The amazing lyrics express all that love is: sacrificial, devoted, and filled with longing. “There is nothing I wouldn’t do to make you feel my love.”
Related: These songs about second chance at love are perfect for when the first swing was a miss.
Love Story (Taylor’s Version) – Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift bases most of her songs on real experiences from her life, and ‘Love Story’ is no different. The sweet song comes out of a teenage romance she experienced. The lyrics “You were a Romeo, you were throwing pebbles, and my daddy said, ‘Stay away from Juliet'” got stuck in her head upon reflection of that experience, so the song was born. Instead of the tragic ending of Romeo and Juliet from Shakespeare, though, Swift wanted a happy ending for the perfect love story.
Related: Grab a throne and crown and enjoy these songs about royalty.
Better Together – Jack Johnson
Anyone who’s ever been in love can definitely relate to the title by Jack Johnson, ‘Better Together.’ And that’s largely what makes this a perfect choice for proposing to. Singer-songwriter Johnson wrote it for his wife, with broader implications intended so others could relate to and access the song in their own stories. “Our dreams, and they are made out of real things. Love is the answer, at least for most of the questions in my heart. I’ll tell you one thing: it’s always better when we’re together.”
Related: Find this song on our list of great acoustic songs.
Truly Madly Deeply – Savage Garden
‘Truly, Madly, Deeply’ was released in Australia as a single by The Savage Garden in 1998. The romantic song is all about commitment and devotion, making it a fantastic song for proposing to. The song was originally known as ‘Magical Kisses’ on their demo but was reworked to become this beautiful, romantic ode. The pop duo brings home the message of love through the lyrics: “I’ll be your hope, I’ll be your love, be everything that you need. I’ll love you more with every breath truly, madly, deeply do.”
Let’s Get Married – Jagged Edge
Recorded by the R&B vocal group from Atlanta, Jagged Edge, ‘Let’s Get Married’ kind of says it all in the title. The group is actually known for their marital ballads (this one and ‘Promise’), which have helped to earn them nominations and awards all over the place. “Meet me at the altar in your white dress. Girl, let’s just get married. I just wanna get married. I wanna come home to you and only you. I’m ready to commit to you. Girl, let’s just get married.” The lyrics say it all for you, too, if you’re a little shy.
Related: Check out more top 2000s R&B songs.
I Was Made for Lovin’ You – Kiss
‘I Was Made for Lovin’ You’ is one of the most iconic and memorable love songs from the vividly recognizable rock band KISS. “‘Cause girl, I was made for you, and girl, you were made for me. I was made for lovin’ you, baby. And I can’t get enough of you, baby. Can you get enough of me?” If you genuinely “can’t get enough” of your love, this song is a winner for proposing a lifetime of loving each other.
I Choose You – Sara Bareilles
This fun, rhythmic happy love song from Sara Bareilles is all about passing on a “lifelong love letter” to the one you adore. Bareilles told VH1 that the song was her way of claiming that there really is a once-in-a-lifetime, true love out there. The sweet lyrics look to life-changing for the better as you start your lifetime of love, when that proposal happens and then turns into marriage and that permanent love.
Let’s Stay Together – Al Green
Unconditional love is where it’s at, especially when it comes to proposing that this love is the love of a lifetime. Al Green’s song ‘Let’s Stay Together’ is the perfect way to declare that love and commitment to stay, forever, loving each other. The soulful Motown song gives that mood of romance and attraction as you drop to one knee and ask that partner to make it forever with you. “I’m so in love with you. Whatever you want to do is all right with me. ‘Cause you make me feel so brand new. And I want to spend my life with you.”
Related: Keep these wedding anniversary songs handy if you’re proposing!
A Thousand Years – Christina Perri
Christina Perri wrote ‘A Thousand Years’ for the soundtrack of the film “Twilight: Breaking Dawn.” Being a huge fan, Perri felt honored to be selected to write and record the love song for Bella and Edward. She said she wrote the song from the emotions she felt as she read about their love story. “I have loved you for a thousand years. I’ll love you for a thousand more.” Whether you’re a fan of the film series or not, the lyrics say it all and make for the perfect proposal song as you let your everlasting love be known.
Related: You can’t go wrong with these super romantic songs.
Just the Way You Are – Bruno Mars
If you or your love are a unique or distinctive soul, this song by Bruno Mars is the perfect way to express that commitment you’re making as you propose. ‘Just the Way You Are’ is all about loving unconditionally, exactly how you are, not asking the other person to change or become someone or something else to be “just right.” You’re already “amazing just the way you are.” The promise of this love is mingled into the relationship you have exactly as you are.
Related: This is one of the best songs for your crush.
True Companion – Marc Cohn
‘True Companion’ by Marc Cohn is an absolutely heart-melting song about love. Cohn says he wrote this stunning piano-driven love song for his girlfriend at the time, who he’d been with for seven years already. He wrote it before he was ready to get married, but when he sang it to her, she thought it was a proposal. When they were ready, though, this song would have been a perfect replay of their story.
Spend My Life with You – Eric Benét
Featuring R&B artist Tamia in Eric Benét’s song ‘Spend My Life with You,’ this stunning slow-beat song is the perfect choice for a romantic moment under the moonlight as you propose. The beautiful lyrics and light groove make the perfect backdrop for the message of the moment, “I was incomplete ’til the day you walked into my life, and I never knew that my heart could feel so precious and pure, our love is so real. Can I just see you every morning when I open my eyes? Can I just spend my life with you?”
Love Me Like You Do – Ellie Goulding
‘Love Me Like You Do’ by Ellie Goulding presents a clear message of love: “You’re the light, you’re the night. You’re the cure. You’re the only thing I wanna touch; never knew that it could mean so much, so much.” The power ballad was used in the Fifty Shades of Grey movie, intertwining the emotional with the physical aspects of romance. For a passionate proposal, this driving ballad could be the perfect choice.
Related: Listen to more Fifty Shades of Grey songs.
Can’t Help Falling in Love – Elvis Presley
If you or your partner are Elvis or classic rock fans, there’s no better song to choose for your romantic proposal than ‘Can’t Help Falling in Love’ by Elvis Presley. The slow-rhythm song is perfect for a romantic dance together while you pop the question or play in the background as you drop to one knee. “Take my hand, take my whole life, too. For I can’t help falling in love with you.”
Related: Sometimes, you can’t beat the classics. Check out these romantic oldies songs.
I Do (Cherish You) – Mark Wills
This sweet, piano-driven romantic ballad by Mark Wills is a beautiful country option for that perfect moment when you’re ready to pop the question. ‘I Do (Cherish You)’ answers the question every couple asks, “do you love me this much?” In a world of trouble and sorrow, this song reminds us that the one will always be there, even through all the pain and sadness of life. “Everything in this world, all that I’ll ever need is in your eyes, shining at me.”
Waiting for a Girl Like You – Foreigner
‘Waiting for a Girl Like You’ by Foreigner was written by Lou Gramm and Mick Jones. They say the song just “came out” and that the lyrics weren’t intentional—they just spoke the truth. The fun, upbeat, classic rock song is an amazing choice for that moment when you drop down on one knee to ask the question. “I’ve been waiting for a girl like you to come into my life. You’re a love that will survive. I’ve been waiting for someone new to make me feel alive.”
Related: You don’t have to wait to hear more songs with waiting in the title.
The One – Kodaline
From Kodaline comes the beautiful “The One” love song that’s absolutely perfect for a proposal moment. The song was actually written as a last-minute wedding present for friends of Steve Garrigan. He left writing it to the night before the wedding, but the stunning piece of promise in lifelong love is a stunning result. The song plays off the themes of both finding “the one” and “becoming one.” You really couldn’t find a more fitting choice.
I Was Made for Loving You – Tori Kelly
Tori Kelly and Ed Sheeran join forces to bring us this incredible love song, ‘I Was Made for Loving You.’ The song talks about the dangers of love—the waiting, the hoping, the longing. The beautiful acoustic guitar-based brings up the memories of past relationships and hopes but shows how when you find the right one, “the one,” it’s all worth it. “I’ve been waiting all my life. Just take my hand. I was made for loving you. Hold me close through the night. Don’t let me go; we’ll be all right.”
Related: Hear this song on our list of songs for him.
Golden Hour – Kacey Musgraves
The title track from Kacey Musgrave’s fourth album, ‘Golden Hour’ is a beautiful acoustic love song about the best moments in life. “Keep me in your glow ’cause I’m havin’ such a good time with you. Baby, don’t you know that you’re my golden hour.” The title refers to the time of day when the world has a golden light from the sun’s position. It’s when everything looks best—the sun isn’t blinding, it’s light enough to see clearly, and the world has a beautiful glow. What a perfect message for that moment of proposal. “You make the world look beautiful. I know everything’s going to be all right.”
XO – Beyoncé
‘XO’ from Beyoncé was written by Ryan Tedder and The-Dream. The exciting pop ballad is a beautiful offering from the singer, expressing all the excitement and passion of deep love while showcasing the singer’s range and stunning style. “Your love is bright as ever, even in the shadows. Your heart is glowing in the darkest night hour. Your face is all that I see.” The song isn’t exactly a commitment song per se, but it is a declaration of love that speaks volumes.
Related: Does X mark the spot? Find out with these songs beginning with X.
Every Little Thing She Does is Magic – The Police
“Every little thing she does is magic. Even though my life before was tragic, now I know my love for her goes on.” The classic love song, ‘Every Little Thing She Does is Magic’ from The Police is a fantastic way to propose. The song even talks specifically about that moment and all the wonder and awe (and fear!) of loving someone so incredible you know whatever they do is incredible.
Related: Fly over to our magical songs playlist.
Thinking Out Loud – Ed Sheeran
As a nod to Van Morrison, Ed Sheeran wrote this incredible song ‘Thinking Out Loud’ with Amy Wadge. The song looks at all of life together in love, from the early days to the final ones. It’s a beautiful song of commitment and promise. “And darling, I will be loving you ’til we’re 70. And baby, my heart could still fall as hard at 23. Oh, me, I fall in love with you every single day, and I just wanna tell you I am. I’m thinking out loud that maybe we found love right where we are.”
Related: See this song on our playlist of thinking songs.
Chapel of Love – The Dixie Cups
You might know its name, but chances are that ‘Chapel of Love’ is an old familiar marriage-related tune you already love. The upbeat, fun little love song is about the actual wedding day, in which the Dixie Cups sing about the joy and excitement of saying “I do” at last. So, depending on the vibe you’re going for on that special moment of popping the question, this could well be the perfect choice. It’s super fun and has incredibly sweet lyrics. “Gee, I really love you, and we’re gonna get married. Goin’ to the chapel of love.”
I Wanna Grow Old with You – Westlife
This incredibly romantic, slow-dance ballad by Westlife is the perfect pledge of love that will last a lifetime. ‘I Wanna Grow Old with You’ reminds the listener that no distance, no time, no trouble between you and your love could change a thing. This is a great choice for anyone who’s looking for a slow, romantic vibe for a long-distance proposal. “The time we spent apart will make our love grow stronger. But it hurt so bad I can’t take it any longer; I wanna grow old with you.”
Related: Spend your commute listening to these songs about long distance love.
Lover – Taylor Swift
A gorgeous romantic ballad from Taylor Swift, ‘Lover’ is a sweet way to remind your sweet love that wherever you are together is home. The perfect line for proposing to, whether you speak it or let the song say it for you, is: “Can I go where you go? Can we always be this close forever and ever? And ah, take me out, and take me home forever and ever.”
Related: Listen to more of Taylor Swift’s most popular songs.
Love is a Verb – John Mayer
‘Love is a Verb’ is a great slow-beat song that’s fabulous for expressing the love you have for your partner as you ask them to become your forever one. It’s a promise that you’ll act on love, not treat your romance as a noun with indifference. “It ain’t a thing. It’s not something you own. When you show me love, I don’t need your words.” The beautiful lyrics and gorgeous acoustic guitar are the perfect back drop for your forever declaration and important question.
Right Here Waiting – Matt Scannell and Richard Marx
Released as a singer for his second album, ‘Right Here Waiting’ is an iconic song by singer-songwriter Richard Marx. When you hear the intro play or the chorus, you’re bound to recognize the song from tons of films and covers. The song was originally written for Barbra Streisand to sing upon her request, and it was such a personal song that Marx had no intention of singing it, but then Streisand turned it down. The song is a beautiful message of a lifetime of love, no matter the ups and downs, that the singer will be right there. It’s a great message as you propose: promising your presence always.
