Valentine’s Day is two weeks away and, as always, I’m taking a solemn vow to think ahead when it comes to getting my wife a gift (instead of buying her roses from the grocery store on the way home from work). And you? What are you planning to do? May I suggest a mixtape of love songs to play while she opens those diamond stud earrings you bought her?

Here are Ten Love Songs That Always Work.

#10. Van Morrison – “Someone Like You”

Why? Because it’s kind of like “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You” without the cliche of playing “Have I Told You Lately That I Love You.”

#9. Joan Armatrading – “Recommend My Love”

Why? Armatrading has never sounded sexier and the lyrics — “This may sound emotional, I have a deep sense of holding on, I’m gonna wrap you in my love” — should make her melt. The [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Bonnie Raitt[/lastfm] meets the [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Temptations[/lastfm] harmonies don’t hurt.

#8. Earth, Wind And Fire – “I’ll Write a Song for You”

Why? “I thirst but never quench, I know the consequence of feeling like I do.” Do I need to say anymore?

#7. The Osmonds – “Puppy Love”

Why? I played this for my wife the night I proposed and we’ve been married twenty years. Having said that, I admit this could go either way, depending on your lady’s sense of humor. If you don’t dare play this one, I recommend the [lastfm link_type="artist_info"]Clash[/lastfm]‘s “Should I Stay or Should I Go” as a replacement.

#6. Cowboy Junkies – “Anniversary Song”

Why? “And I don’t know how I survived those days, before I held your hand.” If it doesn’t work for her, Margo Timmins voice should work for you.