Good Morning!
You’d think that people would have had enough of silly love songs but about 60% of modern songs talk about it (me researching that percentage is #WomenInSTEM).
It’s pretty amazing how we can take one feeling and have about a million different ways to experience it, express it and share it; for this month’s selection I have some peculiar, funny, or just damn cute angles to the love song archetype. So like our buddy Shakespeare said “If music be the food of love, play on!”
60s: Vida Antiga - Erasmo Carlos (1969)
We’re starting with this beautiful song by the veteran brazilian songwriter, Erasmo Carlos. I have to admit this is not actually quirky in any way but I had to open with this one because I couldn’t wait to share it with you. Sharing is caring, right?
70s: Love Is Strange - Wings (1971)
An underrated track from Wing’s first album Wild Life. More than a cover this feels like a reggae reimagination of Mickey and Silvia’s original. With vocals from both Paul and Linda McCartney, a groovy intro, and sing-along outro that makes you want to be by a river with friends and lovers singing about how strange love is.
80s: Love Is A Jungle - Peter Ivers (1985)
A new wave oddball musician and host that was not afraid to experiment and do his own thing. Never got mainstream success but developed a cult following and worked with legends like David Lynch. Also this compilation album cover is just amazing.
90s: I Want You, But I Don’t Need You - Momus (1997)
As much as I understand the eccentric and provocative nature of Momus I usually find most of his boundary pushing topics and lyrics perverse; this is one of the exceptions. The playful organ and tongue twisting, yet simple, words make this one of my favorite love songs.
00s: Not So Much To Be Loved, As To Love - Jonathan Richman (2004)
Although he is better known for his 90’s albums this song is quintessential Jonathan. After years of trying to make my friends love him I am convinced that his music and vocals are an acquired taste but I just can’t resist his innocent, lovely songwriting style and delivery.
10s: Born Too Late - Dent May (2013)
Although Dent is really inspired by old-school american music he manages to give all his songs his own twist and sound. This is from his third album Warm Blanket and if you’ve ever had a crush on someone older than you this one's for you.
20s: si mirarte es delito q me lleven a prisión - Rebe (2020)
We’ll finish with this gem from the self-proclaimed princess of Spain, Rebe. Nostalgic, cottage-core, bedroom pop singer that has just the right attitude to get away with singing a self-centered love song.
Hope you enjoy this playlist and if you have more recs or something to say don’t doubt to leave a comment or say hi @signodepesos
Thanks for reading, and have a nice weekend!