Valentine's Day Playlist: Not brought to you by Hallmark

Let's face it, Valentine's Day has gotten pretty materialistic and of late, love is often measured by how expensive a gift is. For the single ladies or otherwise it's all about drowning yourself in ice cream and watching cheesy movies, but this writer has decided that there needs to be more to the holiday. This playlist has some classics, but it's not your run-of-the-mill selection of sugary sweet love songs. Hopefully, there's something on here for everyone – whether you're single or head-over-heels in love.

"All You Need is Love" – The Beatles
Whereas most love songs are all about looking into the eyes of that special someone, this one is a lot more encouraging. "You can learn how to be you in time," the song says, because loving yourself is important too. This song made the list because it really doesn't have to be about romance. Spend some time with your family or your dog; that kind of love is important too.

"Single Ladies" – Beyonce
This song really just had to be on here. It's going to be the anthem for a lot of single girls this Valentine's Day, as it should be. Although a lot of singles on the 14th feel depressed, this song is all about being single and proud. For the single boys, well, if it's good enough for the football team on "Glee," it's good enough for you too.

"My Funny Valentine" – Babes in Arms
This show tune is all about loving people for who they are, flaws and all. Perhaps you should not play it for your Valentine, but it's certainly a great testament to the power of love. You don't have to be perfect, this song says, and on Valentine's Day that's more important to remember than ever.

"Love'll Set Me Free" – Michael Franti
Michael Franti hit the charts with another great love song, "Say Hey (I Love You)," but that was on the soundtrack for the poorly-made movie "Valentine's Day." This song is all about love in the face of struggle. He probably wasn't talking about the struggle to find a card that won't make your significant other sick to their stomach, but it's good enough.

"I Believe in a Thing Called Love" – The Darkness
More than anything, this song is hilarious. Listening to Justin Hawkins' insane falsetto is immensely entertaining regardless of what your relationship status. Also, it's a pretty sweet song: "My heart's in overdrive and you're behind the steering wheel," Hawkins croons. It's hard to argue with that.

"What is Love?" – Ayo
"Love can be good and love can be bad, love can make you happy and love can make you sad," Ayo sings. That pretty much sums it up, doesn't it? However you feel about love, this song has you covered. Also, Ayo's voice is simply amazing – anyone could listen to it all day.