It’s Valentine’s Day! What better time than to name the Top Ten ’70s Soul Ballads of All Time. Make a mix tape, but use it with care.

10. Marvin Gaye – “Let’s Get It On” (1973)

As we used to say: if you ain’t makin’ it to Marvin, you ain’t makin’ it.” Still true.

9. Smokey Robinson – “Cruisin’” (1979)

Some songs build to a climax, others get to the point. Smokey sings “baby, let’s cruise” in the very first line and the deal is sealed.

8. The Staples Singers – “Let’s Do It Again” (1975)

… and again and again…

7. The Jackson 5 – “I’ll Be There” (1970)

Sweet soul and innocence, perfectly portrayed.

6. Commodores – “Sweet Love” (1975)

No intro, just horns on the downbeat and the band in perfect harmony: “show me a river that’s so deep, show me a mountain so high/I’ll show you love that’ll last forever, flying high, so high..”