Whether you’re curating a Spotify playlist for your significant other or drowning your single sorrows via music, you can support local artists in doing so.
Here are some songs by Gainesville musicians — from Tom Petty to Trustfall — to listen to this Valentine’s Day.
“Sucker” - The Nancys
What better band to yearn to than the hometown indie rock heroes themselves. “Sucker” details an addictive romance — and not necessarily a healthy one. It’s a fan favorite at their live shows, as well as “Sweet,” another no-brainer addition to your Valentine’s Day playlist.
“That’s My Man” - Alex Willow
A song about liking a “bad boy” (who hasn’t?), “That’s My Man” is a heartbreakingly beautiful depiction of love and loss. It’s the third track on Alex Willow’s debut EP, “Willow,” a record with deep, emotional lyricism front to back.
“I Will Love You” - Dude, Chill
This tune from Dude, Chill is a prime example of his “sad hopecore” discography. The synth-pop folk artist says in “I Will Love You” that his love gives him the strength to continue through his life’s hardships.
“Swim Between Trees” - flipturn
This track and its poetic lyricism capture the coming of age chaos prevalent throughout flipturn’s album “Burnout Days.” The song explores themes of traversing through adulthood and searching for meaningful connections.
“Roses” - Alcove
The beloved debut single of the indie rock group is being rereleased under their new name just in time for the holiday. “Roses” comes out on Spotify this Friday, Valentine’s Day Eve.
“Your Winter” - Sister Hazel
If you're feeling lonely this Valentine’s Day, or just looking to channel Bianca from “10 Things I Hate About You,” go sit on your tire swing and sob to this iconic track. Sister Hazel has the perfect tunes to make your life feel like a rom-com.
“Stubborn” - Buboy
One of five tracks on your favorite indie bedroom pop artist’s EP “Sixteen,” this song encapsulates the record's nostalgic theme of young love. Just two weeks after Valentine’s Day, the EP turns one year old.
“I’ll Keep You in My Dreams” - Maggie Clifford
This bright and airy tune by the local folkie is a reminder to stay grounded and to not let life pass you by. Moments are fleeting, and in this song, Maggie Clifford admires the fact that life is short and precious.
“Meant to Be” - PRIZILLA
PRIZILLA’s upbeat and colorful soul-pop sound is perfect for a picnic with your special someone this Valentine’s Day. Though the duo relocated to NYC last year, its funky, happy tunes were built on Gainesville ground.
“More Than Friends” - Trustfall
This fun and lively track will get on you on your feet dancing with your galentines. Trustfall’s playful, indie surf rock-pop sound will melt your Valentine’s Day woes.
“Wildflowers” - Tom Petty
It’s tough to let your love go, but Tom Petty’s hopeful lyricism and cheery acoustic guitar make it easy. This spontaneously recorded track from the rock icon is one of his discography’s best works, and it ought to be on your rotation this weekend.
“Whisked Away” - Sam Cone
Maybe you don't have a valentine this year, but Sam Cone can help you reminisce on the time you did. The sensual imagery in “Whisked Away” captures the nostalgia of a warm summer day from Cone’s past.
“Your Love Light” - Purple Kloud and Ricky Kendall
If R&B and hip-hop love ballads are more your speed, look no further. “Your Love Light” describes finally finding someone who makes you feel seen and accepted for who you are.
“Where We Are” - The Housing Crisis
Now based in Atlanta, the electronic folk pop artist The Housing Crisis displays its transcendent melodies and unique lyricism in this track. “Where We Are” explores a long-lasting love that weathers through the tough times.
“Melatonin” - Half Gone
This song from the indie rock band feels like an ‘80s pop love anthem. If you feel like you wouldn’t be able to sleep without your significant other in your life, you’ll relate to this upbeat track.
Contact Isabel Kraby at ikraby@alligator.org. Follow her on X @isabelgkraby.
Isabel is the The Alligator's Spring 2026 music reporter. She is a junior studying journalism at UF and is from Ormond Beach, FL. In her spare time, she loves going to concerts, crafting and practicing guitar.
