Sensual Sensations: A Hundred Years’ Worth of Sex Music

Music: you cook to it, clean to it, shower to it, and, well… other things. Here’s a century’s worth of music to vibe to and more.

Written by Samantha Paradiso

1920s: “Ain’t Misbehavin’” by Fats Waller (1929)

With his raspy voice and animated expressions, pioneering Harlem singer Fats Waller captivated the attention of many. His jazz hit “Ain’t Misbehavin’,” from the Broadway play “Connie’s Hot Chocolates,” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1984. It also became a jazz standard and inspired many renditions in movies between the 1940s all the way up to 2008.

1930s: “El Día Que Me Quieras” by Carlos Gardel (1935)

Carlos Gardel, highly renowned in the Latinx community, is regarded as the single most prominent contributor to the tango genre. Originally played in a film by the same name, the tango’s popularity is unwavered even decades after its release. Coveted by many, “El Dia Que Me Quieras” has been covered by other big artists such as Luis Miguel and Roberto Carlos. Its slow pace in conjunction with Gardel’s baritone voice can lull anyone into a dreamlike state.

1940s: “Only Forever” by Bing Crosby (1940)

Though most popular for Christmas covers such as “White Christmas” and “Melé Kalikimaka,” Bing Crosby’s numerous melodic hits earned him his popularity from the ‘20s well into the ‘50s. “Only Forever” in particular charted number one for nine consecutive weeks. With the romantic lyrics “Do you think I’ll remember / How you looked when you smile? / Only forever,” Crosby’s piece can ignite a spark between any couple.

1950s: “We Belong Together” by Robert and Johnny (1958)

Malt shop oldies and doo-wop saw their rise during this decade. Since its release in 1958, “We Belong Together” was an immediate hit, peaking at #32 on the Billboard Hot 100. This song has seen many covers, from Ritchie Valens’ 1959 recording to Dale and Grace’s in 1964. With its slow and dreamy rhythm, it will only take one note for this hit to set the mood.

1960s: “Unchained Melody” by The Righteous Brothers (1965)

Upon first listening to this song, you wouldn’t think of it as a traditional “sex song.” With its soft and slow rhythm, “Unchained Melody” resembles more of a ballad than anything else. But that’s what makes it so romantic. There’s a reason this song was chosen for the ever iconic sex scene in “Ghost.” Despite its gentler feel, this song still conveys that carnal longing you may feel for your partner.

1970s: “Love to Love You Baby” by Donna Summer (1975)

Donna Summer, the “Queen of Disco,” dominated the charts during the seventies. From hits such as “On the Radio” to “Bad Girls,” Summer’s funky beats and sensual tunes left us feeling groovy for decades to come. With her ethereal voice and erotic crooning, Summer’s “Love to Love You Baby” is that siren song you can’t help but be entranced by.

1980s: “Kiss” by Prince (1986)

This list would not be complete without a song by the prolific Prince. The late singer not only challenged gender stereotypes, but his work also traversed musical bounds, ranging from funk to rock. With its funky feel and upbeat rhythm, “Kiss” serves as the perfect fit for a playful time. The Purple Rain creator’s vast discography guarantees that listeners will find their go-to song for getting it on.

1990s: “Linger” by The Cranberries (1993)

Dark lipstick, thin eyebrows, and endless angst: these were only some of the essentials of the ‘90s. This track doesn’t quite fit into the stereotypical standards of sex music. However, if you lean back and pop the “Linger” cassette into your stereo, you and your partner may feel like the protagonists of a steamy “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” scene.

2000s: “I’m Still in Love With You” by Sean Paul feat. Sasha (2003)

This era of music was replete with reggae beats, with the likes of singers such as Sean Paul and Shaggy dominating the scene. Released way back in 2002, “I’m Still In Love With You” may have been lost within the recesses of people’s minds until recently, when reggaetón artist Anitta paid homage to the Jamaican native’s music video. However, there is no doubt that this song causes people’s hips to gyrate uncontrollably within seconds of hearing it.

2010s: “Beauty and Essex” by Free Nationals feat. Daniel Caesar (2018)

Since his debut in 2014, Daniel Caesar has consistently put out R&B bangers that have us all swaying side to side. It wasn’t until his album Freudian that the singer’s fame gained momentum. Caesar’s songs tend to exude passion, desire, and sensuality. His collaboration with Free Nationals, “Beauty and Essex,” will have you itching for more.

BONUS: “Rocket” by Beyoncé (2014)

There was no way this list was complete without a mention of Queen Bee. Beyoncé’s extremely successful career has brought forth endless hits that we’ve all enjoyed, but “Rocket,” though severely underrated, is one of her best songs yet. Immensely erotic and profoundly invigorating, this song is six minutes of pure ecstasy that will raise the hairs on your neck.

If you liked these songs just as much as we did, check them out in this spotify playlist below!

Afterglow ATXAugust 21, 2019