Okay, confession: I actually didn’t like country music before I moved to Starkville. Like, at all. Crazy, right? For years it was the only genre I obstinately refused to listen to. Like, hands-down, I’d rather listen to anything else. Honestly, I think it took moving out to the country and feeling some of that good-old-fashioned southern hospitality to get me into it. Now my dial doesn’t move from 94.9 The Bull (Atlanta’s country station), and my top played Spotify playlist is “Chillin’ On A Dirt Road” (I highly recommend it, by the way).

One of the things I love most about country music is the simplicity and charm of the love songs. My favorites are the sweet, clever one-liner type songs (see the above quote from the king of country, George Strait). Here are just seven (of many) to fall in love to this summer. Keep in mind – these are modern songs, but there’s definitely a wealth of classic country songs about falling in love, too!

"H.O.L.Y." – Florida Georgia Line

Yeah, Florida Georgia Line gets a little tacky, a little redneck - but that's okay. This song is perfect; it's a sweet departure from their usual beer-n-trucks kind of jam. Trust me, you'll love it.

"Strip It Down" – Luke Bryan

This wouldn't be a Country Love Song List without a little Luke Bryan. Honestly, Luke Bryan has a ton of songs that'll make you wanna cuddle up with someone. It also helps that he's a really sweet guy in person, and he puts on a great show!

"Head Over Boots" – Jon Pardi

I love Jon Pardi's retro take on country. This song sounds vintage, and Pardi even incorporates vintage throwbacks into the video. At its core, though, this song is simple and sweet. Go listen!

"Die a Happy Man" – Thomas Rhett

I think Thomas Rhett's had a special place in my heart since "Crash and Burn" (if you haven't seen the video, go watch it). This song comes from the heart, and the lyrics are just so darn romantic. Doesn't he just seem like a sweetheart? Look at that smile.

"Loving You Easy" – Zac Brown Band

I love Zac Brown Band, and this song is sweet, upbeat, and makes me look forward to cozy mornings at home with a cup of coffee and the one I love.

"Holdin' Her" – Chris Janson

Another vintage-sounding hit for the list, "Holdin' Her" is pretty different from Chris Janson's huge hit, "Buy Me A Boat," but it isn't any less of a gem. I like Janson's voice, and he's a good lyricist. The slow beat of this song is good for a slow dance!

"Take Your Time" – Sam Hunt

I think we can all agree that Sam Hunt is the definitive king of country love songs right now. There's just something about the way he talks (yep — he talks in almost all his songs!), and that deep, soulful voice, and ridiculously sweet lyrics. Honestly, you can listen to any of his songs and you'll know what I mean — this one is just my favorite.

Enjoy, and don't forget to check out Spotify's "Chillin' On A Dirt Road" for even more country inspiration!