Donatas Montvydas Celebrates World Radio Day: Shares His Favorite Love Songs

One of the most prominent performers on the Lithuanian music scene, Donatas Montvydas, invites everyone to celebrate World Radio Day by sharing five of his favorite love songs. Having recently returned from a trip to Japan, the singer will meet fans this Saturday (February 14th) for a special concert featuring the gospel choir "Vilnius Voices." The most romantic date of Valentine's Day will take place at the Palanga Concert Hall. Tickets for the performance by D. Montvydas and "Vilnius Voices" are available via Shownet.lt.

Prince – "Purple Rain"

"This is an absolute classic—my true introduction to music and the first time I felt chills running down my spine," says D. Montvydas about one of the most famous ballads of all time.

Released on September 26, 1984, Prince's hit from the film Purple Rain earned both Grammy and Academy Awards. In the US alone, the single sold over 1 million copies. Interestingly, the track is a live recording from a concert, later slightly polished in the studio.

Richard Marx – "Right Here Waiting"

"This wonderful song was the very first one I learned to play on the piano," D. Montvydas recalls of another classic love ballad.

Released as a single on June 29, 1989, Richard Marx wrote the song as a love letter to his wife, actress Cynthia Rhodes. This confession of love was nominated for a Grammy, though the singer initially didn't intend to release it, fearing it was too personal.

Boyz II Men – "End Of The Road"

"This is the song that defined the R&B sound of the 90s and shattered popularity records," says D. Montvydas.

Released on June 30, 1992, the quartet's single held the top spot on the US charts for a record-breaking 13 consecutive weeks. Created for the soundtrack of the movie Boomerang (starring Eddie Murphy), the song won two Grammys and earned numerous American Music Awards and Billboard accolades.

Usher – "U Got It Bad"

"This track reminds me of my first unrequited school-day crush," D. Montvydas says of one of Usher's most successful hits.

Released as a single on September 4, 2001, the song—while not winning a Grammy—became one of the most-played tracks of the decade and won several Billboard and ASCAP awards for its popularity.

Queen – "Love Of My Life"

"This is the song I would perform if I had to dedicate one to my love," D. Montvydas says of one of the most beautiful love ballads.

First appearing in 1975, this Queen track found massive success four years later when a live version was released as a single; it is consistently ranked among the best ballads of all time. Freddie Mercury wrote the song for his long-time partner, Mary Austin. During concerts, Mercury would often let the audience sing the entire piece themselves.