Being confused is a common feeling that most people experience at some point in their lives. Whether it’s confusion about a relationship, a life decision, or the state of the world, music has the power to provide comfort and understanding. Here’s a list of the best songs about being confused.
I Hate U, I Love U by Gnash
Song Year: 2015
Gnash’s “I Hate U I Love U” is a poignant and relatable song that captures the confusion and heartbreak of a past relationship. It was released as a single from Gnash’s third extended play, “Us.”
The song’s lyrics describe a person struggling to move on from a past relationship and being caught in a cycle of love and hate for their former partner.
The emotional vocals and honest lyrics make it a favorite among fans of emotional pop ballads. The track peaked at number ten on the Billboard’s Hot100. As of 2023, the song’s music video has also accumulated over 700 million views on YouTube.
What’s Going On by Marvin Gaye
Song Year: 1971
Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” is a soulful and powerful track that was released as the lead single and title track of his 11th album. Gaye, Al Cleveland, and Renaldo “Obie” Benson teamed up to write the song.
It was inspired by Renaldo Bensons’ experience after witnessing police brutality and violence during an anti-war protest in Berkeley, California.
The song speaks to the confusion and instability of the times, with lyrics that touch on war, poverty, and social injustice. The plaintive vocals and understated instrumentation make for a stirring and emotional listening experience.
Love Lies by Khalid and Normani
Song Year: 2018
“Love Lies” is a passionate song that was released in 2018 as a single from the soundtrack of the romantic comedy film “Love, Simon.” Khalid, Normani, Jamil Chammas, and Ryan Vojtesak are the songwriters credited for the song.
The smooth R&B groove creates a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The lyrics explore the uncertainty and confusion that can arise in a new relationship as the singers wonder if their feelings are reciprocated and if their partner is truly invested in the relationship.
This fine tune achieved a 9th place ranking on the US Billboard Hot 100 and attained top-ten positions in six other countries.
Lost by Frank Ocean
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Czs2B53M444
Song Year: 2012
“Lost” is a dreamy song that captures the feeling of uncertainty and disorientation. This song stands as the fourth single release from Frank Ocean’s widely praised 1st studio album, “Channel Orange.”
The song’s hypnotic beat and Frank’s vocals create a sense of detachment and confusion, and the lyrics speak of feeling lost and adrift in life.
The lyrics explore the idea of searching for meaning and purpose in life, as Frank Ocean sings about trying to find his way in a world that can be confusing. Its relatable lyrics make it a standout track in Frank Ocean’s discography and a favorite among fans of soul music.
Bridge Over Troubled Water by Simon and Garfunkel
Song Year: 1970
“Bridge Over Troubled Water” is a gospel classic by the American folk-rock duo Simon & Garfunkel, written by Paul Simon. It was released in 1970 as the title track of their 5th and final studio album.
This masterpiece explores the universal experience of seeking solace and support in difficult times. The song’s lyrics describe a narrator who is confused and struggling with their burdens while searching for someone to help them through their troubles.
“Bridge over Troubled Water” was a commercial success upon its release. The masterpiece topped the charts in multiple countries and won 6 Grammy Awards, including Song of the Year and Record of the Year.
Mixed Signals by Ruth B.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gsPsXZEAHlM
Song Year: 2017
“Mixed Signals” is a pop ballad that speaks about the feeling of confusion and mixed emotions in romantic relationships. Ruth B released the track as the lead single of her Safe Heaven debut studio album.
Ruth B.’s delicate vocals and the song’s piano-driven melody create a sense of vulnerability. The song’s lyrics describe someone who is struggling to make sense of the mixed signals they are receiving from their romantic partner. The chorus captures this feeling of confusion perfectly.
The song may resonated with listeners who have experienced similar situations in their own relationships.
Where’s the Love? by The Black Eyed Peas
Song Year: 2003
“Where’s the Love?” is a song by the American hip-hop group The Black Eyed Peas. It was released as the lead single from their 3rd studio album, “Elephunk.”
“Where’s the Love?” is a socially conscious hip-hop track about the confusion and frustration of the state of the world. The Black Eyed Peas’ bold lyrics and the song’s energetic beat create a sense of urgency and activism.
The song achieved great success on radio airplay charts and reached number eight on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also reached the top spot on charts in Ireland, Australia, and the United Kingdom, where it was the highest-selling single of 2003.
Love on the Brain by Rihanna
Song Year: 2016
Rihanna’s “Love on the Brain” has become one of the most popular songs and has been covered by several artists. Riri released the track as the lead single of her 8th studio album, “Anti.” It features a retro sound with R&B, soul, and pop music elements.
This soulful love song speaks to the confusion and intensity of romantic love. Her powerful vocals and the song’s nostalgic sound create a sense of passion and longing, and the lyrics explore the universal experience of being swept up in the emotions of love.
The track climbed to the fifth position on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, marking Rihanna’s 22nd single to enter the top-five bracket. This achievement surpassed Elvis Presley’s record, establishing Rihanna as the artist with the fifth-highest number of top-five singles
Confused In Love by Keyshia Cole
Song Year: 2010
“Confused in Love” is a powerful song that was released as a standalone single by Singer-songwriter Keyshia Cole.
The track speaks to the universal experience of being in a troubled relationship and struggling to let go. In the song, Keyshia’s soulful vocals and the slow R&B sound create a sense of emotional confusion and vulnerability.
The melody conveys the emotional roller-coaster of being in a romantic relationship, and its unfiltered authenticity deeply connects with the listeners.
What Do You Mean? by Justin Bieber
Song Year: 2015
If you are a lover of pop music, you have undoubtedly come across one of Justin Beiber’s most popular songs, “What Do You Mean?” He released the song in 2015. It was the main single from his fourth studio album, “Purpose.”
The song’s lyrics explore the confusion and uncertainty of a relationship, with Bieber questioning his partner’s mixed signals and unclear communication.
The song’s upbeat, tropical house-inspired production and catchy hook helped it become a favorite song to many listeners. “What Do You Mean?” topped the charts as number one in Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
Paranoid by Post Malone
Song Year: 2018
“Paranoid” is a song by Post Malone, and it comes from his “Hollywood’s Bleeding” album. The song features a slow, brooding beat and introspective lyrics about the feeling of mistrust toward the people around him.
Post Malone delves deeper into his feelings of paranoia and confusion as the song progresses, rapping about his struggles with anxiety and the pressures of fame.
The song’s introspective lyrics and mellow beat create a reflective and emotional atmosphere, making it a standout track in Post Malone’s discography.
The Scientist by Coldplay
Song Year: 2002
“The Scientist” was released in the United Kingdom as the second single of Coldplay’s album “A Rush of Blood to the Head.” This poignant song’s lyrics speak of the aftermath of a failed relationship and the confusion and regret that can come with it.
The track’s melody is built with a soothing piano ballad. The lead singer Chris Martin’s emotive vocals also help you get into the mood of the song, making it a standout track in the album.
The single became a huge success making it to the top 10 in the UK Charts and number 18 on the US Billboard chart.
The Sound of Silence By Simon & Garfunkel
Song Year: 1964
“The Sound of Silence” is a hauntingly beautiful folk rock song that speaks to the feeling of confusion and isolation in a world that is often loud and chaotic. The song’s gentle acoustic guitar and Paul Simon’s melancholy vocals create a sense of introspection and contemplation.
The lyrics explore the universal experience of seeking meaning and connection in an overwhelming world.
The song’s lyrics describe a narrator who is wandering through the city streets at night, feeling lost and disconnected from the world around them. This beloved folk classic generally captures the confusion and loneliness of the human experience.
Faded by Alan Walker
Song Year: 2015
“Faded” is a powerful and emotional electronic dance music song that speaks to the confusion that can come from feeling seperated from the rest of the world. Alan Walker first released this track in 2015 as the lead single in the debut studio album, “Different World.”
Its atmospheric production and haunting vocals make it a standout track on Alan Walker’s album and a favorite among electronic dance music fans.
It became a massive commercial success, topping the charts in several countries and receiving billions of views on YouTube.
Numb by Linkin Park
Song Year: 2003
“Numb” is a classic alternative rock song by Linkin Park that explores the feeling of being confused and numb to the world around us. The American rock band released the track as the third single from their second studio album, “Meteora,” in 2003.
The song’s raw and emotional vocals, as well as pounding backing track, create a sense of anger, confusion, and frustration.
Lyrically the song describes a person who feels disconnected from the world as they struggle to find their way back to feeling alive.
Unsteady by X Ambassadors
Song Year: 2015
American rock band the “X Ambassadors” released the song “Unsteady” as the 3rd single of their debut studio album, “VHS.” It explores the confusion and insecurity that can come with difficult life experiences.
The chorus captures the essence of the song’s message of feeling lost and uncertain in the face of challenges and trying to find the strength to keep going, making it both inspiring and relatable.
The combination of lead singer Sam Harris’ expressive vocals and the band’s powerful instrumentation creates a deeply moving and cathartic listening experience.
Breathe Me by Sia
Song Year: 2004
Sia’s “Breathe Me” is a hauntingly beautiful song that explores the feeling of being lost and alone, confusion, and the desire for human connection.
The track was released as the lead single from her album “Colour the Small One.” It has gained popularity after being used in the HBO drama series “Six Feet Under” series finale.
Sia’s vocals are the centerpiece of the song, conveying a sense of vulnerability and fragility that perfectly matches the song’s introspective lyrics. The song’s classic instrumentation makes it a tune for anyone enduring hard times.
Bad Guy by Billie Eilish
Song Year: 2019
Billie Eilish released “Bad Guy” as the lead single from her debut studio album, When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? Eilish’s brother Finneas O’Connell contributed to the track’s Co-writing and production.
While the song is mostly known for its catchy beat and dark lyrics, it also explores themes of confusion and uncertainty. The lyrics relate to people who are unsure of their own identity and constantly have to change to fit the expectations of others.
The song was a huge success and won Record of the Year and Song of the Year at the 62nd Annual Grammy Awards.
Blinding Lights by The Weeknd
Song Year: 2019
Blinding Lights by The Weeknd is a groovy and funky tune. The song’s upbeat melody and danceable rhythm might not immediately suggest it, but the lyrics actually convey a sense of confusion and disorientation.
The Weeknd shares feelings of being lost and disconnected from reality. The chorus specifically suggests a feeling of urgency and a need to figure things out before it’s too late.
Blinding Lights topped the Billboard Hot 100 for 4 weeks and the Canadian Hot 100 charts as well. Testament to its popularity, it’s the longest-charting track by a solo artist on the Billboard Hot 100.
Drivers License by Olivia Rodrigo
Song Year: 2021
“Drivers License” is the debut single by the American musician Olivia Rodrigo. The song was released as the lead single of her album, Sour. This song became a massive hit upon its release in early 2021 and has since become a cultural phenomenon.
Lyrically, the song tells the story of a young woman who has just obtained her driver’s license, but instead of feeling liberated and free, she feels lost and confused. It also touches on the confusion that comes after being heartbroken.
At the 2022 Grammy Awards, the track won Best Pop Solo Performance and was also nominated for the Song and Record of the Year.
The A-Team by Ed Sheeran
Song Year: 2011
Ed Sheeran’s “The A-Team” is a heart-wrenching ballad that explores the dark and tragic world of drug addiction. The song was released as the lead single and the title track of his album, The A-Team.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a young woman who has been driven to desperation by her addiction, and the singer is left feeling confused and helpless in the face of her pain.
The melody and Ed Sheeran’s emotive vocals make the song powerful and unforgettable. It’s a poignant reminder of the devastating effects that addiction can have on individuals and their loved ones.
They’re In Love Where Am I? by The Weepies
Song Year: 2015
“They’re In Love Where Am I?” is a song by American indie folk-pop duo The Weepies, consisting of Steve Tannen and Deb Talan. The song was released as the 6th single on their album, Be My Thrill.
The song is a sad reflection on feeling left out and confused about a relationship that is blossoming between two people while the singer feels left behind. The gentle acoustic melody and vocal harmonies add to the contemplative feel of the song.
The song relates to many listeners who feel unseen and lost when it comes to matters of the heart.
Should I Stay or Should I Go by The Clash
Song Year: 1982
“Should I Stay or Should I Go” is a classic rock song by the English punk rock band The Clash. It was released as the 3rd single of their album Combat Rock and became one of their most popular songs.
The lyrics explore the confusion and uncertainty of a relationship and the struggle to decide whether to stay or leave.
The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy melody make it a classic example of punk rock’s ability to turn difficult or complex emotions into energetic and relatable music. It’s a song that has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite of punk rock fans and popular music in general.
Top Songs About Being Confused, Final Thoughts
Generally, songs about confusion and being lost in the complexities of life are universal and timeless themes in music. From classic ballads to modern pop hits, the power of music to capture the range of human emotions and experiences is truly remarkable.
Whether you’re feeling lost, uncertain, or simply searching for the meaning of a situation, there’s a song out there that can help you make sense of it all.