Have you ever listened to a song and realized that it relates to your current relationship? The song may describe your fantastic relationship, but in some cases, it may be a sign that you are in a toxic relationship.
Many people have experienced toxic relationships, but only a few have been fortunate to break out from these relationships.
As such, here’s our pick of songs about toxic relationships that may give you the courage to end your toxic relationship.
“I Don’t Wanna Live Forever” by Zayn ft. Taylor Swift
Song Year: 2017
It is only fitting that we commence this list with Zayn’s song, which is about the agony of being in a toxic relationship.
The song illustrates how people find it hard to understand their feelings despite the emotional suffering they experience in a toxic relationship.
“Love on The Brain” by Rihanna
Song Year: 2016
Some people say that Rihanna is channeling her pain with this song. It seems she is nostalgic about her toxic relationship with Chris Brown.
The song’s central message is that people stay in toxic relationships and ignore the abuse and hurt they endure.
“Love The Way You Lie” by Eminem ft. Rihanna
Song Year: 2010
Rihanna makes it on this list again. “Love The Way You Lie” was a fan favorite immediately after its release.
This is a toxic relationship song since it depicts how people sometimes end up in unhealthy relationships.
The song demonstrates that there is always one person who constantly lies in a relationship, but the other person is always justifying these lies instead of condemning them.
“Jealous” by Beyonce
Song Year: 2014
Queen Bey finally makes it on this list with her hot single “Jealous.” Beyonce always releases hot jams, and this song does not fall short.
She describes how she is in a relationship with a man who always breaks his promise and trust. This song accurately describes how people are in relationships with untrustworthy people.
“Bleeding Love” by Leona Lewis
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vzo-EL_62fQ
Song Year: 2009
“Bleeding Love” describes the consequences of being in a toxic relationship. Leona Lewis highlights that people feel bad when they reassess their toxic relationship after ending it.
This song urges those in toxic relationships to quit their relationships early to avoid various consequences.
“I Knew You Were Trouble” by Taylor Swift
Song Year: 2012
Taylor Swift is known for writing about troubled relationships, and this song illustrates what it means to be in a toxic relationship.
In the song, Taylor Swift states how people see red flags from the beginning but still continue with the relationship.
She further contends that some red flags are noticeable from the initial stage, but most people ignore them.
“Energy” by Keri Hilson
Song Year: 2009
“Energy” is mainly about the effort people put into relationships. Keri Hilson states that some people put a lot of effort into relationships, but the other person does not match the energy.
The song teaches people to always ask for more in a relationship. You should leave your partner if they do not want to match your energy.
“The Heart Wants What It Wants” by Selena Gomez
Song year: 2014
“The Heart Wants What It Wants” is one of Selena Gomez’s best songs. The song is about her challenging relationship with Justin Bieber.
She describes that she continued to love him despite the challenges she endured. The song teaches people to be courageous and not follow their hearts when the relationship becomes sour.
“Poison” by Rita Ora
Song Year: 2015
“Poison” describes Rita Ora’s bad luck in the dating scene. She talks about how she has dated many bad men, but nothing seems to work for her.
Eventually, Rita Ora says she will pick her poison, meaning she is willing to settle with one of the bad guys.
The song illustrates how people get into toxic relationships where they pick the wrong person.
“Bad Romance” by Lady Gaga
Song Year: 2009
The song talks about how Lady Gaga always feels lonely in her relationships because her partners do not give her attention.
She further reiterates that she finds herself in toxic relationships mainly because she chooses guys who do not want the relationship to succeed.
“Leave Me Alone” by Ariana Grande
Song Year: 2016
Ariana Grande has faced many challenges in her relationships. As such, “Leave Me Alone” is a testament to the heartache she has suffered.
The song describes how she was in a toxic relationship but still found it hard to end it. She also talks about how she used to beg for affection, which should have been enough to make her leave.
“Toxic” by Britney Spears
Song Year: 2009
You cannot leave out this song when writing a list of songs about abusive relationships. The song’s title vividly describes its central message.
Britney Spears talks about how some people are addicted to their relationship, making it hard for them to realize it is toxic.
“Illicit Affairs” by Taylor Swift
Song Year: 2020
Taylor Swift is a fantastic songwriter and has built her career writing about her exes. “Illicit Affairs” accurately describes toxic relationships.
This song may make you emotional when listening to it, especially after ending a toxic relationship.
“Butterfly” by Mariah Carey
Song Year: 1997
Mariah Carey is one of the best artists in the music industry. “Butterfly” was a hit song immediately after it was released.
This is a heartbreaking song because it is about wanting your previous lover.
As such, you should listen to this song if you are having trouble moving on from a toxic ex.
“Jar of Hearts” by Christina Perri
Song Year: 2010
“Jar of Hearts” is one of the most emotional songs about a failed relationship. Christina Perri talks about this girl who ended a toxic relationship, but her ex-boyfriend still wants her back.
Those in toxic relationships can learn from this song, which may give them the strength to move on from their situation.
“Irresistible” by Fall Out Boy
Song Year: 2015
Irresistible is a song that demonstrates an unhealthy relationship. It depicts that people in a toxic relationship know that their relationship is not ideal, but they still find each other irresistible, making it hard for them to leave.
This song has a strong message for those in a similar situation and should give you the courage to leave your toxic relationship.
“Church Bells” by Carrie Underwood
Song Year: 2016
“Church Bells” is about a girl who marries a man only for him to be abusive in their marriage. Eventually, the girl poisons him to protect herself from the relationship.
The song demonstrates what happens in toxic relationships, thus warning people to avoid such affiliations.
“Killing For You” by Skylar Grey
Song Year: 2016
“Killing for you” is about a couple in a toxic relationship where the man has brainwashed his partner.
This has made the lady very loyal to him to the point where she can do anything for him, including killing someone.
The main lesson from the song is that people should not trust their partners blindly and lose themselves in the process.
“You Broke Me First” by Tate McRae
Song Year: 2020
“You Broke Me First” is an emotional song that may remind you about your previous partner.
The song’s central premise is about a girl who ended a toxic relationship, but her former lover still wants her back.
The main lesson from this song is that you should not return to a toxic relationship once you leave it.
“The Pressure” by Jhene Aiko
Song Year: 2014
Jhene Aiko is one of the artists with the best vocals in the entertainment industry. This song is proof that she is gifted and can release top hits.
The song is about people who stay in toxic relationships out of convenience. The song’s primary message is that you should not be afraid to leave someone because you are afraid you will not get a better person.
“Girl” by Destiny’s Child
Song Year: 2004
Destiny’s Child released this song in 2004, and Kelly Rowland admitted that Beyonce and Michelle dedicated the song to her.
The song is about a girl who makes excuses for not ending a bad relationship, and she justifies her lover’s actions even after he is unfaithful to her.
“Toxic” by Kehlani
Song Year: 2020
Kehlani is a remarkable musician, and this song became a fan favorite after its release.
“Toxic” is about a girl addicted to her toxic relationship. The girl knows the relationship is unsuitable for her, but she is still engrossed in it.
Ultimately, the song’s primary message is that toxic relationships are not good and people should avoid them.
“Need Me” Eminem ft. Pink
Song Year: 2017
The song is mainly about a girl who always returns to a toxic relationship.
She always cleans up her lover’s mess because she assumes he always needs her.
The main lesson from this song is that one should move on from their previous relationship even though they are compelled to take care of their former lover.
“Hot N Cold” by Katy Perry
Song Year: 2008
Katy Perry’s hit, “Hot N Cold”, made headlines after its release. The song is about a lover who keeps on having different mood swings.
Katy insists that this lover can be hot or cold at different times, portraying a toxic character since it leaves the other partner exhausted, not knowing what the lover needs.
“Hands To Myself” by Selena Gomez
Song Year: 2016
This song is quite catchy. From the lyrics, you will learn that the girl’s fantasy impedes her reality. She thinks she is in love with this guy’s lot to an extent she cannot break and enters his house to enjoy his belongings.
It screams toxic all over because a regular person should not be in love with someone to the extent of invading their space without permission.
“Bad Things” by Machine Gun Kelly, Camila Cabello
Song Year: 2016
“Bad Things” great lyrics romanticize a volatile and destructive relationship between two people from the wrong side of town.
The song paints a picture of a toxic relationship that seems terrible for both lovers, yet they insist on staying together, knowing it might hurt them in the end.
“Something in the Way You Move” by Ellie Goulding
Song Year: 2016
In “Something in the Way You Move”, Ellie sings about love making people crazy. The song is about a dysfunctional relationship with a partner you know is wrong for you, yet you welcome the danger because you are in love.
If you are in a relationship that you think is toxic, where you are in love with someone, and they are not treating you right.
“Cold” by Maroon 5 ft. Future
Song Year: 2017
“Cold” is a song about a relationship with non-existent love. Based on the lyrics, the guy notices how the girl is cold to him, and he cannot pretend everything is fine because the problems are piling up as they move forward together.
This song portrays a toxic relationship if both partners are together, knowing things are not working out.
“I Hate U, I Love U” by Gnash ft. Olivia O’Brien
Song Year: 2015
Are you feeling a bit nostalgic about your former relationship? Then listen to “I Hate U, I Love U” with the same sentiments.
The lyrics depict a couple that parted ways long ago. However, despite hating each other, they still love each other unconditionally. This type of relationship is toxic because it makes ex-lovers yearn for each other, knowing it did not work out well the first time.
“Rock Bottom” by Hailee Steinfeld ft. DNCE
Song Year: 2016
“Rock Bottom” portrays the high feeling of toxic relationships that keep partners wanting more.
In the song, both partners know they are fighting a lot, yet they still stay with each other. Thus, if you are in a toxic relationship, listen to “Rock Bottom” and consider getting out of it before it is too late.
“Hostage” by Sia
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MvIyNwyRH5E
Song Year: 2014
Like many of Sia’s songs, “Hostage” is filled with many metaphors. She sings about a person in a relationship who feels trapped in the music. However, that individual finds it amazing how their partner will treat them so badly, but she repeatedly tells herself she cannot live without the toxic love.
This is no way to live. You can include this track in your playlist of crying songs that you can replay until you overcome your feelings for your toxic lover.
“Hurt So Good” by Astrid S
Song Year: 2016
“Hurt So Good” is about a relationship that does not seem to work because one partner has complicated feelings. However, these lovers keep returning to each other, hurting each other because they still want a taste of what can be.
Thus, the element of reality in this tune makes it easy for fans to resonate with.
“Sucker For Pain” by Lil Wayne, Wiz Khalifa, Imagine Dragons, Ty Dolla Sign & Logic (Featuring X ambassadors)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-59jGD4WrmE
Song Year: 2016
“Sucker for pain” is a 2016 hip hop rock hit released as one of “Suicide Squad” theme songs.
The song is a smash hit; however, the type of relationship depicted in this song includes, torture and the desire to chain and tie your partner down.
If it is not something you agree to, do not stay around to discover how toxic this type of relationship can be.
“Going Under” by Evanescence
Song Year: 2003
If you are a hard rock fanatic, “Going Under” may be down your alley. It is one of the best rock songs of the 200s.
This song portrays the protagonist as a needy partner who feels like she is getting sucked into toxic love oblivion. Thus, the feeling of reaching rock bottom not knowing how to discern truth from lies from a toxic partner.
Such an ordeal may have you questioning your relationship and your self-worth.
“Cherry Wine” by Hozier
Song Year: 2016
Hozier brings “Cherry Wine” to life through the serious but somber lyrics and acoustic feels.
The song depicts domestic abuse where the woman acts as both the victim in the relationship. If at all you feel you are in a toxic marriage situation, let Hozier sing you into seeking freedom from your abuser.
“Without Me” by Halsey
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZAfAud_M_mg
Song Year: 2018
Halsey brought this song to life by expounding on how a partner stands by their lover through the pain and hurt only to get hurt in the process.
Like Halsey sings of leaving an ungrateful lover, please do the same and get out of that toxic situation before it pulls you down.
“Take Me to Church” by Hozier
Song Year: 2013
Hozier’s international megahit has become a worldwide sensation since its release in 2013.
Although “Take Me to Church” can be interpreted as a religious song, it may portray toxic love. When listening to the chorus, you may create an unhealthy relationship scenario where lovers think their passion is holy only to neglect the reality that the other is making their life miserable.
“Gangsta” by Kehlani
Song Year: 2016
“Gangsta” is an electrifying track released as part of the Suicide Squad’s original soundtracks.
It is a song about toxic relationships as it accurately emphasizes how two lovers can have a shocking and abusive relationship and still enjoy being together. Thus, beware of such partnerships.
“Love Lockdown” by Kanye West
Song Year: 2008
Kanye West sheds light on toxic relationships in his song, “Love Lockdown.”
Here he poses a psychological dilemma where his union with his lover is causing him mental anguish, as he feels he doesn’t love her the way she deserves. Thus, he decides to quit the relationship instead of dragging it further.
“Quit” by Cashmere Cat ft. Ariana Grande
Song Year: 2017
“Quit” is about the protagonist in a romantic relationship with someone she knows is not right for her. She insists that all her loved ones warn her against the association, including the small voice in her head, but she feels she must pursue it regardless.
This song illustrates how toxic love can keep you glued to the wrong relationship.
“I Hate U” by SZA
Song Year: 2021
Although not necessarily toxic, “I Hate U” depicts a woman who misses his ex-lover despite knowing how bad he was for her. Although they broke up, she misses him and hates him simultaneously.
This song describes how people in toxic relationships find it hard to move forward in their lives.
“Just Like a Pill” by Pink
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JDKGWaCglRM
Song Year: 2002
“Just Like a Pill” describes how people in toxic relationships never know their partners are wrong for them until the situation worsens.
Pink acknowledges that the partner may only have offered her short-term relief just like a drug does, warping all her senses into believing things are okay.
The song urges people to stay on the lookout for toxic partners.
“Vicious” by Tate McRae ft. Lil Mosey
Song Year: 2020
Tate McRae sings about how a toxic relationship empowered her to stand by herself. She expresses how she is moving on, knowing the partner will leave in regret knowing he lost her. Based on the lyrics, it sounds as though the protagonist may have been vulnerable during the relationship that hurt her, making her morph into a strong woman after the ordeal.
The song may be a wake-up for all women who need a reminder to stand up for themselves.
“Emotional Bruises” by Madison Beer
Song Year: 2021
In her song, “Emotional Bruises”, Madison Beer frames it as a bitter love letter to a disrespectful ex-lover who hurt her constantly when they were together.
Thus, if you have a partner that seems toxic, consider listening to Madison Beer’s “Emotional Bruises” and feel encouraged to stop giving them second chances to hurt you.
Madison Beer has a catalog of toxic love and heartbreak songs that you can play on her official website.
“Rolling in the Deep” by Adele
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rYEDA3JcQqw
Song Year: 2010
This slow yet soulful song portrays a protagonist who feels depressed yet empowered, knowing she is out of a toxic relationship that has cost her sleepless nights and endless tears. Adele insists on the burning love that existed yet accepts that she felt abused and hurt.
The main lesson from this song is that partners can sometimes pretend to be in love with you, only to hurt you in the end.
Best Songs About Toxic Relationships, Final Thoughts
Most of the songs in this list depict the musicians’ experiences of being in a toxic relationship. In addition to entertaining the audience, these musicians educate people on the dangers of staying in an abusive relationship. As such, you should learn from these artists’ experiences and end your toxic relationship.