Karma is a concept that has captured the imagination of people for centuries, with its promise of balance and retribution for one’s actions. It’s not surprising then, that many artists have chosen to explore this theme in their music, creating some truly memorable and thought-provoking songs about karma. From the upbeat and catchy “Instant Karma” by John Lennon to the soulful and introspective “Karma” by Alicia Keys, these songs come in all genres and styles. Some songs, like “Karma Police” by Radiohead, offer a commentary on the societal implications of karma, while others, like “Bad Blood” by Kendrick Lamar and Taylor Swift, use the concept of karma as a metaphor for personal relationships. These 20 songs about karma are diverse in their approach, but they all share a common theme of exploring the impact that our actions have on the world around us. Whether you’re seeking inspiration, comfort, or simply want to rock out to some great tunes, these songs about karma are sure to satisfy.
1. “Karma Chameleon” by Culture Club
“Karma Chameleon” is a hit single by British band Culture Club, released in 1983. The song became an international success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries and becoming one of the best-selling singles of the year. It features lead singer Boy George’s unique androgynous vocals, accompanied by a catchy synth-pop melody. The lyrics explore the concept of changing one’s personality to fit in with different social groups, and the pressure to conform to societal expectations. The song’s memorable chorus, “Karma Chameleon, livin’ in a world of fame, ain’t gonna cry for nobody, it’s a shame” highlights this theme. “Karma Chameleon” remains a classic pop song, still widely played and enjoyed today.
2. “Happy Karma Christmas” by Sufjan Stevens
“Happy Karma Christmas” by Sufjan Stevens is a holiday song that was released as part of his 2006 Christmas Box Set. The song is characterized by Stevens’ signature folksy, indie style and its upbeat, cheerful melody. The lyrics describe a joyful Christmas celebration, filled with festive cheer and good will towards others. With its upbeat rhythm and cheerful lyrics, “Happy Karma Christmas” is a festive tune that is sure to bring a smile to listeners’ faces during the holiday season. The song is a prime example of Sufjan Stevens’ unique musical style and his ability to craft heartfelt and uplifting songs that resonate with audiences of all ages. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Stevens’ music, “Happy Karma Christmas” is sure to be a holiday classic.
3. “Karma Police” by Radiohead
“Karma Police” is a song by the English rock band Radiohead, released in 1997 on their album “OK Computer”. The song features a blend of electronic and acoustic elements, including haunting keyboard melodies, gentle acoustic guitar strumming, and Thom Yorke’s emotive vocals. The lyrics depict a dystopian world in which individuals are policed by an unseen force of karma, punishing those who act in selfish and cruel ways. The chorus, “This is what you’ll get, when you mess with us” serves as a warning to those who neglect the consequences of their actions. “Karma Police” is widely regarded as one of Radiohead’s most popular and enduring songs, and its haunting, yet hopeful message continues to resonate with fans and listeners to this day.
4. “Bad Karma” by Drake
“Bad Karma” is a song by Canadian rapper Drake, released in 2021. The song features a mix of trap beats, dark melodies, and Drake’s smooth, melancholic rapping. The lyrics explore the theme of bad luck and the consequences of past actions, with Drake reflecting on how his choices have affected his present and future. The chorus, “Bad karma, yeah it follows me” highlights the haunting impact of past mistakes and the cyclical nature of cause and effect. “Bad Karma” showcases Drake’s introspective and reflective side, as he explores the complexities of life, relationships, and personal responsibility. With its catchy melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, “Bad Karma” is a standout track that showcases Drake’s unique style and lyrical prowess.
5. “Karma” by Alicia Keys
“Karma” is a song by American singer-songwriter Alicia Keys, released in 2001. The song features Keys’ powerful and soulful vocals, accompanied by a simple piano melody and a steady beat. The lyrics explore the idea of karma and the consequences of one’s actions, with Keys singing about how what goes around, comes around. The chorus, “Karma, karma, karma, karma, what goes around comes back around” serves as a reminder of the importance of treating others with kindness and respect. “Karma” is a classic R&B ballad that showcases Keys’ incredible vocal range and songwriting abilities. With its timeless message and memorable melody, “Karma” continues to be one of Alicia Keys’ most popular and enduring songs.
6. “Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood
“Before He Cheats” is a song by American country singer Carrie Underwood, released in 2006. The song features a catchy, upbeat melody and a strong, empowering message about a woman taking revenge on her unfaithful partner. The lyrics describe the protagonist breaking into her partner’s car with a baseball bat and smashing it to pieces, sending a clear message that she will not tolerate being mistreated. The chorus, “Maybe next time he’ll think before he cheats” serves as a warning to all unfaithful partners. “Before He Cheats” became a massive hit, reaching the top of the country charts and establishing Underwood as one of the biggest names in country music. With its catchy melody and powerful message, “Before He Cheats” continues to be one of Carrie Underwood’s most popular and memorable songs.
7. “Instant Karma” by John Lennon
“Instant Karma!” is a song by English singer-songwriter John Lennon, released in 1970. The song features a catchy, upbeat melody and simple, repetitive lyrics that deliver its message of universal love and hope for peace. The lyrics urge listeners to “spread the word” and “get together right now” in order to create positive change in the world. The song’s upbeat tempo and optimistic message make it a feel-good anthem, and its chorus, “Instant Karma’s gonna get you, gonna knock you right on the head” serves as a reminder that actions have consequences. “Instant Karma!” is widely considered one of Lennon’s most iconic solo songs, and its message of hope and universal love continues to resonate with fans and listeners to this day.
8. “Karma” by Opeth
“Karma” is a song by the Swedish progressive metal band Opeth, released in 2001. The song features a complex blend of heavy metal riffs, intricate acoustic passages, and powerful vocals. The lyrics are introspective and melancholic, exploring themes of regret and the passage of time. The song’s tempo and mood shift dramatically throughout its eight-minute run-time, showcasing Opeth’s mastery of dynamics and musical storytelling. “Karma” is widely regarded as one of Opeth’s most epic and emotional songs, and it has become a fan favorite and a staple of the band’s live performances. With its intricate arrangements, powerful vocals, and haunting melodies, “Karma” is a testament to Opeth’s unique sound and their ability to create captivating and emotional heavy metal music.
9. “You get what you give” by New Radicals
“You Get What You Give” is a song by the American alternative rock band New Radicals, released in 1998. The song features a catchy, upbeat melody and a positive message about the power of determination and perseverance. The lyrics urge listeners to stay true to themselves and not give up on their dreams, no matter how difficult the journey may be. The song’s chorus, “You get what you give, you give what you get” serves as a reminder that hard work and positive attitudes will always pay off in the end. “You Get What You Give” became a hit for the New Radicals, reaching the top 40 on the charts and establishing the band as one of the most promising new acts of the late 1990s. With its upbeat melodies, positive lyrics, and memorable chorus, “You Get What You Give” continues to be a fan favorite and a staple of alternative rock radio.
10. “Karma” by Jessica Andrews
“Karma” is a song by American country singer Jessica Andrews, released in 2000. The song features a catchy, mid-tempo melody and lyrics that explore the theme of karma and the idea that actions have consequences. The song’s protagonist is reflecting on past mistakes and mistakes she’s made in relationships, and she sings about how she’s learned to live with the consequences of her actions. The chorus, “Karma, it’s a funny thing, it’ll come back around again” serves as a reminder of the power of karma and the importance of treating others with kindness and respect. “Karma” was a hit for Jessica Andrews, reaching the top 40 on the country charts and helping to establish her as a rising star in country music. With its catchy melody, memorable lyrics, and universal message, “Karma” continues to be one of Jessica Andrews’ most popular and enduring songs.
11. “What Goes Around… Comes Around” by Justin Timberlake
“What Goes Around… Comes Around” is a song by American pop and R&B singer Justin Timberlake, released in 2007. The song features a smooth, R&B-influenced melody and introspective lyrics that explore the idea of karma and the consequences of one’s actions. The song’s protagonist reflects on past relationships and the mistakes he’s made, and he sings about how he’s learned that what goes around eventually comes back around. The chorus, “What goes around, goes around, comes around, comes all the way back around” serves as a reminder that one’s actions have consequences and that they will eventually get what they deserve. “What Goes Around… Comes Around” was a hit for Justin Timberlake, reaching the top of the charts and solidifying his status as one of the biggest pop stars of the early 21st century. With its catchy melody, memorable lyrics, and universal message, “What Goes Around… Comes Around” remains one of Justin Timberlake’s most popular and enduring songs.
12. “Outrunning Karma” by Alec Benjamin
“Outrunning Karma” is a song by American singer-songwriter Alec Benjamin, released in 2020. The song features a haunting, introspective melody and lyrics that explore the idea of escaping the consequences of one’s actions. The song’s protagonist sings about how he’s tried to run from his mistakes and escape his past, but he’s come to realize that he can’t outrun karma. The chorus, “I’ve been outrunning karma for the longest time, but I can’t keep up the pace, and I’m losing my mind” serves as a reminder that one’s actions have consequences, and that it’s better to face them head-on rather than trying to escape them. “Outrunning Karma” is a standout track from Alec Benjamin’s critically acclaimed debut album, and it showcases his unique blend of introspective storytelling and atmospheric pop. With its haunting melody, memorable lyrics, and universal message, “Outrunning Karma” has become a fan favorite and a standout track in Alec Benjamin’s discography.
13. “Karma’s Pavement Plan” by Modest Mouse
“Karma’s Pavement Plan” is a song by American indie rock band Modest Mouse, released in 1997. The song features a chaotic, post-punk inspired melody and lyrics that explore the idea of fate and the consequences of one’s actions. The song’s protagonist sings about how he’s lived a life of recklessness and carelessness, and he reflects on the idea that his actions have led him to where he is now. The chorus, “Karma’s pavement plan, I’m the man in the can, I’m the devil in the dirt, with the shovel and the shirt” serves as a reminder of the power of fate and the idea that one’s actions have consequences. “Karma’s Pavement Plan” is a standout track from Modest Mouse’s early discography, and it showcases their unique blend of post-punk energy and introspective storytelling. With its chaotic melody, memorable lyrics, and universal message, “Karma’s Pavement Plan” remains a fan favorite and a standout track in Modest Mouse’s discography.
14. “Bad Blood” by Kendrick Lamar and Taylor Swift
“Bad Blood” is a song by American rapper Kendrick Lamar and pop singer Taylor Swift, released in 2015. The song features a haunting, bass-driven beat and lyrics that explore the idea of conflict and strained relationships. The song’s protagonist sings about how a once close relationship has gone sour, and how she’s determined to get revenge on the person who wronged her. The chorus, “Cause baby, now we’ve got bad blood, you know it used to be mad love” serves as a reminder of the power of conflict and the idea that one’s actions have consequences. “Bad Blood” was a hit for Kendrick Lamar and Taylor Swift, reaching the top of the charts and solidifying their status as two of the biggest pop stars of the early 21st century. With its haunting melody, memorable lyrics, and universal message, “Bad Blood” remains one of Kendrick Lamar and Taylor Swift’s most popular and enduring collaborations.
15. “Karma Killer” by Robbie Williams
“Karma Killer” is a song by British pop star Robbie Williams, released in 2002. The song features a lively, upbeat melody and lyrics that explore the idea of a self-destructive person who causes harm to others and eventually suffers the consequences of their actions. The song’s protagonist sings about how he’s lived a life of recklessness and hedonism, and he reflects on the idea that his actions have caught up with him. The chorus, “I’m a karma killer, I’m a rolling stone, I’m a walking disaster, and I’ve been that way for so long” serves as a reminder of the power of one’s actions and the idea that what goes around, comes around. “Karma Killer” was a hit for Robbie Williams, reaching the top of the charts and solidifying his status as one of the biggest pop stars of the early 21st century. With its lively melody, memorable lyrics, and universal message, “Karma Killer” remains one of Robbie Williams’ most popular and enduring songs.
16. “Only a Matter of Time” by Joshua Bassett
“Only a Matter of Time” is a song by American actor and singer Joshua Bassett, released in 2021. The song features a melodic, pop-inspired melody and lyrics that explore the idea of moving on from a past relationship and the inevitability of change. The song’s protagonist sings about how he’s trying to come to terms with the end of a relationship and how he knows it’s only a matter of time before he’s able to move on. The chorus, “Only a matter of time, before I’m good, before I’m mine, only a matter of time, before I love, before I shine” serves as a reminder of the power of healing and the idea that time can help one overcome heartbreak. “Only a Matter of Time” was well-received by fans and helped to establish Joshua Bassett as a talented and up-and-coming artist in the pop music scene. With its melodic melody, relatable lyrics, and upbeat message, “Only a Matter of Time” remains a standout track from Joshua Bassett’s discography.
17. “Karma” by Queen Naija
“Karma” is a song by American singer Queen Naija, released in 2019. The song features a smooth, R&B-inspired melody and lyrics that explore the idea of getting what one deserves in life. The song’s protagonist sings about how she’s trying to move on from a past relationship and how she knows that her ex will eventually get what’s coming to him. The chorus, “Karma, it’ll come and get ya, oh, it’ll come and get ya, and when it does, it’ll be too late, yeah, it’ll be too late” serves as a reminder of the power of karma and the idea that one’s actions have consequences. “Karma” was a hit for Queen Naija, reaching the top of the charts and solidifying her status as one of the biggest stars in the R&B music scene. With its smooth melody, memorable lyrics, and universal message, “Karma” remains one of Queen Naija’s most popular and enduring songs.
18. “Karma” by AJR
“Karma” is a song by American indie pop band AJR, released in 2021. The song features a bright, upbeat melody and lyrics that explore the idea of getting what one deserves in life. The song’s protagonist sings about how they’re trying to do good and be a better person, and how they know that their actions will eventually lead to good things happening in their life. The chorus, “Karma, it’ll come back to you, karma, you’ll get what you’re due, you’ll get what you’re due, it’ll come back to you” serves as a reminder of the power of positive actions and the idea that what goes around, comes around. “Karma” was well-received by fans and helped to establish AJR as a talented and up-and-coming band in the indie pop music scene. With its bright melody, catchy lyrics, and upbeat message, “Karma” remains a standout track from AJR’s discography.
19. “Make It Bleed” by Whitechapel
“Make It Bleed” is a song by American deathcore band Whitechapel, released in 2012. The song features heavy, abrasive guitar riffs and pounding drums, with aggressive, screamed vocals that convey a sense of anger and aggression. The lyrics explore themes of pain, revenge, and the desire to see one’s enemies suffer. The song’s chorus, “Make it bleed, make it hurt, make it pay for what it’s done, make it suffer, make it burn, make it pay for what it’s done” serves as a call to action, urging the listener to take control of their own fate and make those who have wronged them pay. “Make It Bleed” is a staple of Whitechapel’s live performances and continues to be one of their most popular songs. With its aggressive sound and intense energy, “Make It Bleed” is a testament to Whitechapel’s mastery of heavy, abrasive metal.
20. “Over My Head” by Alabama Shakes
“Over My Head” is a song by American blues rock band Alabama Shakes, released in 2012. The song features a slow, soulful groove and showcases lead singer Brittany Howard’s powerful, raw vocals. The lyrics of “Over My Head” express feelings of frustration and confusion, with the protagonist struggling to understand the complexities of a relationship. Despite its introspective lyrics, “Over My Head” is infused with a sense of hopefulness, as the protagonist strives to find their way and make sense of their emotions. The song’s bluesy, soulful sound sets it apart from the band’s other material, and it has become a standout track in their discography. “Over My Head” is a powerful and soulful song that showcases the incredible range and talent of Alabama Shakes. With its introspective lyrics and emotional delivery, “Over My Head” is a timeless and enduring classic of modern blues rock.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
