Cheating in relationships is a widespread issue that can cause immense pain and heartbreak. It can shatter trust, compromise intimacy, and leave those involved feeling alone and helpless. However, throughout history, music has served as a source of solace and comfort for those going through tough times, including the turmoil caused by cheating.
In this article, we have compiled a list of the top 28 best songs about cheating. From classics like “Jolene” by Dolly Parton and “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” by Marvin Gaye to modern hits like “Someone Like You” by Adele and “Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood, these songs capture the complex emotions and experiences that come with infidelity. Whether you’re going through a difficult time or just need a reminder that you’re not alone, these songs offer a powerful message of resilience and hope. So sit back, grab some tissues, and let the music heal your heart.
1. ‘Lyin’ Eyes – Eagles
“Lyin’ Eyes” is a song by American rock band Eagles, released in 1975. It tells the story of a woman who is unhappy in her marriage and seeks comfort in the arms of another man. The song is a slow, country-inspired ballad with twangy guitar riffs and a soothing melody that creates a melancholic atmosphere. The lyrics are poignant and tell a vivid story of betrayal, regret, and the desire for something better. The song was a commercial success and remains a classic in the Eagles’ catalog, with its emotional storytelling and memorable chorus making it a favorite among fans of the band and country-rock music.
2. ‘Unfaithful’ – Rihanna
“Unfaithful” is a song by Barbadian singer Rihanna, released in 2006. The song is a haunting ballad that explores the theme of infidelity, with Rihanna lamenting her guilt and shame over cheating on her partner. The song features a dramatic melody and emotive vocals, with Rihanna’s voice conveying a sense of vulnerability and heartbreak. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on charts worldwide, and is often regarded as one of Rihanna’s most memorable and powerful songs. Its themes of betrayal and remorse resonated with audiences and helped solidify Rihanna’s position as one of the leading pop artists of her generation.
3. ‘Bust Your Windows’ – Jazmine Sullivan
“Bust Your Windows” is a song by American singer Jazmine Sullivan, released in 2008. The song is a sassy and upbeat R&B track that tells the story of a woman seeking revenge on a cheating partner by vandalizing his car. The song’s catchy chorus and driving beat create a feel-good vibe, while Sullivan’s powerful vocals and confident delivery add to the song’s empowering message. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and helped establish Sullivan as a rising star in the R&B and soul music scenes.
4. ‘Break You Off’ – The Roots
“Break You Off” is a song by American hip-hop group The Roots, featuring guest vocals from singer Musiq Soulchild. The song was released in 2002 as the lead single from their fifth studio album, “Phrenology”. The track features a smooth and soulful groove, with Musiq Soulchild’s silky vocals complementing the intricate instrumentation and production. The song’s lyrics explore the theme of infidelity, with the narrator warning his lover that he may break her heart if she continues to cheat on him. The song was a critical success and helped cement The Roots’ reputation as one of the most innovative and forward-thinking groups in hip-hop music.
5. ‘Creep’ – TLC
“Creep” is a song by the American girl group TLC, released in 1994 as the lead single from their second studio album, “CrazySexyCool”. The song features a slow and sultry R&B groove, with the group’s signature harmonies and rapper Lisa “Left Eye” Lopes’ distinctive flow. The lyrics are about a woman who cheats on her partner, feeling guilty but unable to resist the temptation. The song was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top 10 in several countries and winning a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. It remains a classic of ’90s R&B and a fan favorite.
6. ‘Should’ve Said No’ – Taylor Swift
“Should’ve Said No” is a song by American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, released as the fifth single from her debut studio album, “Taylor Swift” in 2008. The song is a country-pop track with an upbeat tempo and features Swift’s strong vocals and storytelling lyrics. The song’s lyrics describe a situation where Swift’s boyfriend has cheated on her, and she wishes she had said “no” to his advances. The music video shows Swift performing the song in a rain-soaked setting, conveying the emotion and power of the lyrics. “Should’ve Said No” was a commercial success, charting in the top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a fan favorite in Swift’s early discography.
7. ‘I’m Not The Only One’ – Sam Smith
“I’m Not The Only One” is a soulful ballad by Sam Smith that delves into the painful realization of infidelity in a relationship. The song’s lyrics depict a situation where one partner has been unfaithful and the other is struggling to come to terms with it. Sam’s powerful and emotional vocals add depth and intensity to the already poignant lyrics, making it a heartbreaking yet relatable track for many. The song’s music video features Dianna Agron and Chris Messina, further amplifying the emotional impact of the song’s message. “I’m Not The Only One” showcases Sam Smith’s vocal range and ability to evoke emotions with his music.
8. ‘Little Lies’ by Fleetwood Mac
“Little Lies” is a song by British-American rock band Fleetwood Mac, which was released in 1987. The song was written by Christine McVie and her then-husband Eddy Quintela. It features an upbeat tempo and catchy lyrics about the lies people tell each other in relationships. The song became a commercial success, reaching the top 10 in several countries, including the US, UK, and Canada. “Little Lies” has been covered by several artists and has been featured in various films and TV shows, cementing its place in popular culture as a classic Fleetwood Mac hit.
9. ‘Caught Out There’ – Kelis
“Caught Out There” is a powerful and empowering song by Kelis that became a feminist anthem upon its release. The song’s catchy hook “I hate you so much right now” describes the anger and betrayal that comes with being cheated on. Kelis’ passionate vocals and the song’s driving beat add to the intensity of the message. The lyrics encourage women to stand up for themselves and not tolerate mistreatment from their partners. “Caught Out There” is a timeless song that continues to resonate with listeners and inspire them to demand respect and dignity in their relationships.
10. ‘You Oughta Know’ – Alanis Morissette
Released in 1995, “You Oughta Know” is one of the most iconic songs of Alanis Morissette’s career. The track is an intense, angst-ridden rock ballad that became an anthem for scorned lovers everywhere. The song’s lyrics, written by Morissette and Glen Ballard, are filled with raw emotion and biting resentment towards an ex-lover who has moved on to someone new. Morissette’s powerful vocals and the driving guitar riffs create a perfect storm of cathartic release for anyone who has ever felt wronged in a relationship. The song remains a staple of ’90s rock and an enduring testament to Morissette’s talent and artistry.
11. ‘Before He Cheats’ – Carrie Underwood
“Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood is a country-pop song that became a massive hit upon its release in 2005. The song tells the story of a woman who is seeking revenge on her cheating boyfriend by damaging his car with a baseball bat. Underwood’s powerful vocals and the song’s catchy melody perfectly capture the intense emotions of betrayal and anger. The lyrics are filled with witty one-liners and vivid imagery, making it easy for listeners to sing along and empathize with the singer’s situation. “Before He Cheats” quickly became a classic breakup anthem and a staple of modern country music.
12. ‘A Woman Knows’ – Kenny Chesney
“A Woman Knows” by Kenny Chesney is a song that speaks to the strength and intuition of women. The lyrics describe a woman who is aware of her partner’s infidelity despite his attempts to hide it. Chesney’s smooth voice delivers the message with empathy and understanding, acknowledging the difficulty of the situation for both parties. The song also highlights the resilience and wisdom that come from past experiences, encouraging women to trust their instincts and not be afraid to walk away from a toxic relationship. The blend of country and pop elements creates a catchy tune with an empowering message.
13. ‘Say My Name’ – Destiny’s Child
Destiny’s Child’s “Say My Name” is a classic R&B track that was released in 1999. The song explores the theme of infidelity, with the protagonist demanding to know the identity of her lover’s secret partner. With its catchy chorus and infectious beat, the song became a massive hit, winning two Grammy Awards and becoming one of the best-selling singles of all time. “Say My Name” is an iconic example of the group’s signature harmonies and powerful vocals, and its message of demanding honesty and respect in a relationship resonates with listeners to this day.
14. ‘Wake Up Call’ – Maroon 5
“Wake Up Call” by Maroon 5 is a catchy pop-rock song that delves into the dark theme of infidelity. The lyrics describe a man who discovers that his girlfriend has been cheating on him, and decides to take matters into his own hands. The song features an upbeat tempo, with Adam Levine’s smooth vocals and the catchy guitar riff driving the melody. Despite the serious subject matter, the song maintains a fun and energetic vibe that appeals to a wide audience. The catchy chorus and memorable hook make it a popular choice for radio airplay and a fan favorite at Maroon 5’s live shows.
15. ‘I Heard It Through The Grapevine’ – Marvin Gaye
“I Heard It Through The Grapevine” is a classic soul song by Marvin Gaye, originally recorded in 1966 and later released as a single in 1968. The song tells the story of a man who learns that his lover has been unfaithful to him through the grapevine, or hearsay. Gaye’s impassioned vocals convey the betrayal and heartbreak of the situation, while the driving bassline and rhythmic drums create a sense of urgency and tension. The song’s popularity has endured over the decades and it remains a beloved classic of the Motown era, showcasing Gaye’s powerful vocal ability and emotional range.
16. ‘Jolene’ – Dolly Parton
“Jolene” is a country classic written and performed by Dolly Parton. Released in 1973, the song is a heart-wrenching plea to another woman to stay away from the narrator’s man, Jolene. Parton’s signature soprano voice captures the raw emotion of a woman begging for the mercy of a woman who seems to have captured her partner’s heart. The simple but effective melody and guitar picking provide the perfect backdrop to Parton’s poignant lyrics, which have become a staple of country music. “Jolene” has since been covered by countless artists and remains a beloved classic in the genre.
17. ‘Long Black Veil’ – Johnny Cash
“Long Black Veil” is a haunting and tragic ballad written by Danny Dill and Marijohn Wilkin. Johnny Cash’s rendition, released in 1965, remains one of the most iconic versions of the song. The narrative centers around a man falsely accused of murder and subsequently hanged, all the while refusing to reveal the true alibi that would clear his name. The song’s eerie melody and mournful lyrics capture the somber mood of the story, invoking a sense of melancholy and mystery. Cash’s rich, baritone voice adds to the song’s haunting quality, making it a standout track in his discography.
18. ‘It Wasn’t Me’ – Shaggy
“It Wasn’t Me” by Shaggy is a playful and infectious reggae song that tells the story of a man who has been caught cheating on his girlfriend and his attempts to deny it, despite being caught in the act. The song features a catchy chorus and Shaggy’s distinctive deep voice delivering humorous and sometimes risqué lyrics. The song’s upbeat rhythm and light-hearted tone make it a popular party anthem, and it has become one of Shaggy’s most recognizable hits. The song’s success has been attributed to its humor, relatability, and catchy melody, making it a classic of 2000s pop music.
19. ‘Your Cheatin’ Heart’ – Hank Williams
Hank Williams’ classic country ballad “Your Cheatin’ Heart” is a timeless tale of infidelity and heartbreak. The melancholy melody and Williams’ mournful vocals perfectly capture the pain of a betrayed lover. The song’s lyrics convey the narrator’s disbelief and despair as he realizes that his partner has been unfaithful to him. Williams’ masterful storytelling and vivid imagery make the song a powerful and emotional listening experience. “Your Cheatin’ Heart” remains a beloved country music standard, with its impact felt on countless other songs and artists in the genre.
20. ‘Maybellene’ – Chuck Berry
“Maybellene” is a classic rock and roll song by Chuck Berry, released in 1955. The song was Berry’s first hit, and it helped to define the genre with its driving guitar riff and catchy lyrics about a car chase. The song features Berry’s signature guitar playing and energetic vocals, and it has been covered by numerous artists over the years. “Maybellene” was a breakthrough hit for Berry, and it paved the way for his subsequent success as one of the most influential artists in rock and roll history. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and enduring relevance.
21. ‘Mr Brightside’ – The Killers
Released in 2004, “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers is a song that has become an iconic indie rock anthem. It tells the story of a man who suspects his girlfriend of cheating on him, and despite his heartbreak, he cannot help but hold onto hope that she still loves him. The song features dynamic instrumentation, with the driving drums and catchy guitar riffs perfectly capturing the emotional turmoil of the lyrics. “Mr. Brightside” has become a beloved classic of the early 2000s alternative rock scene, known for its infectious energy and relatable lyrics about heartbreak and betrayal.
22. ‘Careless Whisper’ – George Michael
Released in 1984, “Careless Whisper” is a classic pop ballad by the late British singer and songwriter George Michael. The song features Michael’s signature soulful vocals and a saxophone melody that has become instantly recognizable. It tells the story of a man who regrets cheating on his partner and losing her trust. The lyrics and melody are emotive and expressive, conveying a sense of sadness and regret. “Careless Whisper” has become a timeless classic and has been covered by many artists over the years. Its influence on pop culture is significant, making it a staple in romantic playlists and slow-dance moments.
23. ‘Cry Me A River’ – Justin Timberlake
“Cry Me A River” is a hit song by Justin Timberlake, which was released in 2002. It’s a breakup song that describes the pain of a man who has been betrayed by his lover. The lyrics describe the emotions that come with the end of a relationship and the feelings of betrayal and anger that follow. The song’s catchy melody and Timberlake’s emotive vocals have made it a fan favorite, and it remains one of the most popular breakup songs of all time. The music video for the song features a vengeful Timberlake getting revenge on a cheating ex, adding to the song’s allure.
24. ‘Between The Cheats’ – Amy Winehouse
“Between The Cheats” is a soulful and emotional song performed by the late British singer-songwriter, Amy Winehouse. Released in 2011, the track features Winehouse’s signature blend of jazz, blues and R&B styles. The lyrics revolve around the theme of infidelity, as Winehouse sings about the pain and betrayal of being cheated on. With her powerful and heartfelt vocals, Winehouse brings raw emotion to the track, backed by a simple but effective instrumentation that includes a piano and strings section. “Between The Cheats” showcases Winehouse’s exceptional talent as a singer and songwriter, making it a poignant and memorable addition to her discography.
25. ‘Me and Mrs. Jones’ – Billy Paul
“Me and Mrs. Jones” is a classic soul ballad by Billy Paul, released in 1972. The song tells the story of a secret love affair between a man and a married woman named Mrs. Jones. The lyrics are filled with longing, passion, and forbidden desire, and are delivered in Paul’s smooth, soulful voice. The track’s lush orchestration and jazzy arrangement perfectly complement Paul’s vocals and create a timeless sound that has stood the test of time. “Me and Mrs. Jones” is a quintessential love song that captures the pain and beauty of forbidden love in a way that only soul music can.
26. ‘Hit ‘Em Up Style (Oops!)’ – Blu Cantrell
Released in 2001, ‘Hit ‘Em Up Style (Oops!)’ by Blu Cantrell is a popular R&B track that tells the story of a woman who finds out her partner is cheating and decides to get revenge by spending all of his money. The song features a catchy melody and lyrics that empower women to take control of their lives and not let men mistreat them. The music video showcases Blu Cantrell in various glamorous outfits, singing the song in front of a vibrant background. ‘Hit ‘Em Up Style (Oops!)’ became a commercial success and is considered a classic R&B track from the early 2000s.
27. A Thing Goin’ On’ – Coolio
“A Thing Goin’ On” is a hip hop and R&B song by American rapper Coolio. The song was released in 1996 as a single from his third studio album, “My Soul.” It features singer Chantay Savage and contains a sample from the hit song “Love T.K.O.” by Teddy Pendergrass. The lyrics of the song tell a story of a man involved in an extramarital affair and how he tries to keep it hidden from his partner. The catchy chorus, soulful vocals, and smooth production make it a popular hit and showcase Coolio’s ability to seamlessly blend rap and R&B elements.
28. ‘Irreplaceable’ – Beyonce
“Irreplaceable” is a song by American singer Beyoncé. It was released in 2006 as the lead single from her second studio album, “B’Day.” The song is a mid-tempo R&B track with a sassy attitude and empowering lyrics about a woman who has had enough of her unfaithful partner and is moving on. The song became a massive commercial success and hit number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart, making it Beyoncé’s fourth solo number-one single. “Irreplaceable” is widely considered one of Beyoncé’s signature songs and has become an anthem for female empowerment and self-love.
Darren Jamison 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.
