Songs about bad women often explore the darker side of relationships and the consequences of falling for someone who is not good for you. These songs may describe women who are manipulative, deceitful, or simply not interested in a healthy partnership. The lyrics may touch on themes such as heartbreak, betrayal, and regret, and may portray the singer as a victim or as someone who is struggling to break free from a toxic situation. At the same time, these songs can also be empowering, reminding listeners to stand up for themselves and to prioritize their own well-being. Some examples of songs about bad women include “Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood, “Toxic” by Britney Spears, and “You Oughta Know” by Alanis Morissette. Whether you’re going through a tough break-up or just in the mood for some fiery lyrics, top 20 songs about bad women offer a glimpse into the complicated and often messy nature of love and relationships.
1. “Honky Tonk Woman” by Rolling Stones
“Honky Tonk Women” is a classic rock and roll song recorded by the legendary British rock band The Rolling Stones. Released in 1969, this upbeat and energetic track features the distinctive vocal style of lead singer Mick Jagger, who delivers the lyrics with a playful and sardonic edge. The song’s catchy melody is driven by a tight rhythm section consisting of drummer Charlie Watts and bassist Bill Wyman, while guitarist Keith Richards provides the song’s signature guitar riff. With its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, “Honky Tonk Women” has become one of The Rolling Stones’ most iconic and enduring tracks, and a staple of classic rock radio to this day. The song’s lyrics paint a picture of a wild and unpredictable woman who lives life on the edge, and it is this raw and energetic spirit that has made “Honky Tonk Women” a timeless classic, loved by generations of rock and roll fans.
2. “Dirty Diana” by Michael Jackson
“Dirty Diana” is a rock-infused pop song by the late Michael Jackson. Released in 1988 as the fifth single from his album “Bad,” the song tells the story of a seductive and manipulative woman named Diana who uses her sexuality to control men. Jackson’s powerful vocals are supported by a driving guitar riff, creating a hard-hitting and intense sound. The lyrics are somewhat controversial for their explicit references to sexual behavior and addiction. Despite this, “Dirty Diana” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten in several countries and showcasing Jackson’s versatility as an artist. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to Jackson’s status as a pop music icon.
3. “Bad Girls” by M.I.A.
“Bad Girls” is a hip-hop and electronic-infused pop song by the British rapper M.I.A. Released in 2010, the song celebrates and empowers women who defy cultural norms and stereotypes. The track features a Middle Eastern-inspired melody, catchy beats, and M.I.A’s signature rapid-fire flow. The lyrics touch on themes such as sexuality, power, and rebellion, with M.I.A. urging listeners to embrace their individuality and resist conformity. The music video, which features female drivers performing stunts and driving through the desert, garnered widespread attention for its bold and provocative visuals. “Bad Girls” was a critical and commercial success, peaking at number 62 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning a Grammy nomination for Best Short Form Music Video. The song remains a standout in M.I.A’s discography and a testament to her political and artistic vision.
4. “Sweet But Psycho” by Ava Max
“Sweet but Psycho” is a pop song performed by American singer-songwriter Ava Max. Released in 2018, the song features an infectious beat, catchy hooks, and a powerful vocal performance from Max. The song’s lyrics describe a woman who may appear sweet and innocent on the surface, but is actually a bit unhinged and unpredictable – a character that has resonated with listeners and helped to make the song a hit. The production features pulsating synths, driving percussion, and a dynamic chorus that showcases Max’s impressive vocal range. The song’s music video, which features Max in a variety of surreal and dreamlike settings, has also helped to boost its popularity. With its combination of irresistible pop hooks and a slightly dark edge, “Sweet but Psycho” has become a standout track in the pop landscape, and has helped to establish Ava Max as a rising star in the music world.
5. “B*tch” by Meredith Brooks
“Bitch” is a rock song recorded by American singer-songwriter Meredith Brooks. Released in 1997, the song’s title and chorus quickly caught the attention of listeners with its provocative language and feminist message. Brooks’ powerful vocals, driving guitar riffs, and upbeat tempo make for a compelling and dynamic performance. The lyrics confront societal expectations placed on women, encouraging them to break free from traditional gender roles and embrace their true selves. The song’s iconic chorus, “I’m a bitch, I’m a lover, I’m a child, I’m a mother, I’m a sinner, I’m a saint,” has become a rallying cry for women who refuse to be defined by one-dimensional stereotypes. “Bitch” was a huge commercial success, peaking at number two on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of the defining songs of the late 1990s. With its bold and empowering message, “Bitch” continues to be a beloved anthem for women everywhere.
6. “Good Girls” by 5 Seconds of Summer
“Good Girls” is a pop-rock song recorded by the Australian band 5 Seconds of Summer. Released in 2014, the track features catchy hooks, driving guitar riffs, and upbeat percussion that make for an energetic and catchy performance. The lyrics, which tell the story of a good girl who falls for a bad boy, are both playful and a bit edgy, highlighting the band’s youthful and rebellious spirit. The song’s chorus, which encourages good girls to “be bad,” has become a fan favorite, and the track has been praised for its empowering message and fun, carefree vibe. The music video for “Good Girls,” which features the band performing in a variety of humorous and tongue-in-cheek scenarios, has also helped to boost the song’s popularity. With its irresistible pop hooks and rock and roll attitude, “Good Girls” is a standout track in the 5 Seconds of Summer discography, and a beloved anthem for their fans.
7. “Evil Woman” by Electric Light Orchestra
“Evil Woman” is a classic rock song by the British band Electric Light Orchestra. Released in 1975 as a single from their album “Face the Music,” the song features a catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and playful lyrics that juxtapose the idea of an “evil woman” with a lighthearted, almost comical tone. The song’s memorable chorus and instrumental hooks make it a favorite of classic rock radio stations and fans alike. Despite its title, the song has been interpreted in different ways, with some seeing it as a playful tribute to strong and independent women, while others view it as a warning against falling for manipulative or deceitful partners. “Evil Woman” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten in several countries and solidifying ELO’s reputation as a creative and innovative rock band.
8. “Bad Woman Blues” by Beth Hart
“Bad Woman Blues” is a blues-rock song performed by American singer-songwriter Beth Hart. Released in 2019, the track features a driving rhythm section, wailing guitar solos, and Hart’s powerful, soulful vocals. The song’s lyrics, which describe a woman who is unapologetic about her wild and free spirit, have been praised for their empowering message and feminist themes. Hart’s performance on the track is electric, as she sings with a raw and unbridled passion that perfectly captures the spirit of the blues. The song’s music video, which features Hart performing in a gritty, neon-lit club, adds to the track’s overall cool and edgy vibe. “Bad Woman Blues” is a standout track in Hart’s discography, showcasing her unique blend of blues, rock, and soul, and cementing her status as one of the most exciting and dynamic performers in contemporary music.
9. “Maniac” by Conan Gray
“Maniac” is a pop song performed by American singer-songwriter Conan Gray. Released in 2020, the track features a blend of pulsating synths, driving percussion, and Gray’s distinctive, emotive vocals. The song’s lyrics describe a relationship that has become all-consuming and borderline obsessive, with Gray singing about being unable to control his feelings for his partner. The song’s infectious chorus, which features Gray singing “you were with another man, I was thinking about you and me,” has become a fan favorite, and the track has been praised for its honest and relatable depiction of the highs and lows of young love. The music video for “Maniac,” which features Gray in a variety of surreal and dreamlike settings, has also helped to boost the song’s popularity. With its catchy hooks and emotionally charged vocals, “Maniac” is a standout track in Gray’s discography, and has helped to establish him as a rising star in the pop world.
10. “mad woman” by Taylor Swift
“Mad Woman” is a hauntingly beautiful song performed by American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift. Released in 2020, the track features a slow and brooding melody, stark piano chords, and Swift’s emotive vocals. The song’s lyrics describe a woman who has been wronged by society and is taking revenge in her own way, with Swift singing “what a shame she went mad, no one likes a mad woman.” The song is both an indictment of the unfair treatment of women in society and a call to action for women to stand up for themselves and fight against injustice. The song’s music video, which features Swift performing in a forest setting and dressed in a flowing white dress, adds to the track’s eerie and atmospheric vibe. With its powerful message and haunting melody, “Mad Woman” is a standout track on Swift’s critically acclaimed album, “folklore.”
11. “Femme Fatale” by Tom Tom Club
“Femme Fatale” is a danceable pop song by the American band Tom Tom Club. Released in 1981 as a single from their self-titled debut album, the song is a cover of the Velvet Underground’s original track of the same name. The Tom Tom Club’s version features a funky bassline, groovy synths, and playful vocals that celebrate and subvert the archetype of the femme fatale. The lyrics describe a powerful and seductive woman who knows what she wants and isn’t afraid to go after it. The song’s infectious rhythm and catchy chorus make it a staple of new wave and post-punk playlists. “Femme Fatale” helped establish the Tom Tom Club as an influential and innovative band in the 1980s and remains a beloved classic of the genre.
12. “Dark Lady” by Cher
“Dark Lady” is a popular song by the legendary American singer and actress, Cher. Released in 1974, the song tells a dramatic tale of a fortune teller who warns a woman about her unfaithful lover. With a catchy, upbeat melody, the song features Cher’s powerful vocals and a lively orchestration that adds to its dramatic flair. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of the mysterious “Dark Lady” who possesses magical powers and sees through the heart of the protagonist’s lover. As the story unfolds, the protagonist becomes increasingly desperate to find out who the “Dark Lady” is, and ultimately discovers a shocking truth about her own fate. With its irresistible hook and dramatic storyline, “Dark Lady” remains a beloved classic and a testament to Cher’s enduring talent as a performer and storyteller.
13. “Dangerous” by Kardinal Offishall ft. Akon
“Dangerous” is a popular song by Canadian rapper Kardinal Offishall featuring American singer Akon. Released in 2008, the song is a catchy, upbeat fusion of hip-hop and R&B with a memorable hook that is impossible not to sing along to. The song is about a woman who is so irresistible that the singer is willing to risk everything for her, even if it means putting himself in danger. Kardinal Offishall’s smooth rap delivery is complemented by Akon’s soulful vocals, and the song’s upbeat rhythm and infectious energy make it a club classic. The production features a combination of electronic beats, reggae-influenced instrumentation, and catchy melodies that make it stand out. With its memorable hook and catchy lyrics, “Dangerous” remains a beloved song that showcases both Kardinal Offishall and Akon’s talents as artists.
14. “Warning” by Megan Thee Stallion
“Warning” is a popular song by American rapper Megan Thee Stallion. Released in 2021, the song features Megan’s signature confident and empowering lyrics and a hard-hitting beat that showcases her exceptional flow and delivery. The song is an anthem for women who refuse to be mistreated by men and serves as a warning to anyone who dares to disrespect them. Megan’s lyrics are raw, unapologetic, and often explicit, making it clear that she will not tolerate any form of abuse or disrespect. The production features a combination of electronic beats, trap-influenced percussion, and a catchy melody that highlights Megan’s commanding presence as a rapper. With its fierce energy and empowering message, “Warning” is a powerful showcase of Megan Thee Stallion’s talent and unique voice as an artist, and a reminder of the strength and resilience of women everywhere.
15. “Demon Woman” by Flight of the Conchords
“Demon Woman” is a humorous and catchy rock song performed by the New Zealand comedy duo Flight of the Conchords. Released in 2009, the track features a driving beat, fuzzy guitar riffs, and the duo’s signature witty and irreverent lyrics. The song’s title refers to a woman who is driving the singer crazy with her seductive and manipulative ways, with the duo singing lines like “she’s trying to take me to hell.” The song’s chorus, which features a refrain of “demon woman, your hair is like silk,” has become a fan favorite and a classic comedic anthem. The music video for “Demon Woman,” which features the duo performing in various outlandish costumes and scenarios, adds to the track’s overall quirky and fun vibe. With its catchy hooks and irreverent lyrics, “Demon Woman” is a standout track in the Flight of the Conchords discography, showcasing the duo’s unique blend of music and comedy.
16. “Poison Ivy” by Jonas Brothers
“Poison Ivy” by Jonas Brothers is an upbeat pop-rock track that showcases the band’s signature sound with catchy hooks and lively guitar riffs. The lyrics describe a toxic relationship with a seductive partner who, like the titular plant, lures the narrator in with their charm only to cause harm. The song’s infectious chorus urges the narrator to resist the poison and break free from the destructive cycle of the relationship. Overall, “Poison Ivy” is a fun and relatable tune that encourages listeners to recognize and avoid toxic relationships in their own lives.
17. “The B*tch Is Back” by Elton John
“The Bitch Is Back” is an iconic rock song performed by English singer-songwriter Elton John. Released in 1974, the track features a hard-hitting, driving rhythm section, catchy guitar riffs, and John’s powerful vocals. The song’s lyrics, which describe a man who is unapologetically confident and not afraid to take on the world, have become a rallying cry for generations of fans. The song’s chorus, which features John belting out the title line, has become a classic hook that has been sampled and reinterpreted by other artists over the years. With its infectious energy and defiant attitude, “The Bitch Is Back” is a standout track in John’s discography, and has helped to establish him as one of the most iconic performers in the history of rock and roll.
18. “Jolene” by Dolly Parton
“Jolene” is a country music classic by Dolly Parton, released in 1973. The song tells the story of a woman who pleads with Jolene, a stunningly beautiful woman, to not steal her man, who is infatuated with Jolene’s looks. Parton’s emotional vocals paired with a simple yet captivating melody make the song a timeless favorite, highlighting the vulnerability and desperation of the narrator’s situation. The song’s lyrics speak to the universal fear of losing love to someone more attractive and the internal struggle that can arise when faced with this possibility. “Jolene” has been covered by countless artists and remains a beloved classic for its honesty and raw emotion.
19. “Evil Woman (Don’t Play Your Games With Me)” by Crow
“Evil Woman (Don’t Play Your Games With Me)” is a classic rock song performed by the American band Crow. Released in 1969, the track features a driving guitar riff, powerful vocals, and a catchy chorus. The song’s lyrics describe a woman who is manipulative and deceitful, with the band warning her to stay away with the refrain of “evil woman, don’t play your games with me.” The track has become a staple of classic rock radio, and has been covered and sampled by other artists over the years. With its electrifying energy and memorable hook, “Evil Woman (Don’t Play Your Games With Me)” is a standout track in Crow’s discography, and has helped to establish them as one of the underrated gems of the late 60s and early 70s rock scene.
20. “Maneater” by Hall And Oates
“Maneater” is a popular song by Hall & Oates, released in 1982. The song’s distinctive synthesizer riff and infectious melody helped make it a hit, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart. The lyrics describe a manipulative woman who preys on men for her own gain, earning her the title of “maneater.” The catchy chorus and upbeat tempo contrast with the song’s dark subject matter, creating a sense of irony and danger. The song’s memorable hook and Hall & Oates’ signature sound helped make it a staple of 80s pop music. With its themes of seduction and betrayal, “Maneater” remains a classic and continues to be a favorite on dance floors and retro playlists.
Edward Tomlin 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.
