Jealousy is a common emotion that most people have experienced at some point in their lives, and music has long been a medium for artists to express and explore these complex feelings. From love triangles to unrequited love, the feeling of jealousy can be all-consuming and overwhelming, and it can be difficult to put into words. However, some of the most iconic songs in music history have been about the various forms of jealousy, ranging from subtle hints to outright confrontations.
In this list of 20 Songs About Being Jealous, we explore some of the most notable and influential songs that explore this powerful emotion. From classic rock to contemporary pop, these songs span decades and genres, but they all share a common thread of exploring the complexities of jealousy in relationships. Some of the songs on this list deal with unrequited love, while others explore the darker side of jealousy, such as obsession and possessiveness.
Regardless of the approach, each song on this list captures the raw emotion and vulnerability that comes with being jealous. Whether you’re looking for songs to relate to, or just want to explore some of the most iconic songs about jealousy, this list has something for everyone. So sit back, turn up the volume, and get ready to explore the wide range of emotions that come with being jealous through music.
1. “Mr. Brightside” by The Killers
“Mr. Brightside” is a timeless classic by The Killers that has remained a beloved anthem since its release in 2004. The song is about jealousy and betrayal in a romantic relationship, as the protagonist sings about his suspicion that his significant other is cheating on him. The catchy melody, soaring chorus, and raw emotion in the lyrics make it a perfect sing-along song for any occasion. With its driving guitar riffs and energetic drum beats, “Mr. Brightside” is a quintessential indie rock hit that has stood the test of time and remains a fan-favorite to this day.
2. “Jealous Guy” by John Lennon
“Jealous Guy” is a poignant and introspective song by John Lennon, released in 1971 as part of his album “Imagine”. The song begins with a gentle and melodic piano melody, accompanying Lennon’s soft and vulnerable vocals. The lyrics speak of regret and reflection, as Lennon expresses his remorse over past actions that were fueled by jealousy and insecurity. The chorus “I didn’t mean to hurt you, I’m sorry that I made you cry” expresses his desire for redemption and forgiveness. The song’s emotional depth and sincerity, combined with its simple yet beautiful instrumentation, make “Jealous Guy” a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences today.
3. “Jessie’s Girl” by Rick Springfield
“Jessie’s Girl” is a catchy and upbeat rock song by Rick Springfield, released in 1981 as part of his album “Working Class Dog”. The song features driving guitar riffs and energetic vocals, with a chorus that is instantly memorable and singable. The lyrics describe the singer’s longing for his friend’s girlfriend, Jessie’s girl, and his frustration over not being able to have her. The song’s relatable and slightly taboo subject matter, combined with its infectious melody and lively instrumentation, helped to make it a commercial success and a classic of the 80s rock era. “Jessie’s Girl” remains a beloved and popular song today, enjoyed by audiences of all ages.
4. “Jealous Bone” by Patty Loveless
“Jealous Bone” is a powerful and driving country song by Patty Loveless, released in 1995 as part of her album “When Fallen Angels Fly”. The song features twangy guitar riffs and Loveless’s signature soulful vocals, with a chorus that is both catchy and intense. The lyrics describe the intense jealousy and possessiveness that the singer feels towards her lover, warning him that if he cheats or strays, her “jealous bone” will be triggered and she will not be able to control her rage. The song’s raw emotion and dynamic instrumentation make it a standout track on the album and a fan favorite in Loveless’s discography.
5. “David Watts” by The Jam
“David Watts” is a lively and upbeat rock song by The Jam, released in 1978 as part of their album “All Mod Cons”. The song features jangly guitar riffs and frontman Paul Weller’s distinctive vocals, with a chorus that is catchy and energetic. The lyrics describe a charismatic and popular figure named David Watts, whom the narrator admires and envies. The song is a tongue-in-cheek commentary on social climbing and the desire for social status, with the narrator eventually realizing that the pursuit of popularity is ultimately unfulfilling. “David Watts” is a standout track on the album and a classic of the British punk rock era.
6. “Jealous” by Nick Jonas
“Jealous” is a slick and catchy pop song by Nick Jonas, released in 2014 as part of his self-titled album. The song features a groovy bassline and a catchy chorus that is instantly memorable, with Jonas’s smooth and soulful vocals taking center stage. The lyrics describe the singer’s jealousy over his girlfriend’s attention and desire for other men, with Jonas expressing his desire to protect his relationship and keep his partner to himself. The song’s polished production, infectious melody, and relatable subject matter helped to make it a commercial success and a fan favorite in Jonas’s discography.
7. “You Belong With Me” by Taylor Swift
“You Belong With Me” is an upbeat and catchy pop song by Taylor Swift, released in 2008 as part of her album “Fearless”. The song features a driving beat and infectious chorus, with Swift’s sweet and relatable vocals telling the story of a girl who feels overlooked by her crush, who is dating someone else. The lyrics express the narrator’s longing to be with the person she loves and her belief that they would be better suited for each other. The song’s relatable lyrics, catchy melody, and upbeat production made it a hit and helped establish Swift as a major force in the pop music world.
8. “When It Was Me” by Paula DeAnda
“When It Was Me” is a soulful and emotional R&B ballad by Paula DeAnda, released in 2007 as part of her self-titled debut album. The song features a sparse, piano-driven melody that perfectly complements DeAnda’s heartfelt and vulnerable vocals. The lyrics describe the pain and regret of watching an ex move on and find happiness with someone new, and the narrator’s wish that their former love could remember the depth of their past relationship. The song’s poignant lyrics and understated production make it a standout track on the album and a fan favorite in DeAnda’s discography.
9. “Sugar, We’re Goin Down” by Fall Out Boy
“Sugar, We’re Goin Down” is a dynamic and high-energy rock song by Fall Out Boy, released in 2005 as part of their album “From Under the Cork Tree”. The song features driving guitar riffs and lead singer Patrick Stump’s signature energetic vocals, with a chorus that is both catchy and anthemic. The lyrics are cryptic and surreal, describing a turbulent and passionate relationship in which the singer is willing to sacrifice everything for the object of his affection. The song’s raw energy, memorable chorus, and enigmatic lyrics make it a classic of the emo rock era and a fan favorite in Fall Out Boy’s discography.
10. “Jealousy” by Iggy Pop
“Jealousy” is a brooding and intense rock song by Iggy Pop, released in 1977 as part of his album “Lust for Life”. The song features haunting guitar riffs and Pop’s signature raw, emotional vocals, with a chorus that is both ominous and powerful. The lyrics describe the intense and destructive nature of jealousy, with the narrator consumed by his desire to control and possess the object of his affection. The song’s dark subject matter, evocative instrumentation, and Pop’s fierce performance make it a standout track on the album and a classic of the punk and new wave eras.
11. “Who’s That Girl?” by Madonna
“Who’s That Girl?” is a playful and upbeat pop song by Madonna, released in 1987 as part of the soundtrack to the film of the same name. The song features a catchy and danceable beat, with Madonna’s sultry vocals leading the way. The lyrics describe the narrator’s curiosity and fascination with a mysterious and alluring woman, with Madonna playfully asking “who’s that girl?” The song’s infectious melody, catchy chorus, and Madonna’s trademark style and charisma helped to make it a commercial success and a fan favorite in her discography.
12. “Treat You Better” by Shawn Mendes
“Treat You Better” is a heartfelt and emotional pop song by Shawn Mendes, released in 2016 as part of his album “Illuminate”. The song features a gentle and tender melody, with Mendes’s sweet and soulful vocals expressing his desire to be the best possible partner for the person he loves. The lyrics describe the narrator’s frustration and sadness at seeing their partner in an unhealthy and unfulfilling relationship, and their plea for the chance to treat them better. The song’s relatable subject matter, moving lyrics, and Mendes’s heartfelt performance make it a standout track on the album and a fan favorite in his discography.
13. “Satellite Of Love” by Lou Reed
“Satellite of Love” is a classic and timeless rock song by Lou Reed, released in 1972 as part of his album “Transformer”. The song features a smooth and groovy melody, with Reed’s distinctive and nonchalant vocals leading the way. The lyrics describe a man’s infatuation with the idea of love, expressed through the imagery of a “satellite” transmitting emotions and desires across space and time. The song’s seductive melody, poetic lyrics, and Reed’s characteristic coolness and wit make it a standout track on the album and a classic of the glam and art rock eras.
14. “Anyone Else” by Blake Shelton
“Anyone Else” is a heart-wrenching country ballad by Blake Shelton, released in 2004 as part of his album “Blake Shelton’s Barn & Grill”. The song features a simple and melancholic melody, with Shelton’s emotive and soulful vocals expressing the pain and heartbreak of a failed relationship. The lyrics describe the narrator’s regret at not being able to make his partner happy and his recognition that they may be better off with someone else. The song’s honest and vulnerable lyrics, paired with Shelton’s emotive performance, make it a standout track on the album and a fan favorite in his discography.
15. “In the Arms of an Angel” by Sarah McLachlan
“In the Arms of an Angel” is a haunting and beautiful ballad by Sarah McLachlan, released in 1997 as part of her album “Surfacing”. The song features a sparse and ethereal melody, with McLachlan’s delicate and emotive vocals conveying a sense of longing and yearning. The lyrics describe the narrator’s desire to find peace and solace, and the idea of being held and comforted “in the arms of an angel”. The song’s poignant and moving lyrics, paired with McLachlan’s angelic voice, have made it a popular choice for funerals, memorials, and other solemn occasions, and a classic in McLachlan’s discography.
16. “Jealous” by Beyoncé
“Jealous” is a sultry and atmospheric R&B song by Beyoncé, released in 2013 as part of her self-titled album “Beyoncé”. The song features a slow and sensual beat, with Beyoncé’s powerful and emotive vocals expressing her feelings of insecurity and possessiveness in a relationship. The lyrics describe the narrator’s jealousy and paranoia, as well as her vulnerability and desire for love and reassurance. The song’s hypnotic melody, emotive lyrics, and Beyoncé’s powerful performance make it a standout track on the album and a fan favorite in her discography, showcasing her versatility as a singer and artist.
17. “Bad at Love” by Halsey
“Bad at Love” is a catchy and upbeat pop song by Halsey, released in 2017 as part of her album “Hopeless Fountain Kingdom”. The song features a lively and danceable beat, with Halsey’s strong and distinctive vocals conveying her frustration with her romantic history. The lyrics describe the narrator’s tendency to fall in love too quickly and too deeply, and her fear that she is destined to be “bad at love”. The song’s catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and Halsey’s confident and powerful performance make it a standout track on the album and a fan favorite in her discography.
18. “Who Is He? And What Is He To You?” by Bill Withers
“Who Is He? And What Is He To You?” is a soulful and groovy song by Bill Withers, released in 1972 as part of his album “Still Bill”. The song features a funky and rhythmic melody, with Withers’ smooth and soulful vocals conveying a sense of suspicion and jealousy. The lyrics describe the narrator’s growing suspicion that his partner is cheating on him, and his desire to uncover the truth. The song’s infectious groove, Withers’ emotive performance, and the powerful horn section make it a standout track on the album and a classic in Withers’ discography.
19. “Send Them Off!” by Bastille
“Send Them Off!” is an energetic and dramatic indie rock song by Bastille, released in 2016 as part of their album “Wild World”. The song features a dynamic and anthemic melody, with lead singer Dan Smith’s powerful and emotive vocals conveying a sense of passion and urgency. The lyrics describe the narrator’s struggle with his own demons and his desire to overcome them, as well as his frustration with the negative and destructive forces in the world. The song’s powerful and driving beat, Smith’s emotive performance, and the catchy chorus make it a standout track on the album and a fan favorite in Bastille’s discography.
20. “No One Else” by Weezer
“No One Else” is a grungy and edgy alternative rock song by Weezer, released in 1994 as part of their self-titled debut album, also known as the “Blue Album”. The song features a hard-hitting and intense melody, with lead singer Rivers Cuomo’s angsty and raw vocals conveying a sense of frustration and isolation. The lyrics describe the narrator’s obsession and possessiveness with his love interest, as well as his resentment towards her for her perceived lack of interest. The song’s raw and gritty sound, Cuomo’s emotive performance, and the explosive guitar solo make it a standout track on the album and a fan favorite in Weezer’s discography.
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.
