Selfishness is a common theme in popular music, and it has been explored in a variety of ways by artists from various genres. From pop ballads to punk rock anthems, these songs delve into the complexities of love and relationships, reflecting on the negative impacts of selfishness and self-absorption. Some songs take a humorous approach, poking fun at the actions of those who prioritize their own needs above others. Other tracks are more introspective, exploring the effects of selfish behavior on the self and others. Some songs encourage listeners to reflect on their actions and strive to be better, while others tell the story of a narrator who is tired of giving in a relationship and wants their partner to be more considerate. Despite the different approaches, these top 20 songs about being selfish all share a common thread of examining the impact of our actions on others and exploring the complexities of love and relationships. Whether through humor or introspection, these songs invite listeners to reflect on the way they interact with others and the world around them.
1. “Selfish” by Britney Spears
“Selfish” is a song by American pop icon Britney Spears. The song was released in 2020 as part of the deluxe edition of her album “Glory.” It was produced by Grammy-nominated producer DJ Mustard and co-written by Spears herself. The mid-tempo track features Spears singing about wanting to be selfish with her love, while also expressing a desire for her partner to reciprocate her feelings. The song’s production blends electronic beats with subtle guitar riffs and Spears’ signature vocal delivery. “Selfish” showcases Spears’ versatility as a pop artist and her ability to deliver catchy hooks and relatable lyrics.
2. “Selfish” by Madison Beer
“Selfish” is also a song by American singer Madison Beer. The song was released in 2020 as the lead single from her debut album “Life Support.” The emotional ballad was co-written by Beer and a team of songwriters, and produced by the renowned producer Big Taste. The song’s lyrics revolve around a relationship that is falling apart, with Beer singing about the pain of being in a one-sided love and struggling to put her own needs first. The song features a stripped-down production, allowing Beer’s emotive vocals to take center stage. “Selfish” showcases Beer’s songwriting skills and her ability to convey raw emotions through her music.
3. “Selfish Girl” by Charli XCX
“Selfish Girl” is a song by British singer Charli XCX. The song was released in 2012 as a bonus track on the deluxe edition of her debut studio album “True Romance.” Produced by Patrik Berger, the song features Charli XCX singing about being a “selfish girl” who is focused on her own desires and not interested in compromising for others. The upbeat synth-pop track showcases Charli XCX’s unique style and her ability to blend relatable lyrics with infectious melodies. “Selfish Girl” is a bold and empowering anthem that encourages listeners to embrace their individuality and prioritize their own needs.
4. “Selfish” by NEIMY
“Selfish” is also a song by Swedish singer NEIMY. The song was released in 2019 as a single and was written by NEIMY herself along with a team of songwriters. Produced by Alexander Asp, the song features NEIMY’s soaring vocals over a minimalist acoustic guitar arrangement. The song’s lyrics revolve around the theme of self-love and the importance of putting oneself first. NEIMY sings about breaking free from toxic relationships and finding strength in prioritizing one’s own needs. “Selfish” showcases NEIMY’s raw talent and her ability to connect with listeners through her honest and empowering lyrics.
5. “Selfish Girl” by Rihanna
“Selfish Girl” by Rihanna. However, Rihanna does have a song called “Selfish” featuring Future, which was released in 2017. The song is a mid-tempo R&B track with a mellow beat and dreamy production. Rihanna and Future trade verses about their selfish desires and their desire for each other, with Rihanna singing about wanting to be the only one her partner needs. “Selfish” showcases Rihanna’s smooth vocals and her ability to effortlessly blend different genres and styles. The song was well-received by both critics and fans, and cemented Rihanna’s status as one of the most versatile and dynamic artists of her generation.
6. “Selfish Love” by Jessie Ware
“Selfish Love” is a song by British singer-songwriter Jessie Ware. The song was released in 2020 as the lead single from her album “What’s Your Pleasure?” Co-written by Ware herself and several songwriters, the song features a disco-inspired production with funky basslines and infectious hooks. The song’s lyrics revolve around a tumultuous relationship, with Ware singing about the push-and-pull dynamic between two lovers. The song showcases Ware’s powerful vocals and her ability to deliver catchy melodies and relatable lyrics. “Selfish Love” is a perfect example of Ware’s ability to blend retro and contemporary sounds and create a unique style that is entirely her own.
7. “Selfish” by Ace Wilder
“Selfish” is also a song by Swedish singer Ace Wilder. The song was released in 2019 and co-written by Wilder herself along with several songwriters. The song features a dance-pop production with a catchy melody and a driving beat. The song’s lyrics revolve around a relationship that has lost its spark, with Wilder singing about her desire for her partner to be more “selfish” and show her more attention. The song showcases Wilder’s powerful vocals and her ability to deliver dynamic and energetic performances. “Selfish” is a fun and upbeat song that encourages listeners to embrace their own needs and desires and to not settle for less than they deserve in a relationship.
8. “Selfish” by Kanye West
“Selfish” is a song by American rapper Kanye West, featuring guest vocals from R&B singer-songwriter John Legend. The song was released in 2005 as a single from West’s second studio album “Late Registration.” Produced by West and Jon Brion, the song features a soulful production with lush orchestration and smooth harmonies. The song’s lyrics revolve around a dysfunctional relationship, with West and Legend singing about their selfish desires and their inability to connect with their partners emotionally. The song showcases both West and Legend’s vocal abilities and their ability to blend different genres and styles. “Selfish” was well-received by critics and fans, and cemented West’s status as one of the most innovative and boundary-pushing artists of his generation.
9. “Selfish” by Jordan Davis
“Selfish” is a song by American country music singer Jordan Davis. The song was released in 2020 as a single from his album “Jordan Davis.” Co-written by Davis himself along with several songwriters, the song features a country-rock production with a driving beat and catchy guitar riffs. The song’s lyrics revolve around a man who is torn between his selfish desires and his love for his partner. Davis sings about the internal struggle of trying to do what’s best for his relationship, even if it means sacrificing his own needs. “Selfish” showcases Davis’s powerful vocals and his ability to deliver emotionally resonant performances. The song was well-received by both critics and fans, and solidified Davis’s status as one of the rising stars of the country music genre.
10. “SELFISH” by The Kid LAROI
“SELFISH” is a song by Australian rapper and singer The Kid LAROI. The song was released in 2020 as a single from his debut mixtape “F*ck Love.” Co-written by The Kid LAROI himself and several songwriters, the song features a moody and introspective production with melancholic piano chords and trap-inspired drums. The song’s lyrics revolve around a failed relationship, with The Kid LAROI rapping about his ex-partner’s selfish behavior and his own struggles to move on from the relationship. “SELFISH” showcases The Kid LAROI’s emotive and vulnerable songwriting and his ability to deliver raw and honest performances. The song was well-received by both critics and fans, and helped establish The Kid LAROI as one of the most promising new talents in the rap and hip-hop genre.
11. “Selfish” by Toni Braxton
“Selfish” is a song by American R&B singer-songwriter Toni Braxton. The song was released in 2018 as a single from her album “Sex & Cigarettes.” Co-written by Braxton herself along with several songwriters, the song features a sultry and seductive production with a slow-burning groove and silky-smooth vocals. The song’s lyrics revolve around a woman who is tired of her partner’s selfish behavior and demands more attention and affection. Braxton’s vocals are the centerpiece of the song, with her rich and emotive delivery conveying the raw emotions of the lyrics. “Selfish” showcases Braxton’s enduring talent and her ability to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of contemporary R&B music. The song was well-received by both critics and fans and helped cement Braxton’s status as one of the greatest R&B singers of her generation.
12. “Selfish Girls” by Jake Miller
“Selfish Girls” is a song by American rapper and pop singer Jake Miller. The song was released in 2013 as a single from his EP “The Road Less Traveled.” Co-written by Miller himself along with several songwriters, the song features a pop-infused production with upbeat instrumentation and catchy hooks. The song’s lyrics revolve around the superficiality of some women in the dating scene and how their selfish behavior can negatively impact men. Miller’s verses are witty and playful, while the chorus is a catchy and anthemic singalong. “Selfish Girls” showcases Miller’s ability to blend different genres and styles and his knack for crafting infectious pop hooks. The song was well-received by his fans and helped establish Miller as one of the rising stars of the pop-rap genre.
13. “Selfish Song” by Jesse Powers
“Selfish Song” by Jesse Powers is a thought-provoking, introspective ballad that explores the complexities of human relationships and emotions. With its melodic piano-driven instrumentation and Jesse’s smooth, soulful vocals, the song creates a contemplative atmosphere that invites the listener to reflect on their own experiences. The lyrics paint a picture of a narrator struggling with feelings of guilt and selfishness, as they reflect on past actions and try to make amends. The message of the song is one of growth and self-improvement, encouraging listeners to learn from their mistakes and strive to be better people. Overall, “Selfish Song” is a moving and emotionally charged piece that is sure to resonate with listeners.
14. “Selfish” by Stephanie Poetri
“Selfish” is a song by Indonesian-American singer and songwriter Stephanie Poetri. The song was released in 2020 as a single and later included in her debut EP “AM:PM.” Written by Poetri herself and produced by music collective 88rising, the song features a mellow and dreamy production with a soft guitar riff and Poetri’s delicate and soothing vocals. The song’s lyrics revolve around the complexities of a romantic relationship and the conflicting emotions of love and selfishness. Poetri’s songwriting is introspective and heartfelt, and her vocal delivery is intimate and vulnerable. “Selfish” showcases Poetri’s talent as a singer-songwriter and her ability to capture the nuances of human emotions. The song was well-received by critics and helped establish Poetri as one of the rising stars of the pop music scene.
15. “Selfish Man” by Flogging Molly
“Selfish Man” by Flogging Molly is an upbeat, Celtic-punk rock anthem that critiques the negative traits of humanity. The fast-paced, driving beat and the band’s signature mix of traditional Irish instruments with punk rock energy create a lively and energetic atmosphere. The lyrics take aim at greed, materialism, and self-interest, painting a picture of a world consumed by these vices. The narrator urges listeners to reject these toxic behaviors and instead strive for a more compassionate and connected society. The song’s message is delivered with a sense of urgency and passion, making it an inspiring call to action for listeners. With its energetic instrumentation, socially conscious lyrics, and powerful delivery, “Selfish Man” is a standout track in Flogging Molly’s catalog.
16. “Selfish” by Stephanie Quayle
“Selfish” by Stephanie Quayle is a country ballad that reflects on the challenges and complexities of relationships. With its tender acoustic guitar and Stephanie’s warm, emotive vocals, the song creates a melancholic atmosphere that invites the listener to reflect on their own experiences. The lyrics tell the story of a narrator who realizes that their own selfishness and self-absorption is driving a loved one away. The song’s message is one of self-reflection and growth, as the narrator takes responsibility for their actions and strives to be a better person. Stephanie’s delivery is powerful and sincere, making the message of the song feel personal and relatable. Overall, “Selfish” is a beautiful and moving piece of music that is sure to connect with listeners on an emotional level.
17. “Selfish” by Ro James
“Selfish” by Ro James is a sensual R&B ballad that explores themes of love and desire. With its smooth, slow-burning instrumentation and Ro’s soulful, seductive vocals, the song creates a warm and intimate atmosphere. The lyrics paint a picture of a narrator who is willing to do anything to keep their loved one close, even if it means being selfish. The song’s sensual overtones and the narrator’s unwavering determination to hold on to love, despite its challenges, make “Selfish” a passionate and emotionally charged track. Ro James’s vocal performance is effortlessly smooth and engaging, and the instrumentation provides a lush and atmospheric backdrop. Overall, “Selfish” is a standout track in Ro James’s discography and is sure to captivate listeners with its seductive and emotional intensity.
18. “Self – Centered” by Bowling For Soup
“Self-Centered” by Bowling For Soup is an upbeat, pop-punk rock anthem that critiques the negative traits of selfishness and self-absorption. With its fast-paced, driving beat and catchy, sing-along chorus, the song creates an energetic and lighthearted atmosphere. The lyrics take aim at people who prioritize their own needs above those of others, and encourages listeners to reject this type of behavior. The song’s message is delivered with a sense of humor and irony, making it a fun and entertaining take on a serious subject. The band’s signature blend of pop-punk energy and catchy hooks is on full display on “Self-Centered,” making it a standout track in Bowling For Soup’s discography. Overall, “Self-Centered” is a fun and energetic anthem that encourages listeners to think about the impact of their actions on others.
19. “Selfish” by Chase Bryant
“Selfish” by Chase Bryant is a country-infused pop ballad that reflects on the challenges and complexities of love and relationships. With its tender acoustic guitar and Chase’s emotive, soulful vocals, the song creates a melancholic and introspective atmosphere. The lyrics tell the story of a narrator who realizes that their own selfishness and self-absorption is driving a loved one away. The song’s message is one of self-reflection and growth, as the narrator takes responsibility for their actions and strives to be a better person. Chase’s delivery is powerful and sincere, making the message of the song feel personal and relatable. The song’s country influences add a folksy and nostalgic feel to the overall sound, making “Selfish” a standout track in Chase Bryant’s discography. Overall, “Selfish” is a beautiful and moving piece of music that is sure to connect with listeners on an emotional level.
20. “Selfish” by NSYNC
“Selfish” by NSYNC is a pop ballad that explores themes of love and relationships. With its smooth, mid-tempo instrumentation and NSYNC’s tight harmonies, the song creates a warm and intimate atmosphere. The lyrics tell the story of a narrator who is tired of always giving in a relationship and wants their partner to put their needs first for once. The song’s message is one of mutual understanding and equality in love, as the narrator asks for their partner to be more considerate of their feelings. NSYNC’s vocal performance is impeccable, with each member showcasing their individual strengths and contributing to the song’s rich harmonies. The instrumentation provides a lush and atmospheric backdrop that accentuates the emotion of the song. Overall, “Selfish” is a standout track in NSYNC’s discography and is sure to captivate listeners with its beautiful harmonies and heartfelt message.
Jared Parker 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.
