Songs about being used, led on, or taken advantage of can be incredibly relatable, resonating with listeners who have experienced similar situations in their own lives. These tracks often explore themes of heartbreak, disappointment, and betrayal, and they can serve as a powerful catharsis for those who have been hurt by others. Whether it’s a slow, soulful ballad that expresses the pain of being used, a bitter rock song that vents about being led on, or an angry hip-hop track that laments the ways in which someone has taken advantage of another, these songs all have one thing in common: they allow listeners to connect with their emotions and to feel seen and heard. With lyrics that hit close to home and melodies that tug at the heartstrings, these 20 songs about being used, led on, or taken advantage of are sure to leave a lasting impression on all who listen.
1. “Damage” by H.E.R.
“Damage” is a soulful ballad by H.E.R. that deals with the emotional toll of a failed relationship. The singer’s powerful voice conveys a sense of heartbreak and longing as she reflects on the pain caused by a love that was once so strong. The song features a sparse instrumentation of a haunting piano melody and delicate strings, which allows H.E.R.’s voice to take center stage and fully express the raw emotions at the heart of the track. The lyrics, which describe the aftermath of a broken heart, are both poignant and relatable. “Damage” is a powerful testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the ability to heal and move on from even the most devastating of heartaches.
2. “Say My Name” by Destiny’s Child
“Say My Name” is a legendary R&B track by Destiny’s Child that was released in 2000. The song showcases the girl group’s tight harmonies and confident attitude as they demand respect and attention from a cheating lover. The track features a infectious beat and catchy chorus, making it an instant classic and a staple of the R&B genre. The lyrics are empowering and unapologetic, as the women of Destiny’s Child sing about their desire to be recognized and valued in their relationships. The music video, which features the group dancing and singing in colorful outfits, further solidified the song’s iconic status. “Say My Name” remains a fan favorite and is a testament to Destiny’s Child’s enduring popularity and influence.
3. “Four Five Seconds” by Rihanna
“Four Five Seconds” is a soulful and stripped-down ballad by Rihanna, featuring guest vocals from Kanye West and Paul McCartney. The song features a simple acoustic guitar riff and a powerful vocal performance from Rihanna, who sings about the emotional aftermath of a failed relationship. The lyrics are raw and introspective, as Rihanna reflects on the mistakes she has made and the pain she feels. Despite its somber tone, the song also has a hopeful message, as the singer expresses a desire to move on and start over. The collaboration with Kanye West and Paul McCartney brings together three of the biggest names in music, creating a truly memorable track. “Four Five Seconds” is a standout song in Rihanna’s discography and a powerful example of her versatility and artistic range.
4. “How Do You Sleep?” by Sam Smith
“How Do You Sleep?” is a pop/R&B track by Sam Smith that deals with the aftermath of a breakup and the emotions that come with it. The song features a pulsing beat and a haunting melody, which sets the stage for Smith’s emotional vocals. The lyrics are introspective and vulnerable, as Smith sings about the pain of lost love and the struggle to move on. Despite its melancholic tone, the song also has an element of defiance, as the singer refuses to be defeated by heartbreak and instead finds solace in self-reflection and growth. “How Do You Sleep?” is a standout track in Sam Smith’s discography and showcases their talent for crafting powerful, emotionally charged pop music. The song has been widely praised for its relatable themes and powerful vocals, solidifying Smith’s place as one of the most talented vocalists of their generation.
5. “Piece of Me” by Bullet For My Valentine
“Piece of Me” is a heavy metal track by Bullet For My Valentine that deals with themes of betrayal and retribution. The song features a fast-paced, aggressive riff and pounding drums, creating a musical landscape that perfectly captures the anger and frustration at the heart of the track. The lyrics are direct and confrontational, as the singer lashes out at a former love who has wronged them. The vocals are powerful and emotive, conveying a sense of righteous anger and determination. “Piece of Me” is a standout track in Bullet For My Valentine’s discography and is a perfect example of the band’s skill at blending heavy riffs and emotional lyrics to create a truly impactful listening experience. The song is a staple of the heavy metal genre and is a fan favorite, thanks to its driving beat and powerful message.
6. “Beautiful Liar” by Beyonce & Shakira
“Beautiful Liar” is a pop/R&B track by Beyoncé and Shakira, which was released in 2007. The song features a catchy Middle Eastern-influenced beat and a fusion of Beyoncé’s soulful vocals and Shakira’s Spanish-language chorus. The lyrics tell the story of two women who confront a man who has been playing them both. The song is an anthem of female empowerment, as the women come together to put the man in his place and take control of their lives. The music video, which features the two singers dancing and performing together, adds to the song’s cultural impact and has become a memorable moment in both artists’ careers. “Beautiful Liar” was a huge commercial success and has been praised for its infectious beat and empowering message. The collaboration between Beyoncé and Shakira remains one of the most iconic duets in popular music.
7. “Sorry” by Justin Bieber
“Sorry” is a dance-pop track by Justin Bieber, which was released in 2015. The song features a catchy electronic beat and a repetitive chorus that has become one of the most recognizable hooks in recent pop music history. The lyrics are about a man apologizing for his mistakes in a relationship and begging for forgiveness. Bieber’s vocals are emotional and vulnerable, capturing the sentiment of regret and remorse that pervades the track. The music video, which features a dance party, adds to the song’s upbeat and energetic vibe. “Sorry” was a massive commercial success, reaching the top of charts all over the world and helping to cement Bieber’s status as one of the biggest pop stars of his generation. The song remains a fan favorite and is a standout track in Bieber’s discography.
8. “Nights Like This” by Kehlani
“Nights Like This” is a soulful R&B track by Kehlani, which was released in 2019. The song features a smooth and mellow beat, with Kehlani’s powerful vocals taking center stage. The lyrics are introspective and contemplative, as the singer reflects on a past relationship and the memories that still haunt her. Despite its melancholic tone, the song also has an element of hope and resilience, as Kehlani looks to the future and the promise of new beginnings. The music video, which features Kehlani dancing and singing in a dream-like setting, adds to the song’s emotional impact and helps to convey the singer’s powerful message of self-discovery and renewal. “Nights Like This” is a standout track in Kehlani’s discography and is a testament to her talent for crafting powerful, soulful R&B music that speaks to the heart.
9. “Never Enough” by Five Finger Death Punch
“Never Enough” is a hard-hitting heavy metal track by Five Finger Death Punch, which was released in 2018. The song features a powerful riff and fast-paced drums, creating an intense and aggressive musical landscape. The lyrics are about a person who is never satisfied with their life and constantly wants more, despite their successes and achievements. The vocals are powerful and abrasive, perfectly capturing the anger and frustration at the heart of the track. The song is a standout track in Five Finger Death Punch’s discography and is a perfect example of the band’s skill at blending heavy riffs and thought-provoking lyrics to create a truly impactful listening experience. “Never Enough” is a fan favorite and is a staple of the heavy metal genre, thanks to its driving beat and powerful message.
10. “Chestnut Street” by John Mellencamp
“Chestnut Street” is a roots rock track by John Mellencamp, which was released in 2006. The song features a driving beat and acoustic guitar, creating a classic, Americana-inspired sound. The lyrics are nostalgic and reflective, as Mellencamp sings about growing up on Chestnut Street and the memories he has of his youth. The song is infused with a sense of longing and regret, as Mellencamp looks back on his past with a mixture of fondness and sadness. Despite its melancholic tone, the song is also uplifting and celebratory, as Mellencamp celebrates the power of memories and the resilience of the human spirit. “Chestnut Street” is a standout track in Mellencamp’s discography and is a perfect example of his skill at creating memorable, story-driven music that speaks to the heart. The song is a fan favorite and is a staple of Mellencamp’s live shows.
11. “Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood
“Before He Cheats” is a country-pop track by Carrie Underwood, which was released in 2006. The song features a catchy guitar riff and upbeat rhythm, creating a lively and energetic musical landscape. The lyrics are a vengeful and empowering anthem of female empowerment, as Underwood sings about a woman who takes matters into her own hands after discovering that her man has been unfaithful. The vocals are strong and confident, perfectly capturing the determination and defiance that pervades the track. The music video, which features Underwood destroying her cheating boyfriend’s car, adds to the song’s impact and has become an iconic moment in her career. “Before He Cheats” was a massive commercial success and helped to establish Underwood as one of the biggest stars in country music. The song remains a fan favorite and is a standout track in Underwood’s discography.
12. “Mean It” by Lauv & LANY
“Mean It” is a pop track by Lauv and LANY, which was released in 2020. The song features a smooth, upbeat rhythm and catchy melody, creating a danceable and uplifting musical landscape. The lyrics are about a person who wants to be sure that their partner is serious about their relationship and is willing to commit. The vocals are harmonious and emotional, perfectly capturing the vulnerability and longing at the heart of the track. The music video, which features the two artists performing in a dream-like setting, adds to the song’s visual impact and helps to convey the powerful emotions of the lyrics. “Mean It” was well-received by fans and critics and helped to establish Lauv and LANY as two of the most exciting artists in the pop music scene. The song is a standout track in their discographies and is a testament to their skill at crafting memorable, uplifting pop music that speaks to the heart.
13. “Really Don’t Care” by Demi Lovato
“Really Don’t Care” is a pop and dance track by Demi Lovato, which was released in 2014. The song features an infectious beat and uplifting melody, creating a lively and energetic musical landscape. The lyrics are a bold and empowering anthem of independence and self-confidence, as Lovato sings about a person who is over a toxic relationship and is ready to move on. The vocals are strong and confident, perfectly capturing the attitude and defiance that pervades the track. The music video, which features Lovato performing in a crowded street parade, adds to the song’s impact and has become an iconic moment in her career. “Really Don’t Care” was a commercial success and helped to establish Lovato as one of the biggest stars in pop music. The song remains a fan favorite and is a standout track in Lovato’s discography, thanks to its memorable chorus and empowering message.
14. “Hustle” by Pink
“Hustle” is a pop-rock track by Pink, which was released in 2019. The song features a driving beat and guitar-driven melody, creating a lively and energetic musical landscape. The lyrics are about working hard and persevering, even in the face of challenges and setbacks. The vocals are powerful and confident, perfectly capturing the determination and drive that pervades the track. The music video, which features Pink performing in a boxing ring, adds to the song’s impact and helps to convey the powerful message of the lyrics. “Hustle” was well-received by fans and critics and helped to cement Pink’s status as one of the most exciting and influential artists in pop music. The song is a standout track in Pink’s discography and is a testament to her skill at crafting memorable, inspiring pop-rock anthems that empower listeners.
15. “New Rules” by Dua Lipa
“New Rules” is a pop track by Dua Lipa, which was released in 2017. The song features a catchy beat and infectious melody, creating a danceable and uplifting musical landscape. The lyrics are about setting boundaries and taking control of one’s love life, as Lipa sings about the “rules” she has established to avoid getting hurt by a past relationship. The vocals are strong and confident, perfectly capturing the empowerment and independence that pervades the track. The music video, which features Lipa and her friends dancing in a hotel room, adds to the song’s visual impact and has become an iconic moment in her career. “New Rules” was a massive commercial success and helped to establish Lipa as one of the biggest stars in pop music. The song remains a fan favorite and is a standout track in Lipa’s discography, thanks to its memorable chorus and empowering message.
16. “Jar of Hearts” by Christina Perri
“Jar of Hearts” is a ballad by Christina Perri, which was released in 2010. The song features a piano-driven melody and heartfelt lyrics, creating an emotional and introspective musical landscape. The lyrics are about heartbreak and the pain of lost love, as Perri sings about a past relationship that has left her with a “jar of hearts” in her memory. The vocals are raw and emotional, perfectly capturing the sadness and longing that pervades the track. The song’s popularity was boosted by its use on the television show “So You Think You Can Dance”, which helped to introduce Perri’s music to a wider audience. “Jar of Hearts” was a commercial success and helped to establish Perri as a talented singer-songwriter. The song remains a fan favorite and is a standout track in Perri’s discography, thanks to its powerful melody and touching lyrics.
17. “I Have Questions” by Camila Cabello
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bSdPkBKHqa
“I Have Questions” is a ballad by Camila Cabello, which was released in 2017. The song features a minimalist piano melody and confessional lyrics, creating an introspective and emotional musical landscape. The lyrics are about heartbreak and the confusion that follows the end of a relationship, as Cabello sings about the questions she has and the pain she feels. The vocals are raw and vulnerable, perfectly capturing the emotional turmoil that pervades the track. The song was well-received by fans and critics and helped to showcase Cabello’s skills as a songwriter and vocalist. “I Have Questions” is a standout track in Cabello’s discography and remains a fan favorite, thanks to its honest and relatable lyrics, and powerful performance.
18. “Breaking Point” by Keri Hilson
“Breaking Point” is a ballad by Keri Hilson, which was released in 2009. The song features a smooth R&B beat and introspective lyrics, creating a mellow and introspective musical landscape. The lyrics are about the breaking point in a relationship, as Hilson sings about the pain and frustration she feels when things reach a boiling point. The vocals are strong and soulful, perfectly capturing the emotional intensity of the track. “Breaking Point” was well-received by fans and critics and helped to establish Hilson as a talented songwriter and vocalist. The song remains a fan favorite and is a standout track in Hilson’s discography, thanks to its honest lyrics and powerful performance. The song’s message about the importance of self-care and putting oneself first resonates with listeners and continues to inspire new fans.
19. “Cry Me a River” by Justin Timberlake
“Cry Me a River” is a pop-R&B ballad by Justin Timberlake, which was released in 2002. The song features a smooth beat, atmospheric strings, and introspective lyrics, creating a melancholic and introspective musical landscape. The lyrics are about heartbreak and the pain of lost love, as Timberlake sings about a past relationship that has left him with a broken heart. The vocals are strong and emotional, perfectly capturing the sadness and longing that pervades the track. “Cry Me a River” was a commercial success and helped to establish Timberlake as a talented solo artist, following his departure from NSYNC. The song remains a fan favorite and is a standout track in Timberlake’s discography, thanks to its powerful melody and touching lyrics. The song’s message of moving on from heartbreak and finding the strength to heal has resonated with listeners for over a decade and continues to inspire new fans.
20. “Your Power” by Billie Eilish
“Your Power” is a haunting and introspective ballad by Billie Eilish, which was released in 2021. The song features a sparse and atmospheric beat, subtle piano melody, and introspective lyrics, creating an ethereal and introspective musical landscape. The lyrics are about the power dynamic in a relationship, as Eilish sings about the ways in which people can use their power to manipulate and harm others. The vocals are soft and intimate, perfectly capturing the vulnerability and honesty of the track. “Your Power” was well-received by fans and critics and helped to cement Eilish’s reputation as a talented and socially conscious songwriter. The song’s message about the importance of respecting others and recognizing the power dynamics in relationships is both important and timeless. The song remains a fan favorite and is a standout track in Eilish’s discography, thanks to its powerful lyrics and haunting performance.
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.
