Evil is a complex and often dark concept that has been a source of inspiration for musicians for decades. The songs about evil delve into the depths of human nature and the power dynamics between good and evil. From the perspective of the evil-doer, the victim, or an observer, these songs provide a unique perspective on the nature of evil and its impact on our lives.
The “Top 20 Songs About Evil” list includes some of the most popular and well-known songs in different genres, including “Sympathy for the Devil” by The Rolling Stones, “Black Hole Sun” by Soundgarden, “Highway to Hell” by AC/DC, “Bad Guy” by Billie Eilish, “Evil” by Howlin’ Wolf, and many more. These songs explore the various forms that evil can take, from the evil actions of individuals to larger, systemic evil.
Whether you’re looking to reflect on the darker aspects of human nature or simply enjoy some powerful music, these 20 songs about evil are sure to leave an impact. From the sinister to the sublime, these songs paint a vivid picture of the many faces of evil and its lasting impact on our world. Whether you’re a fan of rock, metal, hip-hop, or any other genre, these songs are sure to satisfy your musical tastes while leaving you with much to think about.
1. “Evil Woman” by Black Sabbath
“Evil Woman” is a song by the legendary heavy metal band, Black Sabbath. The track was released in 1970 and is one of the band’s most popular songs. With its ominous lyrics and haunting melody, “Evil Woman” perfectly captures the spirit of Black Sabbath’s dark and brooding musical style. The song tells the story of a man who is caught in the clutches of a seductive and dangerous woman, and is unable to escape her grasp. The music features heavy guitar riffs and a driving beat, making it a standout track in the band’s extensive discography. “Evil Woman” remains one of Black Sabbath’s most beloved songs and continues to be a fan favorite to this day.
2. “Evil and a Heathen” by Franz Ferdinand
“Evil and a Heathen” is a song by Scottish indie rock band Franz Ferdinand. The track was released as part of their third studio album, “Tonight: Franz Ferdinand,” in 2009. The song features upbeat, dance-inspired rhythms and a catchy, singalong chorus, making it a standout track on the album. Despite its upbeat tone, the lyrics of “Evil and a Heathen” touch on darker themes, exploring the idea of evil and the allure of temptation. The song’s catchy melody and upbeat energy make it a popular choice for audiences, and it remains a staple of the band’s live shows to this day. With its infectious energy and thought-provoking lyrics, “Evil and a Heathen” is a standout track in Franz Ferdinand’s discography.
3. “Evil Ways” by Santana
“Evil Ways” is a song by the iconic Latin rock band, Santana. The track was released in 1969 as part of their self-titled debut album and quickly became one of their most popular songs. With its upbeat rhythm and catchy melody, “Evil Ways” showcases the band’s signature blend of Latin, rock, and jazz influences. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is trying to overcome the influence of evil in his life, and the song’s upbeat energy and hopeful message make it a classic example of Santana’s positive, life-affirming musical style. Over the years, “Evil Ways” has become a staple of the classic rock canon and remains one of Santana’s most enduring hits to this day. With its infectious energy and uplifting message, it is easy to see why this song continues to be a favorite among audiences of all ages.
4. “Necessary Evil” by Unknown Mortal Orchestra
“Necessary Evil” is a song by the American psychedelic rock band Unknown Mortal Orchestra. The track was released as part of their third studio album, “Multi-Love,” in 2015. The song features a dreamy, atmospheric soundscape, complete with trippy synths and groovy bass lines. The lyrics explore the idea of evil as a necessary force in the world, reflecting on the darker aspects of human nature and the challenges we face in overcoming them. With its haunting melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, “Necessary Evil” is a standout track on the album and represents the band’s unique blend of psychedelic rock, soul, and funk influences. The song has become a fan favorite and continues to be a staple of Unknown Mortal Orchestra’s live shows to this day.
5. “He’s Evil” by The Kinks
“He’s Evil” is a song by the legendary British rock band, The Kinks. The track was released as part of their album “State of Confusion” in 1983. With its upbeat rhythm and catchy chorus, “He’s Evil” perfectly captures the band’s signature blend of classic rock and power pop influences. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who is being warned about the evil nature of a mysterious figure, and the dangers he poses to those around him. Despite its lighthearted tone, the song’s themes of evil and deception give it a darker edge. “He’s Evil” has become a classic of The Kinks’ discography and remains a fan favorite to this day. With its infectious energy and memorable melody, it is easy to see why this song continues to be a staple of classic rock radio to this day.
6. “Evil Fantasy” by Freddie Dredd
“Evil Fantasy” is a song by the American rapper Freddie Dredd. The track was released in 2019 as part of his self-titled album, and quickly gained popularity for its hard-hitting beats and intense energy. With its dark, brooding atmosphere and ominous lyrics, “Evil Fantasy” perfectly captures Freddie Dredd’s signature blend of trap and punk influences. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who is being consumed by his own dark thoughts and desires, and explores the idea of evil as an internal force that can take over one’s life. “Evil Fantasy” has become a fan favorite and is often regarded as one of Freddie Dredd’s standout tracks. With its intense energy and powerful message, it is easy to see why this song continues to be a popular choice among rap and hip-hop fans.
7. “Evil Woman” by Electric Light Orchestra
“Evil Woman” is a song by the British rock band Electric Light Orchestra (ELO). The track was released in 1975 as part of their album “Face the Music.” With its upbeat rhythm and catchy chorus, “Evil Woman” is a classic example of ELO’s signature blend of rock and classical music influences. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who is trying to resist the temptation of a dangerous and alluring woman, and the dangers she poses to his life. Despite its lighthearted tone, the song’s themes of temptation and danger give it a darker edge. “Evil Woman” has become one of ELO’s most enduring hits, and remains a fan favorite to this day. With its infectious energy and memorable melody, it is easy to see why this song continues to be a staple of classic rock radio.
8. “Evil Has No Boundaries” by Slayer
“Evil Has No Boundaries” is a song by the American thrash metal band Slayer. The track was released in 1983 as part of their debut album “Show No Mercy.” With its fast-paced rhythms and aggressive guitar riffs, “Evil Has No Boundaries” perfectly captures Slayer’s signature sound and their uncompromising approach to heavy metal. The song’s lyrics explore the idea of evil as a force that knows no limits, and the dangers it poses to those who dare to confront it. Despite its dark and violent themes, “Evil Has No Boundaries” is a standout track in Slayer’s discography and remains a fan favorite to this day. With its intense energy and powerful message, it is easy to see why this song is considered a classic of the thrash metal genre.
9. “Evil On My Mind” by Johnny Winter
“Evil on My Mind” is a song by the legendary American blues guitarist, Johnny Winter. The track was released in 1969 and quickly became a classic of Winter’s discography. With its raw, driving rhythm and powerful guitar riffs, “Evil on My Mind” perfectly captures Winter’s signature blues sound and his unique take on the genre. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who is being consumed by his own dark thoughts and desires, and the evil that seems to follow him wherever he goes. Despite its dark themes, “Evil on My Mind” is a standout track in Johnny Winter’s discography and remains a fan favorite to this day. With its intense energy and powerful delivery, it is easy to see why this song is considered a classic of the blues genre.
10. “Evil Deeds” by Eminem
“Evil Deeds” is a song by the iconic American rapper, Eminem. The track was released in 2004 as part of his fifth studio album, “Encore.” With its fast-paced flow and dark, brooding atmosphere, “Evil Deeds” perfectly captures Eminem’s signature style and his unapologetic approach to rap music. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who is being consumed by his own inner demons and the evil that seems to follow him wherever he goes. Despite its dark themes, “Evil Deeds” is a standout track in Eminem’s discography and remains a fan favorite to this day. With its powerful delivery and intense energy, it is easy to see why this song continues to be a popular choice among hip-hop fans.
11. “Evil Walks” by AC/DC
“Evil Walks” is a song by the legendary Australian rock band, AC/DC. The track was released in 1981 as part of their album “For Those About to Rock We Salute You.” With its powerful guitar riffs and driving rhythm, “Evil Walks” perfectly captures AC/DC’s signature sound and their electrifying approach to rock and roll. The song’s lyrics explore the idea of evil as a pervasive force in the world, and the danger it poses to those who dare to confront it. Despite its dark themes, “Evil Walks” is a standout track in AC/DC’s discography and remains a fan favorite to this day. With its intense energy and powerful delivery, it is easy to see why this song continues to be a popular choice among rock fans.
12. “The Whistler” by The White Buffalo
“The Whistler” is a song by the American singer-songwriter, The White Buffalo. The track was released in 2011 and quickly became a fan favorite. With its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, “The Whistler” perfectly captures The White Buffalo’s signature sound and his unique take on Americana music. The song tells the story of a mysterious whistler who travels through the night, warning people of impending danger and death. Despite its dark themes, “The Whistler” is a standout track in The White Buffalo’s discography and remains a fan favorite to this day. With its atmospheric production and powerful delivery, it is easy to see why this song continues to be a popular choice among fans of Americana music.
13. “Lady Evil” by Black Sabbath
“Lady Evil” is a song by the legendary English heavy metal band, Black Sabbath. The track was released in 1980 as part of their album “Heaven and Hell.” With its heavy guitar riffs and driving rhythm, “Lady Evil” perfectly captures Black Sabbath’s signature sound and their iconic approach to heavy metal music. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a seductive woman who leads men astray with her evil ways. Despite its dark themes, “Lady Evil” is a standout track in Black Sabbath’s discography and remains a fan favorite to this day. With its powerful delivery and intense energy, it is easy to see why this song continues to be a popular choice among heavy metal fans.
14. “Delia’s Gone” by Johnny Cash
“Delia’s Gone” is a song by the legendary American country singer, Johnny Cash. The track was released in 1994 and is a reinterpretation of a traditional murder ballad. With its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, “Delia’s Gone” perfectly captures Johnny Cash’s signature sound and his unique take on Americana music. The song tells the story of a man who murders his lover and then reflects on the consequences of his actions. Despite its dark themes, “Delia’s Gone” is a standout track in Johnny Cash’s discography and remains a fan favorite to this day. With its atmospheric production and powerful delivery, it is easy to see why this song continues to be a popular choice among fans of Americana music.
15. “A Touch of Evil” by Judas Priest
“A Touch of Evil” is a song by the English heavy metal band, Judas Priest. The track was released in 1990 as part of their album “Painkiller.” With its driving rhythm, powerful guitar riffs, and soaring vocals, “A Touch of Evil” perfectly captures Judas Priest’s signature sound and their iconic approach to heavy metal music. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a supernatural entity that preys upon the vulnerable and the weak. Despite its dark themes, “A Touch of Evil” is a standout track in Judas Priest’s discography and remains a fan favorite to this day. With its intense energy and unforgettable delivery, it is easy to see why this song continues to be a popular choice among heavy metal fans.
16. “The Big Sleep” by Murder by Death
“The Big Sleep” is a song by the American indie rock band, Murder by Death. The track was released as part of their 2006 album “In Bocca al Lupo.” With its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, “The Big Sleep” perfectly captures Murder by Death’s signature sound and their unique approach to indie rock music. The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who is haunted by death and his own mortality. Despite its dark themes, “The Big Sleep” is a standout track in Murder by Death’s discography and remains a fan favorite to this day. With its atmospheric production and powerful delivery, it is easy to see why this song continues to be a popular choice among fans of alternative and indie rock music.
17. “Being Evil Has a Price” by Heavy Young Heathens
“Being Evil Has a Price” is a song by the American indie rock band, Heavy Young Heathens. The track was released on their 2010 album “Get Heathenized.” The song’s driving beat, powerful guitar riffs, and soaring vocals make it a standout track on the album. The lyrics of “Being Evil Has a Price” explore the theme of consequence and the price that people pay for their actions. The song’s powerful message is delivered with a sense of urgency and intensity, making it a standout track in the Heavy Young Heathens’ discography. With its upbeat tempo and infectious melody, “Being Evil Has a Price” is a perfect example of the band’s ability to craft powerful, memorable songs that speak to the human experience.
18. “As Heaven is Wide” by Garbage
“As Heaven is Wide” is a song by American alternative rock band Garbage, released on their eponymous debut album in 1995. The song features powerful vocals from lead singer Shirley Manson, who delivers lyrics about longing for someone and the difficulties of love. The song’s haunting melody and haunting strings create an atmospheric soundscape that perfectly complements the song’s powerful lyrics. The track was well-received upon its release and remains a fan-favorite to this day, showcasing Garbage’s ability to craft emotionally resonant songs that connect with audiences. With its introspective lyrics and powerful delivery, “As Heaven is Wide” is a standout track in Garbage’s discography, highlighting the band’s ability to create deeply personal songs that resonate with listeners.
19. “Evil Angel” by Breaking Benjamin
“Evil Angel” is a song by American rock band Breaking Benjamin, appearing on their 2009 album “Dear Agony.” The track features driving guitar riffs and explosive drums, providing a powerful soundtrack to the lyrics, which deal with themes of anger and frustration. Lead singer Benjamin Burnley’s emotive vocals are prominent in the mix, conveying the song’s intense subject matter with conviction and intensity. The song’s hard-hitting chorus, punctuated by driving drums, further reinforces the song’s intense atmosphere. “Evil Angel” is an excellent example of Breaking Benjamin’s signature sound, blending heavy rock elements with introspective, emotionally charged lyrics. The song has become a fan-favorite and is a staple of the band’s live shows, showcasing their ability to craft powerful, thought-provoking tracks that connect with audiences.
20. “I Hope Your Husband Dies” by Amigo The Devil
“I Hope Your Husband Dies” by Amigo The Devil is a darkly humorous folk-rock track that features the artist’s signature macabre storytelling style. The song paints a picture of a man who is in love with a married woman and, despite knowing it’s wrong, he hopes that her husband dies so he can have her all to himself. The lyrics are filled with irony, sarcasm and cynicism, and they are delivered in Amigo’s unique baritone voice. The instrumentation is comprised of acoustic guitar, mandolin, banjo, and piano, and it creates an eerie and haunting atmosphere that complements the lyrics. The song is a standout track from Amigo’s discography and showcases his ability to tackle taboo subjects in an entertaining and thought-provoking manner.
Jason Smith 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.
