Narcissistic personality disorder is a mental health condition characterized by an inflated sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration and attention, and a lack of empathy for others. Narcissistic individuals can be challenging to deal with and often have a profound impact on those around them. In response, many artists have explored the topic of narcissism in their music, creating powerful and emotional songs that capture the frustration, anger, and sadness that can result from a relationship with a self-centered person.
This collection of 13 songs about narcissists and self-centered people features a range of musical styles, from classic rock to hip-hop to indie pop. Each song offers a unique perspective on the topic, with some exploring the manipulative tactics of narcissists, while others focus on the aftermath of a relationship with a self-centered person. Some of the tracks offer a hopeful message of empowerment, while others are more introspective and melancholic. Regardless of the approach, each song offers a glimpse into the complex emotions and experiences of those affected by narcissistic individuals, making for a compelling and powerful listening experience.
1.You’re So Vain – Carly Simon
“You’re So Vain” is a classic pop rock song by American singer-songwriter Carly Simon, released in 1972. The song is known for its catchy melody, memorable lyrics, and iconic chorus, which features a recurring refrain of “You’re so vain, you probably think this song is about you.”
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a narcissistic man who is obsessed with his own appearance and reputation, and who thinks that the world revolves around him. Simon’s vocal performance is both playful and biting, as she takes the listener through a series of witty and sarcastic observations about the man’s behavior and personality.
Despite being over 40 years old, “You’re So Vain” remains a beloved and enduring classic of the pop rock genre, and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Its timeless appeal lies in its universal message about the dangers of self-absorption and the importance of humility and empathy.
2.Jar of Hearts – Christina Perri
“Jar of Hearts” is a powerful pop ballad by American singer-songwriter Christina Perri, released in 2010. The song’s haunting piano melody, emotional lyrics, and Perri’s soulful vocal performance combine to create a deeply moving and memorable listening experience.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a woman who has been hurt and betrayed in a relationship, and who is warning her ex-lover that he cannot simply return to her life and pick up where he left off. The chorus features the striking image of a “jar of hearts,” representing the collection of broken relationships and shattered dreams that the woman has accumulated over time.
“Jar of Hearts” quickly became a commercial and critical success upon its release, and has since become a beloved classic of the pop ballad genre. Its enduring appeal lies in its raw emotional honesty, relatable lyrics, and Perri’s powerful vocal performance.
3.Back to Black – Amy Winehouse
“Back to Black” is a soulful and emotive song by the late British singer-songwriter Amy Winehouse, released in 2006. The song features Winehouse’s signature jazz-influenced sound, with a driving rhythm section, mournful strings, and her distinctive vocals.
The song’s lyrics explore themes of heartbreak, loss, and addiction, with Winehouse singing about her struggles with a toxic relationship and her attempts to drown her pain in alcohol. The song’s powerful chorus features the memorable refrain, “We only said goodbye with words, I died a hundred times,” capturing the intense pain and emotional turmoil of a failed relationship.
“Back to Black” quickly became a classic of the soul and R&B genres, earning widespread critical acclaim and cementing Winehouse’s status as one of the most talented and influential singers of her generation. Its enduring popularity lies in its raw emotional honesty, haunting melody, and Winehouse’s unforgettable vocal performance.
4.Don’t Come Around Here No More – Tom Petty
“Don’t Come Around Here No More” is a hit rock song by American singer-songwriter Tom Petty, released in 1985. The song features a distinctive and hypnotic melody, with a driving guitar riff, synthesizer flourishes, and Petty’s trademark vocals.
The song’s lyrics tell the story of a man who is warning a former lover to stay away, after being hurt and betrayed in the past. The chorus features the memorable refrain, “Don’t come around here no more,” which is delivered with a sense of both defiance and regret.
“Don’t Come Around Here No More” quickly became a commercial and critical success upon its release, and has since become a beloved classic of the rock genre. Its enduring appeal lies in its catchy melody, relatable lyrics, and Petty’s dynamic vocal performance.
5.Blank Space – Taylor Swift
“Blank Space” is a catchy and satirical pop song by American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, released in 2014. The song features a playful and upbeat melody, with Swift’s energetic vocals and a driving electronic beat.
The song’s lyrics playfully subvert the media’s portrayal of Swift as a serial dater, with Swift singing about how she likes to “play ’em like a game” and how she’s “got a long list of ex-lovers.” The chorus features the memorable refrain, “So it’s gonna be forever, or it’s gonna go down in flames.”
“Blank Space” quickly became a commercial and critical success upon its release, and has since become a beloved classic of the pop genre. Its enduring appeal lies in its clever lyrics, infectious melody, and Swift’s signature sense of humor and self-awareness.
6.Under My Thumb – The Rolling Stones
“Under My Thumb” is a classic rock song by the legendary band, The Rolling Stones. Released in 1966, the song features Mick Jagger’s iconic vocals, Keith Richards’ electrifying guitar riffs, and a catchy, memorable melody. Lyrically, the song tells the story of a controlling, dominant man who has his female partner under his thumb, exerting complete power and control over her. The song’s controversial lyrics and themes have been the subject of much debate and analysis over the years, but its catchy tune and powerful instrumentation have made it a favorite among fans of classic rock and roll.
7.Sick Boy – The Chainsmokers
“Sick Boy” is a hit single by the American electronic music duo, The Chainsmokers. Released in 2018, the song features a brooding, atmospheric production that perfectly captures the song’s introspective lyrics. The track’s opening lines, “I’m from the east side of America, where we choose pride over character”, sets the tone for the song’s exploration of identity, self-doubt, and societal pressure. Through its soaring melodies and anthemic chorus, “Sick Boy” touches on themes that are both personal and universal, making it a relatable and powerful song that resonates with listeners across the world.
8.You Don’t Own Me – Lesley Gore
“You Don’t Own Me” is a classic feminist anthem by Lesley Gore. Released in 1963, the song features Gore’s powerful vocals and a driving rhythm that perfectly captures the song’s defiant message. The lyrics challenge traditional gender roles and the idea that women should be subservient to men, with Gore singing, “Don’t tell me what to do, and don’t tell me what to say”. The song was groundbreaking for its time, empowering women and challenging societal norms. Today, it continues to be a powerful symbol of female empowerment, inspiring generations of women to assert their independence and stand up for their rights.
9.Backstabbers – The O’Jays
“Back Stabbers” is a classic soul song by the American group The O’Jays. Released in 1972, the song features an upbeat, funky rhythm and smooth vocal harmonies that perfectly complement the song’s bittersweet lyrics. The track tells the story of people who pretend to be friends, but in reality, they are only looking out for themselves and are willing to betray others to get what they want. The song’s catchy melody and memorable chorus, “They smile in your face, all the time they want to take your place, the back stabbers”, have made it a beloved classic that continues to be popular with audiences today.
10.Liar – Rollins Band
“Liar” is an intense and explosive rock song by the Rollins Band, led by frontman Henry Rollins. Released in 1994, the song features a driving rhythm and Rollins’ raw, aggressive vocals that perfectly capture the song’s themes of deception and betrayal. The lyrics challenge those who lie and manipulate, with Rollins growling, “You think you’re gonna live your life alone, in darkness, and seclusion…you’re a liar”. The song’s powerful instrumentation and blistering guitar riffs make it a classic of the alternative rock genre, while its uncompromising message continues to resonate with fans who value honesty and integrity.
11.Brand New Me – Alicia Keys
“Brand New Me” is a soulful and introspective song by the American singer-songwriter Alicia Keys. Released in 2012, the song features Keys’ powerful vocals and a stripped-back production that puts the focus squarely on her heartfelt lyrics. The track speaks to the transformative power of personal growth and self-love, with Keys singing, “It’s been a while, I’m not who I was before, you look surprised, your words don’t burn me anymore”. The song’s empowering message, inspiring melody, and beautiful arrangement have made it a favorite among Keys’ fans, as well as a powerful anthem of self-acceptance and personal renewal.
12.I Love Kanye – Ye
“I Love Kanye” is a unique and playful rap song by the American artist Kanye West. Released in 2016, the song features a minimalist production and West’s signature flow, as he raps about his own public image and the way that people perceive him. The song is both a self-deprecating critique of West’s own ego and a tongue-in-cheek commentary on celebrity culture. With lines like “I hate the new Kanye, the bad mood Kanye, the always rude Kanye”, the track shows West’s self-awareness and sense of humor, making it a standout on his album “The Life of Pablo”.
13.Linger – The Cranberries
“Linger” is a hauntingly beautiful ballad by the Irish rock band, The Cranberries. Released in 1993, the song features Dolores O’Riordan’s angelic vocals and the band’s signature blend of alternative rock and Celtic folk influences. The track tells the story of a lingering love that never quite fades away, with O’Riordan’s soaring voice expressing a sense of longing and vulnerability that has resonated with audiences for decades. The song’s melancholic melody and emotional lyrics make it a classic of the 90s alternative rock era, and it continues to be a favorite among fans of the band and the genre.
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.
