Contents
- 1. In My Blood – Shawn Mendes
- 2. The Fear – The Shins
- 3. The World at Large – Modest Mouse
- 4. Crucify – Tori Amos
- 5. Paperbag Writer – Radiohead
- 6. A Million Little Pieces – Placebo
- 7. The Young Thousands – The Mountain Goats
- 8. Help – The Beatles
- 9. Stressed Out – A Tribe Called Quest ft. Faith Evans
- 10. Breathin’ – Ariana Grande
- 11. BasketCase – Green Day
- 12. In the Garage – Weezer
- 13. Come As You Are – Nirvana
- 14. Unwell – Matchbox 20
- 15. Rose-Colored Boy – Paramore
- 16. Waving Through a Window – Dear Evan Hansen
- 17. Crawling – Linkin Park
- 18. Concertina – Tori Amos
- 19. Disturbia – Rihanna
- 20. Anxiety – Bmike
Anxiety is a feeling that can be overwhelming, consuming, and all-consuming. It’s a sensation that can be difficult to shake off and can impact every aspect of our lives. Anxiety is a topic that many musicians have explored through their lyrics and music, providing a voice for those who suffer from this condition.
In this collection of 20 songs about anxiety and being anxious, we explore some of the most powerful and poignant tracks that capture the experience of living with anxiety and the impact it has on our mental and emotional wellbeing.
These songs come from a variety of genres, from pop and rock to rap and indie. They offer a diverse range of perspectives on the topic of anxiety, from personal experiences to broader societal issues. Some tracks, like Shawn Mendes’ “In My Blood” and Ariana Grande’s “Breathin’,” describe the physical and emotional symptoms of anxiety, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, and feeling overwhelmed. Other songs, like Tori Amos’ “Crucify” and Bmike’s “Anxiety,” offer a more introspective look at the condition, exploring the deeper roots of anxiety and how it affects our sense of self and relationships with others.
Overall, these 20 songs provide a powerful and poignant look at the experience of living with anxiety, reminding us that we are not alone in our struggles and offering hope and inspiration for those who may be struggling with this condition.
1. In My Blood – Shawn Mendes
“In My Blood” by Shawn Mendes: This powerful pop ballad captures the struggles of mental health and the desire to persevere through difficult times. The song begins with a slow, piano-driven melody that builds into a stirring chorus where Mendes belts out the lyrics with raw emotion. The lyrics are introspective and vulnerable, revealing the singer’s internal battles with anxiety and self-doubt. Overall, “In My Blood” is an anthem for anyone who has struggled with mental health issues and a reminder that there is always hope for healing and recovery.
2. The Fear – The Shins
“The Fear” by The Shins: This indie rock track is characterized by its catchy guitar riffs and upbeat tempo, creating a light and energetic sound. The lyrics delve into the fear of mortality and the unknown, as the singer contemplates what happens after death and wonders if he has lived his life to the fullest. Despite its heavy subject matter, the song maintains a sense of optimism and hope, encouraging listeners to embrace life and make the most of every moment. Overall, “The Fear” is a thoughtful and uplifting reflection on the human experience.
3. The World at Large – Modest Mouse
“The World at Large” by Modest Mouse: This indie rock classic is characterized by its distinctive guitar riffs and haunting vocals, creating a moody and introspective sound. The lyrics describe the feelings of wanderlust and disillusionment with the world, as the singer yearns for escape and a sense of purpose. Despite its melancholy tone, the song maintains a sense of hopefulness and resilience, encouraging listeners to find their own path in life. Overall, “The World at Large” is a powerful and introspective reflection on the human experience.
4. Crucify – Tori Amos
“Crucify” by Tori Amos: This haunting piano ballad showcases Amos’s powerful vocals and emotional depth, creating a haunting and poignant sound. The lyrics describe the pain and isolation of feeling trapped and powerless, as the singer struggles to find a sense of identity and meaning in her life. The song is a powerful meditation on the themes of sacrifice and redemption, exploring the ways in which we are all vulnerable and in need of healing. Overall, “Crucify” is a moving and deeply introspective reflection on the human experience.
5. Paperbag Writer – Radiohead
“Paperbag Writer” by Radiohead: This experimental rock track is characterized by its eclectic and abstract sound, featuring distorted vocals, glitchy beats, and unconventional instrumentation. The lyrics are equally enigmatic, with cryptic phrases that suggest a sense of detachment and disorientation. The song’s surreal and dreamlike quality creates a sense of unease, inviting listeners to explore the complexities of the human psyche. Overall, “Paperbag Writer” is a bold and experimental reflection on the nature of creativity and the human mind.
6. A Million Little Pieces – Placebo
“A Million Little Pieces” by Placebo: This alternative rock anthem is characterized by its driving guitar riffs and powerful vocals, creating a sense of urgency and intensity. The lyrics are raw and confessional, describing the pain and chaos of addiction and the struggle to find a sense of purpose and meaning in life. The song is a powerful meditation on the themes of self-destruction and redemption, exploring the ways in which we can find hope and healing even in the darkest of times. Overall, “A Million Little Pieces” is a moving and deeply personal reflection on the human experience.
7. The Young Thousands – The Mountain Goats
“The Young Thousands” by The Mountain Goats: This indie folk track is characterized by its introspective and poetic lyrics, set against a simple acoustic guitar melody. The song’s narrative explores themes of longing, loss, and regret, as the singer reflects on a past relationship and the ways in which it shaped his identity. The song’s understated yet deeply emotional sound creates a sense of intimacy, inviting listeners to connect with the singer’s sense of vulnerability and nostalgia. Overall, “The Young Thousands” is a powerful and evocative reflection on the complexities of human relationships.
8. Help – The Beatles
“Help” by The Beatles: This iconic rock track is characterized by its upbeat and catchy sound, featuring jangling guitars, driving rhythms, and harmonized vocals. The lyrics express a sense of desperation and vulnerability, as the singer pleads for someone to rescue him from his emotional turmoil. The song’s energetic and optimistic tone creates a sense of hopefulness, inviting listeners to embrace their vulnerability and seek support when they need it. Overall, “Help” is a classic and timeless reflection on the human experience, reminding us that we all need help from time to time.
9. Stressed Out – A Tribe Called Quest ft. Faith Evans
“Stressed Out” by A Tribe Called Quest ft. Faith Evans: This hip hop classic is characterized by its laid-back and soulful sound, featuring smooth beats, jazzy instrumentation, and evocative vocals. The lyrics describe the challenges and pressures of modern life, as the singer reflects on the ways in which stress and anxiety can take a toll on our mental health. The song’s introspective and thought-provoking lyrics are tempered by its soothing and calming sound, creating a sense of relaxation and tranquility. Overall, “Stressed Out” is a powerful and timeless reflection on the human experience.
10. Breathin’ – Ariana Grande
“Breathin'” by Ariana Grande: This pop ballad is characterized by its soaring vocals and emotional depth, creating a powerful and evocative sound. The lyrics describe the struggle to overcome anxiety and panic attacks, as the singer urges herself to take deep breaths and find inner calm. The song’s uplifting and inspiring tone creates a sense of hopefulness, reminding listeners that even in the darkest of times, there is always a way forward. Overall, “Breathin'” is a moving and deeply personal reflection on the human experience, exploring the ways in which we can find strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
11. BasketCase – Green Day
“Basket Case” by Green Day: This punk rock classic is characterized by its fast-paced and energetic sound, featuring aggressive guitars, pounding drums, and angsty vocals. The lyrics describe the experience of struggling with mental illness, as the singer reflects on his feelings of anxiety and paranoia. The song’s raw and unfiltered sound creates a sense of urgency and intensity, reflecting the singer’s sense of inner turmoil. Overall, “Basket Case” is a powerful and cathartic expression of the human experience, exploring the complexities of mental health and the ways in which we can find strength and resilience in the face of adversity.
12. In the Garage – Weezer
“In the Garage” by Weezer: This alternative rock track is characterized by its quirky and offbeat sound, featuring fuzzy guitars, distorted vocals, and a playful melody. The lyrics describe the singer’s love of music and his private sanctuary in his garage, where he can escape from the world and embrace his passions. The song’s nostalgic and wistful tone creates a sense of warmth and intimacy, inviting listeners to connect with the singer’s sense of creativity and individuality. Overall, “In the Garage” is a whimsical and charming reflection on the human experience, reminding us of the power of music and the importance of having a space to call our own.
13. Come As You Are – Nirvana
“Come As You Are” by Nirvana: This grunge classic is characterized by its haunting and introspective sound, featuring a hypnotic guitar riff, brooding vocals, and evocative lyrics. The song’s title serves as an invitation to listeners to embrace their true selves, regardless of the judgments or expectations of others. The lyrics describe the experience of feeling disconnected from the world and struggling with inner demons, as the singer urges listeners to confront their fears and find their own path. The song’s atmospheric and immersive sound creates a sense of introspection and reflection, evoking the complex and nuanced nature of the human experience.
14. Unwell – Matchbox 20
“Unwell” by Matchbox 20: This alternative rock track is characterized by its introspective and confessional lyrics, exploring the experience of struggling with mental health and the stigma that often surrounds it. The song’s gentle and melodic sound creates a sense of vulnerability and emotional openness, inviting listeners to connect with the singer’s sense of self-doubt and insecurity. The lyrics describe the experience of feeling like an outsider and struggling to fit in, reminding listeners that they are not alone in their struggles. Overall, “Unwell” is a moving and deeply personal reflection on the human experience, exploring the ways in which we can find solace and connection in our shared experiences.
15. Rose-Colored Boy – Paramore
“Rose-Colored Boy” by Paramore: This pop-rock track is characterized by its upbeat and catchy sound, featuring bouncy guitars, vibrant synths, and energetic vocals. The lyrics describe the experience of feeling trapped in a cycle of negativity and self-doubt, as the singer longs for the freedom and joy that comes with a more positive outlook. The song’s bright and optimistic sound creates a sense of hope and possibility, encouraging listeners to embrace their own resilience and find their own sources of happiness. Overall, “Rose-Colored Boy” is an infectious and empowering anthem that celebrates the power of positivity and the resilience of the human spirit.
16. Waving Through a Window – Dear Evan Hansen
“Waving Through a Window” from Dear Evan Hansen: This powerful ballad from the hit Broadway musical Dear Evan Hansen is characterized by its emotional and introspective lyrics, exploring the experience of feeling invisible and disconnected from the world. The song’s sparse and atmospheric sound creates a sense of loneliness and isolation, as the singer yearns for a sense of connection and understanding. The lyrics capture the complexities of mental health and the ways in which our struggles can often go unnoticed, reminding listeners of the importance of empathy and compassion. Overall, “Waving Through a Window” is a moving and poignant reflection on the human experience, reminding us of the power of vulnerability and the importance of reaching out to others.
17. Crawling – Linkin Park
“Crawling” by Linkin Park: This nu-metal track is characterized by its raw and intense sound, featuring heavy guitars, aggressive rapping, and anguished vocals. The lyrics describe the experience of feeling overwhelmed and trapped by one’s own emotions, as the singer struggles to break free from the cycle of pain and self-doubt. The song’s explosive and cathartic sound creates a sense of release and empowerment, inviting listeners to channel their own feelings of frustration and anger into a powerful expression of self-expression. Overall, “Crawling” is a hard-hitting and emotional track that captures the intensity and complexity of the human experience.
18. Concertina – Tori Amos
“Concertina” by Tori Amos: This haunting and ethereal track is characterized by its atmospheric and dreamy sound, featuring delicate piano, evocative strings, and haunting vocals. The lyrics describe the experience of feeling lost and adrift in the world, as the singer longs for a sense of purpose and meaning. The song’s introspective and introspective sound creates a sense of reflection and contemplation, inviting listeners to explore their own inner landscape and find their own path. Overall, “Concertina” is a beautiful and evocative track that captures the delicate balance between vulnerability and strength, reminding us of the beauty and complexity of the human spirit.
19. Disturbia – Rihanna
“Disturbia” by Rihanna: This dark and edgy pop song is characterized by its pulsating beats, eerie synths, and Rihanna’s powerful vocals. The lyrics describe the experience of being trapped in a nightmarish world of fear and paranoia, where everything feels uncertain and dangerous. The song’s intense and atmospheric sound creates a sense of tension and unease, inviting listeners to embrace their own fears and anxieties and confront them head-on. Overall, “Disturbia” is a bold and powerful track that captures the unsettling nature of the human psyche.
20. Anxiety – Bmike
“Anxiety” by Bmike: This introspective and emotional rap song is characterized by its honest and vulnerable lyrics, as Bmike describes the experience of living with anxiety and the impact it has on his life. The song’s mellow and contemplative sound creates a sense of introspection and self-reflection, inviting listeners to explore their own struggles with mental health and find solace in the music. Overall, “Anxiety” is a powerful and relatable track that reminds us of the importance of self-care and mental health awareness.