13 Best Songs about Being Used

Songs about being used are a common theme in popular music, as they resonate with many listeners who have experienced the pain of being taken advantage of in a relationship.

These songs explore the emotions of betrayal, disappointment, and hurt that come with the realization that a partner has been using them for their own gain, whether it be for emotional support, financial stability, or simply for their own pleasure. In many cases, these songs can serve as a cathartic release for those who have experienced this type of relationship, allowing them to process their emotions and feel a sense of validation in knowing that they are not alone in their experiences. They can also provide a sense of empowerment, encouraging listeners to recognize their own worth and demand better treatment from their partners.

Songs about being used can take many forms, from upbeat pop anthems to soulful ballads, and can explore a range of emotions and themes. Some songs focus on the pain of betrayal and the struggle to move on, while others delve into the psychology of a partner who uses others for their own gain. Despite their differences, these songs share a common thread of authenticity and emotional honesty, allowing listeners to connect with them on a deep level and find solace in the shared experience of heartbreak and healing.

1.‘Say My Name’ – Destiny’s Child

‘Say My Name’ by Destiny’s Child is a 90s R&B classic that features the iconic vocal harmonies of Beyoncé Knowles, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams. The song tells the story of a woman who suspects her partner of infidelity and demands that he say her name to prove his loyalty. With its catchy melody and memorable lyrics, ‘Say My Name’ became an instant hit and earned Destiny’s Child multiple awards, including Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals at the 2001 Grammy Awards.

2.‘How Do You Sleep’ – Sam Smith

‘How Do You Sleep’ by Sam Smith is a soulful pop ballad that explores the pain and heartache of a breakup. The song’s emotional lyrics are complemented by Smith’s powerful vocals and a haunting instrumental arrangement. ‘How Do You Sleep’ was released in 2019 as the lead single from Smith’s third studio album, ‘Love Goes’. The song received critical acclaim for its raw vulnerability and became a chart-topping hit in several countries. Overall, ‘How Do You Sleep’ is a poignant and relatable anthem for anyone who has ever experienced the pain of a broken heart.

3.‘Never Again’ – Kelly Clarkson

‘Never Again’ by Kelly Clarkson is a powerful rock ballad that tells the story of a woman who has been betrayed by her partner and vows to never let it happen again. The song’s lyrics are full of raw emotion, with Clarkson’s powerful vocals driving home the pain and anger of the situation. ‘Never Again’ was released in 2007 as the lead single from Clarkson’s third studio album, ‘My December’, and received critical acclaim for its honesty and authenticity. Overall, ‘Never Again’ is a bold and empowering anthem for anyone who has ever been hurt in a relationship.

4.‘FU’ – Miley Cyrus ft. French Montana

‘FU’ by Miley Cyrus featuring French Montana is a sassy pop track that features Cyrus’ signature blend of attitude and vulnerability. The song’s lyrics are full of anger and frustration, with Cyrus demanding that her ex-partner leave her alone and stop trying to win her back. French Montana’s guest verse adds a touch of rap flair to the track, while the catchy chorus and infectious beat make ‘FU’ a danceable anthem for anyone who has ever been wronged in a relationship. Overall, ‘FU’ is a fun and empowering song that showcases Cyrus’ versatile vocal and musical talents.

5.‘Before He Cheats’ – Carrie Underwood

‘Before He Cheats’ by Carrie Underwood is a country-pop crossover hit that tells the story of a woman who takes revenge on her cheating partner by vandalizing his car. The song’s catchy melody and powerful vocals make it an instant classic, while its relatable lyrics strike a chord with anyone who has ever been wronged in a relationship. ‘Before He Cheats’ was released in 2006 as the third single from Underwood’s debut album, ‘Some Hearts’, and quickly became a chart-topping hit. The song has since become a staple of country and pop radio and earned Underwood numerous awards, including two Grammys for Best Female Country Vocal Performance and Best Country Song. Overall, ‘Before He Cheats’ is a fun and empowering anthem for anyone who has ever been hurt by a cheating partner.

6.‘Sorry’ – Justin Bieber

‘Sorry’ by Justin Bieber is a dance-pop hit that features a tropical house beat and catchy chorus that make it a perfect track for the dance floor. The song’s lyrics are an apology to a former lover, with Bieber expressing regret for his past mistakes and promising to make things right. ‘Sorry’ was released in 2015 as the lead single from Bieber’s fourth studio album, ‘Purpose’, and quickly became a chart-topping hit in several countries. The song’s upbeat energy and catchy melody make it an infectious anthem that has become a fan favorite and cemented Bieber’s place as a pop superstar. Overall, ‘Sorry’ is a fun and catchy track that showcases Bieber’s vocal and musical talents.

7.‘Really Don’t Care’ – Demi Lovato

‘Really Don’t Care’ by Demi Lovato is an upbeat pop track that features a catchy chorus and an empowering message of self-confidence and independence. The song’s lyrics are a response to a former lover who has betrayed Lovato, with the singer declaring that she doesn’t care what they think or feel anymore. The song’s infectious beat and danceable melody make it a perfect track for the dance floor, while Lovato’s powerful vocals add an extra layer of attitude and energy. ‘Really Don’t Care’ was released in 2014 as the fourth single from Lovato’s fourth studio album, ‘Demi’, and quickly became a fan favorite. Overall, ‘Really Don’t Care’ is a fun and empowering anthem for anyone who has ever been hurt in a relationship and emerged stronger on the other side.

8.‘Your Power’ – Billie Eilish

‘Your Power’ by Billie Eilish is a haunting and introspective ballad that explores themes of power dynamics and abuse in relationships. The song’s stripped-down instrumentation and Eilish’s vulnerable vocals create a somber atmosphere that perfectly captures the emotions of the lyrics. The song’s message is a warning to those who abuse their power and manipulate others for their own gain, urging them to take responsibility for their actions and stop hurting those around them. ‘Your Power’ was released in 2021 as the lead single from Eilish’s second studio album, ‘Happier Than Ever’, and received critical acclaim for its emotional depth and powerful message. Overall, ‘Your Power’ is a powerful and thought-provoking song that showcases Eilish’s unique artistic vision and songwriting talents.

9.‘Mary Jane’ – Alanis Morissette

‘Mary Jane’ by Alanis Morissette is a melancholic and introspective track that delves into the struggles of addiction and the difficulty of breaking free from its grip. The song’s somber instrumentation and Morissette’s emotive vocals create a sense of empathy and understanding for those struggling with addiction. The song’s lyrics are a plea for help, with Morissette acknowledging her dependence on drugs and alcohol and admitting that she needs to make a change in her life. ‘Mary Jane’ was released in 1995 as a B-side to Morissette’s single, ‘All I Really Want’, and has since become a fan favorite for its raw and honest portrayal of addiction. Overall, ‘Mary Jane’ is a poignant and moving song that offers hope and understanding to anyone struggling with addiction or mental health issues.

10.‘New Rules’ – Dua Lipa

‘New Rules’ by Dua Lipa is an upbeat and empowering pop hit that serves as a guide for anyone trying to move on from a toxic relationship. The song’s catchy chorus and upbeat melody make it a perfect track for the dance floor, while its lyrics offer practical advice for those trying to break free from a cycle of unhealthy behaviors. The song’s message is one of self-love and empowerment, with Lipa urging listeners to set new rules for themselves and prioritize their own well-being. ‘New Rules’ was released in 2017 as the sixth single from Lipa’s debut studio album, ‘Dua Lipa’, and quickly became a chart-topping hit in several countries. Overall, ‘New Rules’ is a fun and empowering anthem for anyone trying to break free from a toxic relationship and take control of their own life.

11.‘Haunted’ – Taylor Swift

‘Haunted’ by Taylor Swift is a haunting and emotional ballad that explores the lingering pain and heartbreak that can come from a past relationship. The song’s haunting melody and Swift’s emotive vocals create a sense of melancholy and longing, perfectly capturing the emotions of the lyrics. The song’s lyrics describe the feeling of being haunted by the memory of a former lover, with Swift admitting that she can’t escape the memories and feelings that continue to haunt her. ‘Haunted’ was released in 2010 as the eighth track from Swift’s third studio album, ‘Speak Now’, and has since become a fan favorite for its emotional depth and powerful lyrics. Overall, ‘Haunted’ is a beautiful and poignant song that showcases Swift’s songwriting talents and ability to connect with her audience on an emotional level.

12.‘Womanizer’ – Britney Spears

‘Womanizer’ by Britney Spears is an upbeat and catchy pop song that tells the story of a womanizer who cannot resist his desire for women. The song’s infectious beat and catchy chorus make it a popular dance floor hit, while its lyrics explore the theme of infidelity and toxic relationships. The song’s message is one of empowerment, with Spears urging listeners to recognize and reject the behavior of a womanizer and to value themselves enough to demand better treatment. ‘Womanizer’ was released in 2008 as the lead single from Spears’ sixth studio album, ‘Circus’, and became a commercial success, reaching number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart.

13.‘Use Me’ – Bill Withers

‘Use Me’ by Bill Withers is a soulful and bluesy track that explores the complicated dynamics of a toxic relationship. The song’s smooth instrumentation and Withers’ soulful vocals create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, perfectly capturing the emotions of the lyrics. The song’s lyrics describe a partner who uses Withers for their own selfish gain, while Withers himself is aware of the situation and yet cannot resist the pull of the relationship. ‘Use Me’ was released in 1972 as the second single from Withers’ second studio album, ‘Still Bill’, and has since become a classic of the soul and R&B genres. Overall, ‘Use Me’ is a powerful and emotionally resonant song that showcases Withers’ songwriting and vocal talents, as well as his ability to capture the complexities of human relationships.