Best Song About Exes (Dealing With Your Ex Boyfriend or Girlfriend)

Breakups are an inevitable part of many people’s lives, and as such, they have been a popular theme in music for decades. One particular subcategory of breakup songs is the “song about exes.” These are songs that directly address an ex-partner, whether it be expressing anger, sadness, or longing for them. Such songs can be a cathartic way for individuals to process their emotions and work through the aftermath of a relationship.

“Song about exes” have become a staple in various genres of music, including pop, rock, country, and hip hop. Many popular artists have created iconic hits that center around their past relationships, providing a relatable outlet for their fans to connect with. These songs range from bitter and vengeful to wistful and nostalgic, offering a range of perspectives on what it means to move on from a past lover.

In this article, we will explore some of the most significant “song about exes” in recent music history. We’ll delve into the stories behind these songs, how they’ve resonated with audiences, and why they’ve become so beloved. From heart-wrenching ballads to upbeat anthems, these songs encapsulate the many emotions that come with a breakup and serve as a reminder that everyone goes through it. So whether you’re in the midst of a breakup or happily single, read on to discover the most impactful “song about exes” that have graced the airwaves.

1. Shout Out To My Ex – Little Mix

“Shout Out To My Ex” is an upbeat pop song by the British girl group Little Mix. Released in 2016 as the lead single from their fourth studio album, “Glory Days,” the song became a commercial success, reaching the top of the UK Singles Chart and earning the group their fourth chart-topping single. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who has moved on from a past relationship and is now celebrating her newfound independence and happiness. With its catchy chorus and empowering message, “Shout Out To My Ex” has become an anthem for anyone who has overcome heartbreak and come out stronger on the other side.”

2. Gaslighter – The Chicks

“Gaslighter” is the lead single from The Chicks’ eighth studio album of the same name, released in 2020. The song is a country-pop anthem that speaks to the experience of being manipulated and emotionally abused in a toxic relationship. The lyrics are biting and direct, with lead singer Natalie Maines calling out her ex-husband for his lies and controlling behavior. The song’s production is lush and polished, with a soaring chorus that is sure to get stuck in your head. “Gaslighter” marks The Chicks’ triumphant return to music after a long hiatus, and it’s a powerful statement about standing up for yourself and refusing to be gaslit.”

3. Go Your Own Way – Fleetwood Mac

“Go Your Own Way” is a classic rock song by the British-American band Fleetwood Mac, released in 1977 as the lead single from their critically acclaimed album “Rumours”. The song is a powerful breakup anthem, with lyrics that speak to the pain and confusion of a relationship falling apart. The track’s upbeat tempo and catchy guitar riffs provide a contrast to the melancholy lyrics, making it a timeless classic that still resonates with audiences today. “Go Your Own Way” is a testament to the enduring legacy of Fleetwood Mac and their ability to capture the complexities of human emotion in their music.

4. Since U Been Gone – Kelly Clarkson

“Since U Been Gone” is a pop-rock anthem by American singer Kelly Clarkson, released in 2004 as the lead single from her second studio album, “Breakaway”. The song’s upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and powerful vocals helped establish Clarkson as a pop superstar and earned her a Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. The lyrics tell the story of a woman who is finally free from a toxic relationship and is reveling in her newfound independence. “Since U Been Gone” has become a karaoke classic and is widely regarded as one of the greatest breakup songs of all time.

5. Hate Me – Ellie Goulding, Juice WRLD

“Hate Me” is a collaboration between British singer Ellie Goulding and American rapper Juice WRLD, released in 2019. The song is a mid-tempo pop ballad that explores the aftermath of a breakup, with the lyrics focusing on the feelings of regret and self-blame that often accompany the end of a relationship. The production is moody and atmospheric, with Goulding’s ethereal vocals complementing Juice WRLD’s introspective verses. “Hate Me” is a powerful and relatable track that speaks to the emotional complexity of heartbreak and the struggles of moving on.

6. On My Mind – Ellie Goulding

“On My Mind” is a synth-pop track by British singer Ellie Goulding, released in 2015 as the lead single from her third studio album, “Delirium”. The song’s catchy hook and danceable beat make it a radio-friendly hit, while the lyrics tell the story of a complicated romantic relationship. Goulding’s breathy vocals add to the song’s sultry vibe, and the track’s production is sleek and polished. “On My Mind” was a commercial success, peaking in the top 20 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and charting in several other countries.

7. Back to Black – Amy Winehouse

“Back to Black” is a soulful track by British singer Amy Winehouse, released in 2006 as the second single from her second studio album of the same name. The song’s haunting melody and Winehouse’s raw vocals make it a standout in her discography. The lyrics describe the pain and heartbreak of a failed relationship, with Winehouse mourning the loss of a lover who has moved on to someone new. “Back to Black” earned critical acclaim and commercial success, helping to cement Winehouse’s status as one of the most talented and influential artists of her generation.

8. Really Don’t Care – Demi Lovato

“Really Don’t Care” is a pop-rock track by American singer Demi Lovato, released in 2014 as the fourth single from her fourth studio album, “Demi”. The song features guest vocals from English singer Cher Lloyd and has an upbeat, anthemic sound. The lyrics are empowering and defiant, with Lovato declaring her independence and confidence in the face of negativity and criticism. “Really Don’t Care” was a commercial success, charting in several countries and becoming a fan favorite. The song’s message of self-love and acceptance has resonated with many listeners over the years.

9. Problem – Ariana Grande ft. Iggy Azalea

“Problem” is a high-energy pop and R&B track by American singer Ariana Grande, featuring Australian rapper Iggy Azalea. Released in 2014 as the lead single from Grande’s second studio album, “My Everything”, the song features a catchy horn riff and a strong beat. The lyrics describe the frustration of being unable to shake off a toxic relationship, with Grande proclaiming that she’s got “one less problem” without her ex. “Problem” was a commercial success, peaking at number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning critical acclaim for its infectious sound and catchy chorus.

10. Irreplaceable – Beyonce
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2EwViQxSJJQ

“Irreplaceable” is a mid-tempo R&B track by American singer Beyoncé, released in 2006 as the lead single from her second studio album, “B’Day”. The song features a guitar-driven melody and Beyoncé’s confident vocals, as she tells a cheating partner that she doesn’t need him in her life. The lyrics are sassy and empowering, with Beyoncé declaring that she’s “irreplaceable” and that her ex will “never find another” like her. “Irreplaceable” was a commercial success, topping charts around the world and becoming one of Beyoncé’s signature songs. Its message of self-respect and independence has resonated with many listeners over the years.

11. Love Yourself – Justin Bieber

“Love Yourself” is a pop and folk-influenced song by Canadian singer Justin Bieber, released in 2015 as the third single from his fourth studio album, “Purpose”. The song features acoustic guitar and percussion, with Bieber’s vocals conveying a mix of hurt and anger as he tells an ex-lover to “love yourself” and move on from their relationship. The lyrics are both cutting and reflective, with Bieber acknowledging his own mistakes while also calling out his partner’s flaws. “Love Yourself” was a commercial success, reaching number one in multiple countries and earning praise for its raw, vulnerable tone.

12. Consequences – Camila Cabello

“Consequences” is a ballad by Cuban-American singer Camila Cabello, released in 2018 as the fifth single from her debut solo album, “Camila”. The song features piano and string instrumentation, with Cabello’s powerful vocals conveying a sense of heartbreak and regret as she reflects on a failed relationship. The lyrics are poetic and introspective, with Cabello acknowledging her own mistakes and expressing a desire for forgiveness and closure. “Consequences” was praised for its emotional depth and Cabello’s vocal performance, and it showcased a different side of the pop star’s artistry.

13. Same Old Love – Selena Gomez

“Same Old Love” is a pop song by American singer Selena Gomez, released in 2015 as the second single from her second studio album, “Revival”. The song features a catchy chorus and a sparse, rhythmic instrumental track, with Gomez’s vocals conveying a sense of disillusionment and frustration with a relationship that has lost its spark. The lyrics critique the repetitive nature of a lover’s actions and the feeling of being stuck in a cycle of hurt and disappointment. “Same Old Love” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on multiple music charts and earning praise for its catchy hook and Gomez’s vocal performance.

14. We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together – Taylor Swift

“We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together” is an upbeat pop-country breakup anthem by American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift, released in 2012 as the lead single from her fourth studio album, “Red”. The song features a sing-along chorus and a catchy, hand-clap rhythm, with Swift’s lyrics detailing the ups and downs of a tumultuous relationship and ultimately declaring a firm “never ever” to reconciliation. The song was a commercial and critical success, debuting at number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning praise for its catchy melody and clever lyrics.

15. Part of Me – Katy Perry

“Part of Me” is an uptempo pop song by American singer Katy Perry, released in 2012 as a single from her “Teenage Dream: The Complete Confection” album. The song features a driving beat and empowering lyrics, with Perry singing about breaking free from a toxic relationship and finding strength in her independence. The song’s lyrics were widely interpreted as a response to Perry’s divorce from comedian Russell Brand. “Part of Me” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on several international charts and earning praise for its catchy chorus and empowering message.

16. Why Should I Be Sad? – Britney Spears

“Why Should I Be Sad?” is a mid-tempo pop song by American singer Britney Spears, released in 2007 as a single from her “Blackout” album. The song features a melancholic melody and vulnerable lyrics, with Spears singing about the end of a relationship and questioning why she should feel sad about it. The song’s lyrics were widely interpreted as a response to Spears’ divorce from Kevin Federline. “Why Should I Be Sad?” received positive reviews for its emotional depth and vulnerability, and is often cited as a standout track on the “Blackout” album.

17. Forget You – Cee Lo Green

“Forget You” is a funky, upbeat pop song by American singer Cee Lo Green, released in 2010 as a single from his album “The Lady Killer”. The song features a catchy, upbeat melody and tongue-in-cheek lyrics, with Green singing about moving on from a failed relationship and wishing his ex well (albeit with a few choice words). “Forget You” became a smash hit upon release, peaking at #2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and receiving critical acclaim for its infectious energy and witty lyrics. The song’s upbeat tone and playful lyrics have made it a popular party anthem.

18. 7 Things — Miley Cyrus

“7 Things” is a pop rock song by American singer Miley Cyrus, released in 2008 as the lead single from her second studio album “Breakout”. The song was written by Cyrus and produced by Antonina Armato and Tim James, and features a driving guitar riff and upbeat, catchy chorus. The lyrics of “7 Things” address a former flame, with Cyrus listing seven things she hates about him while also acknowledging her own role in the relationship’s demise. The song became a commercial success, peaking at #9 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying Cyrus’ place as a major pop star.

19.Somebody That I Used to Know – Gotye

“Somebody That I Used to Know” is a hit song by Belgian-Australian singer-songwriter Gotye featuring New Zealand singer Kimbra. The song, released in 2011, became an instant global success, topping the charts in numerous countries. It is a breakup song that tells the story of a former relationship and the pain of being forgotten by someone who used to be close. The song’s unusual sound is created by its use of acoustic guitar, xylophone, and unusual vocal techniques. The lyrics and haunting melody make “Somebody That I Used to Know” a memorable and emotional song that has stood the test of time.

20. Cry Me a River – Justin Timberlake

“Cry Me a River” is a song by Justin Timberlake that was released in 2002. It is a pop and R&B ballad with elements of electronic and soul music. The song’s lyrics describe the pain of a failed relationship and the feelings of betrayal and anger that come with it. The production features a prominent beat and synthesizers, as well as a memorable guitar riff. The song was a commercial and critical success, reaching the top of charts in several countries and earning Timberlake a Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance. Its music video is also notable for featuring Timberlake’s then-ex-girlfriend, Britney Spears.

21. nAll My Ex’s Live In Texas – George Strait

“All My Ex’s Live in Texas” is a classic country song by George Strait. It was released in 1987 as the second single from his album “Ocean Front Property.” The song tells the story of a man who has traveled all over the country but finds that all his ex-girlfriends live in Texas. It has a fun, upbeat tempo with a memorable chorus that invites listeners to sing along. The song was a commercial success and became one of Strait’s signature songs. It has since become a beloved country classic and is still frequently played on country radio stations.