64 Best Songs about Revenge
Revenge – it’s that sweet, intoxicating sensation that you’ve been wronged and now it’s payback time.
While it’s not always the healthiest emotion to indulge in, it’s made for some killer tracks over the years.
Let’s dive into the intriguing world of revenge-themed songs and the captivating stories behind them.
1. “You Oughta Know” by Alanis Morissette
The Gist: Raw anger directed at an ex-lover. This is Alanis channeling all her emotions after a breakup.
Behind the Music: Off her 1995 album Jagged Little Pill, “You Oughta Know” shot Alanis to superstardom. While she’s never publicly confirmed the identity of the ex who inspired this wrath-filled anthem, it’s widely speculated in pop culture. What’s clear, though, is the intense emotion behind lyrics like, “It was a slap in the face, how quickly I was replaced.” The song perfectly encapsulates the feeling of betrayal.
2. “Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood
The Gist: This song about a woman taking out her anger on her man’s car, suspecting him of infidelity.
Behind the Music: Country star Carrie Underwood brought to life this anthem of revenge in 2006, and it quickly became a massive hit. With lines like, “I dug my key into the side of his pretty little souped-up four-wheel drive,” Carrie narrates the act of physically destroying something cherished.
3. “Cry Me a River” by Justin Timberlake
The Gist: Tune filled with undertones of deception, hurt, and revenge.
Behind the Music: Released in 2002, “Cry Me a River” was JT’s way of responding to his high-profile breakup with pop princess Britney Spears. The song, both lyrically and visually (the music video), alludes to betrayal and the act of moving on. While Justin has been somewhat coy about confirming the exact inspirations behind the song, it’s widely perceived as his own revenge anthem post-breakup.
4. “Take a Bow” by Rihanna
The Gist: It’s a song about catching a partner in the act of lying and watching them try to play it off.
Behind the Music: Rihanna, the queen of reinvention, dropped this track in 2008, making many of us feel the sting of betrayal. Instead of explosive anger, Rihanna serves a cold, mocking disappointment. The theatrical metaphor throughout the song adds an elegant touch of sarcasm, suggesting the cheating partner deserves an Oscar for his acting skills. “Go on and take a bow,” she sings, underlining the performative nature of deceit.
5. “Hit ‘Em Up” by Tupac Shakur
The Gist: An iconic, aggressive rap that throws direct punches.
Behind the Music: Released in 1996 during the height of the East Coast-West Coast hip hop rivalry, “Hit ‘Em Up” was Tupac’s response to Biggie Smalls’ “Who Shot Ya?”. Tupac believed Biggie had a hand in an earlier attack on him. The animosity and accusations in this song are palpable. Tupac doesn’t mince words, making it one of the most direct and intense revenge tracks in music history.
6. “Revenge” by Pink ft. Eminem
The Gist: Two powerhouses of the music world team up to deliver a song about getting back at cheating partners.
Behind the Music: From Pink’s 2017 album Beautiful Trauma, this track sees her collaborate with rap maestro Eminem. The song uses humor, wit, and sharp jabs to convey the message of revenge. Eminem’s verse, in particular, adds a layer of dark comedy to the narrative.
7. “I Want You to Hurt Like I Do” by Randy Newman
The Gist: It’s one thing to want revenge, but it’s another to want someone to feel the exact pain they inflicted on you.
Behind the Music: Randy Newman, known for his satirical songwriting, released this track in 1988. The title pretty much says it all. Instead of acts of violence or sabotage, Newman simply wishes emotional pain on his subject. It’s a different kind of revenge song, more melancholic than aggressive. It’s about the internal turmoil of wanting someone to truly understand the hurt they’ve caused.
8. “Baby Blue” by Action Bronson
The Gist: A surprisingly tender yet cheeky farewell to an ex, sprinkled with a bit of regret and a lot of Bronson’s unique brand of humor.
Behind the Music: Featured on his 2015 album “Mr. Wonderful,” Action Bronson teams up with Chance the Rapper for this track that combines smooth beats with lyrics full of witty quips about a past lover.
9. “The Queen’s Rebuke/The Crossing” by The Decemberists
The Gist: A majestic narrative of love, betrayal, and retribution, told from the perspective of a powerful queen.
Behind the Music: This track is from The Decemberists’ 2009 album “The Hazards of Love.” The queen’s powerful rebuke against her unfaithful lover paints a vivid picture of her scorn and determination for revenge.
10. “The Vengeful One” by Disturbed
The Gist: A hard-hitting anthem of retribution, personifying justice as a force not to be trifled with.
Behind the Music: “The Vengeful One” is Disturbed’s rallying cry against corruption and deceit, taken from their 2015 album “Immortalized.” With its pounding drums and aggressive guitars, the song serves as a warning to wrongdoers everywhere that karma is watching, ready to strike back.
11. “Get Him Back!” by Olivia Rodrigo
The Gist: This song oscillates between the burning desire for revenge and the conflicting feelings of missing an ex. It’s about someone grappling with hurt and the longing for retribution, juxtaposed with moments of vulnerability and reminiscence of the past love.
Behind the Music: The song dives deep into the post-breakup psyche, exploring the complexity of wanting to make an ex-partner jealous or feel regret, while also dealing with the personal sadness and attachment that lingers.
12. “Songs For The Dumped” by Ben Folds Five
The Gist: A humorous yet bitter send-off to a former flame, complete with demands for the return of a black T-shirt.
Behind the Music: This track from Ben Folds Five’s 1997 album “Whatever and Ever Amen” perfectly captures the post-breakup mood swings from anger to humor. With its catchy piano riff, it’s a breakup anthem that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
13. “Hit ‘Em Up Style” by Blu Cantrell
The Gist: The ultimate revenge fantasy after a cheating scandal, where maxing out credit cards is the chosen form of payback.
Behind the Music: Blu Cantrell’s 2001 hit single combines jazzy vocals with a message of empowerment and retribution. It’s an ode to wronged women everywhere, turning heartbreak into an opportunity for a little shopping spree on the cheater’s dime.
14. “Trailer For Rent” by Pistol Annies
The Gist: A sassy country ballad about kicking out a no-good partner and putting up the “Trailer For Rent” sign.
Behind the Music: From their 2011 debut album “Hell on Heels,” Pistol Annies blend harmonies, humor, and a touch of sass. It’s a song that’s as much about reclaiming independence as it is about ditching a deadbeat.
15. “Fuck You” by Lily Allen
The Gist: Lily Allen delivers a cheerful, melodic middle finger to the haters.
Behind the Music: This 2009 hit from her album “It’s Not Me, It’s You” became an anthem for dismissing negativity and bigotry. Allen’s blend of poppy beats and biting words creates a paradoxically upbeat track about disdain.
16. “Janie’s Got a Gun” by Aerosmith
The Gist: A dark tale of vengeance and justice, wrapped in Aerosmith’s signature rock sound.
Behind the Music: This 1989 hit dives into the story of a girl taking revenge against her abuser. “Janie’s Got a Gun” combines Steven Tyler’s powerful vocals with a serious message about abuse and retribution.
17. “Whatcha Think About That” by The Pussycat Dolls ft. Missy Elliott
The Gist: A dance-pop challenge to a cheating partner.
Behind the Music: From their 2008 album “Doll Domination,” this track is all about turning the tables on a philanderer with confidence and attitude. It’s a club-ready anthem for anyone ready to move on from a liar.
18. “Brain Damage” by Eminem
The Gist: Eminem delves into his troubled childhood.
Behind the Music: This track was featured on Eminem’s 1999 album “The Slim Shady LP.” With dark humor and vivid storytelling, he recounts tales of bullying and its psychological aftermath.
19. “Two Black Cadillacs” by Carrie Underwood
The Gist: A dark country ballad about two women, a cheating man, and a pair of black Cadillacs at his funeral.
Behind the Music: From her 2012 album “Blown Away,” Carrie Underwood tells a gripping tale of betrayal and revenge with cinematic flair.
20. “Forget You” by Cee Lo Green
The Gist: The ultimate kiss-off to an ex.
Behind the Music: Cee Lo Green turned heartbreak into a worldwide singalong with this 2010 hit. With its catchy chorus and soulful sound, “Forget You” is a masterclass in turning the other cheek with style and grace.
21. “The Dead Can’t Testify” by Billy Talent
The Gist: Billy Talent crafts a haunting narrative about being wrongly accused and the desperation of innocence lost.
Behind the Music: This track from their 2009 album “Billy Talent III” stands out for its storytelling depth, punk-infused energy, and the emotional rawness that captures the feeling of voicelessness against injustice.
22. “Kerosene” by Miranda Lambert
The Gist: A fiery tale of heartbreak and revenge.
Behind the Music: The title track from her 2005 album, “Kerosene” showcases Lambert’s ability to blend traditional country sounds with a modern, rebellious spirit. It’s a song about scorned love and the desire to cleanse through fire.
23. “Pressure Drop” by Toots and the Maytals
The Gist: A reggae classic that serves as a warning about the inevitable comeuppance awaiting those who do wrong.
Behind the Music: Released in 1969, “Pressure Drop” by Toots and the Maytals has become a reggae anthem.
24. “Roland the Headless Thompson Gunner” by Warren Zevon
The Gist: A haunting ballad of a mercenary’s betrayal and his quest for posthumous revenge.
Behind the Music: Off the 1978 album “Excitable Boy,” is a storytelling masterpiece, weaving history and fiction into a song that’s as captivating as it is unique.
25. “White Liar” by Miranda Lambert
The Gist: A clever twist on catching a lover in a lie.
Behind the Music: This song is from Lambert’s 2009 album “Revolution.” It’s twist ending and Lambert’s delivery make it a memorable track about love gone wrong.
26. “Kiss This” by Aaron Tippin
The Gist: Aaron Tippin delivers a straightforward message to anyone who’s crossed him.
Behind the Music: Released in 2000, “Kiss This” became an instant hit for its blunt honesty and catchy chorus. It’s a song that doesn’t mince words, perfect for those moments when you’ve had enough and want to make your feelings crystal clear.
27. “I Feel So Good” by Richard Thompson
The Gist: Richard Thompson celebrates liberation from a toxic relationship.
Behind the Music: “I Feel So Good” from Thompson’s 1991 album “Rumor and Sigh,” is a declaration of breaking free and feeling better for it. The song is a folk-rock anthem for anyone reveling in their newfound freedom.
28. “You’re So Vain” by Carly Simon
The Gist: Carly Simon’s iconic takedown of an egotistical ex.
Behind the Music: Since its release in 1972, “You’re So Vain” has kept fans guessing about the identity of the vain subject.
29. “Revenge Of The Middle-Aged Woman” by Tracy Byrd
The Gist: A country tale of turning the tables, where the so-called “middle-aged woman” gets the last laugh.
Behind the Music: Tracy Byrd spins a story of empowerment and unexpected victory with his 2003 hit. It’s a humorous yet heartening reminder that it’s never too late for a little revenge and a lot of living well.
30. “Bad Blood” by Taylor Swift ft. Kendrick Lamar
The Gist: Taylor Swift and Kendrick Lamar join forces to deliver a pop powerhouse about betrayal and the fallout that ensues.
Behind the Music: “Bad Blood,” from Swift’s 2014 album “1989,” became an instant hit, thanks in part to its star-studded music video. The song captures the intensity of feeling wronged with a catchy beat and sharp lyrics.
31. “Losing Face” by Wilbur Soot
The Gist: An indie anthem diving into the themes of loss, identity, and the quest for personal redemption.
Behind the Music: “Losing Face” resonates with anyone grappling with their sense of self in the aftermath of a personal crisis.
32. “One Way Or Another” by Blondie
The Gist: A relentless pursuit, declaring determination in catching a would-be lover.
Behind the Music: Released in 1979, “One Way Or Another” showcases Debbie Harry’s edgy vocals and the band’s rock prowess.
33. “Don’t Get Mad, Get Even” by Aerosmith
The Gist: Aerosmith’s rock ‘n’ roll recipe for dealing with betrayal.
Behind the Music: From their 1989 album “Pump,” this track encapsulates the band’s gritty sound and no-nonsense attitude towards getting back at those who’ve done you wrong. It’s a rock anthem for anyone looking to even the score.
34. “A Boy Named Sue” by Johnny Cash
The Gist: Johnny Cash’s humorous narrative of a boy seeking revenge on his father for a lifetime of ridicule caused by a name.
Behind the Music: Recorded live at San Quentin State Prison in 1969, “A Boy Named Sue” became one of Cash’s most beloved tracks.
35. “Black Widow” by Iggy Azalea ft. Rita Ora
The Gist: “Black Widow” is a pop-rap collaboration about entrapment and retribution.
Behind the Music: Iggy Azalea and Rita Ora’s 2014 collaboration became a chart-topping hit, known for its catchy hook and theme of revenge against a deceitful lover. The track’s blend of pop and rap elements has made it a go-to anthem for spurned lovers everywhere.
36. “No Body, No Crime” by Taylor Swift ft. HAIM
The Gist: A tale of infidelity, murder, and sisterly solidarity.
Behind the Music: Featured on Swift’s 2020 album “Evermore,” “No Body, No Crime” is a storytelling masterpiece, featuring the harmonies of HAIM. It’s a modern take on classic country themes.
37. “Shitlist” by L7
The Gist: A grunge-fueled anthem for everyone who’s ever wanted to make a list and check it twice.
Behind the Music: L7’s “Shitlist” became an emblem of the ‘90s grunge scene, encapsulating the anger and disillusionment of a generation. Featuring aggressive guitar riffs, this song is an outburst of pent-up frustration.
38. “Here Comes Revenge” by Metallica
The Gist: Heavy riffs and haunting lyrics that explore the cycle of retribution.
Behind the Music: Featured on their 2016 album “Hardwired… to Self-Destruct,” “Here Comes Revenge” delving into the psychological depths of seeking revenge.
39. “Roxanne’s Revenge” by Roxanne Shante
The Gist: A pioneering diss track in hip-hop.
Behind the Music: Released in 1984, “Roxanne’s Revenge” was a groundbreaking track that responded to UTFO’s “Roxanne, Roxanne.” Shante’s fierce lyrics and flow not only established her as a formidable force in hip-hop but also highlighted the genre’s potential for storytelling and battle.
40. “I Hope You’re Happy Now” by Elvis Costello
The Gist: A biting farewell to a former lover.
Behind the Music: From his 1986 album “Blood and Chocolate,” this track a classic post-breakup anthem that’s as sardonic as it is catchy. Elvis Costello masterfully combines wit and bitterness in a catchy rock tune.
41. “Vigilante Shit” by Taylor Swift
The Gist: Taylor Swift takes on the role of a stylish avenger.
Behind the Music: A track from her 2022 album “Midnights,” “Vigilante Shit” delves into themes of retribution and empowerment.
42. “Prom Queen” by Lil Wayne
The Gist: A tale of high school heartache and the pressures of fitting in.
Behind the Music: “Prom Queen,” from his 2009 album “Rebirth,” discusses themes of rejection and superficiality. Lil Wayne mixes rock with rap, offering fans a glimpse into his versatility as an artist.
43. “Cell Block Tango” from the musical Chicago
The Gist: A theatrical portrayal of six women who take revenge into their own hands, blending dark humor with show-stopping performances.
Behind the Music: It is a highlight of the musical “Chicago.” The song is a satirical look at love, betrayal, and revenge, delivered by the merry murderesses of the Cook County Jail.
44. “I’ve Got My Captain Working for Me Now” written in 1919 by Irving Berlin, Al Jolson, Billy Murray, Bing Crosby
The Gist: A light-hearted take on post-war life, where former soldiers find humor in the reversal of roles with their once commanding officers.
Behind the Music: This classic song reflects the post-World War I sentiment, using humor to cope with the transition back to civilian life.
When I come into the office he gets up on his feet
Stands at attention and gives me his seat
Who was it said “revenge is sweet”?
I’ve got my Captain working for me now
45. “Let’s Kill Tonight” by Panic! At The Disco
The Gist: A high-energy invitation to embrace the darker side, Panic! At The Disco crafts a gothic anthem for the night.
Behind the Music: From their 2011 album “Vices & Virtues,” “Let’s Kill Tonight” is an ode to the exhilarating rush of stepping into the shadows, wrapped in synth-driven melodies.
46. “Bust Your Windows” by Jazmine Sullivan
The Gist: A tale of heartbreak and the extreme lengths one might go to for revenge.
Behind the Music: Released in 2008 on her album “Fearless,” “Bust Your Windows” is a powerful expression of anger and betrayal. Sullivan’s emotive delivery makes it a modern classic in the R&B genre.
47. “Me Against You” by Three Days Grace
The Gist: A gritty anthem of defiance and standing strong against adversaries.
Behind the Music: Known for their hard-hitting rock, “Me Against You” is the perfect soundtrack for those moments when it feels like it’s you against the world, and you’re not going down without a fight. Three Days Grace nails the feeling of being backed into a corner but fighting back harder.
48. “Roman’s Revenge” by Nicki Minaj ft. Eminem
The Gist: No-holds-barred lyrical smackdown against the detractors.
Behind the Music: A standout track from Minaj’s 2010 album “Pink Friday,” “Roman’s Revenge” features rapid-fire verses and a combative energy.
49. “The Mariner’s Revenge Song” by The Decemberists
The Gist: A seafaring tale of vengeance and doom.
Behind the Music: Part of their 2005 album “Picaresque,” The Decemberists is an epic ballad about two lives entwined by fate and a promise of revenge. It’s a journey through revenge, redemption, and the relentless pursuit of a vow made long ago.
50. “Goodbye Earl” by The Chicks
The Gist: A darkly humorous tale of taking extreme measures against an abusive partner.
Behind the Music: This song from their 1999 album “Fly” became a feminist anthem, blending bluegrass influences with storytelling that’s both empowering and provocative. “Goodbye Earl” is The Chicks’ catchy, controversial take on vigilante justice.
51. “Look What You Made Me Do” by Taylor Swift
The Gist: Taylor Swift’s dark departure from her previous image, this track is a declaration of the new Taylor, reborn from the media’s ashes.
Behind the Music: Off her 2017 album “Reputation,” Swift uses “Look What You Made Me Do” to address her critics and past feuds with a catchy, almost sinister tone. It’s a bold reinvention that combines pop with a touch of the gothic.
52. “Viva Las Vengeance” by Panic! At The Disco
The Gist: A theatrical, high-energy ode to the ups and downs of love and vengeance.
Behind the Music: It’s a song that feels like a rollercoaster ride through heartbreak and back.
53. “Under My Thumb” by The Rolling Stones
The Gist: A classic rock take on the power dynamics in relationships.
Behind the Music: Released in 1966, this track became one of the band’s most debated songs due to its lyrical content.
54. “Better Than Revenge” by Taylor Swift
The Gist: Young Taylor Swift takes a pop-rock jab at a love triangle.
Behind the Music: From her 2010 album “Speak Now,” “Better Than Revenge” is a spirited track that has sparked conversations about maturity and the complexities of relationships.
55. “March Of The Witch Hunters” by Christopher Fitzgerald
The Gist: A theatrical piece that captures the frenzy of a witch hunt.
Behind the Music: Part of the soundtrack for the Broadway hit “Wicked,” this song is a dynamic portrayal of fear and frenzy, set against the backdrop of Oz’s political intrigue.
56. “Thru Your Phone” by Cardi B
The Gist: Cardi B taps into the modern-day saga of relationship trust and the temptation to snoop through a partner’s phone.
Behind the Music: From her 2018 album “Invasion of Privacy,” “Thru Your Phone” is a relatable confession of vulnerability and vengeance.
57. “So What” by P!nk
The Gist: P!nk channels her post-breakup feelings into an anthem of independence and resilience.
Behind the Music: From her 2008 album “Funhouse,” “So What” became a chart-topping hit.
58. “Irreplaceable” by Beyonce
The Gist: Beyoncé serves a reminder that no one is irreplaceable.
Behind the Music: Off her 2006 album “B’Day,” “Irreplaceable” became an instant classic, blending R&B with pop genres.
59. “Waking the Demon” by Bullet for My Valentine
The Gist: A metalcore deep dive into themes of revenge and awakening one’s darker side to confront a tormentor.
Behind the Music: From their 2008 album “Scream Aim Fire,” “Waking the Demon” showcases Bullet for My Valentine’s signature blend of melodic metal with screamo elements.
60. “Dear John” by Taylor Swift
The Gist: Taylor Swift pens a scathing letter to a former lover named John, weaving a tale of manipulation and heartbreak.
Behind the Music: Featured on her 2010 album “Speak Now,” “Dear John” is widely believed to be about John Mayer.
61. “Smile” by Lily Allen
The Gist: Lily Allen wraps her breakup recovery in a reggae-infused pop package, smiling because her ex is finally out of her life.
Behind the Music: “Smile,” from Allen’s 2006 debut album “Alright, Still,” marked her breakout hit.
62. “Kim” by Eminem
The Gist: Eminem explores dark and violent themes in an emotional outpouring directed at his then-wife, Kim.
Behind the Music: A controversial track from his 2000 album “The Marshall Mathers LP,” “Kim” is a harrowing narrative of love gone terribly wrong.
63. “Picture to Burn” by Taylor Swift
The Gist: Taylor Swift turns heartbreak into fiery country-pop retribution, warning her ex that he’s just another picture to burn.
Behind the Music: A track from her 2006 debut album, “Picture to Burn” helped establish Swift as a country music sensation.
64. “Your Time Is Gonna Come” by Led Zeppelin
The Gist: A warning to a wrongdoer that karma is on its way, Led Zeppelin combines rock and blues to craft a message of inevitable retribution.
Behind the Music: From their 1969 debut album, “Your Time Is Gonna Come” is known for its haunting organ intro and Robert Plant’s powerful vocals.
