80 Best Songs About Insecurity

Have you ever felt the pang of self-doubt, that nagging voice telling you you’re not good enough, or that ever-so-slight twinge of jealousy?

Insecurity is the universal background music to our lives, from questioning our career choices to pondering why our pet seems to judge us.

It is a part of the human experience, and artists? Well, they’re no exception. They recorded their vulnerabilities and thus gave us some stunningly beautiful tracks.

Whether it’s the fear of being alone, the dread of not living up to expectations, or just feeling like you’re always two steps behind in the dance of life, there’s a song out there that resonates.

Table of Contents

Top 7 Songs About Insecurity

With so many anthems about self-doubt out there, picking just seven was like trying to pick a favorite meme; it’s almost impossible because they all achieve their goals in different ways.

But we rolled up our sleeves, took a deep dive into our own experiences, and came up with a list that is part personal diary, part publicly recognized achievement.

1. “Creep” by Radiohead

The Gist: A look at feeling out of place and longing for someone unreachable. Thom Yorke’s melancholic vocals capture the essence of feeling like a “weirdo” or a “creep.”

Behind the Music: Debuting in 1992, “Creep” is arguably one of Radiohead’s most iconic tracks. It portrays the pain of seeing oneself as inadequate and unworthy of love or attention.

2. “Beautiful” by Christina Aguilera

The Gist: A soul-stirring anthem on self-acceptance and battling one’s insecurities.

Behind the Music: Released in 2002, Christina Aguilera offers a song that serves as a reminder of our intrinsic worth. It’s a reflection on self-image, societal pressure, and personal insecurities. But it’s not all gloom; the chorus, “I am beautiful no matter what they say,” is a testament to finding strength amidst doubt.

3. “Insecure” by Jazmine Sullivan & Bryson Tiller

The Gist: A modern take on relationship insecurities and the complexities they bring.

Behind the Music: This 2017 R&B track delves into the insecurities that often plague romantic relationships. Both Sullivan and Tiller give voice to the doubts, suspicions, and anxieties that can arise when trust wavers.

4. “I’m Not The Only One” by Sam Smith

The Gist: A deep exploration of the insecurity that stems from suspecting infidelity in a relationship.

Behind the Music: Released in 2014, Sam Smith delivers a soulful ballad depicting the pain and insecurity of knowing you’re being cheated on, yet holding onto the sliver of hope that it might not be true.

5. “Who You Are” by Jessie J

The Gist: A powerful anthem about self-discovery, pushing through dark times, and embracing oneself.

Behind the Music: Jessie J’s 2011 ballad captures the struggle of maintaining one’s identity amidst societal pressures. With lines like, “It’s okay not to be okay,” it’s a comforting pat on the back for anyone struggling with self-acceptance.

6. “Perfect” by Anne-Marie

The Gist: A celebration of imperfections and a declaration of self-love amidst all flaws.

Behind the Music: In 2018, Anne-Marie gave us this bop, challenging conventional standards of beauty and perfection. It’s a fun, upbeat tune, but it packs a punch with its message.

7. “Reflection” by Christina Aguilera

The Gist: An emotional ballad on the quest for self-acceptance and the internal battle of wanting to recognize oneself in the mirror.

Behind the Music: This song is tied to the 1998 Disney classic, Mulan. Christina sings of the character’s pain of not fitting societal molds. However, it universally resonates with anyone who’s felt the disconnect between who they are and who they’re expected to be.

Insecurity in Love and Relationships

Ever had that nagging feeling that Cupid might’ve had a little too much to drink before aiming his arrow at you and your love interest? Well, you’re not alone. This collection of tracks is for those moments when you’re deep in the feels, wondering if your crush is just not that into you or if they’re actually a secret agent with no time for love.

“Locked Away” by R. City ft. Adam Levine (2015, Pop) – This song nails the insecurity about love being conditional.
“I Wish I Could Be Her” by K. Michelle (2012, R&B/Soul) – It’s like looking through Instagram and wondering why you can’t be as perfect as everyone else your crush likes.
“Jealous” by Nick Jonas (2014, Pop/R&B) – Basically, the theme song for when you’re obsessing over who’s in the background of your partner’s phone call. Nick Jonas turns the green-eyed monster into a chart-topper.
“Unpretty” by TLC (1999, R&B/Pop) – Before filters and Facetune, TLC was dropping truth bombs about feeling not good enough for the Gram – or your relationship.
“Scars To Your Beautiful” by Alessia Cara (2015, Pop) – Alessia Cara’s reminder that you’re obsessing over flaws your SO probably hasn’t even noticed. It’s the pep talk we all need when we’re feeling insecure.
“Don’t Let Me Get Me” by Pink (2001, Pop/Rock) – Pink’s anthem for anyone who’s ever felt like their own worst enemy, especially when it comes to relationships.
“Insecure” by Sauti Sol – When you’re feeling more shaky than a leaf in a hurricane, Sauti Sol puts those feelings to music, capturing the essence of questioning everything in a relationship.
“I Hate U, I Love U” by Gnash feat Olivia O’Brien (2016, Pop) – The perfect soundtrack for scrolling through old texts and wondering where it all went wrong.
“Love Drought” by Beyoncé (2016, R&B) – Beyoncé wonders if it’s her or just a rough patch. This song is for those moments when you’re questioning your relationship’s forecast.
“Doubt” by Mary J. Blige (2014, R&B/Soul) – Mary J. Blige sings about overcoming her own self-doubt, which can often spill over into how we view our relationships.
“Do You Love Me” by Jay Sean (2009, Pop/R&B) – Explores the uncertainty and insecurities in a relationship, questioning the sincerity of a partner’s love.
“Don’t Leave” by Snakehips and MØ (2017, Electronic/R&B) – Captures the desperation and fear of losing someone, embodying the plea not to be left alone with one’s insecurities and doubts.
“Need You Now” by Lady Antebellum (2010, Country) – This song is an earnest depiction of loneliness and longing, showcasing how vulnerability can peak in moments of isolation, leading to a desperate need for connection.
“Your Type” by Carly Rae Jepsen (2015, Pop) – A heartfelt exploration of unrequited love and the pain of loving someone who sees you as just a friend, highlighting the deep insecurities that come from not being someone’s “type.”
“Don’t Delete The Kisses” by Wolf Alice (2017, Indie Rock) – Captures the hesitation and self-doubt that come with expressing true feelings in a relationship, reflecting on the what-ifs of saying too much or too little.

Insecurity in Self and Self-Esteem

Caught in a loop of comparing your behind-the-scenes to everyone else’s highlight reel? This set of tunes is your soundtrack.

“Unwell” by Matchbox Twenty (2003, Rock) – Like a badge of honor for those days when you’re not feeling 100% and the world seems to notice.
“Pretty Hurts” by Beyoncé (2013, R&B/Pop) – A powerful anthem that digs into the pain behind striving for perfection and the realization that it’s okay not to be okay.
“Soap” by Melanie Martinez (2015, Alternative/Indie) – Ever wished you could wash away words right after you say them? This song encapsulates the regret of spoken thoughts and the struggle of keeping them bottled up.
“Insecurities” by Jess Glynne (2015, Pop) – It’s like Jess took a peek into our minds during those 2 AM overthinking sessions about whether we’re ever good enough.
“Dancing With Myself” by Billy Idol (1981, Rock) – On the surface, it’s about solo dance parties, but deep down, it resonates with anyone who’s ever felt alone in a crowd, questioning their place.
“Little Things” by One Direction (2012, Pop) – A reminder that the flaws we obsess over are often the reasons someone loves us.
“I Hate Everybody” by Halsey (2020, Pop) – Reflects internal struggles and self-doubt.
“Things I’ll Never Say” by Avril Lavigne (2002, Pop Rock) – Addresses the fear of rejection for expressing true thoughts and feelings.
“My Stupid Mouth” by John Mayer (2001, Pop/Rock) – Speaks to the regret of one’s actions affecting self-perception.
“Wish I Could Be Her” by K. Michelle (2012, R&B/Soul) – Diving into the heartache of unrequited love, this track is a raw confession of wanting to embody the confidence and beauty of the one they love. It’s about the deep-seated yearning to be as desirable and self-assured as the object of one’s affection.
“I Suck” by Mark Ronson ft. Rivers Cuomo (2015, Alternative/Indie) – A lighthearted confession of personal flaws, wrapped in humor and catchy beats, highlighting the universal struggle with self-esteem.
“Imagine Me” by Kirk Franklin (2005, Gospel) – A spiritual journey towards self-acceptance and overcoming the insecurities of past traumas and self-doubt through faith.
“Lonely” by Akon (2005, R&B/Soul) – Akon perfectly captures that feeling of your significant other ghosting you, leaving you to wonder if your relationship was a solo act all along.

This playlist dives into the heart of social insecurity, where the fear of missing out (FOMO) meets the anxiety of fitting in.

“Cool Kids” by Echosmith (2013, Indie Pop) – The anthem for anyone who’s ever felt on the outside looking in, watching the so-called “cool kids” and wondering what it takes to be one of them.
“Everybody’s Got Somebody But Me” by Hunter Hayes (2011, Country/Pop) – A country-pop lament on feeling like the last single person on Earth, watching everyone else pair up.
“The Lonely” by Christina Perri (2011, Pop) – Perri’s haunting ballad speaks to the soul’s solitary journey through life, touching on the feeling of being misunderstood and socially isolated.
“Nobody” by Mitski (2018, Indie Rock) – Mitski turns the existential dread of feeling unnoticed and unloved into an indie rock bop that makes you want to dance and cry at the same time.
“Oh No!” by Marina & The Diamonds (2010, Pop) – Tackles the fear of failing to live up to societal expectations.
“You Don’t Even Know Who I Am” by Patty Loveless (1995, Country) – Delivers a poignant message on the lack of understanding and recognition from others.
“Jealous” by Labrinth (2014, Pop/Soul) – Dives into feelings of envy and self-comparison.

Insecurity About the Future and Life Path

This playlist is for those moments when you’re staring at the ceiling at 3 AM, wondering if you’re making the right choices or if you accidentally took a left turn into a dead-end street in the journey of life.

Whether you’re worried about your career choices, your love life, or just about whether you’ll ever figure out this thing called life, these tracks keep you company during those long nights of soul-searching.

“Stressed Out” by Twenty-One Pilots (2015, Alternative Hip Hop/Rock) – It’s about the weight of growing up and longing for the blissful ignorance of childhood.
“Boulevard of Broken Dreams” by Green Day (2004, Punk Rock) – It’s the soundtrack for those solo journeys of self-discovery that feel more like detours.
“If I’m Insecure” by James Blake (2016, Electronic) – A haunting melody that captures the essence of questioning your place in the world and whether you’re the only one who feels like an imposter in the room of life.
“I Can Change” by LCD Soundsystem (2010, Electronic) – A dance track that doubles as a mid-life crisis anthem. It’s for when you’re committed to self-improvement but also kind of nostalgic for your less responsible days.
“November” by Tyler, the Creator (2017, Hip Hop) – Nostalgia for a time that may not have even existed, Tyler’s track is all about the fear of making the wrong choices and longing for a safer, imagined past.
“Yesterday” by The Beatles (1965, Rock) – The ultimate throwback to when things were simpler, encapsulating the universal feeling of regret and longing to turn back time.
“Regret” by Leona Lewis (2009, Pop/R&B) – Leona Lewis delves into the what-ifs and the could-have-beens, echoing the common human experience of regretting past decisions and doubting future paths.
“Lift Me Up” by The Afters (2010, Christian/Pop Rock) – A hopeful tune for when you’re down and out about where life is headed, reminding us that sometimes, all we need is a little lift to see the path ahead more clearly.
“Cry Pretty” by Carrie Underwood (2018, Country) – Carrie Underwood tackles the difficulty of staying strong during tough times.
“Another Lonely Night” by Adam Lambert (2015, Pop) – Adam Lambert addresses the battle with loneliness and uncertainty about the future.
“Good Days” by SZA (2020, R&B/Soul) – SZA reminisces about the past and expresses uncertainty about the future, creating a sense of longing and hope.

Insecurity Caused by Psychological and Emotional States

From the battle scars of anxiety and depression to the quest for identity in a world that feels like it’s speaking a different language, these songs are the soundtrack for anyone who’s ever felt lost in their own mind.

“Anxiety” by blackbear ft. FRND (2019, R&B/Pop) – When your brain won’t stop running marathons, blackbear’s got you covered with a track that gets how overwhelming the race can be.
“Numb” by Linkin Park (2003, Rock) – For when you’re feeling everything and nothing at once, and you just want to scream into the void.
“Hurt” by TLC (2002, R&B/Pop) – It’s about the pain that comes from the deepest parts of ourselves.
“Lithium” by Nirvana (1991, Grunge) – Kurt Cobain channels the highs and lows of his psyche into a grunge masterpiece that makes you feel less alone in your own rollercoaster ride.
“Loser” by Beck (1994, Alternative Rock) – Beck turns self-deprecation into an art form, making it okay to not have all the answers.
“Paranoid” by Black Sabbath (1970, Heavy Metal) – The godfathers of metal dive deep into the mind’s shadowy corners.
“Insecurity” by Metronomy (2014, Electronic/Indie) – A synth-pop exploration of the doubts that dance through our minds.
“I Wanna Be Sedated” by The Ramones (1978, Punk Rock) – For those days when the only thing that makes sense is turning up the volume and finding solace in the Ramones’ blissful apathy.
“Liability” by Lorde (2017, Pop) – Lorde sings about feeling like a burden to others.
“Happy” by Pink (2019, Pop/Rock) – Pink delves into the complexities of happiness and inner discomfort.
“dear insecurity” by Gnash feat. Ben Abraham (2018, Pop) – A heartfelt dialogue with one’s own insecurities, aiming to overcome them through a soothing pop melody.
“1-800-273-8255” by Logic, Juanes (2017, Hip Hop/Rap) – Addresses the ultimate insecurity and despair leading to suicidal thoughts, offering a message of hope and the importance of reaching out for help.

Bonus Tracks: More Songs About Insecurity

For those who’ve ever thought, “This playlist really gets me, but I wish it was a tad longer,” we’ve got you covered. Here’s to the extra layers of insecure you didn’t know needed a soundtrack.

“Hold Up” by Beyoncé (2016, R&B/Pop) – A vibrant outpour on betrayal and jealousy, questioning fidelity. Beyoncé expresses the confusion and self-doubt that arise from suspecting a partner’s betrayal.
“So With That” by Cordae (2019, Hip Hop) – Cordae lays bare the direct expression of insecurity and the quest for love.
“Lies” by Lee Brice (2012, Country) – Delves into the aftermath of deception, painting a heartfelt picture of the insecurities and pain that lies can inflict on personal trust and relationships.
“Guess I’m Dumb” by Glen Campbell (1965, Pop) – Though wrapped in a classic pop melody, this song deals with self-deprecation and the realization of one’s naivety in love, emphasizing the insecurities tied to acknowledgment of personal faults.
“Much More Than That” by Sharon Van Etten (2009, Indie Folk) – A raw and introspective look at the complexities of self-worth and the search for identity beyond just being in a relationship or fulfilling others’ expectations.
“All by Myself” by Celine Dion (1996, Pop) – A powerful ballad about the loneliness and despair of facing life alone, echoing the insecurities of independence and the longing for companionship.
“I Need You” by LeAnn Rimes (2000, Country) – Expresses a profound dependency on another, highlighting the vulnerability and insecurities that come with an intense fear of abandonment.
“Jealous” by Beyoncé (2013, R&B/Pop) – Deals with the complexities of jealousy and vulnerability within a relationship, questioning trust and the fear of not being enough.
“I Wanna Be Down” by Brandy (1994, R&B) – Reflects on the desire to connect and be accepted by someone special, emphasizing the insecurities that come with new romantic interests.
“Lost Cause” by Beck (2002, Alternative Rock) – An introspective track that delves into feelings of worthlessness and resignation, embodying the insecurities tied to personal failures and the acceptance of one’s fate.
“Broken Pussy” by Issa Rae (2016, Hip Hop/Rap) – Uses humor to address female insecurities and societal expectations, promoting body positivity and self-confidence.
“Down Low (Nobody Has to Know)” by R. Kelly (1995, R&B) – While controversial, this song touches on the secrecy and insecurities surrounding hidden relationships and the fear of being discovered.
“I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt (1991, Pop/Rock) – A poignant ballad about unreciprocated love, capturing the deep sense of insecurity and helplessness that comes from loving someone who doesn’t feel the same way.
“Tell Me You Love Me” by Demi Lovato (2017, Pop) – Explores the need for reassurance and the insecurities that arise in a relationship when doubts and fears of inadequacy come to the surface.
“Drew Barrymore” by SZA (2017, R&B) – For anyone who’s ever felt overshadowed and uncertain of their own worth.

List of Songs About Insecurity

“Hurt” by TLC
“Lift Me Up” by The Afters
“Don’t Let Me Get Me” by Pink
“Down Low (Nobody Has to Know)” by R. Kelly
“Numb” by Linkin Park
“I Wish I Could Be Her” by K. Michelle
“Lost Cause” by Beck
“Unpretty” by TLC
“Lonely” by Akon
“Everybody’s Got Somebody But Me” by Hunter Hayes
“Yesterday” by The Beatles
“Insecurity” by Metronomy
“Imagine Me” by Kirk Franklin
“I’m Not The Only One” by Sam Smith
“Jealous” by Labrinth
“Cry Pretty” by Carrie Underwood
“Another Lonely Night” by Adam Lambert
“Perfect” by Anne-Marie
“Who You Are” by Jessie J
“Happy” by Pink
“Need You Now” by Lady Antebellum
“Drew Barrymore” by SZA
“Guess I’m Dumb” by Glen Campbell
“Do You Love Me” by Jay Sean
“Anxiety” by blackbear ft. FRND
“Love Drought” by Beyoncé
“Stressed Out” by Twenty-One Pilots
“Beautiful” by Christina Aguilera
“Don’t Leave” by Snakehips and MÃ˜
“Oh No!” by Marina & The Diamonds
“I Need You” by LeAnn Rimes
“Cool Kids” by Echosmith
“1-800-273-8255” by Logic, Juanes
“Wish I Could Be Her” by K. Michelle
“Unwell” by Matchbox Twenty
“Loser” by Beck
“If I’m Insecure” by James Blake
“Boulevard of Broken Dreams” by Green Day
“Insecurities” by Jess Glynne
“Creep” by Radiohead
“Pretty Hurts” by Beyoncé
“November” by Tyler, the Creator
“Lies” by Lee Brice
“Jealous” by Beyoncé
“I Hate Everybody” by Halsey
“Little Things” by One Direction
“Your Type” by Carly Rae Jepsen
“Good Days” by SZA
“Liability” by Lorde
“Nobody” by Mitski
“I Can Change” by LCD Soundsystem
“Things I’ll Never Say” by Avril Lavigne
“The Lonely” by Christina Perri
“Insecure” by Jazmine Sullivan & Bryson Tiller
“My Stupid Mouth” by John Mayer
“Paranoid” by Black Sabbath
“Tell Me You Love Me” by Demi Lovato
“Hold Up” by Beyoncé
“Dancing With Myself” by Billy Idol
“Reflection” by Christina Aguilera
“I Hate U I Love U” by Gnash feat Olivia O’Brien
“Regret” by Leona Lewis
“Lithium” by Nirvana
“Doubt” by Mary J. Blige
“I Suck” by Mark Ronson ft. Rivers Cuomo
“Soap” by Melanie Martinez
“Broken Pussy” by Issa Rae
“Don’t Delete The Kisses” by Wolf Alice
“So With That” by Cordae
“Much More Than That” by Sharon Van Etten
“I Wanna Be Down” by Brandy
“I Wanna Be Sedated” by Ramones
“Locked Away” by R. City ft. Adam Levine
“Scars To Your Beautiful” by Alessia Cara
“All by Myself” by Celine Dion
“dear insecurity” by Gnash
“Insecure” by Sauti Sol
“Jealous” by Nick Jonas
“I Can’t Make You Love Me” by Bonnie Raitt
“You Don’t Even Know Who I Am” by Patty Loveless

Tags: Best Songs, Insecurity