Obsession is a common theme in music, and many artists have written songs about it. Whether it’s a love that consumes every thought or a darker, more dangerous fixation, songs about obsession can be both captivating and unsettling.
These songs explore the depths of human emotion, from the highs of infatuation to the lows of obsession and everything in between.
Some of the most popular songs about obsession include “Creep” by Radiohead, “Black Widow” by Iggy Azalea featuring Rita Ora, and “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley.
Each of these songs approaches the theme of obsession in a unique way, from the hauntingly beautiful melody of “Creep” to the catchy pop beats of “Black Widow.”
While some songs about obsession are light-hearted and fun, others delve into the darker side of this complex emotion. From Eminem’s “Stan” to Sarah McLachlan’s “Possession,” these songs explore the dangerous side of obsession and the toll it can take on both the obsessed and the object of their affection.
Whether you’re looking for a catchy tune to dance to or a deep exploration of human emotion, songs about obsession offer something for everyone.
What is Obsession?
Obsession is a state of mind characterized by persistent, intrusive, and uncontrollable thoughts, feelings, or impulses that cause distress or interfere with everyday life. Obsession can take many forms, such as a preoccupation with a person, an idea, an object, or a behavior.
Obsession is often associated with romantic love, where a person becomes fixated on someone to the point of being unable to think about anything else.
It can also manifest as an intense desire for material possessions, power, or success. In some cases, obsession can lead to stalking, harassment, or other forms of harmful behavior.
While obsession can be a source of inspiration for artists, it can also be a destructive force that leads to negative consequences.
Songs about obsession often explore the complex emotions and experiences that come with being obsessed with someone or something. They can be romantic, haunting, or even disturbing, depending on the perspective and message of the song.
The Top 10 Songs about Obsession
1. “Every Breath You Take” by The Police
Released in 1983, “Every Breath You Take” is a classic song about the dark side of love. The song is about a possessive lover who is obsessed with their partner’s every move. The lyrics are haunting and the melody is unforgettable, making it one of the most iconic songs about obsession.
Meaning: The song is about a possessive lover who is obsessed with their partner’s every move.
2. “Creep” by Radiohead
“Creep” was released in 1992 and is a song about unrequited love. The lyrics describe a person who is obsessed with someone who doesn’t feel the same way. The song has become an anthem for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or unlovable.
Meaning: The song is about unrequited love and the feeling of being an outsider.
3. “Bad Liar” by Selena Gomez
Released in 2017, “Bad Liar” is a song about trying to hide your true feelings from someone you’re obsessed with. The lyrics are cryptic and the melody is catchy, making it a popular song about obsession in recent years.
Meaning: The song is about trying to hide your true feelings from someone you’re obsessed with.
4. “The Creep” Song by The Lonely Island ft. Nicki Minaj & John Waters
This is a comedic song about someone who is so socially awkward that they come across as creepy. The lyrics are funny and the music video is even funnier, making it a popular song about obsession in a different way.
Meaning: The song is a comedic take on someone who is socially awkward and comes across as creepy.
5. “Private Eyes” by Daryl Hall & John Oates
Released in 1981, “Private Eyes” is a classic pop-rock song about a private detective who is obsessed with catching a cheater. The song is catchy and the lyrics are playful, making it a fun song about obsession.
Meaning: The song is about a private detective who is obsessed with catching a cheater.
6. “Grenade” by Bruno Mars
“Grenade” was released in 2010 and is a song about someone who is willing to do anything for the person they’re obsessed with. The lyrics are intense and the melody is emotional, making it a popular song about obsession in recent years.
Meaning: The song is about someone who is willing to do anything for the person they’re obsessed with.
7. “Shiver” by Coldplay
“Shiver” was released in 2000 and is a song about someone who is obsessed with their crush. The lyrics are poetic and the melody is beautiful, making it a popular song about obsession in the early 2000s.
Meaning: The song is about someone who is obsessed with their crush.
8. “Someone Like You” by Adele
Released in 2011, “Someone Like You” is a song about someone who is obsessed with their ex. The lyrics are emotional and the melody is haunting, making it a popular song about obsession in recent years.
Meaning: The song is about someone who is obsessed with their ex.
9. “Telephone” by Lady Gaga ft. Beyoncé
“Telephone” was released in 2010 and is a song about someone who is obsessed with their phone. The lyrics are playful and the melody is catchy, making it a fun song about obsession in the digital age.
Meaning: The song is about someone who is obsessed with their phone.
10. “Never Gonna Give You Up” by Rick Astley
“Never Gonna Give You Up” was released in 1987 and is a song about someone who is obsessed with their partner. The lyrics are cheesy and the melody is catchy, making it a popular song about obsession in the late 80s.
Meaning: The song is about someone who is obsessed with their
Obsession in Different Music Genres
Rock
Rock music has a long history of exploring the theme of obsession. Some popular examples of rock songs about obsession include:
11. “With or Without You” by U2
12. “I Will Possess Your Heart” by Death Cab for Cutie
These songs often feature haunting melodies and lyrics that convey a sense of desperation and longing.
Pop
Pop music also has its fair share of songs about obsession. Some notable examples include:
13. “Crazy in Love” by Beyoncé
14. “Bad Liar” by Selena Gomez
15. “Love on the Brain” by Rihanna
These songs often have catchy hooks and upbeat rhythms that contrast with their darker lyrical content.
Hip-hop
Hip-hop music frequently explores themes of obsession and possessiveness. Some popular examples include:
16. “Stan” by Eminem
17. “Obsessed” by Mariah Carey
18. “I Will Always Love H.E.R.” by Common
These songs often feature intense beats and aggressive rhymes that convey a sense of dominance and control.
Country
Country music also has its fair share of songs about obsession. Some notable examples include:
19. “Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood
20. “You Belong with Me” by Taylor Swift
21. “The House That Built Me” by Miranda Lambert
These songs often feature twangy guitars and lyrics that convey a sense of nostalgia and longing for a lost love.
The Psychology of Obsession in Music
Obsession is a powerful emotion that can be triggered by many things, including music. Research shows that musical obsessions or earworms are common in the general population and can be more pronounced and debilitating for some individuals. These obsessions are frequently accompanied by intrusive thoughts of song lyrics, tunes, or even entire songs.
Studies on musical obsessions have found that high doses of dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward, are released when we listen to music that we enjoy.
This release of dopamine can lead to an increased desire to listen to the same song or artist repeatedly, which can ultimately lead to an obsession.
Furthermore, music is closely linked with memory and emotion. Dr. Kelly Jakubowski from the Department of Music at Durham University explains that “when we hear a piece of music, it can trigger memories of a particular time or place, or emotions associated with that time.”
This emotional connection to music can intensify the feelings of obsession and make it difficult for individuals to break away from their musical fixation.
However, it’s important to note that not all musical obsessions are negative. In fact, some individuals use music as a coping mechanism for stress and anxiety.
Listening to the same song on repeat can provide a sense of comfort and familiarity, which can help individuals manage their emotions and feel more in control.
Overall, the psychology of obsession in music is complex and multifaceted. It involves a combination of neurochemical responses to pleasure and reward, emotional connections to memories and experiences, and personal coping mechanisms for stress and anxiety.
By understanding these factors, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the power of music and its ability to impact our mental and emotional wellbeing.
The Dark Side of Obsession in Music
Obsession in music can be both beautiful and dangerous, and some songs explore the darker side of this theme. These songs often deal with unhealthy relationships, stalking, and even violence. Here are some examples of songs that delve into the dark side of obsession:
22. “Love the Way You Lie” by Eminem ft. Rihanna –
This song explores the cycle of abuse in a toxic relationship. The lyrics describe a couple who are obsessed with each other, but their love is destructive and violent.
These songs are just a few examples of how obsession can be portrayed in music. While they may be uncomfortable to listen to, they can also provide valuable insights into the human psyche and the dangers of unhealthy relationships.
It’s important to remember that while obsession may seem romantic in movies and music, it can have serious consequences in real life.
