Few things can sting more than discovering your significant other has betrayed your trust. As Valentine’s Day approaches, we look at a selection of songs from the world of rock that deal with infidelity. From seething anger to heartbreaking vulnerability, these songs capture the spectrum of emotions that arise from being cheated on.
With blistering guitar riffs and soaring vocals, these artists aren’t afraid to confront the hard truths of betrayal head-on. Join us for a journey through the ups and downs of relationships gone awry in this collection of rock songs about cheating.
“Tainted Love” – Soft Cell
Soft Cell’s hit “Tainted Love” is a masterpiece in its own right, but it’s also a tale of heartbreak and deception. With its rock-inspired beats and melancholy lyrics, the song takes the listener through the painful aftermath of finding out their partner has been unfaithful.
The constant back-and-forth of the chorus further adds to the confusion and frustration that often come with matters of the heart. “Tainted Love” is the perfect addition to any rock playlist for those moments when you need to feel both angry and sad at the same time.
“Jolene” – Dolly Parton
“Dolly Parton’s ‘Jolene’ is a raw and emotional rock ballad about a woman pleading with her man’s mistress to leave him be. With its haunting melody, poignant lyrics, and soulful vocals, the song speaks to the heartbreak and desperation that can come with infidelity. Parton’s powerful performance makes ‘Jolene’ a timeless classic that continues to resonate with music lovers of all ages.”
“You Give Love a Bad Name” – Bon Jovi
This rock anthem, one of Bon Jovi’s most popular hits, portrays the agonizing feeling of being cheated on, and the betrayal that comes with it. With its upbeat tempo and memorable chorus, this song is a perfect match for fans of rock music who are looking for lyrics that capture the raw emotions of infidelity. Jon Bon Jovi’s unmistakable voice adds a layer of intensity to the message, making it a must-listen for anyone looking for fiery passion in their music.
“Before He Cheats” – Carrie Underwood
Carrie Underwood’s “Before He Cheats” is a fiery country-rock anthem about a woman’s revenge on a cheating partner. With its catchy chorus and upbeat tempo, it’s easy to get caught up in the song’s energy and emotion. Underwood’s powerhouse vocals only add to the intensity of the lyrics, making it a memorable entry in the canon of rock songs about cheating.
“I Heard It Through the Grapevine” – Marvin Gaye
This fervent rock ballad explores the insidious grip of infidelity with poetic precision. With Marvin Gaye’s soulful crooning and funky instrumentation, “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” captures the heart-wrenching anguish of a lover discovering that their significant other has been unfaithful. The song’s infectious grooves and seamless blend of R&B and popular music make for a cultural touchstone that remains as timeless as it is emotionally wrought.
“It Wasn’t Me” – Shaggy
So there’s this one rock song about cheating that’s been stuck in my head for a minute. It’s got a pretty upbeat rhythm and flow, but the lyrics are all about a dude who got caught cheating and is trying to deny it. I mean, this guy’s got like no shame, y’know? He’s just like, “it wasn’t me!” over and over again, even though his girl saw him with her own eyes. Like, what’s the dealio, man? Why cheat in the first place if you’re just gonna lie about it when you get caught? It’s confusing and frustrating all at the same time.
“Love Stinks” – The J. Geils Band
“Love Stinks” is one of the classic rock songs about cheating that perfectly captures the feeling of heartbreak and betrayal. With its catchy chorus and driving guitar riffs, this J. Geils Band favorite will have you singing along with every bitter lyric. From the opening lines of “You love her, but she loves him, and he loves somebody else,” it’s clear that this song isn’t pulling any punches when it comes to describing the pain of being on the losing end of a love triangle. So if you need to let off some steam about your own romantic woes, just turn up “Love Stinks” and rock out to this timeless tune.
