20 Best Songs About A Bad Person

Chelsea Cooke

We all have moments when we’re not our best selves. We might say things we don’t mean, act out of anger or jealousy, or do something we know is wrong. These are the moments when we’re being a bad person. And while it’s not a proud moment, it’s an inevitable part of the human experience.

That’s where these 20 songs come in. They’re all about those moments when we’re at our worst, and they perfectly capture the feeling of being a bad person. Whether you’re feeling guilty about something you did, or you’re just trying to come to terms with your darker side, these songs will speak to you.

By the way, if you like songs about a bad person you might like some of our other articles, such as songs about greed, songs about bad guys, songs about being weak, songs about haters, and songs about having a bad day.

Mean – Taylor Swift

Taylor Swift - Mean

Mean is a powerful, politically-charged song by Taylor Swift that addresses the issue of social injustice and standing up to those who abuse their power. This theme comes across clearly in the song’s lyrics, which describe the speaker’s full-scale takedown of an unnamed nemisis – possibly a rival in love or business, but also perhaps a wider figure of authority who has done wrong by her or others in the past. Through this song, Swift sends a powerful message about never giving up against those who use unscrupulous means to get ahead.

How Do You Like Me Now? – Toby Keith

Toby Keith - How Do You Like Me Now?!

“How Do You Like Me Now?” is a song by country music artist Toby Keith. The track, which has become one of Keith’s best-known hits, is a tongue-in-cheek celebration of personal success. It tells the story of an arrogant person who used to call others “losers” and look down on them from the top of the social ladder, but who now realizes that he was wrong and that others have succeeded in their own right. The lyrics cleverly poke fun at this person’s former attitude, highlighting his regret and acknowledging his newfound humility. In many ways, the song is a testament to the redemptive power of success.

One Of These Days – Tim McGraw

Tim McGraw - One Of These Days (Official Music Video)

“One of These Days” is a song co-written and recorded by American country music artist Tim McGraw. It was released in March 2001 as the lead single from his album Set This Circus Down. The song reached the top of the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, becoming his ninth Number One hit on that chart. The song is about a protagonist who has run into someone he used to know, and recalls how that person was a “bad seed”. Despite this, the protagonist still hopes for the best for this person. The acoustic-based arrangement features a guitar, mandolin, fiddle, and Dobro. Critical reception of the song was mostly positive, with many reviewers complimenting its lyrical depth.

Haters – Hilary Duff

The song “Haters” by Hilary Duff is a powerful anthem about the toxic effects of negative people in our lives. Drawing on her own personal experience with haters, Duff sings about the ways in which such malice can fragment and destroy us from within. She boldly proclaims that we must learn to rise above these hurtful individuals and take back control of our own happiness. With its empowering message and epic melodies, “Haters” is a timeless classic that will continue to resonate with listeners for years to come.

Bully – Shinedown

Shinedown - Bully (Official Video)

“Bully” is a song by American rock band Shinedown. It was released in 2012 as the lead single from their fourth studio album, Amaryllis. The song peaked at number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has been certified double platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). “Bully” is about a bad person who picks on others. The lyrics describe how the bully makes others feel and how they can fight back. “Bully” was inspired by an incident where lead singer Brent Smith was bullied as a child. He has said that he wants the song to empower people who are being bullied and to show them that they are not alone.

Don’t You Just Hate Those People? – Jennette McCurdy

Jennette McCurdy - "Don't You Just Hate Those People" - Official Lyrics Video

Don’t You Just Hate Those People? is a biting, sardonic song about the dangers of toxic people and their ability to poison our lives. The lyrics rail against negative individuals who are quick to criticize and slow to offer support and encouragement. These unhelpful “people,” as Jennette McCurdy so aptly calls them in the song, seem always to find fault with others and are always quick to give their two cents on every matter. What’s more, these destructive individuals can harbor resentment towards others for years, often holding grudges over things that most people would quickly brush off or even forget about altogether.

Fighter – Christina Aguilera

Christina Aguilera - Fighter (Official HD Video)

Christina Aguilera’s “Fighter” is a song about overcoming challenges and overcoming a bad relationship. The lyrics tell the story of a young woman who has been through a tough break-up and is now ready to move on. The song starts with the woman being down and out, but she quickly realizes that she is stronger than she thought. With the help of her friends, she starts to build herself back up and eventually becomes a “fighter.” This song is an empowering anthem for anyone who has ever been through a tough situation. It is a reminder that we all have the strength to overcome our challenges and come out stronger on the other side.

Shame Shame Shame – Shirley And Company

Shirley & Company - Shame, Shame, Shame (1975) • TopPop

“Shame, Shame, Shame” is a 1974 disco hit by Shirley & Company. The song is about a bad person who deserves to be shamed. The lyrics include the line, “You’re so bad, you should be ashamed of yourself.” The song became a number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It was also a top-ten hit in several other countries, including the United Kingdom and Canada. “Shame, Shame, Shame” has been covered by many artists, including Bob Dylan and ZZ Top. In recent years, the song has been used in various advertising campaigns, including one for Virgin Mobile USA.

Buzzkill – Luke Bryan

Luke Bryan - Buzzkill (Official Music Video)

Buzzkill is Luke Bryan’s aptly-titled anthemic song about a bad person who leaves everyone feeling down and out. The distressing vocals coupled with driving rock instrumentation effectively capture the intense emotions of being let down by someone you thought was a real friend. Despite its heavy topic, the song manages to retain an upbeat feel that keeps it from becoming too depressing. Whether you’re dealing with a true buzzkill in your life or just love an aggressive pop track, Buzzkill is sure to be a standout hit that has you singing along in no time.

H.A.T.E.U. – Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey - H.A.T.E.U. (Official Music Video)

H.A.T.E.U. is a song by Mariah Carey that is about a bad person who feels intense feelings of anger and resentment towards another individual. The hook of the song conveys that the subject hates this other person deeply and would do anything to make them hurt just as much as they are hurting themselves. This kind of intense, obsessive hatred is fueled by feelings of betrayal, jealousy, and powerlessness, with the subject feeling helpless and unable to let go of their hatred for someone else. However, through her powerful vocals and evocative lyrics, Mariah Carey reminds us that we all need to learn how to manage our anger and ultimately move past our negative emotions in order to live happier healthier lives. After all, as H.A.T.E.U. so eloquently reminds us: “in time you’ll understand.”

Mean Girls – Rachel Crow

Rachel Crow - Mean Girls (Official Video)

Mean Girls is a powerful and haunting song by singer-songwriter Rachel Crow. This intense ballad is centered around the idea of being a “bad person,” and explores themes of envy, anger, and betrayal. Through its beguiling melody and raw lyrics, Mean Girls transports the listener to a place of darkness, offering an unflinching glimpse into the human psyche. While it can be hard to listen to at times, this track serves as a powerful reminder that we all have the capacity for both good and evil within us.

Nothing To Lose – Billy Talent

Billy Talent - Nothing To Lose - Official Video

“Nothing to Lose” is a song by Canadian band Billy Talent. The song was released as the second single from their self-titled debut album, Billy Talent (2003). “Nothing to Lose” is a punk rock song with elements of hardcore punk. The lyrics to “Nothing to Lose” are written from the perspective of a bad person. The narrator is talking about how they have nothing to lose because they have already done everything wrong. They are not afraid of doing anything wrong because they have nothing left to lose. The lyrics also talk about how the narrator does not care about anyone or anything. The only thing that matters to them is themselves. “Nothing to Lose” is a song about being a bad person and not caring about anything or anyone else.

Outcast – Kerrie Roberts

Kerrie Roberts - Outcast

Outcast is a song written by Kerrie Roberts. It is about a bad person who has been cast out by society. The lyrics describe the person’s feeling of being alone and misunderstood. The song also includes a message of hope, saying that even the outcasts can find their place in the world. Outcast is a popular song among teenagers and young adults. It has been covered by several artists, and its message of hope resonates with many people.

Hate On Me – Jillian Jaqueline 

Jillian Jacqueline - Hate Me

Jillian Jaqueline’s song “Hate On Me” is a catchy tune with a message that everyone can relate to. The song is about a person who is constantly being judged and misunderstood, no matter what they do. The lyrics describe the feeling of being unseen and unappreciated, which is something we have all probably felt at one point or another. Despite the negative lyrics, the upbeat tempo and Jaqueline’s powerful voice make “Hate On Me” an empowering anthem for anyone who has ever been judged. If you’re looking for a song to help you feel seen and appreciated, look no further than Jillian Jaqueline’s “Hate On Me.”

Dem Haters – Rihanna

“Dem Haters” is a song by Rihanna that was released in 2006. The song is about bad people and how they can bring you down. Rihanna sings about how haters can make you feel small and insignificant, but she also encourages listeners to stand up to them and show them that they’re wrong. The song is an empowering anthem for anyone who has ever been treated poorly by someone else. It sends the message that no one can make you feel inferior without your consent, and that ultimately, haters are just a sign that you’re doing something right. “Dem Haters” is a song that will inspire you to stand up for yourself and be confident in who you are.

Independence Day – Martina McBride

Martina McBride - Independence Day (Live)

Independence Day is a song written by Martina McBride that was released in 1994. The song is about a bad person who is trying to take advantage of the protagonist. However, the protagonist is not going to give up without a fight. They are determined to stand their ground and defend their freedom. The song celebrates the spirit of independence and resilience in the face of adversity. It is an uplifting anthem that motivates listeners to stand up for themselves and their beliefs. Independence Day is a timeless classic that will continue to inspire people for generations to come.

I Saw It – The Barenaked Ladies

While it may seem like a lighthearted pop song, I Saw It is actually a powerful ballad about social injustice. Written and performed by the Barenaked Ladies, this track paints a vivid picture of a person who is struggling to survive in an unfair and unequal world. The lyrics recount a series of events that symbolize the suffering endured by marginalized groups throughout history, from systemic racism to environmental destruction to horrific acts of violence.

Jeremy – Pearl Jam

Pearl Jam - Jeremy (Official 4K Video)

Jeremy is a song by the American rock band Pearl Jam, with lyrics written by vocalist Eddie Vedder and music composed by guitarist Stone Gossard. The song was inspired by a newspaper article about a high school student who shot himself in front of his classmates. Jeremy was released as the fourth single from Pearl Jam’s debut album, Ten, in 1992. The song peaked at number five on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart and number 11 on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. The music video for Jeremy features footage of excited school children sitting in a classroom, intercut with shots of Pearl Jam performing live. In 2003, Rolling Stone ranked Jeremy at number447 on their list of the 500 greatest songs of all time.

She hates Me – Puddle Of Mudd TV

Puddle Of Mudd - She Hates Me (Official Video)

She Hates Me is a song by American rock band Puddle of Mudd. The song was released in 2002 as the lead single from their second album, Life on Display. She Hates Me is a Breakup anthem about a man who is struggling to deal with the fact that his girlfriend has left him. The lyrics describe the protagonist’s disbelief and heartbreak, as well as his anger towards the woman who has done this to him. Despite the dark subject matter, the song is catchy and upbeat, with a positive message about eventually moving on from a failed relationship. She Hates Me was a commercial success, peaking at number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, and it remains one of Puddle of Mudd’s best-known songs.

Hater – Korn

Hater is a dark, ominous track by Korn that explores the twisted mindset of a truly toxic individual. The song tells the story of someone who is consumed by jealousy and resentment, using their position of power to inflict harm on those they perceive as being weaker than them. With fast-paced riffs and driving rhythms, Hater highlights the destructive nature of this kind of malice and the damage it can cause to those targeted by a hater. But ultimately, it is also a message of warning and a call for people to be vigilant about recognizing the signs of someone headed down a dangerous path, whether it be in their personal relationships or in wider society as a whole.