The Best Songs About Narcissistic Relationships and Emotional Abuse
Songs about narcissistic relationships and emotional abuse have a way of cutting straight to the heart, exposing our wounds while offering healing medicine. As a writer, I use language as a tool for self-discovery and self-expression, but songs can function the same way– for the artist as well as the listener.
Like most people, I’ve had many favorite songs over the years, songs that spoke to me intimately and helped me find clarity or peace. The following songs about narcissistic relationships or emotional abuse have helped me tap into the deepest places within, where healing begins.
Songs to Empower Women in Narcissistic or Emotionally Abusive Relationships
- Alanis Morissette – “You Oughta Know”
- This song is seen as an expression of the frustration and anger at being in a relationship with someone who exhibits narcissistic behavior.
- Kanye West – “Love Lockdown”
- Kanye West’s song “Love Lockdown” explores themes of heartbreak and the challenges of maintaining a relationship with someone who may be emotionally distant.
- Taylor Swift – “Blank Space”
- “Blank Space” by Taylor Swift is a satirical take on media portrayals of her relationships. It plays with the idea of being involved with someone who is self-absorbed. Taylor Swift is admittedly one of my favorite artists. Her versatility is inspiring.
- Marina and the Diamonds – “Primadonna”
- “Primadonna” discusses the theme of materialism and self-centeredness in relationships. It portrays the struggles of dealing with someone who is overly concerned with their own image.
- Fleetwood Mac – “Go Your Own Way”
- While not explicitly about narcissism, this classic Fleetwood Mac song touches on the pain and complications of a relationship falling apart, which could resonate with those dealing with narcissistic dynamics and emotional abuse.
The Healing Power of Music
Keep in mind that my interpretation of these songs about narcissistic relationships may differ from yours or even that of the artist. But I believe this is part of the magic—the subjective nature of music (and art in any form) allows it to uniquely capture our attention and provide personal meaning.
In my books, I’ve described my struggles with narcissistic loved ones. Petals of Rain highlights my years as a naive young woman trapped in a unhealthy marriage. In hindsight, I see many instances of emotional abuse, manipulation and gaslighting– the common tactics narcissists use to maintain control. Freeing myself from that toxic relationship was the first step on a healing path that led me to face other traumas I’d experienced throughout my life. In my second book, Nobody’s Daughter: A Memoir of Healing the Mother Wound, I peeled away the layers of conflict surrounding the difficult mother-daughter relationship, and explored the deep impact of narcissistic mothers on their daughters.
Navigating the healing process isn’t easy, but I have learned how to nurture my heart, create essential boundaries, and use self-love practices to strengthen my resolve. Here is an additional playlist of songs that have helped me find balance (as well as my inner bad ass).
- Beyoncé – “Run the World (Girls)”
- This anthem celebrates the strength and power of women, encouraging them to embrace their capabilities and take charge.
- Rachel Platten – “Fight Song”
- “Fight Song” is an empowering anthem that encourages resilience and strength, inspiring women to overcome challenges.
- Alicia Keys – “Girl on Fire”
- This song is about personal strength. I have run many miles with this song pumping in my ears, ushering me through my workouts. It’s a declaration of a woman’s capabilities, emotionally and otherwise.
- Sara Bareilles – “Brave”
- “Brave” encourages women to speak up, be themselves, and not be afraid to express their true feelings and opinions– all lessons I’ve needed to overcome abuse in relationships.
- Christina Aguilera – “Beautiful”
- This song promotes self-acceptance and celebrates inner beauty, reminding women of their inherent worth and uniqueness.
- Katy Perry – “Roar”
- “Roar” is an anthem of empowerment, encouraging women to find their voice and assert themselves confidently. It never fails to get me roaring!
- India.Arie – “Video”
- “Video” promotes self-love and acceptance, encouraging women to embrace their natural beauty and be proud of who they are.
- Demi Lovato – “Skyscraper”
- “Skyscraper” is a powerful song about rising above challenges and emerging stronger, emphasizing resilience and self-reliance.
- Alessia Cara – “Scars to Your Beautiful”
- This song promotes self-love and self-acceptance, encouraging women to embrace their imperfections and recognize their true beauty.
- Shania Twain – “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!”
- A fun and upbeat classic that celebrates the joy and freedom of being a woman.
Songs about narcissistic relationships and emotional abuse can help us offload our suffering. Music, like books, sparks conversation and contemplation, and can be incredibly comforting to women in toxic marriages, difficult mother-daughter relationships, or other stressful life situations.
