Obsession is a powerful emotion that has been the subject of many songs throughout the years.
This article analyzes thirteen of the best songs about obsession, from both classic and modern artists.
Each song is analyzed for its lyrical content and its musical elements, such as the use of tempo and melody.
The chosen songs range from upbeat pop tunes to dark, brooding ballads, displaying the various ways in which obsession can be expressed in music.
The article also provides a brief overview of each song, providing an overview of the lyrical content and its connection to obsession.
By analyzing the chosen songs, readers can gain insight into how obsession is expressed in music.
1. “Bad Liar” by Selena Gomez
The 2017 single “Bad Liar” by Selena Gomez has become a popular choice of song for discussion of obsession due to its lyrical content and melody.
The song provides a modern interpretation of the concept of obsession, with the lyrics providing a vivid description of an individual’s struggle with the feeling.
The looping chorus is particularly effective in emphasising the idea of obsession, as it is repeated throughout the track.
The slow tempo and mellow beat of the song further contribute to its effectiveness in conveying the message of obsession.
Overall, this track is an excellent example of how modern pop music can be used to express the concept of obsession.
2. “Private Eyes” by Daryl Hall & John Oates
“Private Eyes” by Daryl Hall & John Oates is an iconic song, characterized by its smooth tempo and catchy chorus.
It follows a narrative of a protagonist being stalked by an obsessive admirer, with the songwriters cleverly using the metaphor of private eyes to represent the admirer.
The song is a testament to the talent of Hall and Oates, combining the duo’s signature sound with an infectious hook.
Overall, it is a classic example of an obsession-themed song.
3. “Obsessed” by Mariah Carey
Mariah Carey‘s song “Obsessed” follows a narrative of a protagonist dealing with an unknown admirer, exploring the emotions of obsession, confusion, and fear.
The song provides an insight into the damage caused by obsessive behaviour, with its lyrics describing a person’s sense of unease and their attempts to confront and control the situation.
Its instrumentation is characterized by a slow tempo and a heavy emphasis on bass, as well as the use of synthesizers to create an atmosphere of tension and confusion.
Through this, the song provides an effective commentary on the effects of obsession and its power to disrupt one’s life.
4. “Shiver” by Coldplay
Coldplay‘s song “Shiver” is a reflective piece that explores the feeling of uncertainty and vulnerability in an emotional relationship.
The song’s lyrics express a deep longing for connection and a sense of helplessness in the search for it.
Lead singer Chris Martin’s emotive vocals convey a sense of desperation, as if time is running out.
Musically, the song is driven by a simple, repeating guitar riff that serves as a reminder of the obsessive thoughts that accompany a desire for someone.
The overall effect is a powerful statement about the intensity of an obsession.
5. “Hello” by Lionel Richie
Lionel Richie’s song, ‘Hello”, is an iconic ballad that speaks to the complexities of relationships and the pursuit of love.
The song’s lyrics illustrate a deep, longing obsession with the subject of the song in a way that few other songs have.
The melody is simple and mournful, conveying the despair of unrequited love.
The chorus is both pleading and sorrowful, with the singer clearly in the grips of overwhelming obsession.
“Hello” is a classic example of a song that speaks to the power of obsession, and the emotional depth of the lyrics resonates with many people.
6. “Silver Springs” by Fleetwood Mac
Moving from Lionel Richie’s “Hello”, Fleetwood Mac’s “Silver Springs” is a song that expresses the same sentiment of obsession and longing.
The song’s lyrics are highly evocative, with the singer describing a long-lost love in vivid detail.
The use of metaphors and imagery further emphasizes the depth of the singer’s feelings for the person they have lost.
The instrumentation and vocal performance complement the lyrics, adding a haunting quality to the song.
The combination of all these elements makes “Silver Springs” a powerful and memorable song about obsession.
7. “Stuck Like Glue” by Sugarland
Sugarland’s “Stuck Like Glue” is a song that paints a vivid picture of a strong and lasting romantic relationship, using a mix of upbeat instrumentation and anthemic lyrics.
The arrangement of strings, piano, and brisk drums adds to the song’s catchy and stirring energy, while the lyrics speak of a devotion so powerful it’s like being ‘stuck like glue’.
The chorus is particularly powerful, with Jennifer Nettles’ soaring vocals conveying a sense of deep joy and contentment with the relationship.
This song is a celebration of the all-encompassing power of love.
8. “Black Widow” by Iggy Azalea ft. Rita Ora
Moving away from country music, the 2014 song “Black Widow” by Iggy Azalea featuring British singer Rita Ora is another example of a song about obsession.
The song is about a tumultuous relationship where one person is unable to let go of the other even when they know the relationship is unhealthy.
The lyrics paint a vivid portrait of a destructive relationship where one person is not allowed to move on.
The chorus of the song emphasizes this idea of one person being unable to let go of the other even though they know they should.
The catchy production of the song helps to emphasize the message of the lyrics, making it an anthem for anyone dealing with an obsessive relationship.
9. “Don’t You Want Me” by The Human League
The Human League’s 1981 hit “Don’t You Want Me” is a song that captures the essence of a struggling relationship.
The singer’s desperate pleas for love are evident in the lyrics, as they express a strong sense of obsession and longing.
The track’s chorus is particularly powerful, with the singer imploring the person they are singing not to ‘leave them now’, displaying the intensity of the emotion.
Musically, the track is driven by a strong synthesizer beat, which further emphasizes the idea of an obsessive relationship.
The track is a classic example of the new wave sound, popular during the period.
10. “No One Gonna Love You” by Jennifer Hudson
Jennifer Hudson’s 2011 single “No One Gonna Love You” is a soulful ballad that reflects on the difficulty of moving on from an emotional relationship.
The song touches on the difficulty of letting go of past love and the pain of not being able to move on.
The song is both emotive and powerful, with Hudson’s powerful vocals driving the message home.
The lyrics focus on the pain of not being able to move on despite the knowledge that the obsession is not healthy.
This song is a great example of how powerful music can be in conveying complex emotions.
11. “Obsession” by Animotion
Animotion’s 1984 hit song “Obsession” is a synth-pop classic that explores the darker side of obsession, depicting it as a powerful yet dangerous emotion.
The song’s lyrics focus on a person’s unhealthy fixation on another.
Its driving beat and repetitive chorus emphasize the obsessive nature of the subject matter.
Musically, the track is a melodic, upbeat pop tune with a catchy synth riff that serves as the main hook.
The track’s production further enhances its themes, as the reverb-drenched background vocals and heavy use of drum machines create a feeling of unease, thus furthering the song’s message.
12. “Run For Your Life” by The Beatles
The Beatles’ 1965 song “Run For Your Life” is a powerful and haunting ode to the fear of being in a relationship with a possessive and dangerous partner.
With its dark, foreboding lyrics, the song expresses the sense of entrapment and despair of being unable to escape an oppressive, obsessive relationship.
Musically, the song builds tension with its heavy, driving rhythm and stark harmonies, creating a sense of urgency and a need for liberation.
In this way, the song conveys the urgency of the need to break free from an unhealthy, destructive relationship.
13. “I’m Gonna Getcha Good” by Shania Twain
Shania Twain’s 2002 song, “I’m Gonna Getcha Good”, conveys a playful flirtation through its lively rhythm and catchy melody.
Twain uses a mix of country and pop styles to explain her relentless pursuit of her potential love interest.
Her upbeat lyrics and playful delivery give insight into the idea of obsession, as she is determined to catch her love, no matter what it takes.
The use of a lighthearted tune and playful lyrics serves to soften the intensity of her obsession, making it more palatable to her listener.
Best Songs About Obsession – Final Thoughts
The songs discussed in this article all offer a unique perspective on obsession and its implications.
From the upbeat and empowering “Bad Liar” by Selena Gomez, to the soulful and haunting “Shiver” by Coldplay, these songs capture the complexities of the feeling.
Other songs, such as “Private Eyes” by Daryl Hall & John Oates, and “Obsession” by Animotion, address the darker aspects of obsession.
“I’m Gonna Getcha Good” by Shania Twain offers a more humorous take on the subject.
While obsession can be unhealthy, these songs demonstrate that it can also be a source of strength, motivation, and inspiration.
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