Cheating songs in Western music. The world’s forbidden love and infidelity songs.

What Goes Around…Comes AroundJustin Timberlake

What Goes Around…Comes Around (Official Video)

Not only is Justin involved in music, but he also acts and runs his own fashion brand.

With this song, he won Best Male Pop Vocal Performance at the 50th Grammy Awards.

There are various theories about the origins of the song, but the truth is unclear.

It’s a track that rather persistently voices resentment toward a lover who betrayed him.

“What you do will always come back to you someday.” Let’s be careful so we don’t end up proving that true.

IrreplaceableBeyoncé

Beyoncé – Irreplaceable

It’s a thrilling revenge song that boldly declares a breakup—because who needs a cheating partner? Sung by American artist Beyoncé, this track appears on her acclaimed 2006 album B’Day.

Although it was originally arranged in a country style, it ultimately transformed into a smooth R&B ballad and went on to top the U.S.

Billboard Hot 100 for ten consecutive weeks.

The confident image of packing his things, setting them outside the door, and essentially saying, “I’ll find someone to replace you by tomorrow,” is deeply satisfying to witness.

Rather than sinking into sorrow, the protagonist recognizes her own worth and moves forward—an empowering strength that will surely give you a boost when heartbreak makes you feel like you’re losing yourself.

Secret Love SongLittle Mix ft. Jason Derulo

Little Mix – Secret Love Song (Official Video) ft. Jason Derulo

The collaboration song “Secret Love Song” by Little Mix and Jason Derulo portrays a forbidden romance between a man and a woman who can’t be together in public.

Rather than a song about regretting an affair, it focuses on the couple’s love despite the relationship being forbidden.

While songs like this often depict more mature relationships, this one presents a relatively youthful love story.

It was also commercially successful, winning the Teen Choice Award for Love Song.

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

House Of CardsRadiohead

Radiohead – House of Cards

Radiohead is a rock band respected around the world.

Their song “House of Cards” is a classic that portrays a man’s feelings as he approaches a woman who’s already with someone.

While the theme is infidelity, it’s also a song that expresses pure love for the other person, resulting in beautifully crafted lyrics.

The melody still has a solid rock feel, so rock fans will enjoy it too.

If you’re curious, definitely give it a listen!

expand_lessRaise the rankingexpand_morelower

Ryo

Report a problem

New RulesDua Lipa

Dua Lipa – New Rules (Official Music Video)

This is a song by British singer Dua Lipa that lays out rules to avoid slipping back into a forbidden relationship with an ex.

The lyrics are striking as she reminds herself of three rules: don’t pick up the phone, don’t let him in, and don’t be his friend.

Dua Lipa herself said she related to it because “it’s the same as what I’d tell my friends.” Released as a single from her debut album “Dua Lipa” in July 2017, it reached No.

1 on the UK charts.

For anyone struggling to cut off a love they know is bad for them, the song offers comfort—“you’re not alone”—and the strength to move forward.

The video, showing friends supporting one another, is also sure to give you courage.