[2026] A roundup of classic and popular Western songs about jealousy

Jealousy (From the Vault)Tove Lo

Jealousy (From the Vault)

A rare track from Swedish singer-songwriter Tove Lo, released after ten years! It’s a once-shelved song that was put away at the time of her debut for being “too pop,” and over a sparkling electropop sound she sings about a blazing fire of jealousy.

In her characteristically frank words, she lays out the possessiveness of not wanting to let anyone else have the one she loves and her raw feelings toward a rival.

When such messy jealousy is sung over a tune this pop, its rawness almost startles you.

Savor the striking imbalance between the bitter lyrics and the catchy melody!

Baby, I’m Jealous (ft. Doja Cat)Bebe Rexha

Bebe Rexha – Baby, I’m Jealous (Lyrics) ft. Doja Cat

A track by American singer-songwriter Bebe Rexha teaming up with rapper Doja Cat.

True to its straightforward title, “Baby, I’m Jealous,” it captures a modern state of mind—feeling jealous of other women on social media.

According to Bebe Rexha, the song was sparked by her talking in the studio about a real experience of feeling uneasy about her partner’s behavior.

It’s fascinating how a theme as messy as jealousy can sound oddly charming when paired with funky, energetic production.

The powerful back-and-forth between the two artists is another highlight in this exhilarating pop tune.

You Belong With MeTaylor Swift

Taylor Swift – You Belong With Me

The person standing next to the one you love is someone other than you.

This signature song by American artist Taylor Swift belts out that frustrating, unrequited jealousy over an up-tempo melody.

Its lyrics—contrasting his glamorous girlfriend with the plain, unnoticed self watching from the bleachers—leave a poignant impression of a tender, aching heart.

Many will relate to the tight squeeze in your chest when she pleads, “I’m the one who understands you best.” The bright, catchy sound only makes the jealousy and frustration stand out more, cutting straight to the heart.

This is a track that poppily speaks for those helpless, pent-up feelings.

Jealous GuyJohn Lennon

JEALOUS GUY. (Ultimate Mix, 2020) – John Lennon and The Plastic Ono Band (w the Flux Fiddlers)

It’s an apology song from a jealous man to the object of his jealousy.

It was included on Lennon’s 1971 album Imagine and was released as a single in November 1985, five years after his death.

It has become one of his most covered solo songs.

You Oughta KnowAlanis Morissette

Alanis Morissette – You Oughta Know (Official 4K Music Video)

“You who abandoned me should know.” That’s the kind of scathing message hurled by this song from Canadian artist Alanis Morissette.

It seethes with raw jealousy and anger toward an ex who seems happy with a new partner.

Set to an intense sound featuring members of the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Morissette’s strained, wrung-out vocals feel as if they’re voicing the listener’s own inner scream.

The startlingly vivid lyrics—like the part about causing trouble in a movie theater—are sure to make you catch your breath.

For anyone carrying the unfairness and rage that love can bring, this track might even feel cathartic, as if it’s washing away the sediment that’s settled in the depths of your heart.