Songs about cheating have resonated with audiences for generations, tapping into the raw emotions of betrayal, heartbreak, and anger. From country ballads to pop anthems, artists have long used music to explore the complex landscape of infidelity. These songs offer a cathartic release, a way to process pain, and sometimes, even find a twisted sense of humor in the face of heartbreak. Whether you’re going through it yourself, or just fascinated by the drama, this list of Cheating Songs covers a wide spectrum of experiences and musical styles, showcasing some of the most memorable tracks about when love takes a detour.
Dolly Parton smiling in a promotional image, representing her iconic country music career and the song "Jolene."
Iconic Cheating Anthems
Dolly Parton – Jolene
Dolly Parton’s “Jolene” isn’t just a country classic; it’s a masterclass in songwriting and storytelling about the fear of infidelity. Released in 1973, this song, characterized by Parton’s pleading vocals and simple yet haunting melody, wasn’t inspired by a full-blown affair but by a flirtatious bank teller who caught the eye of Parton’s husband, Carl Dean. The name “Jolene” itself came from a fan Parton encountered. Despite its origins in a potential threat rather than actual cheating, “Jolene” beautifully captures the insecurity and vulnerability one feels when faced with the possibility of losing a loved one to another. It cemented its place in music history, becoming Parton’s second solo No. 1 single and remaining a staple of her legendary career.
Miranda Lambert – White Liar
Miranda Lambert’s “White Liar,” released in 2009 as part of her Revolution album, takes a more confrontational approach to cheating. This country-rock anthem is a fiery declaration against a deceitful partner. The song’s narrative centers around a woman directly calling out her cheating man, engaging in a bit of reciprocal dishonesty herself – a “white lie” – to expose his infidelity. The music video for “White Liar” further amplifies this theme, depicting a bride dramatically leaving her wedding with the best man, underscoring the song’s rebellious spirit. The track’s success was recognized with an ACM Award for Video of the Year, and an original handwritten lyric sheet was even donated to Nashville’s Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, highlighting its cultural impact within the country music genre.
Dolly Parton smiling in a promotional image, representing her iconic country music career and the song "Jolene."
Eminem ft. Rihanna – Love The Way You Lie
“Love The Way You Lie,” Eminem’s 2010 collaboration with Rihanna, delves into the darker, more toxic side of relationships marked by cheating and abuse. This powerful duet, a massive global hit, explores a tumultuous relationship cycle where love and hate are intertwined. While often interpreted as autobiographical, the song was actually penned by Skylar Grey, inspired by her own experiences within the music industry. Eminem and Rihanna’s raw performances amplify the song’s emotional intensity, painting a vivid picture of a destructive relationship fueled by passion and betrayal. “Love The Way You Lie” garnered five Grammy nominations, solidifying its place as a significant cultural commentary on dysfunctional love and the pain of infidelity within such dynamics.
Eminem and Rihanna performing together, capturing the intense collaboration of "Love The Way You Lie."
Perspectives on Infidelity: From the Other Woman to the Cheater
Trey Songz – Last Time
Trey Songz offers a different angle on cheating songs with his 2007 single, “Last Time.” Unlike songs focused on the pain of being cheated on, this R&B track explores the perspective of a man ending an affair to return to his primary relationship. The lyrics openly discuss the double life of a cheater, torn between two women: “I’m livin’ two different lives / One girl in the day / You in the night.” “Last Time” provides a glimpse into the conflicted emotions and eventual decision-making of someone involved in infidelity, resonating with listeners intrigued by the cheater’s motivations. The song’s commercial success, reaching No. 9 on Billboard’s Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart, indicates its relatability and appeal despite its potentially controversial subject matter.
Aaliyah – If Your Girl Only Knew
Aaliyah’s “If Your Girl Only Knew,” from her 1996 album One in a Million, provides a powerful stance against being the “other woman.” This smooth R&B track, co-written by Missy Elliott and Timbaland, is a clear rejection of advances from a man already in a relationship. Aaliyah’s confident vocals deliver a message of self-respect and refusal to participate in infidelity. The song’s success, reaching No. 21 on the UK Singles Chart and influencing other artists (like Erik Hassle’s gender-swapped version), demonstrates its enduring message of female empowerment and ethical boundaries in relationships.
Patsy Cline – Your Cheatin’ Heart
“Your Cheatin’ Heart,” though famously sung by Patsy Cline in 1962, was originally written and recorded by country music legend Hank Williams in 1952. Cline’s rendition, however, became iconic, particularly after it was featured on the soundtrack of her biopic Sweet Dreams. The song itself is a classic lament about the pain caused by a cheating partner, focusing on the emotional scars and lingering heartache. Williams wrote it about his first wife, inspired by the very real turmoil of infidelity. “Your Cheatin’ Heart,” in both Williams’ and Cline’s versions, remains a timeless example of country music’s ability to articulate raw human emotions, especially the pain of betrayal in relationships.
Dolly Parton smiling in a promotional image, representing her iconic country music career and the song "Jolene."
Pop and Rock Takes on Cheating
Fleetwood Mac – Little Lies
Fleetwood Mac’s “Little Lies,” penned by Christine McVie and released in 1987, offers a softer, pop-infused take on infidelity. This song, which became Fleetwood Mac’s last top ten hit, deals with the bittersweet nature of “little lies” told within a relationship, likely to mask deeper issues or infidelity. The upbeat melody contrasts with the underlying theme of deception, creating a signature Fleetwood Mac blend of catchy music with emotionally complex lyrics. Its continued relevance is evident in Hilary Duff’s 2016 cover, demonstrating how the themes of relationship dishonesty resonate across generations and musical styles.
Shania Twain – Whose Bed Have Your Boots Been Under?
Shania Twain’s “Whose Bed Have Your Boots Been Under?” released in 1995, injects a dose of country sass into the cheating song genre. This was the first single from her breakthrough second album and immediately established Twain’s confident, assertive persona. The song directly confronts a man suspected of seeing other women, with Twain’s playful yet pointed questioning. Ironically, she co-wrote the song with her then-husband, adding a layer of intrigue to its creation. “Whose Bed Have Your Boots Been Under?” was a major hit, achieving Gold certification and solidifying Twain’s status as a country-pop superstar.
Dolly Parton smiling in a promotional image, representing her iconic country music career and the song "Jolene."
Hank Williams – Your Cheatin’ Heart (Revisited)
Hank Williams’ original version of “Your Cheatin’ Heart” deserves a separate mention for its historical significance and raw emotionality. Written during a turbulent period in Williams’ life, amidst his divorce and personal struggles, the song is a direct reflection of his heartache. He conceived the lyrics while driving with a future fiancée, reflecting on the pain inflicted in his previous relationship. Released posthumously in January 1953, just days after his death, “Your Cheatin’ Heart” became one of Williams’ biggest hits and even inspired a biopic about his life, underscoring the song’s profound impact and its deep connection to the artist’s own experiences with love and loss.
George Michael – Careless Whisper
George Michael’s “Careless Whisper,” released in 1984, though often associated with prom nights and romance, is fundamentally a song about the guilt and consequences of infidelity. Michael himself explained that the inspiration came from teenage experiences of dating multiple girls and the resulting feelings of guilt when one relationship overlapped with another. The iconic saxophone riff and melancholic melody perfectly complement the lyrics about the lingering regret and emotional fallout from cheating. “Careless Whisper” remains a global anthem, demonstrating how even a seemingly romantic song can have a core message rooted in the complexities and moral dilemmas of infidelity.
Carrie Underwood – Before He Cheats
Carrie Underwood’s “Before He Cheats,” released in 2006, is the ultimate revenge fantasy anthem for anyone wronged by a cheater. This country-pop powerhouse track details extreme acts of vandalism against a cheating partner’s car – taking a Louisville Slugger to the headlights and keying the side. While Underwood herself has stated she doesn’t condone property damage, the song’s over-the-top portrayal of anger and retribution has made it a karaoke favorite and a cathartic release for listeners feeling betrayed. “Before He Cheats” was a groundbreaking success, becoming the first country song to sell over two million digital copies, proving the widespread appeal of a song that taps into raw, vengeful emotions.
R&B and Soulful Confessions of Cheating
Mya – Case Of The Ex (Whatcha Gonna Do)
Mya’s “Case of the Ex (Whatcha Gonna Do),” released in 2000, addresses a common relationship frustration: the lingering presence of an ex-partner. This R&B hit, from her Fear of Flying album, explores the insecurity and annoyance of a girlfriend dealing with her boyfriend’s continued contact with his former flame. While not explicitly about cheating in the act, it touches upon the emotional infidelity and potential threat posed by exes. Co-writer Christopher “Tricky” Stewart revealed the lyrics were inspired by co-writer Traci Hale’s personal experience, resonating with many women who have felt the unease of a partner’s unresolved past relationships.
John Legend – She Don’t Have To Know
John Legend’s “She Don’t Have to Know,” released in 2004, offers a nuanced perspective on mutual infidelity. This soulful track, produced by will.i.am, narrates a clandestine affair from both the man’s and woman’s points of view, both cheating on their respective partners with each other. The song explores the thrill and secrecy of the affair, while also acknowledging the inherent deception and potential consequences. Legend’s smooth vocals and the song’s sophisticated production create an atmosphere of late-night rendezvous and hidden desires, capturing the allure and moral ambiguity of infidelity.
Maroon 5 – Wake Up Call
Maroon 5’s “Wake Up Call,” released in 2007, takes a direct and dramatic approach to catching a cheater. This rock-infused pop song narrates the moment of discovery, catching a partner in the act of infidelity. The music video, directed by Jonas Åkerlund, visually amplifies this confrontation, with Adam Levine physically fighting the other man involved. “Wake Up Call” captures the shock, anger, and immediate aftermath of discovering betrayal, resonating with listeners who have experienced the painful realization of infidelity.
Dolly Parton smiling in a promotional image, representing her iconic country music career and the song "Jolene."
Billy Paul – Me and Mrs. Jones
Billy Paul’s “Me and Mrs. Jones,” a 1972 soul classic, is a sophisticated and melancholic portrayal of an ongoing affair. This song, which reached No. 1, details the secretive meetings and forbidden love between the narrator and Mrs. Jones, both presumably cheating on their spouses. The song’s hushed vocals and jazzy instrumentation create an intimate and clandestine atmosphere, emphasizing the secrecy and emotional entanglement of the affair. Michael Bublé’s 2007 cover brought the song to a new generation, proving the timeless appeal of a song that explores the complexities of forbidden love and infidelity.
Eagles – Lyin’ Eyes
The Eagles’ “Lyin’ Eyes,” released in 1975, offers a narrative observation of infidelity within a broader social context. Written by Don Henley and Glenn Frey, the song was inspired by observations at a Los Angeles restaurant, noticing women seemingly unhappily paired with wealthy men, implying possible motivations for infidelity – perhaps seeking love or excitement outside of a loveless marriage of convenience. “Lyin’ Eyes” won a Grammy Award and was nominated for Record of the Year, showcasing the Eagles’ storytelling prowess and their ability to capture societal observations within their music, using infidelity as a lens to examine deeper themes of relationships and societal expectations.
Modern Takes and Diverse Perspectives on Cheating
Sugarland feat. Taylor Swift – Babe
“Babe,” originally written by Taylor Swift and Train’s Patrick Monahan in 2012 and later released by Sugarland featuring Swift, directly addresses the devastating impact of a cheating partner on a relationship. The lyrics detail the betrayal and heartbreak caused by infidelity, emphasizing the ruined trust and lost potential. Swift later released her own solo version, “Babe (Taylor’s Version),” in 2021, as part of her Red (Taylor’s Version) album, reaffirming the song’s personal significance and its enduring message about the pain of being cheated on.
Ariana Grande – One Last Time
Ariana Grande’s “One Last Time,” from her 2014 album My Everything, while superficially about wanting a final moment with an ex, can be interpreted within the cheating songs context as a plea for reconciliation after infidelity. The desperation and yearning in Grande’s vocals can be heard as a desire to salvage a relationship damaged by betrayal, seeking “one last time” to fix what’s broken. The sci-fi themed music video, depicting an impending comet strike, adds a layer of urgency and finality, reflecting the potentially catastrophic impact of cheating on a relationship.
Dolly Parton smiling in a promotional image, representing her iconic country music career and the song "Jolene."
Justin Timberlake – Cry Me a River
Justin Timberlake’s “Cry Me a River,” released in 2002, is arguably one of the most famous post-breakup/cheating songs of the 21st century. Widely speculated to be about his split from Britney Spears and her alleged infidelity, the song is dripping with animosity and wounded pride. The music video, featuring a Britney Spears look-alike as the cheater, fueled public speculation and cemented the song’s narrative as a revenge track. “Cry Me a River” is a powerful example of using music to process and express anger and hurt after betrayal, though it also highlights the public and often speculative nature of celebrity relationships and breakups.
Loretta Lynn – You Ain’t Woman Enough
Loretta Lynn’s “You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man),” released in 1966, is a classic country declaration of female strength and defiance against a potential “homewrecker.” Inspired by a backstage encounter where Lynn defended another woman’s marriage, the song is a bold warning to anyone attempting to steal her man. Lynn’s assertive vocals and the song’s straightforward message resonate with themes of female empowerment and protecting one’s relationship from outside threats. “You Ain’t Woman Enough” is a timeless anthem for women standing their ground in relationships and refusing to be undermined by infidelity.
Usher – Confessions Part II
Usher’s “Confessions Part II,” released in 2004 as a continuation of “Confessions Part I,” delves into the consequences of male infidelity. This R&B hit details a narrative of a man’s affair resulting in a pregnancy with his mistress, and his subsequent attempts to reconcile with his girlfriend while grappling with the fallout of his actions. While Usher later denied the song was autobiographical, its lyrical content and timing amidst his relationship with TLC’s Chilli fueled speculation about its personal origins. “Confessions Part II” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, showcasing the public’s fascination with celebrity personal lives and the enduring appeal of songs exploring the drama of infidelity and its repercussions.
Sam Smith – I’m Not The Only One
Sam Smith’s “I’m Not the Only One,” released in 2014, is a soulful ballad that directly addresses a cheating partner with heartbreaking resignation. The song’s power lies in its understated emotion and the raw honesty of acknowledging infidelity. Smith’s vocal performance conveys vulnerability and pain, as the lyrics reveal the narrator’s awareness of their partner’s cheating but their inability to change the situation. “I’m Not The Only One” stands out for its mature and emotionally resonant portrayal of dealing with infidelity, focusing on the internal struggle rather than outward anger or revenge.
Dolly Parton smiling in a promotional image, representing her iconic country music career and the song "Jolene."
Robyn – Call Your Girlfriend
Robyn’s “Call Your Girlfriend,” released in 2010, provides a surprisingly empathetic perspective within the cheating song landscape. This electropop hit, from her Body Talk album, is sung from the point of view of a woman asking her new boyfriend to break up with his current girlfriend – but doing so with kindness and consideration for the other woman’s feelings. The song’s unconventional approach to infidelity, focusing on minimizing hurt and communicating honestly, earned it critical acclaim and a Grammy nomination, showcasing Robyn’s innovative approach to pop music and relationship themes.
P!nk feat. Eminem – Revenge
P!nk’s “Revenge,” a collaboration with Eminem released in 2017, takes a darkly comedic approach to infidelity. This pop-rock track, co-written with Max Martin and Shellback, is a playful and exaggerated portrayal of seeking “revenge” on a cheating partner. P!nk and Eminem’s dynamic delivery and the song’s theatrical tone create a sense of over-the-top fun, even while dealing with the serious topic of cheating. “Revenge” offers a lighter, more humorous take on the emotions associated with infidelity, suggesting that sometimes laughter and playful retaliation can be a form of coping.
Alanis Morissette – You Oughta Know
Alanis Morissette’s “You Oughta Know,” released in 1995, is the quintessential angry breakup/cheating anthem of the 90s. This alternative rock track, from her critically acclaimed Jagged Little Pill album, is a raw, unfiltered outburst of rage and pain directed at an ex-lover who has moved on. While never explicitly confirmed, rumors linked the song to actor Dave Coulier, adding to its mystique and public fascination. “You Oughta Know” is iconic for its unapologetic female anger and its powerful articulation of betrayal, solidifying Morissette’s status as a voice of female angst and making the song practically inescapable in pop culture.
TLC – Creep
TLC’s “Creep,” released in 1994, offers a complex perspective on female infidelity. This R&B hit, written about member T-Boz’s personal experience, explores women who cheat not out of malice or desire to leave their relationship, but for attention and validation. The song’s smooth, seductive sound contrasts with the somewhat controversial subject matter, prompting discussions about the motivations behind infidelity and challenging simplistic views of cheating. “Creep” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, demonstrating the public’s engagement with songs that explore the nuances and complexities of relationships, even the uncomfortable aspects like cheating.
Amy Winehouse – Between the Cheats
Amy Winehouse’s “Between the Cheats,” recorded in 2008 and released posthumously, offers a glimpse into the tumultuous dynamics of her marriage and her signature retro-soul sound. This track, intended for her unreleased third album, reflects on infidelity within her relationship, but with a stylistic nod to doo-wop and classic soul. Producer Salaam Remi described it as capturing the vibe of her forthcoming album: “a bit more doo-wop, heavy background vocals, male background vocals.” “Between the Cheats” provides a poignant example of how Winehouse channeled personal struggles into her music, using the theme of cheating to explore deeper emotions within her distinctive artistic style.
Dolly Parton smiling in a promotional image, representing her iconic country music career and the song "Jolene."
Blu Cantrell – Hit Em Up Style
Blu Cantrell’s “Hit ‘Em Up Style (Oops!),” released in 2001, offers a financially motivated approach to dealing with cheating men. This R&B debut single, Cantrell’s biggest hit, centers around women getting revenge on cheating partners by spending their money extravagantly. Sampling Frank Sinatra’s “Boys’ Night Out,” the song adds a playful, almost satirical layer to the topic of infidelity. “Hit ‘Em Up Style” is a unique and humorous take on cheating songs, suggesting a form of economic retaliation as a way to cope with betrayal.
Whitney Houston – It’s Not Right, But It’s Okay
Whitney Houston’s “It’s Not Right but It’s Okay,” released in 1999, is a powerful declaration of independence after discovering infidelity. This R&B anthem, for which Houston won a Grammy Award, focuses on a woman confronting her cheating partner and ultimately choosing self-respect and moving on. The song’s empowering message and Houston’s soaring vocals resonate with themes of female strength and resilience in the face of betrayal. “It’s Not Right but It’s Okay” is a celebration of self-worth and a powerful statement against tolerating infidelity.
Marvin Gaye – Heard It Through the Grapevine
Marvin Gaye’s “Heard It Through the Grapevine,” though originally written in 1966, became a massive hit for Gaye in 1968, exploring the agonizing experience of learning about infidelity secondhand. This Motown classic, initially recorded by The Miracles and Gladys Knight & the Pips, gained its iconic status through Gaye’s soulful and emotionally charged rendition. The lyrics depict the pain of discovering betrayal through rumors and whispers, highlighting the devastating impact of indirect confirmation of infidelity. “Heard It Through the Grapevine” was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, recognizing its enduring power and its poignant portrayal of heartbreak and suspicion in relationships.
Dolly Parton smiling in a promotional image, representing her iconic country music career and the song "Jolene."
Panic! at the Disco – I Write Sins Not Tragedies
Panic! at the Disco’s “I Write Sins Not Tragedies,” released in 2005, brings an emo-rock twist to the cheating song genre. This hit single details a groom discovering his bride-to-be’s infidelity on his wedding day. The circus-themed music video further amplifies the song’s dramatic and theatrical elements, winning Video of the Year at the MTV Video Music Awards. “I Write Sins Not Tragedies” is a high-energy, angsty take on wedding day betrayal, blending emo sensibilities with a dramatic narrative of cheating and heartbreak.
Have we missed your favorite cheating song? Let us know in the comments below!
