Listen to these 17 songs that will help you get over a breakup

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Megan Thee Stallion

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Most of the time, people turn to sad music after a breakup, but this can sometimes amplify your emotions and keep you trapped in a vicious cycle of pain. Instead, it’s important to listen to music that affirms you and reminds you of who you are. Hip hop and R&B are genres that do just that, offering comfort and empowerment in equal measure. Music in general has a unique way of soothing the soul and helping you process your feelings to eventually find closure.

From Summer Walker’s emotional ballads to Sexyy Redd’s unfiltered honesty, here are 17 tracks to help you find your strength, remember your worth, and guide you on the path to healing. Press play and let these songs uplift you and guide you through the journey of healing your broken heart.

1. Roster by Jazmine Sullivan

Featured on Jazmine Sullivan’s acclaimed album Heaux Tales, Mo’ Tales: The Deluxe Version“Roster” is a powerful anthem that’s perfect for anyone going through a breakup. The Philadelphia artist sings about openly keeping a list of men without developing feelings. She promotes free dating and outspokenly defies societal norms that often prevent women from dating.

Sullivan sets the tone for “Roster” in the opening lines by boldly declaring, “Toxic, call me toxic / But you’ll never call me stupid / I’ve got a long list in my pocket / I’ve been told I’m reckless before.” Her defiant lyrics encourage listeners to take control of their love life and not settle for less than they deserve. This record is the perfect reminder that you have options and your happiness should always come first, especially after a breakup.

2. Unloyal by Summer Walker and Ari Lennox

“Unloyal” by Walker and Ari Lennox is a sensual R&B song that promotes independence and self-respect. From the Atlanta singer’s album Still over itThe song addresses the importance of not staying in a relationship because of infidelity, disrespect and immaturity. With soulful vocals and liberating lyrics, the R&B powerhouses celebrate the strength of independent women who know their worth. “Unloyal” can resonate deeply with anyone who has had to regain their power and leave a toxic relationship behind.

3. FNF (Let’s Go) by Hitkidd and GloRilla

The title of Hitkidd and GloRilla’s viral sensation “FNF (Let’s Go)” says it all. Its empowering message undeniably makes the song a powerful anthem when it comes to getting over a breakup. The acronym stands for “F**kn**ga free” and symbolizes freedom from toxic relationships. The track, which was GloRilla’s first mainstream hit, came after her 60-day weaning from men and alcohol and gave the rapper a new sense of self-worth and independence. With its catchy rhythms and bold lyrics, the Hitkidd-produced chart-topper celebrates letting go of the shackles of an unfaithful partner and reminds listeners that they deserve better and are stronger without them.

4. Plan B by Megan Thee Stallion

Megan Thee Stallion’s “Plan B” is a raw and relatable song that will take you out of your feelings and put you in your pocket. Megan sets the tone from the start, declaring, “Dear f**kn**ga, I still can’t believe I used to sleep with you,” and letting listeners know they are not alone in regretting their ex. Every bar speaks to anyone who has experienced betrayal and heartbreak before realizing they are the prize. The song’s chorus serves as a powerful reminder for women to put self-love above all else and realize that true fulfillment comes from within—you don’t have to seek validation from a partner who doesn’t deserve you.

5. Don’t Trust No N**ga by Khia feat. DSD

Khia’s “Don’t Trust No N**ga” captivates audiences with its timeless sound and clear message. It urges women to be skeptical of men. The “My Neck, My Back” rapper offers a graphic list of behaviors men can engage in – lying, cheating with your sister, gaslighting and more – that many listeners have unfortunately experienced first-hand. While she also offers some tips on how to deal with these men, the overarching message is clear: Don’t trust them.

6. You got it from Vedo

In 2020, Usher’s protégé released “You Got It,” a motivational song that encourages women to prioritize self-improvement, including education, finding purpose, and financial stability. Vedo emphasizes the value of inner strength and resilience, encouraging listeners to persevere despite the waves of emotions a breakup can bring. The viral hit even highlights the presence of caring men who are ready to support women on their journey to fulfillment.

7. None Of Your Concern by Jhené Aiko featuring Big Sean

Jhené Aiko’s single “None Of Your Concern” featuring Big Sean captures the emotional journey of a woman who begins to feel a shift in the energy of her relationship. She hears troubling rumors and witnesses disrespectful actions from her husband, making her question whether the relationship is worth repairing. However, the song truly shines when she finds the strength to put her own well-being first and walk away. Aiko’s powerful words and soulful delivery speak to anyone who has experienced the heartache of realizing they deserve better and choosing to move on with strength and self-respect.

8. I Hate You by SZA

From her album SOSSZA’s famous “I Hate U” speaks to anyone stuck in a toxic relationship. The record embodies raw emotion in an eerie melody, capturing the agony of falling in love with someone who is ultimately not good for you. For listeners struggling with the complications of unhealthy relationships, the track’s honest lyrics can be an outlet for their anger. “I Hate U” debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming SZA’s first No. 1 hit and cementing his reputation as a relatable breakup song.

9. Back to the Streets by Saweetie featuring Jhené Aiko

This iconic hit from Saweetie advocates letting go of relationships without resistance or hesitation. The empowering message of “Back to the Streets” encourages listeners to embrace their freedom and explore new possibilities without looking back. With its catchy beats and assertive lyrics, the song reminds listeners to persevere and recognize their worth, even in the face of heartbreak.

10. Leave Her Alone by Dess Dior with Skilla Baby and Rob49

“Leave Her Alone” by Dess Dior, featuring Skilla Baby and Rob49, sets a strong tone on how one should court a woman, emphasizing the importance of respect and sincere effort. Dess Dior’s confident lyrics, such as, “I don’t want him when he’s sassy / I got class / You gotta court me, not attack me,” set a standard for dignity and civility in relationships. Skilla Baby echoes this sentiment in the chorus, reinforcing that a confident, independent woman is one to care for and court during a relationship. “Leave Her Alone” supports the sentiment that women should value themselves and never settle for less than true admiration and respect from a partner.

11. “Break Your Windows” by Jazmine Sullivan

“Bust Your Windows” is a liberating song that evokes deep sadness and betrayal. It features passionate vocals and emotional lyrics. These elements provide an effective way to process anger and frustration after a breakup. The imagery of broken windows in this iconic piece represents the release of pent-up emotions and the desire for revenge. Sullivan’s gentle vocals on this record can provide listeners with closure and motivate them to move on with renewed strength and determination.

12. I Don’t F**k With You by Big Sean feat. E-40

Following his split from actress Naya Rivera, Big Sean’s “I Don’t F**k With You” became a well-known breakup anthem. Its energetic rhythm and catchy chorus inspire movement and offer a welcome distraction from the emotional burden of heartbreak. With fierce lyrics that exude confidence and indifference, “I Don’t F**k With You” serves as a mantra to move on and let go of past hurts. Listening to this track can shift your mindset from ruminating about the breakup to a lighthearted attitude, inspiring you to move on with renewed determination and self-assurance.

13. Take A Bow by Rihanna

This outstanding single from Rihanna’s album Good Girl Gone Bad: Reloaded highlights the Bajan artist’s emotional vocals. The sensitive lyrics of “Take A Bow” reveal that the relationship she believed in was just a facade. With a haunting melody and instrumentation that sets the stage for introspection, the track may resonate with listeners struggling with disappointment after a breakup. As the multi-talented artist sings the song’s title, she metaphorically declares that the show is over, signaling her willingness to move on and put her happiness first.

14. Best Thing I Never Had by Beyoncé

“Best Thing I Never Had” describes the journey of realizing a relationship wasn’t meant to be. In the single, Beyoncé expresses her initial longing to be in a relationship with someone, only to later accept that the romance that never came to be was for the best. The Houston superstar captures the emotions of moving on and finding release by letting go of what wasn’t meant for her. Sometimes the greatest blessings come in the form of unanswered prayers and failed relationships.

15. Bow Bow Bow (F My Baby Dad) by Sexyy Red

This unconventional yet powerful record brings a sense of confidence and sass to the healing process. With lyrics like “I’m a fine-a** b**ch, I ain’t in the house sad,” this track from Sexyy Redd embodies resilience and self-assurance, encouraging listeners to recognize their worth and reclaim their autonomy. The song’s bold attitude serves as a rallying cry to get off the couch and enjoy life after the breakup. “Bow Bow Bow (F My Baby Dad)” is uniquely specific and is guaranteed to lift spirits and inspire listeners to move through their lives with newfound confidence.

16. Single Again by Trina

From her 2008 album, Still Da BaddestTrina’s “Single Again” remains a definitive breakup anthem. The song’s Miami vibe and Southern beat embody the freedom that comes with being single. The rapper’s unapologetic admiration of singlehood resonates with listeners, making the song a timeless one for anyone dealing with the aftermath of a breakup. Even years after its release, “Single Again” continues to encourage and inspire those who are regaining their strength and identity after a breakup.

17. I’m Single by Lil Wayne feat. Drake

Lil Wayne’s “I’m Single” tells the story of a woman who wants a committed relationship while her romantic interest wants a casual relationship with benefits. The song’s gentle, introspective mood describes the emotional conflict between wanting companionship and valuing autonomy. The rapper’s sensitive lyrics and laid-back manner underscore his inner conflict and the woman’s frustration. From Lil Wayne’s 2010 album, I am not a human beingThe track openly explores relationship dynamics, which will resonate with fans in similar situations.