Suspicion, betrayal, and the cold satisfaction of payback. Few subjects have given pop and country more great songs than a partner who strayed.
Updated 2026
Before He Cheats by Carrie Underwood 2006
Revenge taken out on a cheater's truck.
Jolene by Dolly Parton 1973
Begging the other woman to please not take her man.
Your Cheatin' Heart by Hank Williams 1953
The guilt that keeps you awake, sung plain.
You're So Vain by Carly Simon 1972
A withering portrait of a self-absorbed lover.
Cry Me a River by Justin Timberlake 2002
Payback set to a beat, with the receipts.
Hit 'Em Up Style (Oops!) by Blu Cantrell 2001
Spending his money as the revenge of choice.
Irreplaceable by Beyonce 2006
To the left, to the left; you are replaceable.
You Oughta Know by Alanis Morissette 1995
Scorched earth after being left for someone else.
For the moment you stop forgiving and start leaving.
These Boots Are Made for Walkin' by Nancy Sinatra 1966
Done being lied to, and walking right out.
I Heard It Through the Grapevine by Marvin Gaye 1968
Learning of the betrayal from everyone but the person.