27 Songs About Hating Yourself & Self-Loathing
Contents
11. “Loser” by Beck
Song Year: 1993
“Loser” by Beck is an irreverent and quirky alternative rock track about embracing a sense of self-deprecating humor and outsider mentality, similar to “Teenage Dirtbag” mentioned earlier.
This song is ideal for people who've felt like underdogs or unlovable societal misfits, and it's perfect for playing in moments when you just don't care anymore and would embrace your inner “loser” with self-loathing.
12. “One Step Closer” by Linkin Park
Song Year: 2007
One of Linkin Park's most explosive hits is “One Step Closer,” which perfectly encapsulates the feelings of angst, frustration, self-loathing, and internal battle.
The aggressive guitar riffs, intensely screaming vocals, and hard-hitting lyrics work together to channel the pent-up emotions of being on the edge of breaking down completely.
After hearing this song, you might be even angrier or feel a cathartic release allowing you to move forward.
13. “Anti-Hero” by Taylor Swift
Song Year: 2022
“Anti-Hero” is one of Swift's key tracks from 2022's Midnights album, and although it wasn't the first time she's made fun of herself or pointed out her flaws (e.g., Blank Space or Shake it Off), it's certainly her most vulnerable and poignant.
In the song, she references feeling like a monster compared to everyone else, then follows that by pointing out her covert narcissism. The chorus, in which Swift introduces herself as “the problem,” became an instantly iconic lyric, as many people can resonate with feeling like this.
14. “Don't Let Me Get Me” by P!NK
Song Year: 2001
“Don't Let Me Get Me” by P!NK is an honest and fierce pop hit confronting self-doubt and personal insecurities head-on.
The song's relatable lyrics and catchy melody help listeners explore internal struggles and the desire to break free from self-sabotage. P!NK sings about how she never wins anything, can't keep her clothes clean, and fights a war against herself when she looks in the mirror.
15. “I Hate Myself For Loving You” by Joan Jett & The Blackhearts
Song Year: 1988
“I Hate Myself For Loving You” is an intense, rebellious anthem that conveys conflicting emotions around love.
If you've ever felt like you can't move on from someone who either doesn't love you or isn't good for you, you'll resonate with this song. Either way can make you despise yourself.
16. “I'm Not Okay” by My Chemical Romance
Song Year: 2004
“I'm Not Okay” is one of My Chemical Romance's most passionate songs, and that's saying a lot for this emotive band.
This song channels raw, uncut emotions through anguished, scratchy vocals and powerful drumming and guitar. It depicts feeling lost, broken, misunderstood, and simply not okay with yourself.
17. “Hate Me” by Blue October
Song Year: 2006
The song “Hate Me” by Blue October describes how the best thing to happen for the ones he loves is for them to start hating him because he's no good. That way, they can move on to people more worthy of their love.
If you've ever felt like a hazard to others and down on yourself because of that feeling, you'll find solidarity in this song.
18. “Self-Esteem” by The Offspring
Song Year: 1994
“Self-Esteem” is about having such low (or, rather, zero) self-esteem that you let a girl walk all over you, cheat on you, and ultimately break you down – then still keep getting back with her even if you know you shouldn't.
Hating yourself can cause destructive patterns in your relationship, and this song depicts this head-on, making it perfect for moments when you want to address your own negative self-perception.
19. “All Falls Down” by Kanye West
Song Year: 2004
Kanye West is known for being conceited and cocky, but one of his earliest hits, “All Falls Down,” touches on how he (and many of us) buy things and do things because we want validation from others. In this way, we're all really self-conscious.
When you're self-conscious and self-loathing, you tend to act in ways that aren't aligned with your authentic self, and it “All Falls Down” from there. He even raps about how American culture has made black people hate themselves and, instead, thirst for wealth.
20. “Hate Myself” by NF
Song Year: 2019
“Hate Myself” by NF is a deep, introspective, and emotionally-charged hip-hop track that addresses struggling with self-acceptance and the desire to break free from self-destructive habits.
If you need to confront your own internal demons and listen to music that makes you feel understood in your pain and self-loathing, “Hate Myself” is a good option.