Unsettling Melodies: 25 Best Songs About Stalkers

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Written By John Red

Founder of Handsounds, avid music lover of all genres and tastes. 

We come across a kaleidoscope of emotions and stories in the enormous world of music, with musicians delving into the darkest corners of the human condition. Songs about stalkers stand out among the many themes and subjects that have fascinated composers throughout history as a spooky yet curiously alluring focal point. These tracks explore the unsettling worlds of fixation, obsession, and the darker aspects of interpersonal connections. They reveal the complexities of this unsettling phenomena through ominous tunes and stirring lyrics, evoking emotions ranging from intrigue to discomfort.

Songs about stalkers are common in many genres, which has spurred debates and discussions regarding the moral and creative ramifications of handling such delicate and potentially hazardous subject matter. While some believe that these songs normalise destructive behaviour and glorify it, others assert that they are works of art that shed insight on the complexities of the human psyche and pressing societal challenges.

In this article, we set out on a quest to analyse the subtleties of songs about stalkers, investigating the inspirations for their composition and the effects they have on listeners. We hope to obtain a deeper understanding of human attraction with this unpleasant phenomena and the nuanced feelings it inspires by examining the underlying themes and aesthetic decisions in these songs.

25 Best Songs About Stalkers

We’ll explore a range of musical styles, from eerie ballads to hard-rocking anthems, and find the themes that unite these songs. We will also look at the stories that are depicted in the songs, investigating the goals and viewpoints of both the stalker and the target of their fixation. The psychological underpinnings of obsession, the hazy boundaries between love and possession, and the potential consequences of unbridled fixation will all be insightfully explored in this analysis.

We will also examine the social and cultural ramifications of songs about stalkers, taking into account their influence on public discourse and the moral obligations of artists. We’ll look at how these songs, which blur the lines between fact and fiction, can both reflect and influence how society views stalking.

We want to disentangle the intricate web of feelings, motives, and societal ramifications weaved within songs about stalkers by engaging in this inquiry. We seek to illuminate the attraction and controversy surrounding this chilling musical subgenre via an objective and analytical perspective, inspiring reflection and discussion about the complex interrelationship between art and the human mind.

25 Best Songs About Stalkers – Here are our recommendations!

25: Keep On Loving You – REO Speedwagon

REO Speedwagon, an American rock group, released the power ballad “Keep On Loving You” in 1980 as a part of their album “Hi Infidelity”. The track quickly rose up the charts and became one of the group’s most recognisable and enduring songs. “Keep On Loving You” portrays the essence of steadfast love and determination with its emotional words and soaring melodies.

The band’s distinctive guitar riffs and catchy hooks enhance lead vocalist Kevin Cronin’s emotionally charged delivery. As proof of the strength of love and the continuing appeal of REO Speedwagon’s music, this timeless ballad never fails to move listeners.

24: I Want You To Want Me – Cheap Trick

Thank you Cheap Trick for speaking for all stalkers. This reminds me of a stalker negotiation scenario, quite preposterous really. The victim demands that the stalker quit spending every evening in his or her garden. Furthermore, I want you to cease phoning my home and stalking my family.

“Oh yeah?” says the stalker. “Well, I have needs too.” And he bursts into this Cheap Trick song: “I want you to want me / I need you to need me / I’d love you to love me / I’m begging you to beg me… Didn’t I, didn’t I, didn’t I see you crying / Didn’t I, didn’t I, didn’t I see you crying?”

23: Sunglasses At Night – Corey Hart

Corey Hart, a Canadian singer-songwriter, wrote the classic pop-rock hit “Sunglasses At Night” in the 1980s. The song, which was released in 1984 and quickly became popular, displayed Hart’s unique fusion of upbeat melodies with reflective lyrics. “Sunglasses At Night” perfectly encapsulated the spirit of the time with its contagious synth-driven sound and catchy chorus.

The words of the song explore themes of self-expression, mystery, and rebellion as Hart ruminates on the attractiveness and ulterior motives of persons who wear sunglasses in the night. With its engaging intensity and enduring appeal, “Sunglasses At Night” is still regarded as a treasured classic.

22: Marry Me – Train

The American band Train’s moving ballad “Marry Me” is one of their best. The song from the album, “Save Me, San Francisco,” which was released in 2010 as the lead single, presents a sweet and sappy study of love and dedication. With its true and genuine lyrics, “Marry Me” captures listeners’ attention and paints a picture of a hopeful and eternal love story, led by lead singer Pat Monahan’s passionate voice.

The song is a favourite for weddings and romantic events because of its delicate melodies and acoustic instruments, which create an intimate and nostalgic mood. Train’s poignant ballad “Marry Me” exemplifies their capacity to arouse feelings and touch hearts.

21: Have I The Right? – The Honeycombs

If you need to inquire, you already know the answer. This song is for the considerate stalker who cares profoundly about morality and the law. Maybe there is yet time to change. The Honeycombs were a group of grey-suited guys who raised their string instruments excessively high and relied on drummer Honey Lantree for a bouncy beat. Watching this clip merely to view Lantree’s hive is worthwhile.

“Have I the right to hold you / You know I’ve always told you / That we must never ever part / Have I the right to kiss you / You know I’ll always miss you / I’ve loved you from the very start / Come right back I just can’t bear it / I’ve got this love and I long to share it / Come right back I’ll show my love is strong.”

20: Andy, You’re A Star – The Killers

The Killers is an American rock band, and their song is called Andy, You’re a Star. The track was made available as the band’s fourth single from their self-titled debut studio album in 2004. According to lead vocalist Brandon Flowers, a real-life encounter he had with a stalker served as the song’s inspiration.

He stated, “I had this one girl who just wouldn’t leave me alone”, in an interview with NME. She would visit my place and phone me frequently. I had to obtain a restraining order against her because things had gotten so bad. The song is an uplifting pop-rock song with favourable reviews from critics, despite its sombre subject matter.

19: Animals – Maroon 5

The song “Animals” is performed by Maroon 5, an American pop-rock group. The song, which was made available in 2014 as the lead single from their fifth studio album “V”, explores themes of obsession and possessive love. “Animals” was commercially successful and rose up the charts all over the world because of its frenetic instrumentals and appealing pop hooks.

The powerful and ominous feelings related to the song’s subject matter are brought to life by Adam Levine’s passionate voice and the intriguing lyrics. Despite the track’s unfavourable reception, it definitely displays Maroon 5’s distinctive fusion of pop and rock and captivates audiences with its contagious enthusiasm.

18: Be Careful – Jason Derulo

The song “Be Careful” by Jason Derulo warns against stalkers. The song’s lyrics describe an instance in which a man is being pursued and bothered by someone who is fixated on him. The song cautions listeners to be careful about the individuals they let into their lives because not everyone has their best interests at heart.

The song’s message is significant and shouldn’t be overlooked, despite the fact that it is catchy and enjoyable to listen to. We should all be mindful of the risks involved in allowing someone new into our lives, as “Be Careful” serves as a reminder.

17: Don’t Turn Your Back On Me – Jackie DeShannon

The melancholy ballad “Don’t Turn Your Back on Me” by Jackie DeShannon warns of stalkers. The song’s lyrics describe a woman who is being pursued by a man who won’t leave her alone. It is stated that the stalker is “always there, watching and waiting”.

The woman begs the stalker to leave her alone as the song captures the terror and paranoia that often accompany being stalked. You might not find me when you turn around if you turn your back on me, she sings. The song serves as a reminder of the terror that comes with being stalked as well as the very real risks involved. It’s a frightening song with a lot of force that sticks with you.

16: Envy – Buckcherry

The American rock band Buckcherry has a song called Envy. The track was made available in 2000 as the third single from the Time Bomb album. Mid-tempo ballad “Envy” features a guitar-driven melody. The song’s lyrics portray the emotions of a stalker who is fixated on someone who does not reciprocate their love.

The stalker expresses their intention to harm and destroy the target of their attention because they are so overwhelmed by jealousy and sadness. The song serves as a warning to anyone who may be thinking about stalking someone since it illustrates the evil side of human nature. Envy serves as a stark reminder that some people would do anything to achieve their goals.

15: Dear Anne – Lil Wayne

In the song “Dear Anne (Stan Pt. 2),” artist Lil Wayne addresses a stalker-like admirer. The song is a follow-up to Eminem’s “Stan”, which depicts the tale of a crazy fan who becomes fixated on the rapper before committing suicide. Similar to “Stan”, “Dear Anne” is a sombre and unsettling song that emphasises the risks associated with celebrity worship.

Lil Wayne shows his dread and rage in the song against the stalker, telling her that she is going too far. He seems to comprehend her fixation but eventually advises her to leave him alone.

14: Dial My Number – Sophie Ellis-Bextor

The second single from English singer Sophie Ellis-Bextor’s debut studio album, Read My Lips (2001), is the song Dial My Number. Ellis-Bextor, Jon Levine, and Fred Falke co-wrote and produced the song. It reached its peak at number one in Greece and number two on the UK Singles Chart. The woman in the song has made it apparent that she is not interested in the stalker, but he becomes fascinated with her and phones her phone nonstop.

13: Brand New Key – Melanie

When Melanie’s song “Brand New Key” was published in 1971, it gained popularity rapidly and peaked at the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart. A young woman is the subject of the song who is being followed by a male. The song has a happy sound and an energetic speed despite the creepy lyrics, which may explain why it was so well-liked.

Although the song’s stalker is never named specifically, he is characterised as having “a brand new key” and being “a lot like you, only not quite as good”. Although the woman in the song is obviously uncomfortable, she does not appear to be in danger.

12: Crash Into Me – Dave Matthews Band

The Dave Matthews Band’s song “Crash Into Me” is about stalkers. The song’s lyrics depict someone who is devotedly in love with another person and will stop at nothing to be with them. The song illustrates how stalking behaviour may swiftly degenerate into violence and how harmful and unhealthy it is.

The song’s lyrics also emphasise how simple it is for someone to fall victim to stalking and how challenging it may be to escape the circumstance. The song serves as a warning to those in committed relationships to be alert to the warning signs of stalking and to take precautions to avoid becoming a victim.

11: I Can See For Miles – The Who

The Who’s 1967 song “I Can See for Miles” portrays the tale of a man who is being chased by his ex-lover. She follows him home and hides in the bushes outside his house, as described in the song’s lyrics, to keep an eye on him.

The choice to terminate things permanently is the song’s climactic depiction of the paranoia and fear that can result from being constantly observed. Although “I Can See for Miles” may be about a particular kind of relationship, everyone who has ever felt as though they were being watched or followed can relate to its themes of terror and paranoia.

10: Be Somebody – Kings Of Leon

The song “Be Somebody” is by the Kings of Leon, an American rock group. On September 29, 2008, it was made available as the fourth single from their fifth studio album, Only by the Night. The song’s peak positions on the Billboard Alternative Songs list and the Billboard Rock Songs chart are both at number one.

The lyrics of the song tell the story of a stalker who develops an obsession with a singer and follows them while they are on tour. Although the stalker is never identified by name, it is obvious from their gender that they are the singer’s opposite. The stalker is described in the lyrics as going to extreme measures to get close to the artist, including breaking into their hotel room and robbing them of their belongings.

9: (Here We Go Round) The Lemon Tree – The Move

Stalkers are the subject of the song (Here We Go Round) The Lemon Tree. Roy Wood, a member of the group, wrote the song, which was made available as a single in 1966. The young man in the song is being pursued by an elderly woman. The male is reportedly attempting to get away from the “creepy” woman.

The situation in which Wood was being pursued by an elderly woman in real life served as the basis for the song. The song was a success and was later covered by many other musicians, including Joan Baez, Odetta, Peter, Paul, and Mary. The Simpsons, The Omen, and American Horror Story are just a few of the films and TV shows that have featured the song.

8: You’re Beautiful – James Blunt

This song has a problem, and it’s not just the singers. Blunt’s voice is breathless and nasal. The instrumentation isn’t much more fascinating than a potato. But this song also has another peculiar quality that makes it fit on a stalker’s playlist. Unverified rumours about the song claim that James Blunt saw Shannon Grima on the tube with a new partner after they had recently broken up. Shannon was a casting director for the Harry Potter films. Do you think that’s suspicious?

In the song, James Blunt sings about how he knows he can’t be with the person he loves because he has only ever seen her in a crowded place or on the tube. But he has a strategy. What’s that strategy? Only James knows. 

7: Hey Lover – LL Cool J Ft. Boyz II Men

The song “Hey Lover” by LL Cool J is a timeless homage to creepy behaviour and unwelcome attempts. A man who is obviously interested in a woman who is not into him is shown in the song’s lyrics. She clearly isn’t interested, yet the man keeps approaching her and making unwanted advances.

Songs like this one have lyrics like “I’m checking for you day and night / I’m looking through your window / I’m standing outside your door / I’m trying to get next to you”. These lyrics make it apparent that the male is determined to seduce the woman and is willing to go against social norms (to say the least) in the process.

6: Hysteria – Muse

The English rock band Muse has a song called “Hysteria”. The track was made available as the group’s third single from Origin of Symmetry, their second studio album (2001). Frontman of Muse Matthew Bellamy penned it and the band produced Hysteria.

The subject of the song concerns stalkers and the extreme fear they may instil in their prey. The feeling of being pursued and trapped is expressed in the lyrics through the use of sinister images and potent metaphors. The song’s music has been categorised as “progressive rock” and “gothic rock”.

5: Go-Getter Greg – Ludo

The song “Go-Getter Greg” is by the American rock group Ludo. You’re Awful, I Love You, the band’s second studio album, featured the song as the lead single. Mid-tempo rock tune “Go-Getter Greg” has pop and power pop influences.

The lyrics of the song are about a stalker who is fixated on someone but does not feel the same way about them. The stalker is discovered to be unintentionally harmless yet persistent. The satirical lyrics imply that the stalking is actually kind of lovely and romantic in nature.

4: Heart Of Glass – Blondie

Blondie is an American rock band that performs the song Heart of Glass. The band’s first U.S. number-one smash, the song was made available as a single in 1978. The song, which was co-written by guitarist Chris Stein and singer Debbie Harry, is a melancholy ballad about a lady who is being followed by a man she previously loved.

The lyrics speak of the woman’s growing anxiety and panic as the stalker follows her wherever she goes. The song is one of Blondie’s most well-known songs despite its grim subject matter, and its ambient dance feel contributed to the creation of the band’s distinctive style.

3: Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic – The Police

The Police, a British rock band, wrote the song “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” and it was released in 1981. Sting, a singer-songwriter, wrote the song, which is about a man who is madly in love with a woman. The song’s lyrics portray a dark and unsettling plot despite its pleasant melody and uplifting tempo. The narrator tells how he stalks the woman and keeps an eye on everything she does. In fact, he confesses sneaking into her house and hiding beneath her bed.

2: Follow Me Around – Radiohead

The English rock group Radiohead’s 1995 fourth single from their second album The Bends, “Follow Me Around”, is a song. The incident in which lead singer Thom Yorke was stalked as he returned home served as the inspiration for the song. He felt “violated and exposed” after the event, and he tried to express that sensation in the song.

The stalker, who is referred to as being “in love” with his victim, is depicted in the lyrics writing from his point of view. The stalker’s need to remain close to his target at all times, including while they are sleeping, is alluded to in the song’s title. Follow Me Around is a quiet, moody ballad with a straightforward piano motif. 

1: Every Breath You Take – The Police

The Police recorded a song called Every Breath You Take in 1983. The vocalist is singing from the perspective of the stalker, and the words of the song are about a person who is infatuated with another person. Over the years, other singers have covered the song, which was a big success.

Despite its appeal, the song has come under fire for its lyrical content because many people think it glorifies stalking. Nevertheless, the song is a staple of 1980s pop music and is still well-liked today. This is their second song in this list, make of that what you will.

25 Best Songs About Stalkers – Closing remarks and thoughts

As we come to a close with our examination of songs about stalkers, we have a profound understanding of the complexities and ramifications present in this eerie musical subgenre. These songs confront us with the unsettling truths of obsession and fixation, serving us a sobering reminder of the darker sides of human nature.

We have seen during our examination how music has the ability to elicit a wide range of feelings, from fascination to discomfort. We have learned more about the intricate psychological dynamics between the stalker and their victim by studying the stories and ideas offered in these songs. Musicians have been able to portray the essence of addiction by blending love and possession through captivating lyrics and ominous tunes.

At the same time, we have acknowledged the moral and creative conundrums raised by this topic. While some believe that these songs glorify risky behaviour, others assert that they offer a forum for examining and comprehending the most sinister aspects of the human psyche. It is important to analyse these songs critically and thoughtfully, noting their possible influence on how society views stalking.

The analysis of songs about stalkers also reveals the larger cultural context in which they are prevalent. These songs offer a lens through which we can explore the intricacies of interpersonal relationships and cultural standards since they both reflect and impact public discourse. We may better grasp the hazy boundaries between fact and fiction as well as how art affects how we perceive the world by having discussions about these songs.

In the end, our exploration of songs about stalkers has uncovered a wide range of feelings, viewpoints, and inquiries. It serves as a reminder of the ability of music to conjure and compel, pressing us to face hard realities. We have a responsibility as listeners to analyse these songs critically and have thoughtful conversations about their ramifications.

Closing remarks:

I’ll sum up by saying that songs about stalkers are a spooky yet fascinating investigation of fixation, obsession, and the darkest sides of human nature. They force us to explore the complexity of these issues and consider our own perceptions and societal ideals through their eerie melodies and stimulating storytelling. By encouraging empathy, understanding, and discussion on difficult topics, the study of this musical subgenre challenges us to acknowledge the importance of art in expanding our collective awareness.

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