Best Songs About Fake Friends: Hits Exposing Toxic Relationships

John Godfrey

Fake friends are a universal experience, and music has become a powerful outlet for expressing the pain they cause. Artists across genres have penned tunes about betrayal, deceit, and shallow relationships. From pop to hip-hop, these songs strike a chord with listeners who’ve felt the sting of insincerity.

Some of the biggest names in music have tackled this theme. Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, and Drake have all released hits about fake friends. Their lyrics paint vivid pictures of two-faced companions and fair-weather pals. These tracks don’t just entertain; they offer comfort to those who’ve been let down by people they trusted.

1. Fr – Kate Nash

Artist: Kate Nash
Track Name: Fri-end?
Release Year: 2013
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Kate Nash’s “Fri-end?” is a scathing takedown of fake friends. The indie pop track blends catchy melodies with biting lyrics. Nash’s distinctive British accent adds an extra punch to her witty jabs at phony relationships.

The song’s upbeat tempo contrasts sharply with its cynical message. Nash’s raw vocals and punchy piano riffs create an infectious energy. This juxtaposition makes “Fri-end?” a standout anthem for anyone who’s dealt with two-faced pals. It’s a relatable tune that’ll have you singing along while nodding in agreement.

2. Bad Blood (feat. Kendrick Lamar) (Taylor’s Version) – Taylor Swift, Kendrick Lamar

Artist: Taylor Swift, Kendrick Lamar
Track Name: Bad Blood (feat. Kendrick Lamar) (Taylor’s Version)
Release Year: 2023
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Taylor Swift’s “Bad Blood” featuring Kendrick Lamar is a pop-rap anthem about betrayal. The track’s pulsing beat and catchy chorus make it a standout in Swift’s discography. Lamar’s verses add a gritty edge to the song, elevating its message about fake friends.

The music video for “Bad Blood” is a star-studded action spectacle. It features Swift and her squad as fierce warriors, mirroring the song’s theme of strength in the face of disloyalty. The video’s cinematic quality and celebrity cameos helped it become a cultural phenomenon, racking up millions of views and nabbing a Grammy for Best Music Video.

3. This Is Why We Can’t Have Nice Things – Taylor Swift

Artist: Taylor Swift
Track Name: This Is Why We Can’t Have Nice Things
Release Year: 2017
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Taylor Swift’s “This Is Why We Can’t Have Nice Things” from her album Reputation is a biting anthem about fake friends. The upbeat pop track masks a scathing message to those who’ve betrayed her trust. Swift’s clever lyrics and catchy chorus make it a standout song about friendship gone sour.

The music video adds another layer to the song’s theme. It showcases Swift throwing a lavish party, only to destroy everything in the end. This visual metaphor drives home the point that sometimes it’s better to burn bridges with toxic friends. The song’s popularity among fans proves its relatable message about dealing with backstabbers.

4. Backstabber – Kesha

Artist: Kesha
Track Name: Backstabber
Release Year: 2010
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Kesha’s “Backstabber” is a pop anthem that calls out fake friends. The song’s catchy beat and sassy lyrics make it perfect for belting out your frustrations. Its production blends electronic elements with rock-inspired guitar riffs, creating a punchy sound that matches the track’s confrontational theme.

The music video for “Backstabber” takes the song’s message to another level. It features Kesha confronting her deceitful friend in a high school setting. This visual storytelling adds an extra layer to the song’s relatability. Fans have embraced “Backstabber” as a go-to track for dealing with betrayal and moving on from toxic friendships.

5. Fake Friends – Kidd Kidd

Artist: Kidd Kidd
Track Name: Fake Friends
Release Year: 2020
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Kidd Kidd’s “Fake Friends” hits hard with its raw honesty about betrayal. The trap-influenced beat sets a somber tone for the rapper’s candid lyrics. He spits fire about those who pretend to have your back but vanish when you need them most.

The song’s catchy hook drills the message home, making it stick in your head. Its stripped-down production lets Kidd Kidd’s words take center stage. This track’s real-talk approach resonates with anyone who’s been burned by fair-weather friends.

6. Liability – Lorde

Artist: Lorde
Track Name: Liability
Release Year: 2017
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Lorde’s “Liability” cuts deep into the world of fake friendships. The stripped-back piano ballad lays bare the pain of feeling like a burden to others. Its raw lyrics and Lorde’s vulnerable vocals strike a chord with anyone who’s felt pushed away by fair-weather friends.

The song’s minimalist production lets Lorde’s emotional storytelling shine. She paints a vivid picture of self-isolation as a defense against rejection. This haunting track from her album “Melodrama” resonated with fans and critics alike. It’s a powerful anthem for those who’ve learned to find solace in their own company after being let down by others.

7. Fake Love – Drake

Artist: Drake
Track Name: Fake Love
Release Year: 2017
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Drake’s “Fake Love” hits hard on the theme of fair-weather friends. The track’s bouncy trap beat contrasts with its melancholic lyrics about phonies. Its catchy chorus and Drake’s signature blend of singing and rapping make it a standout in his discography.

The song’s music video adds another layer to its message. It shows Drake struggling against rising water and fake smiles, mirroring the suffocating feeling of being surrounded by inauthentic people. “Fake Love” resonated with fans and critics alike, cementing its place as a relatable anthem about fake friendships in the digital age.

8. Lunchbox Friends – Melanie Martinez

Artist: Melanie Martinez
Track Name: Lunchbox Friends
Release Year: 2019
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Melanie Martinez’s “Lunchbox Friends” spins a catchy tale of phony friendships. The song’s upbeat electropop sound contrasts its biting lyrics about superficial relationships. Its chorus sticks in your head, making you hum along while pondering the fake friends in your life.

The music video adds another layer to the song’s message. It’s set in a surreal cafeteria where Martinez navigates a world of plastic people. This visual feast mirrors the song’s theme of inauthentic connections in the social media age. Martinez’s unique style shines through, making “Lunchbox Friends” a standout in the fake friends song category.

9. Enemies (feat. DaBaby) – Post Malone, DaBaby

Artist: Post Malone, DaBaby
Track Name: Enemies (feat. DaBaby)
Release Year: 2019
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Post Malone’s “Enemies” featuring DaBaby is a hard-hitting trap anthem about fake friends. The track’s pulsing beat and catchy hooks capture the frustration of dealing with two-faced individuals. Its lyrics paint a vivid picture of success bringing out the worst in people, with former allies turning into adversaries.

The song’s production shines with crisp percussion and a haunting melody that lingers long after listening. DaBaby’s verse adds a dynamic edge, complementing Post Malone’s smooth delivery. The duo’s chemistry on this track is undeniable, making it a standout in the genre of songs about betrayal and false loyalty.

10. Real Friends – Kanye West

Artist: Kanye West
Track Name: Real Friends
Release Year: 2016
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Kanye West’s “Real Friends” cuts deep into the world of fake friendships. The track’s minimalist production and melancholic piano melody set a somber tone. West’s raw lyrics explore the strain of fame on relationships, painting a vivid picture of betrayal and disappointment.

The song’s impact lies in its relatability, striking a chord with anyone who’s felt used or abandoned. Its honest portrayal of fractured connections resonated strongly with fans and critics alike. “Real Friends” stands out as a poignant reflection on the complexities of modern relationships in the digital age.

11. Deep Fried Frenz – MF DOOM

Artist: MF DOOM
Track Name: Deep Fried Frenz
Release Year: 2004
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MF DOOM’s “Deep Fried Frenz” serves up a raw slice of hip-hop truth. The track’s gritty beats and DOOM’s signature wordplay expose fake friendships. It’s a scathing critique of shallow relationships in the music industry. DOOM’s clever rhymes cut deep, leaving listeners to ponder their own social circles.

The song’s production mirrors its theme with a lo-fi, almost distorted sound. This audio aesthetic amplifies the feeling of disillusionment. Fans and critics alike praise “Deep Fried Frenz” for its honesty and wit. It’s become a go-to anthem for anyone who’s felt betrayed by fair-weather friends.

12. False Prophets – J. Cole

Artist: J. Cole
Track Name: False Prophets
Release Year: 2016
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J. Cole’s “False Prophets” hits hard with its raw take on fake friends. The track’s laid-back beat and smooth flow mask a scathing critique of phonies in the rap game. Cole doesn’t pull punches, calling out those who put on a front for fame and fortune.

The song’s power lies in its relatability. We’ve all dealt with fake friends, and Cole’s lyrics strike a chord. The music video adds another layer, showing Cole riding the subway and walking city streets. It’s a perfect visual for a song about keeping it real in a world full of posers.

13. all my friends are fake – Tate McRae

Artist: Tate McRae
Track Name: all my friends are fake
Release Year: 2020
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Tate McRae’s “All My Friends Are Fake” hits hard with its raw honesty about fake friendships. The pop track blends catchy melodies with a touch of R&B, creating an infectious sound. McRae’s vocals soar over a minimalist beat, driving home the song’s message. The lyrics cut deep, exposing the pain of realizing your social circle isn’t as genuine as you thought.

The music video adds another layer to the song’s impact. It shows McRae in various social situations, highlighting the disconnect between appearance and reality. Fans have embraced the track, praising its relatability and McRae’s authentic delivery. It’s become an anthem for those who’ve faced the sting of superficial relationships. The song’s success proves that McRae’s knack for capturing Gen Z experiences is spot-on.

14. Real Friends – Camila Cabello

Artist: Camila Cabello
Track Name: Real Friends
Release Year: 2018
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Camila Cabello’s “Real Friends” hits home for anyone who’s been burned by fake friends. The stripped-back acoustic guitar and Cabello’s raw vocals create an intimate vibe. She lays bare her struggles with trust and loneliness in the music industry, making the track relatable to fans.

The song’s honest lyrics struck a chord with listeners, earning it critical acclaim. Its music video, featuring Cabello alone in various settings, amplifies the theme of isolation. “Real Friends” became an anthem for those seeking genuine connections in a world of superficial relationships.

15. Careful – Paramore

Artist: Paramore
Track Name: Careful
Release Year: 2009
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Paramore’s “Careful” hits hard with its punk-rock energy and raw emotion. The song’s driving guitars and Hayley Williams’ powerful vocals paint a vivid picture of betrayal. It’s a scathing critique of fake friends who pretend to care but ultimately let you down.

The track’s infectious chorus sticks in your head long after listening. Its lyrics warn against trusting too easily and remind us to guard our hearts. Fans have embraced “Careful” as an anthem for dealing with toxic relationships. The song’s blend of aggression and vulnerability perfectly captures the pain of realizing someone isn’t who you thought they were.

16. RIP – Olivia O’Brien

Artist: Olivia O’Brien
Track Name: RIP
Release Year: 2017
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Olivia O’Brien’s “RIP” hits hard with its raw take on fake friendships. The electro-pop track blends catchy melodies with brutally honest lyrics. O’Brien’s vocals shine as she calls out those who’ve betrayed her trust.

The song’s stripped-back production lets the message take center stage. Its relatable theme struck a chord with listeners, earning it a spot on several viral playlists. The music video’s moody aesthetic perfectly captures the track’s emotional core, featuring O’Brien in various lonely settings.

17. FAB. (feat. Remy Ma) – JoJo, Remy Ma

Artist: JoJo, Remy Ma
Track Name: FAB. (feat. Remy Ma)
Release Year: 2016
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JoJo and Remy Ma team up to deliver a scathing takedown of fake friends in “FAB.” The R&B track’s smooth production belies its biting lyrics. JoJo’s silky vocals contrast sharply with Remy Ma’s hard-hitting rap verse, creating a dynamic ebb and flow throughout the song.

The duo doesn’t pull any punches when calling out phonies. They expose the shallow nature of fair-weather friends with brutal honesty. The song’s catchy chorus, “Fake ass bitches,” sticks in your head long after listening. It’s a relatable anthem for anyone who’s dealt with two-faced people in their life.

18. Case of the Fake People – TLC

Artist: TLC
Track Name: Case of the Fake People
Release Year: 1994
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TLC’s “Case of the Fake People” hits hard with its R&B groove and sassy lyrics. The 1994 track calls out phonies and fair-weather friends. Its catchy chorus and smooth harmonies make it a standout on their “CrazySexyCool” album.

The song’s production shines with crisp beats and layered vocals. TLC’s live performances of this track were always crowd-pleasers. It’s a timeless anthem for anyone who’s dealt with two-faced acquaintances. The message still rings true today, making it a classic in the fake friends song category.

19. You’re No Good – Linda Ronstadt

Artist: Linda Ronstadt
Track Name: You’re No Good – Remastered 2006
Release Year: 2008
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Linda Ronstadt’s remastered version of “You’re No Good” hits hard at fake friends. The song’s bluesy rock vibe and Ronstadt’s powerful vocals drive home the message of betrayal. Its catchy chorus and memorable guitar riffs make it a standout track about toxic relationships.

The 2006 remaster breathes new life into this classic. Crisp production highlights every instrument, from the punchy drums to the soulful background vocals. Ronstadt’s raw emotion comes through crystal clear, making it a go-to anthem for anyone who’s been let down by a so-called friend.

20. Low – Kelly Clarkson

Artist: Kelly Clarkson
Track Name: Low
Release Year: 2003
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Kelly Clarkson’s “Low” from 2003 hits hard with its raw emotions about fake friends. The pop-rock track showcases Clarkson’s powerful vocals and honest lyrics. Its gritty guitar riffs and punchy drums perfectly capture the anger of betrayal.

The song resonated with fans who’ve dealt with two-faced people. Clarkson’s performance in the music video, where she trashes a room, adds to the song’s cathartic feel. “Low” became a fan favorite at concerts, with crowds belting out the chorus in unison.

21. Thank You – Simple Plan

Artist: Simple Plan
Track Name: Thank You
Release Year: 2004
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Simple Plan’s “Thank You” from 2004 is a pop-punk anthem about fake friends. The song’s driving guitars and catchy chorus capture the anger of betrayal. Its lyrics strike a chord with anyone who’s felt used or taken for granted by so-called friends.

The music video amplifies the song’s message with its destructive imagery. Band members smash instruments and trash a house, mirroring the emotional wreckage of toxic friendships. “Thank You” became a fan favorite at concerts, with crowds belting out the sarcastic lyrics. It’s a timeless track for anyone needing to vent about phony relationships.

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John Godfrey

John Godfrey is a music lover and the guy behind Songpier.com, where you’ll find all kinds of music guides. He picked up the drums in high school, which got him hooked on rock. With a Master’s in music education, he now enjoys writing about music and sharing his passion with others.

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