22 InFamous Songs About Stalking & Obsessed Fans (Must Hear)

Music often delves into the complexities of human emotions, and some of the most compelling songs address the darker aspects of relationships, including obsession and stalking.

These songs provide a window into the unsettling world of intense fixation and the violation of personal boundaries, exploring themes of unrequited love, control, and the dangers of intrusive behavior. While some tracks are clear in their intent, others are often misunderstood, revealing their true nature only upon closer examination.

In this article, we explore a collection of popular songs about stalking, shedding light on the stories they tell and the emotions they evoke.

22 Most Popular Songs About Stalking You Probably Know

Here’s a list of the most popular songs about stalking:

#1 “Every Breath You Take” by The Police

“Every Breath You Take,” released by The Police in 1983, is often mistaken as a love song, but its lyrics reveal a more sinister theme of obsession and surveillance. The lyrics, “Every breath you take, every move you make, I’ll be watching you,” depict a narrator who is fixated on observing someone’s every action.

Sting’s haunting vocals and the song’s melancholic melody underscore the unsettling nature of the protagonist’s fixation. The song captures the essence of an unhealthy obsession, making it a poignant reflection on the darker aspects of love and attachment. Its popularity has made it one of The Police’s most enduring hits.

#2 “Stan” by Eminem ft. Dido

“Stan,” released by Eminem in 2000, is a narrative song that tells the story of an obsessed fan named Stan who writes increasingly desperate letters to the rapper. The lyrics, “Dear Slim, I wrote you but still ain’t callin’,” express Stan’s frustration and growing instability.

Featuring a haunting chorus sung by Dido, the song delves into the dangerous consequences of obsessive fandom. Eminem’s vivid storytelling and the song’s eerie production create a compelling and disturbing portrait of a fan’s descent into madness. “Stan” has been widely praised for its powerful narrative and social commentary on celebrity obsession.

#3 “One Way or Another” by Blondie

“One Way or Another,” released by Blondie in 1979, is a punk rock song that combines a catchy melody with lyrics about determined pursuit. The lyrics, “One way or another, I’m gonna find ya, I’m gonna get ya, get ya, get ya, get ya,” reflect a relentless desire to track someone down.

Debbie Harry’s energetic vocals and the song’s driving beat create a sense of urgency and determination. While the tone is playful, the lyrics reveal a more unsettling obsession. The song’s blend of upbeat music and stalker-like themes has made it a distinctive and memorable hit.

#4 “Creep” by Radiohead

“Creep,” released by Radiohead in 1992, is an alternative rock song that explores feelings of inadequacy, obsession, and alienation. The lyrics, “I’m a creep, I’m a weirdo, what the hell am I doing here? I don’t belong here,” convey the protagonist’s self-loathing and fixation on someone he feels he cannot attain.

Thom Yorke’s haunting vocals and the song’s dynamic shifts between soft verses and explosive choruses amplify the emotional intensity. “Creep” has resonated with many who feel like outsiders, capturing the painful experience of unrequited love and the desire to be noticed.

#5 “Invisible” by Clay Aiken

“Invisible,” released by Clay Aiken in 2003, is a pop song that delves into the theme of unnoticed love and longing. The lyrics, “If I was invisible, then I could just watch you in your room,” reveal the narrator’s wish to be unseen so he can observe the object of his affection without being detected.

Aiken’s emotive vocals and the song’s upbeat melody contrast with the underlying theme of voyeurism. The song highlights the pain of feeling unnoticed and the extreme lengths to which someone might go to feel closer to another person, even if only from a distance.

#6 “Obsessed” by Mariah Carey

“Obsessed,” released by Mariah Carey in 2009, is a pop and R&B song that addresses the issue of unwanted attention and delusional infatuation. The lyrics, “Why are you so obsessed with me?” directly confront a person who is fixated on the singer despite her lack of interest.

Carey’s confident vocals and the song’s catchy beat create a defiant and assertive tone. The song was widely interpreted as a response to rumors and unwanted advances, making it an anthem of empowerment and boundary-setting. “Obsessed” resonates with anyone who has dealt with persistent and unwanted attention, offering a strong message of self-assertion.

#7 “Somebody’s Watching Me” by Rockwell

“Somebody’s Watching Me,” released by Rockwell in 1984, is a synth-pop song that captures the paranoia and anxiety of feeling constantly observed. The lyrics, “I always feel like somebody’s watchin’ me, and I have no privacy,” express a deep sense of unease and intrusion.

Featuring backing vocals by Michael Jackson, the song blends catchy melodies with a spooky, unsettling theme. Rockwell’s vocals convey the fear of being watched, whether by people or surveillance, reflecting societal concerns about privacy. The song’s distinctive sound and relatable theme have made it an enduring classic, particularly around Halloween.

#8 “I Will Follow Him” by Little Peggy March

“I Will Follow Him,” released by Little Peggy March in 1963, is a pop song that, despite its upbeat and romantic melody, has undertones of obsessive devotion. The lyrics, “I will follow him, follow him wherever he may go,” suggest a level of attachment that borders on unhealthy fixation.

March’s youthful and innocent voice contrasts with the intensity of the lyrics, creating a song that is both charming and a bit unsettling. The song reflects a time when devotion in relationships was often idealized, but in a modern context, it can be seen as highlighting the fine line between love and obsession.

#9 “Animal” by Nine Inch Nails

“Animal,” officially titled “Closer,” by Nine Inch Nails, released in 1994, is a provocative industrial rock song that delves into themes of desire, control, and obsession. The lyrics, “I want to fuck you like an animal, I want to feel you from the inside,” express an intense, primal need that borders on predatory.

Trent Reznor’s raw vocals and the song’s aggressive beat create a visceral and unsettling atmosphere. The explicit content and dark themes explore the darker side of human desire, reflecting an obsession that is both physical and psychological. “Closer” is a powerful and controversial exploration of lust and control.

#10 “I Can’t Stand Losing You” by The Police

“I Can’t Stand Losing You,” released by The Police in 1978, is a reggae-influenced rock song that addresses the desperation and obsession following a breakup. The lyrics, “I guess you’d call it suicide, but I’m too full to swallow my pride,” reveal the narrator’s extreme emotional distress and inability to move on.

Sting’s distinctive vocals, combined with the band’s signature rhythmic style, create a song that is both catchy and dark. The song reflects the intense emotions that can accompany lost love, portraying a protagonist who is dangerously fixated on their ex-partner.

#11 “Hungry Like the Wolf” by Duran Duran

“Hungry Like the Wolf,” released by Duran Duran in 1982, is a new wave song that uses hunting imagery to describe a man’s pursuit of a woman. The lyrics, “I’m on the hunt, I’m after you,” suggest a predatory and relentless chase. Simon Le Bon’s energetic vocals and the band’s upbeat, synth-driven sound create a dynamic and adventurous atmosphere.

The song’s vivid imagery and driving beat convey the intensity of the pursuit, blurring the lines between romantic chase and stalking. “Hungry Like the Wolf” became a defining hit for Duran Duran, known for its catchy chorus and iconic music video.

#12 “Stalker” by Goldfinger

“Stalker,” released by Goldfinger in 2000, is a punk rock song that directly addresses the theme of obsessive behavior. The lyrics, “I know it’s strange, I don’t know what to say, but you’ll never stop my stalking ways,” openly admit to the protagonist’s compulsive fixation.

The song’s fast-paced rhythm, aggressive guitar riffs, and John Feldmann’s assertive vocals create a high-energy, confrontational tone. “Stalker” explores the mindset of someone who is aware of their unhealthy obsession but is unable or unwilling to stop. The song offers a raw and unfiltered look at the darker side of infatuation, capturing the intensity and danger of stalking behavior.

#13 “I Put a Spell on You” by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins

“I Put a Spell on You,” released by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins in 1956, is a blues song that conveys themes of obsessive love and control. The lyrics, “I put a spell on you because you’re mine,” suggest a desire to possess and dominate the object of the singer’s affection.

Hawkins’ powerful, haunting vocals and dramatic delivery, combined with the song’s eerie melody, create a chilling atmosphere. The song reflects a form of love that crosses into obsession and manipulation. Its theatrical style and haunting lyrics have made it a timeless classic, often covered by various artists across different genres.

#14 “Private Eyes” by Hall & Oates

“Private Eyes,” released by Hall & Oates in 1981, is a pop-rock song that explores the theme of surveillance and suspicion within a relationship. The lyrics, “Private eyes, they’re watching you, they see your every move,” convey a sense of constant observation and mistrust.

The upbeat melody and catchy chorus contrast with the unsettling message of being watched. Daryl Hall’s smooth vocals and the song’s polished production create an engaging yet slightly eerie experience. “Private Eyes” reflects the paranoia and anxiety that can arise from feeling constantly monitored, whether in a personal relationship or a broader societal context.

#15 “Lily (My One and Only)” by Smashing Pumpkins

“Lily (My One and Only),” released by Smashing Pumpkins in 1995, is an alternative rock song that tells the story of an obsessive admirer. The lyrics, “And I swear I’ll never let you go,” depict the protagonist’s fixation on a woman named Lily, whom he watches through her window.

Billy Corgan’s distinctive vocals and the song’s gentle, lullaby-like melody create a contrast between the sweet-sounding music and the dark, obsessive lyrics. The song captures the unsettling nature of unreciprocated obsession and the delusion that can accompany it. It’s a haunting portrayal of how admiration can turn into unhealthy fixation.

#16 “Possession” by Sarah McLachlan

“Possession,” released by Sarah McLachlan in 1993, is a haunting song that delves into the complexities of desire and obsession. The lyrics, “I’ll take your breath away, after I wipe away the tears,” reflect a yearning for control and possession over another person.

McLachlan’s ethereal vocals and the song’s atmospheric arrangement create a deeply emotional and unsettling experience. “Possession” was inspired by letters McLachlan received from obsessed fans, adding a layer of reality to its haunting narrative. The song explores the fine line between love and obsession, highlighting the darker aspects of infatuation and desire.

#17 “Watching You” by Rodney Atkins

“Watching You,” released by Rodney Atkins in 2006, is a country song that portrays the innocence of a child imitating his father, contrasting with the more common themes of stalking. The lyrics, “I’ve been watching you, Dad, ain’t that cool?” show a young boy’s admiration for his father, mimicking his actions and behaviors.

Atkins’ warm vocals and the song’s upbeat, heartfelt melody create a wholesome and touching atmosphere. While it diverges from the darker themes of obsession and surveillance, “Watching You” highlights the impact of being observed and admired in a positive light, emphasizing role modeling and familial bonds.

#18 “Under My Thumb” by The Rolling Stones

“Under My Thumb,” released by The Rolling Stones in 1966, is a rock song that explores themes of control and dominance in a relationship. The lyrics, “Under my thumb, the girl who once had me down,” depict a shift in power dynamics, with the narrator asserting control over his partner.

Mick Jagger’s confident vocals and the song’s catchy melody create a sense of swagger and triumph. While not explicitly about stalking, the song’s themes of manipulation and control reflect an unhealthy relationship dynamic. “Under My Thumb” captures the complexities of power and control in relationships, highlighting the darker aspects of love and possession.

#19 “I Want You to Want Me” by Cheap Trick

“I Want You to Want Me,” released by Cheap Trick in 1977, is a rock song that expresses a yearning for reciprocal affection. The lyrics, “I want you to want me, I need you to need me,” convey the narrator’s intense desire for the object of his affection to feel the same way. Robin Zander’s heartfelt vocals and the band’s infectious, upbeat melody create a sense of longing and urgency.

While the song is generally upbeat, the repetitive nature of the chorus suggests a deep, almost obsessive longing for validation and love. This theme of intense desire for mutual affection can border on obsession, reflecting the anxieties of unrequited love.

#20 “Gonna Get Close to You” by Queensrÿche

“Gonna Get Close to You,” released by Queensrÿche in 1986, is a dark, synth-heavy rock song that delves into themes of obsession and stalking. The lyrics, “I’m gonna get close to you, oh so close to you,” depict the narrator’s fixation and intent to be near the person they are obsessed with, regardless of boundaries.

Geoff Tate’s eerie, seductive vocals and the song’s haunting melody create a menacing and intense atmosphere. The song explores the mindset of someone who is fixated on another person to the point of disregarding their autonomy, making it a chilling portrayal of stalking behavior.

#21 “Wicked Game” by Chris Isaak

“Wicked Game,” released by Chris Isaak in 1989, is a haunting rock ballad that explores themes of unrequited love and emotional turmoil. The lyrics, “What a wicked game you played, to make me feel this way,” express the pain and obsession of loving someone who does not reciprocate those feelings.

Isaak’s smooth, melancholic vocals and the song’s ethereal guitar melody create a haunting and introspective atmosphere. The song captures the emotional rollercoaster of an unbalanced relationship where one person is deeply invested while the other remains distant, evoking feelings of obsession and heartache.

#22 “Don’t Stand So Close to Me” by The Police

“Don’t Stand So Close to Me,” released by The Police in 1980, is a song that tells the story of an inappropriate attraction between a teacher and a student. The lyrics, “Temptation, frustration, so bad it makes him cry,” reflect the tension and moral conflict of the situation.

Sting’s expressive vocals, combined with the band’s reggae-influenced rock sound, create a compelling narrative about boundaries and inappropriate obsession. The song explores the theme of forbidden attraction and the dangerous line between admiration and inappropriate behavior, making it a cautionary tale about the importance of respecting boundaries in relationships.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are common themes explored in songs about stalking?

Common themes in songs about stalking include obsession, unrequited love, control, and surveillance. These songs often depict the darker side of infatuation and the impact of intrusive behavior.

Why do artists write songs about stalking?

Artists write songs about stalking to explore complex emotional states and the boundaries of relationships. These themes provide a narrative to address the dangers of obsession and the importance of respecting personal boundaries.

How do songs about stalking typically portray the protagonist?

Songs about stalking often portray the protagonist as deeply obsessed, emotionally unstable, and unable to respect boundaries. The lyrics and tone usually convey a sense of desperation and fixation on the subject of their obsession.

Are there any famous songs about stalking that were misunderstood as love songs?

Yes, “Every Breath You Take” by The Police is often misunderstood as a love song, but its lyrics reveal a theme of obsessive surveillance. Similarly, “One Way or Another” by Blondie is frequently seen as a playful pursuit, but its lyrics convey a more intense and unsettling fixation.