F%#k Love: 20 Tracks for the Anti-Valentine Day's Revolution

Forget the flowers, the chocolates, and the sappy love songs – today, we're cranking up the volume on heartbreak and rebellion. From sassy anthems to empowering ballads, get ready to stick it to Cupid with these tracks that are as cool as they are edgy. It's time to dive into the world of music that says "screw romance" in the most badass way possible.

1/ "Don't Start Now" from Dua Lipa's 'Future Nostalgia' (2020)

Where do we even begin with this track? THAT cowbell?! THOSE lyrics?! Following her killer self-titled debut album, Dua Lipa kicked down the door even more with "Don't Start Now", which became the ultimate disco-infused anthem for flipping the bird to love and embracing independence with a strut. Its infectious beat and empowering lyrics made it the go-to track for anyone looking to dance away their heartbreak. 

2/ "Nobody" from Mitski's 'Be The Cowboy' (2018)

Of course, a track that has "Venus, planet of love, was destroyed by global warming" was going to make this list. Its melancholic yet catchy melody captures the essence of loneliness and longing, making it the ideal soundtrack for those who'd rather spend Valentine's Day wallowing in self-pity than indulging in heart-shaped chocolates.

3/ "That's What You Get" from Paramore's 'Riot!' (2007)

This pop-punk classic is a snarky, tongue-in-cheek reminder of what can happen when you let your heart win. Paramore's "That's What You Get" is like a sonic punch in the gut, with its iconic hook and explosive energy. It became an anthem for the broken-hearted, perfect for those who'd rather scream along to Hayley Williams' fierce vocals than wallow in Valentine's Day sentimentality.

4/ "Back To Black" from Amy Winehouse's 'Back To Black' (2006)

Amy Winehouse's "Back to Black" isn't just a song; it's a soulful lament that resonates with anyone who's ever experienced heartbreak. With its raw vocals and haunting melody, it's no wonder the track became an instant cultural phenomenon, earning critical acclaim and widespread recognition. Perfect for those who prefer their Valentine's Day with a side of melancholy, "Back to Black" is the ultimate soundtrack for drowning out all the lovey-dovey nonsense. 

5/ "The Less I Know The Better" from Tame Impala's 'Currents' (2015)

Tame Impala's "The Less I Know The Better" is like a psychedelic trip through the murky waters of love and lust. Perfect for those who'd rather avoid the Valentine's Day circus, "The Less I Know The Better" is the ultimate anthem for those who prefer to keep their hearts safely guarded and their dance moves unrestricted. Trevor, if we catch ya, it's on sight!

6/ "You Oughta Know" from Alanis Morissette's 'The Collection' (2005)

Let's be honest here – we've all done wild karaoke to this track at least once in our lives. Headbanging, hands on heart, absolutely going for it. Alanis Morissette's "You Oughta Know" is the ultimate anthem for anyone scorned by love, with its raw emotion and biting lyrics. For those who'd rather shoot evil eyes to Cupid than swoon over roses, "You Oughta Know" is the ultimate Anti-Valentine track, reminding us all that sometimes the best revenge is a killer song.

7/ "Dead To Me" from Kali Uchis' 'Isolation' (2018)

The title says it all. Dripping with sass and attitude, Kali Uchis' "Dead To Me" is a velvety kiss-off to a past lover, who is just not getting the message: Leave. Me. Alone. For those who need a boost of confidence especially after a toxic breakup, Kali's got you covered with this track. 

8/ "vampire" from Olivia Rodrigo's 'GUTS' (2023) 

Edward Cullen could never. After her massive breakout single "drivers license", we were holding onto our breath for Olivia Rodrigo's next record – and boy, did she not disappoint. Proving that sometimes love bites back, Olivia scorches a past flame on "vampire", calling them out on their poisonous behaviour and capturing the essence of heartbreak with a dark, modern twist.

9/ "Obsessed" from Mariah Carey's 'Memoirs of an Imperfect Angel' (2009)

"And I was like, why are you so obsessed with me?" – and just like that, this iconic line had everyone reeling over Mariah's ultimate clap-back anthem, serving up sass and shade in equal measure. Its infectious beat and catchy lyrics became an instant hit, dominating airwaves and inspiring countless memes and TikTok videos. As Mariah reminds us with this classic, sometimes simply living well is the best revenge!

10/ "Oscar Winning Tears." from RAYE's 'My 21st Century Blues' (2023)

From getting her first #1 hit with "Escapism. (feat. 070 Shake)" to recently breaking the record for the most nominations in BRITs history, let us reiterate something we already knew – RAYE is an absolute superstar. "Oscar Winning Tears." is a fierce and unapologetic anthem that flips the script on traditional breakup songs. Led by THAT expansive voice, this track's bold lyrics will have you slamming the door in your ex's face with your head held high. 

11/ "Toxic" from Kehlani's 'It Was Good Until It Wasn't' (2020)

Kehlani's "Toxic" is a sultry track that confronts the toxicity of a doomed relationship head-on. For anyone who has been neck-deep in Valentine's Day drama before, this song encapsulates the dizzying nature of it, serving as a reminder that there are some people are more trouble than they're worth.

12/ "Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life)" from Green Day's 'Nimrod' (1997)

Green Day's "Good Riddance (Time Of Your Life)" is the utmost breakup anthem disguised as a sentimental ballad. Despite its seemingly nostalgic tone, the song's lyrics hint at bitterness and resignation, which will definitely resonate with those who've had enough of love's ups and downs. Its cultural impact is undeniable, with the track becoming a staple at graduations, weddings, and, ironically, breakup parties—perfect for those ready to bid adieu to romance's rollercoaster ride.

13/ "GONE GONE / THANK YOU" from Tyler, The Creator's 'IGOR' (2019)

Tyler, The Creator's "GONE GONE / THANK YOU" is a genre-defying masterpiece that blends elements of hip-hop, R&B, and alternative music. Its introspective lyrics and dreamy production solidifies his reputation as a visionary artist. The track is a bittersweet goodbye to a relationship that wasn't good for us, but nonetheless, taught us to appreciate the hard lessons learned from heartbreak.

14/ "Kill Bill" from SZA's 'SOS' (2022)

Named after Quentin Tarantino's iconic revenge film, SZA's "Kill Bill" is a deliciously nefarious track that will have sharpening your blade to take down a nasty ex. Rather slay some dragons than wait for a knight in shining armour? Put this one on. 

15/ "Playing Games (feat. Bryson Tiller)" from Summer Walker's 'Over It' (2019)

Summer Walker's "Playing Games" is a seductive and sultry R&B track that confronts the complexities of modern relationships with raw honesty. Its captivating melody and evocative lyrics call out love's games and that sometimes, it's better to keep our hearts safely guarded.

16/ "Flowers" from Miley Cyrus' 'Endless Summer Vacation' (2023)

Miley Cyrus' "Flowers" is a raw and unapologetic anthem that breaks free from traditional love song conventions. Its gritty vocals and rebellious lyrics will have you gleefully waving your middle finger to a trifling ex. Cos after all, you can love yourself better than they ever could!

17/ "That Don't Impress Me Much" from Shania Twain's 'Come On Over' (1997)

Shania Twain's "That Don't Impress Me Much" is an iconic anthem that will empower you to hold out for more than just superficial charm. Its catchy melody and witty lyrics remind us all to set our standards high, no matter what.

18/ "thank u, next" from Ariana Grande's 'thank u, next' (2019)

Ariana Grande's "thank u, next" is more than just a breakup anthem; it's a mantra for moving on and embracing self-love. Its empowering lyrics and sugary-sweet melody struck a chord with everyone who'd rather focus on personal growth than dwell on failed relationships. Cos sometimes the best love is the one we give ourselves. 

19/ "Shake It Off" from Taylor Swift's '1989 (Taylor's Version)' (2023)

Taylor Swift's "Shake It Off" is a defiant anthem that will have you brushing off any negativity that dares to enter your life. Why dwell on Valentine's Day woes when you can blast this track instead & shake off all the haters and live your best life? 

 20/ "So What" from P!nk's 'Funhouse' (2008)

P!nk's "So What" is a sassy anthem that flips the script on heartbreak, embracing independence and self-love with a tongue-in-cheek attitude. Wanna start a fight and rock out than wallow in Valentine's Day miseries? Drop the needle on this immediately and let P!nk remind you that you never needed that loser in your life!

As the final chords fade and the last notes echo, remember this: Valentine's Day might be overrated, but your taste in music certainly isn't. So whether you're single, heartbroken, or just downright sick of all the lovey-dovey nonsense, drop the needle on these records and revel in the sweet sound of rebellion. Here's to flipping the bird to love and embracing the power of music to heal our broken hearts. Keep rocking, keep rolling, and keep being your badass self. Happy Anti-Valentine's Day, you beautiful rebels!

(Photo of RAYE by Andrew Chin/Getty Images)