“Songs About Enemies” explore themes of conflict, betrayal, and rivalry, offering powerful lyrics that reflect the intensity of personal and external battles.
From rock anthems to hip-hop reflections, the Songs About Enemies capture the struggles and conflicts we face in life, offering catharsis, empowerment, or even introspection.
Enemies, whether personal, societal, or internal, have long inspired powerful music that resonates with listeners across genres.
These tracks tell stories of betrayal, rivalry, and self-doubt, each one painting a vivid picture of what it means to confront an adversary.
Whether addressing political injustice or personal turmoil, these Songs About Enemies speak to our deepest fears and battles, often offering a raw and emotional glimpse into the artists’ lives.
1. “Enemy” by Chris Brown (2017) – Perfect R&B Songs About Enemies
About this song:
- Album: Heartbreak on a Full Moon
- Released: 2017
- Artist: Chris Brown
- Genre: R&B/Soul, Holiday
- Key Lyric: “I wouldn’t be the enemy. I don’t wanna be the enemy.”
Featured on Chris Brown’s album Heartbreak on a Full Moon in 2017, “Enemy” tackles the darker side of love.
The song was written as an expression of frustration over toxic relationships that shift from love to animosity.
Brown delves into the emotional toll of romantic betrayal, portraying his lover as an enemy.
The composition took place amid a period of intense personal reflection on relationships and trust.
“Enemy” portrays the devastating effect of love turned sour, where affection turns into conflict.
2. “Enemies” by Post Malone and DaBaby (2019) – Best Hip-Hop Songs About Enemies
About this song:
- Album: Hollywood’s Bleeding
- Released: 2019
- Artist: Post Malone, DaBaby
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “Used to have friends, now I got enemies (Ooh). Used to keep ’em close, now they dead to me (Damn).”
Released in 2019, “Enemies” is a collaboration between Post Malone and DaBaby on Malone’s Hollywood’s Bleeding album.
Post Malone wrote the song about the difficulties of maintaining friendships while dealing with fame.
The lyrics touch on the idea of friends turning into enemies due to jealousy and betrayal.
This track emerged during a time when both artists were reflecting on the price of success.
The song highlights the destructive impact of envy, transforming close relationships into hostile ones.
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3. “My Enemy” by The Afghan Whigs (1996) – Recommended Rock Songs About Enemies
About this song:
- Album: Black Love
- Released: 1996
- Artist: The Afghan Whigs
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Pop, Rock
- Key Lyric: “I knew my enemy was near.”
Released in 1996, this track appears on Black Love, a concept album by The Afghan Whigs.
Greg Dulli, the band’s frontman, wrote the song during a tumultuous period of personal conflicts.
The song delves into the pain and anger experienced when a close relationship turns adversarial.
Its aggressive tone and emotional delivery reflect the theme of betrayal and lingering animosity.
“My Enemy” symbolizes the struggles of facing those we once trusted, turning the familiar into foes.
4. “Enemy Gene” by of Montreal and Janelle Monáe (2010) – Awesome Indie Song
About this song:
- Album: False Priest
- Released: 2010
- Artist: of Montreal, Janelle Monáe
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, UK R&B, Korean Rock/Alt
- Key Lyric: “How can I trust my fractious heart. Knowing I have the enemy gene?”
“Enemy Gene” was released in 2010 as part of of Montreal’s album False Priest.
Written by Kevin Barnes, the song features vocals from Janelle Monáe, creating a dynamic collaboration.
The lyrics explore internal conflict and self-doubt, likening it to fighting an enemy within oneself.
This track was composed during a period of artistic experimentation, blending psychedelic pop with deep introspection.
The concept of an ‘enemy gene’ metaphorically represents the darker aspects of human nature that we battle internally.
5. “The Enemy Inside” by Dream Theater (2013) – Remarkable Metal Songs About Enemies
About this song:
- Album: Dream Theater
- Released: 2013
- Artist: Dream Theater
- Genre: Progressive metal, Metal, Rock
- Key Lyric: “I’m running from the enemy inside. Looking for the life I left behind.”
Released in 2013, “The Enemy Inside” is a powerful track from Dream Theater’s self-titled album.
John Petrucci wrote the song about the inner struggles of a soldier dealing with PTSD.
The lyrics focus on the internal battle faced by veterans, casting their own mind as the enemy.
The band composed the track during a time when mental health awareness was gaining attention, adding to its depth.
“The Enemy Inside” relates to enemies in the sense of fighting the personal demons within, making it a profound exploration of psychological trauma.
6. “You Are My Enemy” by Hopsin (2010) – Stunning Rap Song
About this song:
- Album: Raw
- Released: 2010
- Artist: Hopsin
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap, Rap Québ
- Key Lyric: “I’m not your buddy. I’m not your pal. You are my enemy.”
Hopsin released “You Are My Enemy” in 2010 as a bold declaration of personal defiance.
The song, written by Hopsin himself, addresses the negative influences and critics he encountered in the music industry.
Through raw and aggressive lyrics, Hopsin confronts those who tried to bring him down, labeling them as enemies.
Composed during a period of career frustration, the song serves as a cathartic release for the artist.
The theme of enemies is clear in how Hopsin identifies those who undermine his success as adversaries.
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7. “My Own Worst Enemy” by Lit (1999) – Excellent Classic Rock Songs About Enemies
About this song:
- Album: A Place in the Sun
- Released: 1999
- Artist: Lit
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Metal, Pop, Classic Rock, Rock
- Key Lyric: “It’s no surprise to me, I am my own worst enemy.”
“My Own Worst Enemy” was released in 1999 on Lit’s album A Place in the Sun.
The band wrote the song about self-destructive behavior and its consequences.
It captures the feeling of being one’s own enemy, highlighting themes of regret and personal accountability.
The song became a massive hit during a time when pop-punk was resonating with audiences.
This track relates to enemies by portraying oneself as the antagonist in life’s struggles, battling inner turmoil.
8. “My Secret Enemy” by TLC (1994) – Wonderful Soul Song
About this song:
- Album: CrazySexyCool
- Released: 1994
- Artist: TLC
- Genre: R&B/Soul
- Key Lyric: “My secret enemy ain’t no friend of me.”
TLC released “My Secret Enemy” in 1994 as part of their breakthrough album CrazySexyCool.
Written by the group members, the song tackles the theme of hidden animosity in personal relationships.
The lyrics focus on deceit and unspoken resentment, where someone close harbors ill intentions.
It was composed during a time when TLC was dealing with public scrutiny and personal challenges.
The song highlights the danger of concealed enemies, those who act as friends but betray trust.
9. “Who Is the Enemy” by Buckethead (2002) – Ideal Electronic Songs About Enemies
About this song:
- Album: Funnel Weaver
- Released: 2002
- Artist: Buckethead
- Genre: Rock, Electronic
- Key Lyric: This is an instrumental song
Buckethead released “Who Is the Enemy” in 2002 on the album Funnel Weaver.
This instrumental track is a reflection on the concept of enemies, both external and internal.
The song’s haunting melodies suggest a battle with unseen or ambiguous forces, leaving the identity of the enemy open to interpretation.
Composed during a period of introspection for Buckethead, the track lacks vocals but conveys deep emotion.
The absence of words allows listeners to imagine their own enemies, whether personal or societal, giving the song a universal quality.
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10. “Enemy” by Papa Roach (2010) – Amazing Rock Song
About this song:
- Album: Time for Annihilation: On the Record & On the Road
- Released: 2010
- Artist: Papa Roach
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “I am running from the enemy inside. I’ll fight for my life. ‘Cause I want to survive.”
Released in 2010, “Enemy” is part of Papa Roach’s album Time for Annihilation.
Jacoby Shaddix wrote the song during a period of inner turmoil and reflection on broken relationships.
The lyrics confront the feelings of betrayal and anger toward those who wronged him, casting them as enemies.
Composed amid personal struggles, the song’s aggressive tone mirrors the intensity of these emotions.
“Enemy” addresses the breakdown of trust, where someone once close becomes a source of conflict and resentment.
11. “Enemies” by Lauv (2018)
About this song:
- Album: I Met You When I Was 18 (The Playlist)
- Released: 2018
- Artist: Lauv
- Genre: Pop
- Key Lyric: “Oh, why do we, we have to be Enemies, enemies?”
Released in 2018, “Enemies” by Lauv comes from his album I met you when I was 18 (the playlist).
The song was written during a period of reflection on toxic relationships in Lauv’s personal life.
It explores the transition from friendship to animosity, portraying how someone close can turn into an adversary.
Lauv’s heartfelt lyrics convey the pain of betrayal, showing the emotional toll of fractured trust.
The theme of enemies is evident as the song centers on personal conflicts that arise from once meaningful connections.
12. “The Enemy” by Guided by Voices (2001)
About this song:
- Album: Isolation Drills
- Released: 2001
- Artist: Guided by Voices
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “Painted over a well-cleansed abdomen. Tattooed ugly and blue: the enemy.”
Guided by Voices released “The Enemy” in 2001 on their album Isolation Drills.
Written by Robert Pollard, the song reflects on alienation and the struggles of confronting personal demons.
Its lyrics explore the idea of facing an abstract or unseen enemy, whether internal or external.
The song came at a time when Pollard was delving into more introspective songwriting, tackling deeper emotional subjects.
“The Enemy” speaks to the battle against one’s own fears, blurring the line between inner conflict and external adversaries.
13. “Enemy” by Beacon Light, Tommee Profitt, Sam Tinnesz (2019)
About this song:
- Album: Cinematic Songs (Vol. 6)
- Released: 2019
- Artist: Beacon Light, Tommee Profitt, Sam Tinnesz
- Genre: Alternative/Indie
- Key Lyric: “I see who you are, you are my enemy. My enemy, you are my enemy.”
This collaboration was released in 2019, blending the styles of Beacon Light, Tommee Profitt, and Sam Tinnesz.
The song was composed as part of a thematic exploration of struggle and opposition in life.
Its powerful lyrics highlight the feeling of battling unseen forces, portraying enemies as both physical and metaphorical.
With its intense, cinematic sound, “Enemy” speaks to the fight against oppression and personal barriers.
The track is emblematic of overcoming adversity, casting enemies as obstacles in the pursuit of success and self-discovery.
14. “The Enemy Battle Hymn of the Public” by Public Enemy (2007)
About this song:
- Album: How You Sell Soul to a Soulless People Who Sold Their Soul?
- Released: 2007
- Artist: Public Enemy
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “No election, remember that presidential selection. Got us in another erection of body parts.”
Released in 2007, this track is a bold anthem from Public Enemy’s album How You Sell Soul to a Soulless People Who Sold Their Soul?.
Written by Chuck D, the song is a political commentary on societal corruption and systemic oppression.
It serves as a rallying cry against the forces that seek to suppress freedom and equality.
The song was crafted during a period of heightened activism, reflecting the group’s commitment to social justice.
“The Enemy Battle Hymn of the Public” speaks to the collective fight against public enemies, symbolizing the fight for liberation.
15. “Enemy of God” by Kreator (2005)
About this song:
- Album: Enemy of God
- Released: 2005
- Artist: Kreator
- Genre: Metal
- Key Lyric: “Enemy of God. Purity and innocence is killed. Enemy of God. Peace has died the day when life stood still.”
Kreator released “Enemy of God” in 2005 as the title track of their album Enemy of God.
Written by Mille Petrozza, the song addresses the destructive nature of religious fanaticism and war.
Its aggressive tone and intense lyrics confront the concept of enemies in a political and spiritual sense.
The band composed the song during a period of global unrest, using it as a critique of violence done in the name of religion.
“Enemy of God” positions the idea of an enemy as both an ideological and tangible threat to peace.
16. “Time Is the Enemy” by Quantic (2001)
About this song:
- Album: The 5th Exotic
- Released: 2001
- Artist: Quantic
- Genre: Dance/Electronic, Regional Colombian
- Key Lyric: This is an instrumental song
Released in 2001, “Time Is the Enemy” by Quantic is an instrumental track from the album The 5th Exotic.
Written and composed by Will Holland, the song reflects on the relentless passage of time and the pressure it exerts on life.
Though devoid of lyrics, the song conveys the feeling of time being an enemy through its melancholic and urgent sound.
The track was created during Holland’s early experimentation with blending jazz and electronic music, offering a meditative take on time’s influence.
Here, time is portrayed as the unseen adversary, constantly pushing forward and leaving one in its wake.
17. “Enemies With Me” by Tupac Shakur (1997)
About this song:
- Album: R U Still Down?
- Released: 1997
- Artist: Tupac Shakur
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “Don’t make enemies with me.”
“Enemies With Me” was released posthumously in 1997 as part of R U Still Down? (Remember Me).
Tupac wrote the song during a period of increasing tension between himself and his rivals, reflecting the hostile environment he navigated.
The lyrics highlight the constant threat of betrayal and violence, depicting enemies both in the streets and within the industry.
The track came at a time when Tupac was embroiled in personal and public conflicts, fueling the raw energy of the song.
It presents the idea of enemies as ever-present, shaping the realities of Tupac’s life and career.
18. “Public Enemy #1” by Mötley Crüe (1981)
About this song:
- Album: Too Fast For Love
- Released: 1981
- Artist: Mötley Crüe
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “I’m public enemy number one (Oh, yeah).”
“Public Enemy #1” was released in 1981 on Mötley Crüe’s debut album Too Fast for Love.
Written by Nikki Sixx, the song reflects the band’s early rebellious attitude, aligning themselves against societal norms.
It portrays a character who revels in their outlaw status, embracing the role of a villain in the public’s eyes.
The track was composed during the band’s formative years when they were establishing their image as the bad boys of rock.
“Public Enemy #1” uses the concept of enemies to represent those who defy authority and relish in their notorious reputation.
19. “Your Own Worst Enemy” by They Might Be Giants (1996)
About this song:
- Album: Factory Showroom
- Released: 1996
- Artist: They Might Be Giants
- Genre: Alternative rock
- Key Lyric: “Going, precious and few are the moments that you And your own worst enemy share.”
Released in 1996, “Your Own Worst Enemy” appears on They Might Be Giants’ album Factory Showroom.
Written by John Linnell and John Flansburgh, the song humorously explores the idea of being one’s own worst adversary.
Its quirky, upbeat sound contrasts with the self-critical lyrics, illustrating the internal struggles many face.
The song was composed during a period of creative exploration for the band, blending whimsy with darker themes.
It addresses the concept of enemies by turning the focus inward, suggesting that often the biggest obstacles come from within.
20. “Enemy Within” by Yngwie Malmsteen (2010)
About this song:
- Album: Relentless
- Released: 2010
- Artist: Yngwie Malmsteen
- Genre: Metal
- Key Lyric: “Must see the true enemy. Wolves at the door, can’t you see. Evil minds hypnotize. Enemy is within.”
“Enemy Within” was released in 2010 as part of Yngwie Malmsteen’s album Relentless.
Written by Malmsteen, the song explores themes of personal conflict and inner turmoil.
The aggressive guitar riffs reflect the intensity of battling one’s own demons, symbolizing the internal enemy.
Composed during a time of introspection, the song highlights Malmsteen’s virtuosic playing and emotional depth.
“Enemy Within” focuses on the theme of enemies through the lens of self-struggle, portraying inner conflict as the ultimate battle.
21. “I’m My Own Enemy” by Yngwie Malmsteen (1992)
About this song:
- Album: Fire & Ice
- Released: 1992
- Artist: Yngwie Malmsteen
- Genre: Metal, Japanese Rock, Rock, J-Pop
- Key Lyric: “You cannot see this is my reality. I’m my own enemy. In my life, there was no one like you.”
Released in 1992, “I’m My Own Enemy” is featured on Yngwie Malmsteen’s album Fire & Ice.
The song delves into the theme of internal conflict, highlighting the struggle against one’s self-destructive tendencies.
Written during a period when Malmsteen was exploring deeper emotional themes, it showcases his introspective side.
With powerful guitar solos, the track mirrors the intensity of battling personal demons.
The lyrics reinforce the idea that sometimes the greatest enemy one faces is the one within.
22. “Feel Like an Enemy” by GZA, Hell Razah, Killah Priest, Prodigal Sunn, Trigga (1999)
About this song:
- Album: Beneath the Surface
- Released: 1999
- Artist: GZA, Hell Razah, Killah Priest, Prodigal Sunn, Trigga
- Genre: Hip Hop
- Key Lyric: “And all that hard rock shit (Charged with blasphemy). And if you’re feeling like an enemy (Come after me).”
“Feel Like an Enemy” was released in 1999 as part of the Beneath the Surface album by GZA.
Written in collaboration with various Wu-Tang Clan members, the song reflects feelings of alienation and mistrust.
The lyrics discuss paranoia and betrayal, common themes in GZA’s work during this era.
It was composed as a reflection of life in harsh environments where friends can quickly turn into enemies.
The track captures the raw emotion of distrust, examining how external forces and circumstances can create adversaries.
23. “Enemy Turf” by Lil Wayne and Juvenile (1999)
About this song:
- Album: Tha Block Is Hot
- Released: 1999
- Artist: Lil Wayne, Juvenile
- Genre: Hip Hop
- Key Lyric: “It’s enemy turf that I’m on. So I’ma play it how it go.”
Released in 1999, “Enemy Turf” appears on the Tha Block Is Hot album.
The song was written as a commentary on street life and territorial disputes that often result in violence.
Both artists vividly describe the constant tension of living in environments where every block has its enemies.
This track was composed during a time when Cash Money Records was gaining prominence, and the artists were reflecting on their personal experiences.
The song’s lyrics emphasize the ever-present danger of enemies lurking in familiar places.
24. “Anatomy of Your Enemy” by Anti-Flag (2002)
About this song:
- Album: Mobilize
- Released: 2002
- Artist: Anti-Flag
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Ukrainian Indie, Russian Rock
- Key Lyric: “This is how to create an enemy. This is how to start a war.”
Anti-Flag released “Anatomy of Your Enemy” in 2002 on their album Mobilize.
The song is a political critique, outlining how governments create enemies to manipulate the masses.
Written by the band during a period of intense political unrest, the track serves as a protest against war and propaganda.
The lyrics break down the steps used by those in power to manufacture hatred and division among people.
“Anatomy of Your Enemy” directly addresses how enemies are constructed by those who benefit from conflict.
25. “Overt Enemy” by Slayer (1998)
About this song:
- Album: Diabolus in Musica
- Released: 1998
- Artist: Slayer
- Genre: Groove metal, Metal
- Key Lyric: “I’ll sell your life and preach your death. A wicked plan born of contempt. Bleeding my ideology through pain.”
“Overt Enemy” was released in 1998 on Slayer’s album Diabolus in Musica.
Written by Kerry King, the song tackles themes of aggression, power, and the destruction caused by unchecked authority.
The song’s brutal lyrics depict an open, aggressive enemy, with no room for subtlety or compromise.
Slayer composed this track during a time when they were pushing the boundaries of thrash metal, incorporating darker, more violent themes.
The title itself speaks to the notion of a visible, external force that poses a direct threat.
26. “Enemies & Friends” by Xzibit (1996)
About this song:
- Album: At the Speed of Life
- Released: 1996
- Artist: Xzibit
- Genre: Pop, Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “I treat my enemies like friends. So I can reach out and touch.”
Released in 1996 on At the Speed of Life, Xzibit’s debut album, “Enemies & Friends” captures the duality of relationships in the rap world.
The song was written to reflect the blurred lines between allies and adversaries in both personal and professional settings.
Xzibit addresses betrayal and the importance of trust, focusing on the way friends can easily turn into enemies.
Composed early in his career, the song highlights his rising awareness of the complexities of fame and loyalty.
“Enemies & Friends” underscores the theme of shifting alliances, where today’s friend may become tomorrow’s enemy.
27. “Your Own Worst Enemy” by Bruce Springsteen (2007)
About this song:
- Album: Magic
- Released: 2007
- Artist: Bruce Springsteen
- Genre: Hard Rock, Classic Rock
- Key Lyric: “Your own worst enemy has come to town.”
Bruce Springsteen released “Your Own Worst Enemy” in 2007 as part of his album Magic.
The song touches on themes of personal accountability and the internal struggles that prevent self-progress.
Springsteen’s reflective lyrics depict someone whose worst opposition comes from their own actions and decisions.
Written during a period of political and personal contemplation, the song blends these ideas with a broader sense of societal disillusionment.
The track conveys that, often, the most formidable enemy we face resides within ourselves.
28. “Know Your Enemy” by Green Day (2009)
About this song:
- Album: 21st Century Breakdown
- Released: 2009
- Artist: Green Day
- Genre: Punk rock, Pop-punk, Alternative/Indie, Pop, Rock
- Key Lyric: “Do you know the enemy? Do you know your enemy? Well, gotta know the enemy, rah-eh.”
Green Day’s “Know Your Enemy” was released in 2009 as part of their 21st Century Breakdown album.
Written by Billie Joe Armstrong, the song is a call to recognize and resist forces of oppression, both political and societal.
Its lyrics emphasize the importance of awareness and activism, urging listeners to identify their true enemies.
The song was composed during a time of political tension in the U.S., reflecting Green Day’s frustration with the system.
“Know Your Enemy” serves as a rallying cry, encouraging rebellion against those who wield power to exploit and control.
29. “Know You Enemy (Demo)” by Rage Against the Machine (1991)
About this song:
- Album: Rage Against the Machine
- Released: 1991
- Artist: Rage Against the Machine
- Genre: Hard Rock
- Key Lyric: “Know your enemy. Yeah. You’ve got to know your enemies. Somethings got to be done.”
“Know Your Enemy (Demo)” was recorded in 1991 and later included as a demo track by Rage Against the Machine.
Written by Zack de la Rocha, the song challenges the structures of power and control, positioning the government and corporations as the enemy.
The lyrics call for rebellion, asking listeners to be vigilant and question authority.
Composed during the band’s formative years, the song laid the foundation for their politically charged, revolutionary sound.
“Know Your Enemy” connects the theme of enemies to institutional forces that perpetuate inequality and injustice.
30. “Enemy Fire” by Ryan Adams (2001)
About this song:
- Album: Gold
- Released: 2001
- Artist: Ryan Adams
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, French Indie, Pop, Folk, Country
- Key Lyric: “Enemy fire. Enemy blanks. Enemy roses. Red coloured tanks.”
“Enemy Fire” was released in 2001 on Ryan Adams’ album Gold.
Written during a time of personal turmoil, the song deals with emotional conflict and heartbreak.
Its lyrics depict a relationship filled with animosity, where love turns into a battlefield.
The song’s raw acoustic sound adds to the emotional weight of feeling under attack by someone once close.
“Enemy Fire” reflects the idea that enemies can often be those we care about most, as conflicts ignite from within relationships.
31. “The Enemy” by Godsmack (2006)
About this song:
- Album: IV
- Released: 2006
- Artist: Godsmack
- Genre: Metal, Rock
- Key Lyric: “I’ve come face to face with the enemy, oh the enemy.”
Released in 2006, “The Enemy” appears on Godsmack’s album IV.
The song was written by Sully Erna, reflecting on toxic relationships and betrayal.
Its hard-hitting lyrics point to the bitterness and anger felt when someone close becomes an adversary.
Godsmack composed this track during a time when they were delving into personal struggles, making it a powerful anthem about confrontation.
The song’s driving rhythm underscores the frustration of dealing with deceitful enemies.
32. “Hand of the Enemy” by Ozzy Osbourne (2010)
About this song:
- Album: Scream
- Released: 2010
- Artist: Ozzy Osbourne
- Genre: Hard Rock, Classic Rock
- Key Lyric: “Why can’t you take what you give to me? I’ll kiss the hand of the enemy.”
“Hand of the Enemy” was released in 2010 on Scream, Ozzy Osbourne’s eleventh studio album.
Written during a phase of introspection, the track explores the darker aspects of human nature.
Its lyrics convey the idea that everyone carries the potential to be an enemy, including oneself.
The song’s powerful guitar riffs complement Osbourne’s signature themes of inner and outer conflict.
“Hand of the Enemy” ties into the concept of battling not only external foes but also the destructive forces within.
33. “Public Enemy No. 1” by Public Enemy (1987)
About this song:
- Album: Yo! Bum Rush the Show
- Released: 1987
- Artist: Public Enemy
- Genre: Hip-Hop/Rap
- Key Lyric: “I’m Public Enemy number one.”
“Public Enemy No. 1” was released in 1987 on Yo! Bum Rush the Show, Public Enemy’s debut album.
Written by Chuck D, the song sets the tone for the group’s politically charged message.
It was composed as a direct confrontation with societal structures that suppress marginalized communities.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of rebellion, marking Public Enemy’s rise as outspoken voices against injustice.
The track solidifies the group’s stance, portraying authority figures as enemies of the people.
34. “My Favorite Enemy” by The Animals (1983)
About this song:
- Album: Ark
- Released: 1983
- Artist: The Animals
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “She’s not my friend. Just getting out of your bed. She is my favorite enemy.”
“My Favorite Enemy” was released in 1983 on Ark, The Animals’ reunion album.
Written by Eric Burdon, the song reflects on relationships that are both cherished and destructive.
Its melancholy tone suggests a complex bond with someone who acts as both friend and foe.
Composed during a period of reflection for the band, the track emphasizes the emotional push-pull of love and conflict.
“My Favorite Enemy” highlights how deep emotional ties can make an enemy feel indispensable.
35. “Enemies” by Shinedown (2012)
About this song:
- Album: Amaryllis
- Released: 2012
- Artist: Shinedown
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “You’re like the burden we bear. You’re all the hate that we share. You want more (You want more). But you’ll get nothing from me. But enemies.”
“Enemies” was released in 2012 as part of Shinedown’s album Amaryllis.
The song was written by Brent Smith during a time of conflict within the band, representing personal and professional struggles.
Its aggressive lyrics call out deception and mistrust, portraying the breakdown of relationships.
The track’s intense energy mirrors the anger and frustration of dealing with those who betray trust.
“Enemies” speaks to the tension that arises when close relationships fall apart, leaving animosity in their wake.
36. “Tenant Enemy #1” by Dropkick Murphys (1998)
About this song:
- Album: Do or Die
- Released: 1998
- Artist: Dropkick Murphys
- Genre: Alternative/Indie, Rock
- Key Lyric: “Tenant Enemy Number One.”
Released in 1998, “Tenant Enemy #1” is featured on Dropkick Murphys’ album Do or Die.
The song was written as a tribute to working-class struggles, particularly against landlords and authority figures.
Its punk rock energy captures the frustrations of those living in hostile conditions, making authority the enemy.
The track was composed during a time when the band was focused on highlighting social and economic inequalities.
“Tenant Enemy #1” frames the fight against exploitation as a battle between tenants and oppressive forces.
37. “Enemy” by Imagine Dragons, JID (2021)
About this song:
- Album: Arcane (Soundtrack from the Animated Series)
- Released: 2021
- Artist: Imagine Dragons, JID
- Genre: Alternative/Indie
- Key Lyric: “Oh, the misery. Everybody wants to be my enemy.”
Released in 2021, “Enemy” was part of the Arcane: League of Legends soundtrack, featuring both Imagine Dragons and JID.
The song delves into themes of rivalry and mistrust, reflecting on the idea that enemies can emerge from close circles.
Its lyrics explore the duality of friendship and competition, where allies become adversaries over time.
Composed during the band’s collaboration with League of Legends, the track blends personal conflict with a broader narrative of struggle.
“Enemy” emphasizes the complex dynamics of rivalry, both in personal life and competitive environments.
38. “Enemy” by Oliver Tree and Whethan (2018)
About this song:
- Album: Alien Boy EP
- Released: 2018
- Artist: Oliver Tree, Whethan
- Genre: Alternative/Indie
- Key Lyric: “Oh so, that’s why you befriended me. She’s a super villain working with the enemy.”
Released in 2018, “Enemy” is a collaboration between Oliver Tree and Whethan, blending electronic and alternative sounds.
The song was written about the internal battle between self-acceptance and self-sabotage.
Its lyrics reflect the frustration of being one’s own worst critic, struggling with self-doubt and insecurity.
The track was composed during a time when Oliver Tree was reflecting on the pressures of success and self-perception.
“Enemy” portrays the inner conflict where the greatest opposition comes from within.
39. “Enemy Unseen” by Kreator (1997)
About this song:
- Album: Outcast
- Released: 1997
- Artist: Kreator
- Genre: Groove metal, Metal
- Key Lyric: “Enemy unseen. Out of the underground. Enemy unseen. Disorder all around.”
Kreator released “Enemy Unseen” in 1997 as part of their album Outcast.
Written by Mille Petrozza, the song explores the idea of unseen forces, both internal and external, that manipulate and control.
Its intense lyrics address themes of paranoia and fear, portraying enemies that lurk in the shadows.
Composed during a transitional period for the band, the track reflects their evolving sound and more introspective themes.
“Enemy Unseen” emphasizes the danger of hidden threats, whether they be societal or psychological.
40. “Enemy Love Song” by Meat Puppets (2007)
About this song:
- Album: Rise to Your Knees
- Released: 2007
- Artist: Meat Puppets
- Genre: Rock
- Key Lyric: “I wanna be a rainbow. Laid out across the stormy skies. You’ve done as you please. Now down on your knees.”
“Enemy Love Song” was released in 2007 as part of Rise to Your Knees, Meat Puppets’ reunion album.
The song was written by Curt Kirkwood, delving into the theme of love and conflict coexisting in a toxic relationship.
Its haunting melody contrasts with the tension in the lyrics, creating a sense of bittersweet animosity.
The track was composed during a time of healing for the band, as they reunited after years of separation.
“Enemy Love Song” captures the complexity of a relationship where love and hate intertwine, making the person both a lover and an enemy.
Conclusion
Whether confronting foes within or battling external opposition, Songs About Enemies have the power to channel intense emotion and reveal hidden truths.
These tracks remind us that enemies come in many forms—rivalries, systemic forces, and even our inner demons—and the music gives voice to the struggles we all face.
Through passionate lyrics and bold compositions, these songs serve as anthems of resistance, reflection, and resolution, solidifying their place as timeless expressions of conflict.