20 Songs About Being Confused And Confusion

Life can be a whirlwind of uncertainty, and I’m no stranger to those moments when everything seems to blur into a haze of confusion. We’ve all been there – standing at a crossroads, unsure which path to take, or lying awake at night with a mind full of swirling questions. It’s in these moments of bewilderment that music often becomes our solace, a reminder that we’re not alone in our perplexity.

Here, I’ve compiled a list of 20 songs that speak to the experience of being confused and dealing with confusion. From pop anthems to introspective ballads, these tunes encapsulate the myriad ways we grapple with life’s perplexing moments. 

1. “Lost and Confused” by PRAX

“Lost and Confused” by PRAX is a heartfelt exploration of emotional turmoil and existential uncertainty.

The lyrics depict a narrator grappling with feelings of abandonment and internal conflict, as they navigate through a life that feels directionless and filled with shades of grey. The song delves into themes of loneliness, self-doubt, and the struggle to find one’s place in the world.

The repeated lines “I’m lost and confused / Why do I feel this way” encapsulate the pervasive sense of bewilderment and the search for meaning amid chaos.

2. “Dazed and Confused” by Led Zeppelin

“Dazed and Confused” by Led Zeppelin is a reworking of a song originally written by Jake Holmes. This track, known for its heavy, psychedelic blues sound, centers on the narrator’s disorientation and emotional pain within a toxic relationship.

The lyrics convey a sense of betrayal and confusion as the narrator questions their partner’s actions and intentions. The song’s haunting atmosphere is amplified by Jimmy Page’s innovative guitar work, including the use of a violin bow, and Robert Plant’s intense vocal delivery.

The track became a staple of Led Zeppelin’s live performances, often extended into lengthy improvisational jams.

3. “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd

“Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd is a synth-pop track that combines an upbeat, 80s-inspired sound with darker lyrical themes. The song describes the narrator’s desperate drive through the night to reunite with a loved one, despite being intoxicated and overwhelmed by loneliness.

The lyrics “I’m blinded by the lights / No, I can’t sleep until I feel your touch” highlight the narrator’s sense of urgency and confusion as they navigate through a cityscape illuminated by blinding streetlights.

The Weeknd has explained that the song reflects the darker undertones of seeking connection while grappling with personal demons and the consequences of reckless actions.

4. “I Can’t Tell You Why” by Eagles

“I Can’t Tell You Why” by Eagles is a soft rock ballad that delves into the complexities of a troubled relationship. Sung by bassist Timothy B. Schmit, the song features smooth, atmospheric instrumentation and introspective lyrics.

The narrator expresses vulnerability and confusion about the state of their relationship, acknowledging their inability to articulate the reasons behind their emotional struggles.

The repeated refrain “I can’t tell you why” underscores the theme of emotional ambiguity and the difficulty of finding clarity in the midst of relational turmoil.

The song’s gentle, soothing melody contrasts with the underlying tension and uncertainty conveyed in the lyrics.

5. “Confusion” by Electric Light Orchestra

“Confusion” is a 1979 hit single from Electric Light Orchestra’s album “Discovery.” The song explores themes of emotional disorientation and uncertainty in relationships1. Jeff Lynne’s lyrics paint a picture of someone struggling to make sense of their feelings and surroundings:

“Confusion, confusion, it’s such a terrible shame

Confusion, confusion, you don’t know what you’re sayin'”

The track features ELO’s signature blend of rock and orchestral elements, with prominent use of synthesizers, particularly the Yamaha CS-80, which Lynne credits as the foundation of the song’s sound.

The upbeat melody contrasts with the lyrics’ portrayal of emotional turmoil, creating a bittersweet atmosphere that resonated with listeners, helping the song reach the top 10 in several countries.

6. “Should I Stay or Should I Go” by The Clash

This iconic punk rock song from The Clash’s 1982 album “Combat Rock” embodies the essence of confusion and indecision in a relationship. The lyrics oscillate between staying and leaving, mirroring the internal struggle of the narrator:

“Should I stay or should I go now?

If I go, there will be trouble

And if I stay it will be double”

The song’s creation involved an interesting collaboration with Joe Ely, who helped translate some lyrics into Spanish, adding a unique bilingual element to the track. The recording process itself was marked by band tensions and management changes, which perhaps contributed to the song’s theme of uncertainty.

Despite its initial modest success, “Should I Stay or Should I Go” later became The Clash’s only UK number-one single, albeit five years after the band’s breakup.

7. “The Final Cut” by Pink Floyd

The title track from Pink Floyd’s 1983 album “The Final Cut” delves into themes of isolation, depression, and sexual repression. Written by Roger Waters, the song portrays a man’s deep-seated confusion about his place in the world and his inability to connect with others:

“Through the fish-eyed lens of tear stained eyes

I can barely define the shape of this moment in time”

The track features Pink Floyd’s characteristic atmospheric sound, with Michael Kamen’s piano and harmonium adding to the somber mood. The song culminates in the narrator’s contemplation of suicide, though he “never had the nerve to make the final cut”.

This powerful exploration of mental turmoil and confusion reflects the album’s overall themes of post-war disillusionment and personal struggle.

8. “Don’t Know What To Call It” by Kevin Gates

Kevin Gates’ “Don’t Know What To Call It” from his mixtape “Behind Enemy Lines” is a raw and introspective track that delves into the rapper’s confusion about his emotions and life experiences.

The chorus encapsulates the song’s theme of being unable to define or articulate one’s feelings:

“I know there’s a name

Gotta be a name for this shit

I just don’t know what

Don’t know what to call it”

Throughout the verses, Gates explores various aspects of his life, from trust issues to personal growth, all while grappling with an underlying sense of confusion.

The song’s honest lyrics and Gates’ emotive delivery create a powerful portrait of a person struggling to make sense of their world and emotions.

9. “I Don’t Get It” by Cowboy Junkies

“I Don’t Get It” by Cowboy Junkies, from their 1988 album The Trinity Session, captures a profound sense of existential confusion and search for meaning.

The lyrics reflect the narrator’s struggle to understand life and death, as well as the everyday complexities that come with living. The repeated refrain “I don’t get it” underscores the pervasive sense of bewilderment and frustration.

The song’s minimalist arrangement, recorded live around a single ambisonic microphone in a church, adds to its raw and introspective feel, making it a poignant exploration of human confusion and the quest for clarity.

10. “Don’t Know Why” by Norah Jones

“Don’t Know Why” by Norah Jones is a jazz-influenced ballad that delves into themes of regret and unfulfilled desire. The song, written by Jesse Harris and featured on Jones’ debut album Come Away with Me (2002), describes the narrator’s hesitation and missed opportunities in love.

The lyrics convey a sense of longing and emotional turmoil, with lines like “My heart is drenched in wine” suggesting a state of heightened emotion and introspection.

The soothing piano and Jones’ smooth vocals create a melancholic yet comforting atmosphere, making the song a timeless reflection on the confusion and pain of missed connections.

11. “Why Not Me?” by Enrique Iglesias

“Why Not Me?” by Enrique Iglesias, from his 2010 album Euphoria, explores the emotional confusion and heartache of unrequited love.

The lyrics depict the narrator’s struggle to understand why they are not chosen by their love interest despite their deep feelings and commitment.

The chorus, with its repeated plea “Why, oh why, tell me, why not me?” encapsulates the pain of being overlooked and the confusion of feeling destined to be with someone who doesn’t reciprocate.

The song’s emotive delivery and poignant lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the frustration and sadness of unreturned love.

12. “Mixed Signals” by Ruth B.

“Mixed Signals” by Ruth B. is a heartfelt song about the emotional confusion caused by inconsistent behavior in a relationship.

The lyrics describe the protagonist’s struggle with their partner’s conflicting messages, which oscillate between affection and detachment. This push-and-pull dynamic creates emotional distress and uncertainty about the relationship’s future.

The chorus, with lines like “Mixed signals, mixed signals / They’re killing me,” highlights the protagonist’s internal conflict between what their heart wants and what is best for them.

Ruth B.’s soulful delivery and the relatable theme of navigating confusing relationships make this song a poignant reflection on the challenges of love.

13. “I Have Questions” by Camila Cabello

“I Have Questions” is a deeply personal and emotional song by Camila Cabello, released in 2017. The track explores themes of confusion, betrayal, and the aftermath of a broken friendship.

Cabello wrote the song during a difficult period in her life, starting it in a hotel bathroom while on tour and completing it months later.

The lyrics are introspective and raw, with Cabello questioning a former friend’s actions and motivations. Lines like “Number one, tell me who you think you are / You got some nerve trying to tear my faith apart” showcase her confusion and hurt. The song’s emotional weight is amplified by Cabello’s vulnerable vocal delivery and the melancholic production.

“I Have Questions” resonates with listeners who have experienced the pain and confusion of losing a close friendship, making it a poignant addition to a playlist about confusion.

14. “We Don’t Talk Anymore” by Charlie Puth ft. Selena Gomez

Released in 2016, “We Don’t Talk Anymore” is a pop duet that captures the confusion and lingering emotions after a breakup. The song features Charlie Puth and Selena Gomez trading verses, their voices blending seamlessly to convey the shared experience of post-relationship uncertainty.

The lyrics explore the awkwardness and pain of seeing an ex-partner move on, with lines like “I just heard you found the one you’ve been looking / I wish I would have known that wasn’t me.” The confusion is evident in the questioning of past actions and the struggle to move forward.

With its catchy melody and relatable lyrics, “We Don’t Talk Anymore” effectively portrays the confusion that often accompanies the end of a relationship, making it a fitting addition to the playlist.

15. “Where Is The Love” by Black Eyed Peas

“Where Is The Love” is a socially conscious hip-hop song released by the Black Eyed Peas in 2003. While not directly about personal confusion, the song expresses confusion and concern about the state of the world, questioning where love and compassion have gone in society.

The lyrics address various issues such as terrorism, racism, and violence, asking “Where is the love?” throughout the chorus. The song’s message reflects a collective confusion about the world’s problems and a search for solutions.

Although different from the other songs in its focus on societal issues rather than personal relationships, “Where Is The Love” captures a broader sense of confusion about human nature and the world at large.

16. “What Do You Mean?” by Justin Bieber

Released in 2015, “What Do You Mean?” by Justin Bieber directly addresses the confusion in romantic relationships. The song’s lyrics express frustration with mixed signals and indecisiveness from a partner.

The chorus, “What do you mean? / When you nod your head yes / But you wanna say no / What do you mean?” encapsulates the essence of confusion in communication between partners. The upbeat tropical house production contrasts with the perplexed lyrics, creating an interesting juxtaposition.

“What Do You Mean?” became a commercial success and resonated with many listeners who have experienced similar confusion in their relationships. 

17. “Baby, I’m So Confused” by Syleena Johnson

“Baby, I’m So Confused” is a soulful track by Syleena Johnson from her 2002 album Chapter 2: The Voice. The song delves into the emotional turmoil and confusion experienced in a troubled relationship.

Johnson’s powerful vocals convey a deep sense of vulnerability and bewilderment as she grapples with mixed signals and uncertainty from her partner.

The lyrics, “Baby, I’m so confused / Don’t know what to do,” highlight the inner conflict and indecision that come with trying to understand a partner’s inconsistent behavior.

The soulful melody and heartfelt delivery make this song a poignant exploration of romantic confusion.

18. “Living In Confusion” by Phyllis Hyman

“Living In Confusion” by Phyllis Hyman is a classic R&B ballad from her 1991 album Prime of My Life.

The song captures the essence of emotional disarray and the struggle to find clarity in a complicated relationship. Hyman’s rich, emotive voice brings depth to the lyrics, which describe the pain of loving someone who sends mixed messages.

Lines like “Living in confusion / I don’t know what to do” reflect the narrator’s frustration and heartache.

The smooth, soulful instrumentation complements the theme of confusion, making it a timeless piece that resonates with anyone who has experienced the complexities of love.

19. “Where Is My Mind?” by Pixies

“Where Is My Mind?” by Pixies, released in 1988 on their debut album Surfer Rosa, is an alternative rock anthem that delves into themes of existential confusion and mental disorientation.

Inspired by lead singer Black Francis’s snorkeling experience in the Caribbean, the song uses surreal imagery to explore the feeling of being out of sync with reality.

The lyrics “With your feet on the air and your head on the ground” and the recurring question “Where is my mind?” encapsulate the sense of searching for meaning in a chaotic world.

The song’s haunting melody and dynamic shifts between quiet verses and loud choruses create a disorienting yet captivating auditory experience.

20. “Love Confusion” by Kat DeLuna

“Love Confusion” by Kat DeLuna is a vibrant pop track that addresses the complexities and uncertainties of romantic relationships.

The song, characterized by its catchy beats and DeLuna’s energetic vocal delivery, explores the emotional rollercoaster of being in love with someone who sends mixed signals.

The lyrics “Love confusion, it’s got me spinning” highlight the protagonist’s struggle to make sense of her partner’s inconsistent actions and emotions.

The upbeat tempo and infectious melody contrast with the theme of confusion, creating a dynamic and relatable song that captures the highs and lows of navigating love’s uncertainties.

Submit Your Song to This Playlist

Do you have a track or song you’d like to feature on this playlist? If so, please fill out the form below for our evaluation.

Serena Whitfield

Serena Whitfield is the founder of PlaylistCurator.org. She’s a musician who writes songs for bands. She studied music at the University of Oxford and graduated with distinction. With her expertise, she knows how to review songs and understand what makes good and bad music. Every playlist on our platform is approved by her before publishing to maintain top-notch quality. If you want her to check out your song and maybe get featured on our playlist, submit your song for Serena to evaluate.