20 Songs About Corruption

As someone who has seen corruption up close, I can tell you it’s not pretty. Corruption is like a cancer that eats away at the fabric of society. It corrodes trust, erodes accountability, and enriches the wrong people at the expense of the greater good.

I’ve witnessed it firsthand – the backroom deals, the conflicts of interest, the abuse of power for personal gain. It’s sickening to see how greed and self-interest can triumph over integrity and the public trust. Corruption is a betrayal of everything that’s supposed to be noble about public service and leadership.

But you know what they say – misery loves company. And corruption certainly has a lot of company, especially in the music world. Some of the greatest songwriters throughout history have been inspired by the scourge of corruption to pen some truly memorable tunes. From protest songs railing against crooked politicians to cautionary tales about the corrupting influence of money and power, the songs in this list run the gamut.

So if you’re looking for a soundtrack to match the sour taste in your mouth from all the corruption in the world, you’ve come to the right place. These 19 songs are a musical middle finger to graft, sleaze, and all the other ugly byproducts of a corrupt system. Crank up the volume and let these tunes be your catharsis.

1. “Till the End” by Logic

“Till the End” is a track from Logic’s debut studio album Under Pressure, released in 2014. The song reflects Logic’s struggles and determination to break into the mainstream music industry. It delves into the challenges he faced, including the pressure to succeed and maintain artistic integrity. The lyrics convey a sense of perseverance and ambition, with Logic discussing his journey from obscurity to recognition. The track serves as a closing chapter of the album, symbolizing Logic’s realization of his dreams and the ongoing battle against the corrupting influence of fame and success.

2. “Money and Corruption / I Am Your Man” by The Kinks

This song, part of The Kinks’ 1973 album Preservation Act 1, is a critique of political corruption and societal inequality. The lyrics express frustration with politicians who exploit the working class for personal gain. The song portrays a society tired of empty promises and deceitful leaders who prioritize profit over people. It calls for unity among the working class to stand against corruption and demand genuine leadership. The track combines a theatrical style with rock elements, highlighting the band’s ability to address serious themes with musical flair.

3. “Machine and Soul” by Gary Numan

“Machine and Soul” is the title track from Gary Numan’s 1992 album. The album marked a low point in Numan’s career, as it was created primarily to pay off debts and was criticized for lacking emotional depth. The song and the album reflect Numan’s struggle with creative direction, as he attempted to produce a more commercial sound influenced by funk and pop. The track symbolizes the conflict between artistic integrity and commercial pressures, illustrating how the music industry can corrupt an artist’s original vision.

4. “Dust” by Fleetwood Mac

“Dust,” featured on Fleetwood Mac’s 1972 album Bare Trees, is a musical adaptation of a poem by Rupert Brooke. The song, written by Danny Kirwan, is a meditation on death and the inevitable decay of life. The lyrics use vivid imagery to explore themes of mortality and the corruption of the body after death. While not directly about political or societal corruption, the song touches on the broader theme of existential corruption—the natural decline and dissolution that all living things face. The haunting melody and introspective lyrics contribute to the song’s contemplative mood.

5. “Neuromancer” by Billy Idol

“Neuromancer,” from Billy Idol’s 1993 album Cyberpunk, explores themes of technological dystopia and societal decay. The song’s lyrics depict a world plagued by corruption and destruction, reflecting the influence of cyberpunk literature, particularly William Gibson’s novel Neuromancer. Idol portrays a future where humanity is consumed by greed and technology, leading to an age of oblivion and ruin. The song’s narrative suggests a critique of how technological advancements can lead to moral and societal corruption if left unchecked.

6. “Poison” by Gary Numan

“Poison” is a track from Gary Numan’s 1992 album Machine + Soul. The song delves into themes of personal and societal corruption, exploring how fame and success can be toxic. Numan’s lyrics describe a sense of disgrace and betrayal, with references to dreams being stolen and innocence becoming corrupted. The song reflects Numan’s struggle with the music industry’s pressures and the loss of integrity in the face of commercial success. It serves as a commentary on how the pursuit of fame can lead to moral decay and personal disillusionment.

7. “Stars and Stripes of Corruption” by Dead Kennedys

Released in 1985 as the final track on the album Frankenchrist, “Stars and Stripes of Corruption” by Dead Kennedys is a scathing critique of American politics and societal issues. The song addresses themes of governmental corruption, inequality, and the manipulation of patriotic symbols for political gain. It mocks the hypocrisy of political leaders and calls for awareness and action against systemic injustices. The punk band’s aggressive style and provocative lyrics aim to inspire listeners to question authority and demand accountability from their leaders.

8. “Afraid to Shoot Strangers” by Iron Maiden

“Afraid to Shoot Strangers” is a song from Iron Maiden’s 1992 album Fear of the Dark. The track is written from the perspective of a soldier grappling with the moral dilemmas of war. It critiques the role of politicians in starting conflicts that ordinary people must fight, highlighting the fear and reluctance soldiers feel about killing. The song is particularly reflective of the Gulf War, emphasizing the disconnect between political decisions and the human cost of war. It underscores the corruption inherent in war-making decisions and the impact on those forced to carry them out.

9. “Clint Eastwood” by Gorillaz

“Clint Eastwood,” the debut single by Gorillaz from their self-titled album released in 2001, is a song that blends hip-hop and alternative rock with themes of personal and societal struggles. The lyrics, delivered by Del the Funky Homosapien, touch on themes of inner turmoil, self-doubt, and the deceptive nature of success. The line “I see destruction and demise, corruption in disguise” explicitly references corruption, suggesting a critique of the music industry and societal structures that manipulate and exploit individuals. The song’s title and certain lyrics also draw inspiration from Clint Eastwood’s tough, no-nonsense persona, symbolizing resilience and the fight against internal and external corruption.

10. “Preservation” by The Kinks

“Preservation” is a track from The Kinks’ ambitious rock opera project, Preservation Act 1, released in 1973. The song introduces the character Flash, a corrupt and tyrannical figure who exploits land and resources for personal gain under the guise of national interest. The lyrics critique the greed and corruption of political and business leaders who prioritize profit over the welfare of the people and the environment. The narrative highlights the destructive impact of such corruption on society and calls for a change in leadership to restore integrity and justice.

11. “The Horsemen Arrive” by Blue Öyster Cult

“The Horsemen Arrive,” from Blue Öyster Cult’s 1988 album Imaginos, delves into apocalyptic themes with references to deception and human corruption. The song portrays the arrival of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, symbolizing the end times and the culmination of human greed and moral decay. The lyrics suggest that corruption and greed are intrinsic to human nature, leading to inevitable destruction. This track is part of a larger narrative within the Imaginos album, which explores themes of conspiracy and the supernatural.

12. “Ship of Fools” by Scorpions

“Ship of Fools,” from the Scorpions’ 1993 album Face the Heat, addresses the chaos and destruction caused by corrupt political leaders. The song describes a world in turmoil, where politicians make empty promises and lead society into disaster. The metaphor of a “ship of fools” highlights the reckless and misguided actions of those in power, steering society toward inevitable collision and sacrifice. The lyrics convey a sense of frustration and helplessness in the face of systemic corruption and the dire consequences it brings.

13. “Pressure” by Muse

“Pressure” is a track from Muse’s 2018 album Simulation Theory. The song is characterized by its power pop and pop rock elements, featuring contrasting horns and guitars. Lyrically, “Pressure” explores themes of being trapped by expectations and the overwhelming nature of external demands, which can be interpreted as a metaphor for societal and industry pressures that lead to personal and systemic corruption. The song’s protagonist feels cornered and under constant pressure, symbolizing the struggle against forces that seek to control and manipulate.

14. “Race Babbling” by Stevie Wonder

“Race Babbling” is a track from Stevie Wonder’s 1979 album Journey Through the Secret Life of Plants. The song addresses the theme of racial inequality and the societal corruption that stems from prejudice and discrimination. Through its lyrics, Stevie Wonder critiques the superficial and divisive nature of racial politics, urging for unity and understanding. The song’s complex arrangement and thought-provoking lyrics reflect Wonder’s commitment to addressing social issues through his music.

15. “Purge the Poison” by Marina

“Purge the Poison” is a single by Marina, released in 2021 as part of her album Ancient Dreams in a Modern Land. The song critiques various forms of societal corruption, including environmental destruction, political deceit, and the influence of capitalism. Marina uses vivid imagery and sharp lyrics to call for a cleansing of these toxic elements from society, advocating for a return to authenticity and integrity. The track combines pop sensibilities with a strong message, encouraging listeners to reflect on the corrupt systems that impact their lives.

16. “Take a Bow” by Muse

“Take a Bow” by Muse is a powerful and politically charged track from their album Black Holes and Revelations. The song addresses themes of corruption and accountability, specifically targeting world leaders and those in positions of power. The lyrics accuse these figures of spreading corruption and causing destruction, ultimately holding them accountable for their actions. Musically, the song progresses through various stages, starting with a classical feel, moving into a techno mid-section, and concluding with a heavy “apocalyptic rock” ending. This progression mirrors the escalating tension and urgency of the song’s message, which calls for justice and retribution against those who have wronged society.

17. “Beer For My Horses” by Toby Keith

“Beer For My Horses,” a collaboration between Toby Keith and Willie Nelson, is a country song that combines themes of justice and vigilantism. The song narrates a story of taking the law into one’s own hands to combat crime and corruption. It reflects on a time when justice was swift and personal, drawing on imagery from the Wild West. The chorus celebrates the idea of standing up against evil forces and finding camaraderie in shared victories. While the song’s message of vigilantism can be controversial, it resonates with audiences who appreciate its nostalgic and rebellious spirit.

18. “Pray For Me” by The Weeknd and Kendrick Lamar

“Pray For Me,” a collaboration between The Weeknd and Kendrick Lamar, is featured on the Black Panther soundtrack. The song explores themes of heroism, sacrifice, and the internal and external battles faced by individuals in a chaotic world. The lyrics convey a sense of urgency and introspection, with the protagonist seeking help and guidance amid turmoil. Kendrick Lamar’s verses highlight societal issues, violence, and the struggle for redemption, while The Weeknd’s chorus emphasizes the need for support and salvation. The song serves as a commentary on the human condition and the search for meaning and resilience in the face of adversity.

19. “Shock to the System” by Billy Idol

Billy Idol’s “Shock to the System” is a rock song inspired by the 1992 Los Angeles riots, which were sparked by the acquittal of police officers involved in the beating of Rodney King. The song captures the chaos and intensity of the riots, addressing themes of civil unrest and corruption within the police force. Idol’s lyrics reflect the anger and frustration felt by those affected by systemic injustice, using vivid imagery of fire and revolution. The song’s energetic and rebellious tone underscores its message of challenging authority and demanding change.

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.