20 Songs About Fear And Being Scared

As someone who’s spent more than a few sleepless nights with my heart racing and palms sweating, I know a thing or two about fear. It’s a universal emotion that can paralyze us, motivate us, or send us spiraling into a whirlwind of “what-ifs.” Whether it’s the spine-chilling terror of a horror movie or the gut-wrenching anxiety of life’s big decisions, fear is a powerful force that has inspired countless artists to put pen to paper and fingers to instruments.

Here, I’ve compiled a list of 20 songs that dive deep into the heart of fear. Some might make your skin crawl, others might bring a tear to your eye, but all of them capture the essence of what it means to be truly scared.

1. “Fear Is The Weakness” By In Flames

“Fear Is The Weakness” by In Flames is a powerful track from their 2011 album Sounds of a Playground Fading. The song delves into themes of inner turmoil and the struggle against personal fears. Musically, it features the band’s signature melodic death metal sound, characterized by heavy guitar riffs, dynamic drumming, and Anders Fridén’s intense vocal delivery. The lyrics reflect a battle against fear, portraying it as a hindrance to personal growth and strength. The song’s aggressive tone and urgent pace underscore the message that fear can be a debilitating force that must be confronted and overcome.

2. “Scared” By Jeremy Zucker

“Scared” by Jeremy Zucker, from his 2018 EP glisten, is a more introspective and mellow take on fear. This indie-pop track features Zucker’s soft, emotive vocals over a minimalist instrumental backdrop of gentle guitar strums and subtle electronic elements. The lyrics explore the vulnerability and anxiety that come with emotional exposure and the fear of getting hurt. Zucker’s honest and raw delivery makes the song relatable, as it touches on the universal experience of being scared to open up and let someone in. The song’s reflective nature and soothing melody provide a stark contrast to the more aggressive tones found in other songs about fear.

3. “The Breakup Song” By Francesca Battistelli

Francesca Battistelli’s “The Breakup Song” from her 2018 album Own It is a contemporary Christian pop song that addresses fear from a faith-based perspective. The song is upbeat and empowering, featuring catchy melodies and Battistelli’s vibrant vocals. The lyrics personify fear as something that can be broken up with, encouraging listeners to take a stand against it. Battistelli sings about reclaiming control and choosing faith over fear, making the song an anthem of resilience and empowerment. The positive and energetic vibe of the song aims to inspire listeners to confront their fears with confidence and trust in a higher power.

4. “Fearless” By Jasmine Murray

“Fearless” by Jasmine Murray is a pop song from her 2018 self-titled album that also addresses fear from a Christian perspective. The song combines pop sensibilities with powerful, uplifting lyrics that encourage listeners to live boldly and without fear. Murray’s strong vocal performance is complemented by an energetic arrangement of driving beats and vibrant instrumentation. The lyrics emphasize the importance of faith and courage, urging listeners to face their fears head-on and live fearlessly. The song’s motivational message and dynamic production make it a compelling addition to any playlist focused on overcoming fear.

5. “Only Fear Of Death” By Tupac Shakur

“Only Fear Of Death” by Tupac Shakur is a track from his posthumous 1997 album R U Still Down? (Remember Me). The song delves deeply into themes of mortality, paranoia, and existential dread. Tupac’s lyrics reflect a profound fear of death and the uncertainty of what comes after, particularly the fear of reincarnation. The song is marked by its raw and introspective verses, where Tupac grapples with his own mental state, the loss of friends, and the constant threat of violence. The haunting beat, sampled from “Hihache” by Lafayette Afro Rock Band, complements the somber and reflective tone of the lyrics, making it a poignant exploration of fear and the human condition.

6. “Doubt” By Twenty One Pilots

“Doubt” by Twenty One Pilots is the eighth track on their 2015 album Blurryface. The song addresses the internal struggle with self-doubt and anxiety. Tyler Joseph’s lyrics convey a fear of personal failure and the existential dread of not knowing what lies within oneself. The chorus, with its plea “Don’t forget about me,” suggests a fear of abandonment and a desperate need for reassurance. The song’s production, featuring a blend of electronic beats and haunting melodies, enhances the feeling of unease and introspection. The religious undertones in the lyrics also highlight a struggle with faith and the fear of losing one’s spiritual connection.

7. “Panic Room” By Au/Ra

“Panicking Room” by Au/Ra is a 2018 single that vividly portrays the experience of anxiety and self-doubt. The song uses the metaphor of a “panic room” to describe the mental space where one’s darkest fears and anxieties come to life. Au/Ra’s haunting vocals and the eerie, minimalist production create a sense of claustrophobia and tension. The lyrics describe the physical and emotional symptoms of anxiety, such as shaking hands and a racing mind, and the feeling of being trapped by one’s own fears. The song’s dark, atmospheric soundscape effectively conveys the intensity of the emotions being described, making it a powerful anthem for those who struggle with anxiety.

8. “Fear Of Sleep” By The Strokes

“Fear Of Sleep” by The Strokes, from their 2006 album First Impressions of Earth, explores themes of anxiety, isolation, and insomnia. The lyrics depict a narrator who is overwhelmed by fear and unable to find solace in sleep. The repeated refrain “Fear of sleep” underscores the relentless nature of anxiety that prevents the narrator from resting. The chaotic and restless energy of the song mirrors the internal turmoil of the narrator, who feels exposed and defenseless. The song also touches on broader social issues, with references to a chaotic environment and struggles with self-worth. The raw and honest lyrics, combined with the band’s signature garage rock sound, make “Fear Of Sleep” a compelling exploration of mental and emotional struggles.

9. “Fear For Nobody” By Måneskin

“Fear For Nobody” by Måneskin, from their 2018 album Il ballo della vita, is an empowering anthem about self-confidence and resilience. The song addresses the fear of judgment and the limitations it can impose on one’s life. The lyrics emphasize the importance of standing up for oneself and not letting others dictate one’s actions. Phrases like “I don’t have fear, I will survive” and “We don’t give a fuck ’bout you” reflect a strong determination to overcome external criticism and societal pressures. The energetic rock instrumentation and passionate delivery by lead vocalist Damiano David reinforce the message of inner strength and defiance against fear.

10. “Fear The Future” By St. Vincent

“Fear The Future” by St. Vincent, from her 2017 album Masseduction, explores the anxiety and apprehension about what lies ahead. The song uses vivid, apocalyptic imagery to convey a sense of urgency and dread about uncontrollable changes. Lyrics like “Come on, Sir / just give me an answer” suggest a desperate search for guidance in the face of uncertainty. The song’s intense, electronic-driven soundscape complements the tension and urgency in the lyrics, making it a powerful expression of the fear of the unknown and the future.

11. “Untethered Angel” By Dream Theater

“Untethered Angel” by Dream Theater, from their 2019 album Distance Over Time, depicts the paralyzing effects of fear and the struggle to break free from its grip. The song’s lyrics describe a narrator trapped in a self-created world of chaos and fear, which prevents them from exploring new possibilities and reaching their full potential. The progressive metal band’s intricate instrumentation and dynamic shifts in the song mirror the emotional turmoil and the journey towards liberation from fear. The message is clear: to achieve true freedom and growth, one must confront and overcome their fears.

12. “The Fear” By The Shins

“The Fear” by The Shins, from their 2017 album Heartworms, explores themes of anxiety, self-doubt, and the fear of failure. The song’s lyrics reflect a deep sense of vulnerability and the struggle to maintain composure in the face of internal and external pressures. Lines like “You feel like an ocean being warmed by the sun” suggest a fleeting sense of comfort amidst overwhelming fear. The song’s mellow, reflective tone and James Mercer’s introspective vocal delivery create a poignant atmosphere that captures the essence of living with fear and the desire to overcome it.

13. “The Fear” By Lily Allen

“The Fear” by Lily Allen, from her 2009 album It’s Not Me, It’s You, is an electropop track that critiques modern celebrity culture and the pervasive influence of consumerism. The song’s lyrics articulate Allen’s anxieties about societal expectations and the superficial nature of fame. Lines like “I want to be rich and I want lots of money / I don’t care about clever, I don’t care about funny” highlight the hollow pursuit of material wealth and status. The song’s catchy melody and Allen’s distinctive vocal style contrast with the serious themes, creating a poignant commentary on the fears and pressures of contemporary life. The song topped the UK Singles Chart for four consecutive weeks, reflecting its broad appeal and resonance with listeners.

14. “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” By Blue Öyster Cult

“(Don’t Fear) The Reaper” by Blue Öyster Cult, from their 1976 album Agents of Fortune, is a rock classic that explores themes of mortality and eternal love. Written by lead guitarist Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser, the song was inspired by his contemplation of death and the idea that love transcends physical existence. The lyrics, “Romeo and Juliet are together in eternity,” suggest a romanticized view of death as a reunion with loved ones in the afterlife. Despite some controversy over its perceived promotion of suicide, Roeser clarified that the song is about not fearing death rather than seeking it. The iconic guitar riff and use of cowbell have made it one of the most memorable rock songs of the 1970s, cementing its place in music history.

15. “Fear Is A Liar” By Zach Williams

“Fear Is A Liar” by Zach Williams, from his 2018 album Chain Breaker, is a Christian rock song that addresses the debilitating effects of fear and the lies it tells. The song begins with a gentle guitar line and builds into a powerful chorus that declares, “Fear is a liar.” Williams sings about how fear can make people feel unworthy, unloved, and incapable, but emphasizes that these are falsehoods that need to be cast away. The song’s message is one of empowerment and faith, encouraging listeners to rely on God’s love to overcome their fears. Its motivational lyrics and uplifting melody have made it a popular anthem for those seeking to conquer their anxieties.

16. “I Will Fear No More” By The Afters

“I Will Fear No More” by The Afters, from their 2019 album Fear No More, is a contemporary Christian song that focuses on overcoming fear through faith. The lyrics convey a message of trust in God, with lines like “I will fear no more / For I am safe with You.” The song was inspired by the band’s personal experiences with anxiety and the biblical message of “Do not be afraid” that appears throughout the scriptures. The Afters aim to provide comfort and reassurance to listeners, reminding them that they are not alone in their struggles and that they can find peace in their faith. The song’s soothing melody and heartfelt vocals make it a comforting listen for anyone grappling with fear.

17. “Afraid” By Tenth Avenue North

“Afraid” by Tenth Avenue North, from their 2016 album Followers, is a poignant Christian rock song that addresses the pervasive nature of fear and the desire to overcome it through faith. The lyrics reflect a journey from fear to trust, with lines like “I don’t wanna be afraid anymore” and “I’m safe in Your love, oh, Lord” emphasizing the comfort found in divine love. The song’s message is clear: fear is a consequence of listening to lies, and true peace comes from trusting in God’s strength and love. The band’s frontman, Mike Donehey, has shared that the song was inspired by his own experiences with fear and the realization that faith can provide a sanctuary from anxiety.

18. “Scared Of Beautiful” By Brandy

“Scared of Beautiful” by Brandy, from her 2012 album Two Eleven, is a mid-tempo R&B ballad that delves into themes of self-doubt and the fear of embracing one’s true potential. Written by Frank Ocean, Warryn Campbell, and Breyon Prescott, the song finds Brandy contemplating her fears and striving for self-acceptance. The lyrics, “I’m scared of me” and “I’m scared of beautiful,” highlight the internal struggle of facing one’s insecurities and the journey towards self-growth. The song’s production, featuring lush harmonies and emotive instrumentation, complements Brandy’s introspective vocal performance, making it a standout track on the album.

19. “There Goes The Fear” By Doves

“There Goes the Fear” by Doves, from their 2002 album The Last Broadcast, is an indie rock song that explores the fear of change and the passage of time. The lyrics, “We’re out of here / out of heartache / along with fear,” reflect a longing to escape current circumstances and the anxiety associated with moving on. The song also touches on the fear of missed opportunities, as seen in the line, “You turn around and life’s passed you by.” Despite its melancholic themes, the song carries a message of taking responsibility for one’s life and moving forward. The track’s expansive soundscape, featuring dynamic guitar work and driving rhythms, underscores the emotional weight of the lyrics.

20. “Fear” By Sade

“Fear” by Sade, from her 1985 album Promise, is a soulful and introspective song that narrates the anxious experience of a woman waiting for her lover, who is a matador. The lyrics, “Blue is the color that she feels inside / Matador, I can’t hide my fear anymore,” convey a deep sense of dread and vulnerability. The song uses the metaphor of bullfighting to illustrate the woman’s fear for her lover’s life and her own emotional turmoil. The haunting melody and Sade’s smooth, emotive vocals create a poignant atmosphere that captures the essence of waiting and fearing the worst. The song’s blend of jazz and soul elements adds to its timeless appeal.

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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.