20 Songs About Friends With Benefits

As someone who has been in a friends with benefits relationship, I know firsthand how complex and emotionally fraught they can be. There’s an undeniable physical and emotional intimacy, but without the commitment and expectations of a traditional romantic relationship. It’s a delicate balance that often leads to hurt feelings, jealousy, and the inevitable awkwardness when one person starts catching feelings.

Music has a way of capturing the ups and downs of this unique relationship dynamic. Over the years, many artists have written songs that perfectly encapsulate the joys and struggles of being friends with benefits. From the initial excitement and sexual tension, to the inevitable heartbreak when one person wants more, these songs speak to the universal experience.

In this playlist, I’ve compiled 20 of the best songs about friends with benefits. Some are upbeat and celebratory, while others are melancholy and bittersweet. But they all shine a light on this modern relationship phenomenon in their own way. 

1. “Loverboy” by You Me At Six

“Loverboy” by You Me At Six delves into the complexities of a casual relationship where one party is emotionally detached. The song portrays a “playa” who manipulates emotions and treats relationships like a game, focusing on the physical benefits without emotional involvement. The lyrics suggest a sense of regret and awareness of the consequences, as the protagonist acknowledges playing with hearts but is willing to repeat the behavior due to the benefits received. The song combines a catchy rock melody with introspective lyrics, reflecting on the superficiality and transient nature of such relationships.

2. “F.W.B.” by Wayne Brady

Wayne Brady’s “F.W.B.” (Friends With Benefits) is a smooth R&B track that candidly discusses the transition from friendship to a more intimate relationship without the commitment of a traditional romance. The lyrics express a mutual understanding between two adults who have needs and are willing to explore their chemistry without complicating their friendship. Brady sings about the attraction and the desire to keep things simple, emphasizing the lack of strings attached and the freedom to maintain their individual lives while enjoying each other’s company. The song captures the playful and consensual nature of a friends-with-benefits arrangement.

3. “Ruin the Friendship” by Demi Lovato

In “Ruin the Friendship,” Demi Lovato explores the tension and chemistry between friends who are on the verge of crossing into romantic territory. The song is about the internal struggle and excitement of potentially transforming a platonic relationship into something more intimate. Lovato’s lyrics convey a sense of urgency and desire to act on the mutual attraction, questioning why they haven’t taken the step yet. The song is both seductive and introspective, capturing the emotional complexity of risking a friendship for the possibility of a deeper connection.

4. “Friends With Benefits” by A Boogie wit da Hoodie

A Boogie wit da Hoodie’s “Friends With Benefits” presents a narrative of a luxurious and carefree relationship where material wealth and physical attraction play significant roles. The lyrics describe a relationship that is both intimate and transactional, with the protagonist providing lavish gifts and experiences in exchange for companionship. The song highlights the challenges of maintaining such a relationship, especially when emotions and jealousy arise. Despite the casual nature, there is an underlying acknowledgment of the complications that can occur when boundaries are blurred.

5. “You Can’t Fix This” by Stevie Nicks

“You Can’t Fix This” by Stevie Nicks, along with Dave Grohl, Taylor Hawkins, and Rami Jaffee, is a rock song that deals with themes of loss and the irreparable nature of certain situations. The song was inspired by the tragic death of Stevie Nicks’ godson due to a drug overdose, and it carries a strong anti-drug message. The lyrics reflect on the pain of losing a friend and the fragility of life and relationships, metaphorically warning against “dancing with the devil” and the dangers of drug use. Although the song does not directly address a friends-with-benefits scenario, its exploration of friendship and loss adds emotional depth to the playlist.

6. “Friends With Benefits” by KSI & MNDM

This song by KSI and MNDM is a straightforward take on the concept of friends with benefits, focusing on a no-strings-attached relationship. The lyrics are playful and highlight the casual nature of the arrangement, emphasizing the physical aspect without emotional involvement. The song is part of KSI’s EP Jump Around and features a music video with humorous vignettes that illustrate the carefree and fun aspects of such a relationship.

7. “You Shouldn’t Kiss Me Like This” by Toby Keith

Toby Keith’s “You Shouldn’t Kiss Me Like This” explores the blurred lines between friendship and romance. The song describes a moment where a kiss between friends sparks unexpected feelings, leading to confusion about the nature of their relationship. The lyrics convey the emotional tension and the possibility of transitioning from friendship to something more, capturing the essence of a friends-with-benefits situation where boundaries are tested.

8. “For Baltimore” by All Time Low

“For Baltimore” by All Time Low is a pop-punk song that captures the excitement and intensity of young love. While the song primarily focuses on being in love and the connection to a hometown, it also touches on the idea of relationships that start casually but have the potential to become more serious. The lyrics convey a sense of spontaneity and the thrill of living in the moment, which can resonate with the theme of friends with benefits, especially when emotions begin to complicate the arrangement.

9. “Haunt // Bed” by The 1975

“Haunt // Bed” by The 1975 explores a complex emotional landscape where a friend uses the protagonist for physical comfort to cope with personal loss. The song’s lyrics suggest a relationship that is more about escapism and temporary solace than a traditional romantic connection. It delves into themes of grief, emotional detachment, and the transient nature of such arrangements, where physical intimacy is a way to deal with deeper emotional pain.

10. “Temporary Fix” by One Direction

“Temporary Fix” by One Direction is a pop-rock track that captures the essence of a fleeting, no-strings-attached encounter. The song’s lyrics describe a scenario where the protagonist offers to be a temporary solution for someone looking for a distraction or comfort. It emphasizes the physical and immediate nature of the relationship, with an understanding that it is not meant to be permanent or deeply emotional. The upbeat tempo and catchy chorus underline the carefree and spontaneous aspects of such a connection.

11. “Glitch” by Taylor Swift

“Glitch” by Taylor Swift reflects on a relationship that began as a casual friendship but evolved into something more serious. The song’s lyrics suggest that the transition from friends to lovers was unexpected, described metaphorically as a “glitch.” It captures the surprise and complexity of developing real feelings in a relationship that was initially meant to be uncomplicated. The song explores the nuances of emotional growth and the unpredictability of human connections.

12. “Head Over Feet” by Alanis Morissette

“Head Over Feet” by Alanis Morissette tells the story of a relationship where the lines between friendship and romance blur. The protagonist expresses gratitude for a friend who has become a lover, highlighting the comfort, support, and devotion present in their relationship. The song celebrates the seamless transition from friendship to love, emphasizing the emotional depth and mutual respect that can exist in such arrangements. It portrays a positive and heartfelt perspective on friends with benefits, where love naturally develops from a strong friendship.

13. “Boyfriend” by Tegan and Sara

“Boyfriend” by Tegan and Sara is a synth-pop track that delves into the complications of a relationship where one person is treated like a romantic partner without the official title. The song captures the frustration and ambiguity of being in a situation where the lines between friendship and romance are blurred. It is inspired by Sara Quin’s personal experience with someone who was not fully ready to commit, yet treated her like a boyfriend. The lyrics express the desire for clarity and recognition in a relationship that feels more significant than just friendship.

14. “Kiss Me Now” by Diana Ross

“Kiss Me Now” by Diana Ross is a song that expresses the urgency and desire for a romantic connection. The lyrics convey a longing for intimacy and the hope that a friendship can evolve into something more meaningful. The song’s jazzy, upbeat arrangement complements the theme of seizing the moment and embracing the potential for romance. While it doesn’t explicitly address a friends-with-benefits scenario, the song’s focus on transitioning from friendship to romance aligns with the playlist’s theme.

15. “No Sleeep” by Janet Jackson featuring J. Cole

“No Sleeep” by Janet Jackson featuring J. Cole is a sultry R&B track that explores the theme of a long-distance relationship filled with anticipation and desire. The song’s lyrics describe the excitement and passion of reuniting with a lover, emphasizing the physical and emotional connection that transcends distance. J. Cole’s verse adds a layer of intimacy and playfulness, highlighting the chemistry between the two. The song captures the essence of a relationship that is both casual and deeply connected, fitting well within the friends-with-benefits theme.

16. “Iz U Down” by Kid Ink featuring Tyga

“Iz U Down” by Kid Ink featuring Tyga is a hip-hop track that focuses on the casual and physical aspects of a friends-with-benefits relationship. The lyrics are straightforward, emphasizing the mutual understanding and agreement between two people who are interested in a no-strings-attached arrangement. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy hook reflect the carefree and fun nature of such relationships, where both parties are clear about their intentions and enjoy the benefits without complications.

17. “Best Friends” by The Weeknd

“Best Friends” by The Weeknd is a track that delves into the complexities of maintaining a friends-with-benefits relationship. The lyrics express the struggle of keeping emotions in check while engaging in a physical relationship with a friend. The Weeknd’s character in the song is aware of the potential complications that can arise from developing feelings, yet he is drawn to the physical connection. The song captures the tension between wanting to maintain the friendship and the risk of it evolving into something more emotional.

18. “Let’s Be Friendly” by Dean Martin

“Let’s Be Friendly” by Dean Martin is a classic tune that humorously explores the idea of keeping things light and casual in a relationship. The song’s lyrics suggest a playful approach to romance, emphasizing the benefits of being friendly without the pressures of a serious commitment. While it doesn’t explicitly address a friends-with-benefits scenario, the song’s lighthearted tone and focus on casual interaction align with the theme of maintaining a carefree and uncomplicated relationship.

19. “Hot Mess” by Ashley Tisdale

“Hot Mess” by Ashley Tisdale is a pop-rock song that captures the chaotic and unpredictable nature of a relationship that blurs the lines between friendship and romance. The lyrics describe a situation where the protagonist is involved with someone who is both exciting and troublesome, leading to a dynamic that is both thrilling and messy. The song portrays the allure of a relationship that is intense and passionate, yet lacking in stability, reflecting the ups and downs often associated with friends-with-benefits arrangements.

20. “Something That We’re Not” by Demi Lovato

“Something That We’re Not” by Demi Lovato is a pop song that addresses the confusion and denial that can occur in a friends-with-benefits relationship. The lyrics express the protagonist’s awareness that the relationship is not meant to be serious, yet there is a temptation to pretend otherwise. The song highlights the importance of honesty and clear boundaries, as the protagonist insists on maintaining the casual nature of the relationship without succumbing to the pressure of making it something more. It captures the internal conflict and desire for clarity in such arrangements.

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.