Songs About Moving On

by Diamond Brown, Music Editor

There comes a time in everyone’s life when we simply need to let go and move on. But sometimes I say, screw that, how am I supposed to simply move on? What’s the protocol? Where’s the guidebook and instructions? It’s hard to find valuable help when you catch yourself in need of emotional support, but music for me always does the trick.

It’s not always the easiest thing to do—listening to music for hours on end about relationships—but it can and does help me to release my emotions without feeling ashamed. Today, I’ve curated a playlist for our Missies out there who, like me, just needs some motivation or to listen to lyrics that can help you over the hump.

I’ve listed the songs below and the link to them on the playlist, so feel free to skip some, check out particular ones, or whatever makes it easier for you.

Photography by Getty Images/Kevin Winter

Embracing Single Status Relationship & Music Festival Vid: I added this because this festival is amazing! It’s great for singles—and even couples—to come out, enjoy some music, and good food, and be around like-minded/hearted people. If you’re going through a breakup 9/10 someone else who is attending is, too. So, why not connect? Early Bird tickets are on sale now.

Ready to listen? Press play.

Movin’ On (Hip Hop & R&B) – Mya Feat. Silkk The Shocker: The title is self-explanatory so of course it was added! Give this one a listen, Mya, talks about being cheated on and leaving her no-good boyfriend for someone who appreciates her.

Love Yourself (Pop) – Justin Bieber: He is not home sitting around waiting for her to call and you don’t need to sit at home waiting to hear from them either. This song is so beautifully written and empowering. You should go and love yourself—the meaning being for both you and your ex.

Breakaway – Kelly Clarkson (Pop): This is a song you can play and shout as loud as you need to, don’t hold back! When you get to a place where you’re muting yourself for the relationship to work, it’s time to walk away, spread your wings, and learn how to fly.

Since You Been Gone – Kelly Clarkson (Pop): After your break away, you’ll soon start to feel how happy you are and glad that he left. The right one never leaves or gives you a reason to. He will be there through it all and will gladly do anything to see you smile and keep you feeling your best. Blast this one and let your hair down!

Miss Movin’ On – Fifth Harmony (Pop): Her tears are dry and she’s telling herself that she will never allow herself to be that girl again. We all fall short and it’s no surprise that sometimes that [one] love can change our outlook on love for the rest of our lives. But just know there is hope on the other side of the tunnel!

Walk Away – Paula DeAnda (R&B): This is growth and maturity. Ever heard of rebound relationships? Well, sometimes that’s all it is when your ex moves on quickly. Don’t get discouraged, keep moving on and walk away. Soon—even though it doesn’t feel like it now—he’ll realize the grass wasn’t greener on the other side.

Related articles: What Happens When a Rebound Relationship Ends?

Related articles: Rebound Relationship Stages

Better In Time – Leona Lewis (Pop): Leona sings beautifully in this classic ballad. She sings about learning how to love again and reminding herself that she will be okay. At one point we all think we can’t live without the person who hurt us, but songs like this are the perfect reminder that it will all get better in time.

No Tears Left To Cry – Ariana Grande (Pop): Tears are a part of the healing process so don’t ever feel ashamed for screaming, crying, or throwing things (as long as no one gets hurt). For real, get it all out. Once you do that, you’ll see there are no more tears left to cry. Play this song as you prepare your fit for E.S.S. This year’s theme is Euphoric!

We Are Never Getting Back Together – Taylor Swift (Pop): Isn’t Taylor like the queen of breakup songs? This song speaks so much truth. We oftentimes go back and forth with a significant other until we are finally just OVER IT! They never change, we’ll spend so much time hoping and praying for it, but it never comes Missie. Save yourself!

Irreplaceable – Beyoncé (Pop): “Everything you own in the boxes to the left!” I used to shout the lyrics to this song, ladies you can, too. He doesn’t know about you. He’s replaceable! Now get those tears out and then grab your outfit and head out for a night with the girls.

IDGAF – Dua Lipa (Pop): The song title says it all! When you know, you know.

Ex-Factor – Lauryn Hill (R&B): One of my all-time favorite songs! If you’ve never heard it, do yourself a favor and turn it on, turn down the lights, close your eyes, and give the lyrics a deep listen. Yes, you’ll cry, you’ll reminisce, but do not contact THEM! Just take the moment and appreciate yourself for coming this far.

100 Letters – Halsey (Pop): So glad this song is on this list. She is speaking facts! He may come back but it’s not genuine, maybe just for sex and you’re worth so much more than that Missie. Don’t let him come back at all—that is the best revenge.

Cry Me A River – Justin Timberlake (Pop): That’s right! Cry us a river! They never miss you until they can no longer have you. Also, they don’t appreciate you when you’re right there in front of their faces. Don’t be fooled, they knew what they had the first time and took you for granted. Let them cry or move on to someone else.

What Goes Around – Justin Timberlake (Pop): Let this one play, take a sip of wine, and be grateful they’re no longer in your life. Funny thing is, depending on how the breakup with your ex went, they now have a ton of karma and guilt to carry (i.e. cheating, physical abuse) and he/she will surely get what’s coming to them.

Shoutout To My Ex – Little Mix (Pop): We love a good comeback song! Breakups are never easy but remember there is a healing period and you will get over it. You’re strong, empowered, and beautiful. Once you are on the other side, like the song says that person cannot hurt you again.

No More – 3LW (R&B): Before Cheetah Girls we had 3LW and this song was a bop! Let’s learn to leave lazy men in the past where they belong. If he doesn’t want to step up and you have to leave, don’t cry or feel bad. You deserve to be treated like the Queen you are.

Thank you, Next – Ariana Grande (Pop): You may not feel it now, but you will. You’ll soon be grateful for all of your exes. They all come into our lives to teach us and prepare us for what’s better.

He Wasn’t Man Enough For Me – Toni Braxton (R&B): In this world of social media don’t be surprised if the new girl takes a peek at who you are, and what you look like, but remember, she’s his new toy now. He was never man enough for you and now you’re on to bigger and better.

Wrecking Ball – Miley Cyrus (Pop): It’s happened to the best of us, we think we’ve found the one and we give them our all too fast only to be left out in the cold. Don’t get discouraged, you’re not alone. Many have done it and many have healed from it.

Flowers – Miley Cyrus (Pop): Do we really need an explanation? This song came in and shook many because it was the best comeback to what she and the world thought would be her happily ever after. This is an example that sometimes it’s okay to walk away.

So Sick – Ne-Yo (R&B): “No more walking around with my head down”. As you make your way through this playlist, we hope you’re feeling empowered because love songs can hurt but it’s a great outlet.

Not Gon’ Cry – Mary J. Blige (R&B): This is for our single moms, listen, moving on from the father of your children is never easy, but doable and always better for the children in the grand scope of things.

Send My Love – Adele (Pop): When you’re done, you’re done. The best way to hurt a man is to never return, you can be the bigger person. Wish him well as you move forward in your life. Love and light Missie.

Let us know if you enjoyed our playlist by either commenting down below or leaving us a message on YouTube.