Unless you're super lucky in love, chances are you've gone through a breakup or two in your lifetime. Whether you're on the giving end of the disperse or the receiving end, breakups can be messy, heartbreaking, and will make you feel like your whole entire world is ending. However, every person who has had their heart broken has a favorite '90s songs to help through the breakup.
I've gone through two big breakups in my life, and each one hurt in their own way. The first one was in high school when my boyfriend left for college and couldn't stop himself from cheating. The second time was about two years ago, and though we had both decided that this was "it" for us, he called it quits by classifying me as a burden. Ouch, right?
If you've been through it, then you know how bad a breakup can be. But after the initial stages of crying and venting to girlfriends, you get our strength back, remind yourself why you're too good for the fool, and play every song that reminds you just how strong you are. But if you're in the midst of a breakup, or just want to remind yourself how dope you are sans your ex, then these '90s songs that were made to help unbreak your heart.
"Movin' On" by Mya feat. Silkk The Shocker
Many people have dealt with a cheating lover and, let's face it, it sucks. The best part of it all though, is having the ability to take your stance when they come tip-toeing back around. Just ask Mya. She knows all about "movin' on."
"Not Gon' Cry" by Mary J. Blige
One thing Mary J. Blige knows is heartache, and her single "Not Gon' Cry" was created to be a self-esteem booster for all the heartbroken women of the world. Respect Miss Blige, respect.
"Creep" by TLC
TLC stormed the scene in the '90s with their sexually driven lyrics, and "Creep" is no exception to the trend. Letting the ladies know that it's OK to do it too, this song is one to play if payback is on your menu.
"Don't Speak" by No Doubt
No Doubt has always been one of my favorite groups from the '90s and I'm pretty sure that "Don't Speak" is the cause of it. I don't know if there was a breakup song that resonated better in my heart back then when placed up against Gwen Stefani's convincing vocals.
"Ex-Factor" by Lauryn Hill
Depending on where you are in the breakup stage, Lauryn Hill's critically acclaimed "Ex-Factor" can either build you or break you. Choose carefully when listening.
"Bug A Boo" by Destiny's Child
Sometimes, you get caught up with what Destiny's Child deemed as a "Bug a Boo." If you can't get him off of your line, just play this for him and he might make a move in the direction of to the left.
"Doin' Just Fine" by Boyz II Men
Breakups aren't only for women, and Boyz II Men proved that with their slow-burning single, "Doin' Just Fine." Letting their ex-ladies know they're getting along very well without them in their lives, this song would've been perfect for a "I'm dumping you" scene from your favorite '90s teen movie.
"Feelin' So Good" by Jennifer Lopez feat. Fat Joe & Big Pun
Jennifer Lopez had the right idea when she joined forces with Fat Joe and the late and great Big Pun to deliver the fun and funky single, "Feelin' So Good". Playing this in the morning or right before going out will remind you that nothing can hold you down.
"Spice Up Your Life" by Spice Girls
Who could forget the Spice Girls? Everyone loves a feel good song and "Spice Up Your Life" is just that. Who could go against those lyrics that preach positivity when getting back on the happy train?
"Man! I Feel Like A Woman" by Shania Twain
"Man! I Feel Like A Woman" may have been the only Shania Twain song I knew in the '90s, but knowing it was surely worth it. Delivering a settling feeling about being a woman, the video to this song is a definite play when going to this song.
"Not Tonight (Ladies Night Remix)" by Lil' Kim feat. Left Eye, Da Brat, Missy Elliott, and Angie Martinez
The number one anthem that'll make you "bang this in your whips," Lil' Kim's collaborative track with some of the top female rap artists in the '90s will have you and and your girls wanting a ladies' night every week.
"Da Baddest B*tch" by Trina
Found out he cheated on you? Just mess up his million dollar mansion. If you're not looking to catch a case though, you can always just play this track that makes you feel like a total badass.
"You Oughta Know" by Alanis Morissette
Even if you wish them well in their future situations after your the breakup, you probably share some of Alanis Morissette's sentiments in "You Oughta Know".
"Caught Out There" by Kelis
Before her milkshake was busy bringing all the boys to the yard, Kelis was expressing what most women go through after a bad break up. "Caught Out There" is on this list because sometimes, we just need to scream it out. Ya know?
"Tyrone" by Erykah Badu
If he's a freeloader like the man Erykah spoke of in "Tyrone," then hopefully you've gotten rid of him. When those moments come where you have thoughts about maybe taking him back, this song should serve as your reminder of just how bad of an idea that would be.
