Songs That Compare Love to Drug Addiction

Love can be intoxicating, overwhelming, euphoric—and sometimes destructive. Just like a drug. That’s why countless artists have turned to addiction metaphors to describe the highs and lows of love. Whether it’s emotional dependency, passionate obsession, or the crash that follows heartbreak, these songs capture it all.

We’ve pulled together a playlist that explores this compelling intersection of love, lust, and lyrical chemistry. From pop to rock to R&B, these tracks prove that love really is the ultimate drug.

When Love Feels Like a High

Kesha kicks off the theme with “Your Love Is My Drug”, a glittery electro-pop anthem that perfectly captures the euphoria of a new crush. Similarly, Lady Gaga’s “LoveDrug” and “Dope” dive into the emotional dependency that can come with love—or the loss of it.

Camila Cabello’s “Never Be the Same” takes things even deeper, comparing her feelings to heroin, morphine, and other intense substances. It’s raw, honest, and addictive in its own right.

Songs About Love as Literal Addiction

Some songs go all-in on the metaphor. Huey Lewis & The News’ “I Want a New Drug” cleverly lists all the side effects of a toxic relationship. Meanwhile, Robert Palmer’s “Addicted to Love” became an iconic 80s anthem for obsessive romance, complete with robotic backup dancers and a pounding beat.

Kelly Clarkson shows up twice with “Addicted” and “favorite kind of high”, bringing her powerhouse vocals to themes of emotional reliance and passionate highs.

Love That Alters Reality

The Weeknd’s mega-hit “Can’t Feel My Face” is a masterclass in double meanings—widely interpreted as being both about cocaine and a dangerous love affair. P!nk’s “Beautiful Trauma” and “Just Like a Pill” similarly explore how relationships can numb or distort emotional pain.

Justin Timberlake’s “Pusher Love Girl” is a lush, orchestral ode to a partner who feels as addictive as the strongest substance. And A$AP Rocky’s “L$D” dives into a psychedelic romance that blurs the line between tripping and falling in love.

Throwback Tracks and Deeper Cuts

The metaphor isn’t new. Roxy Music’s “Love Is the Drug” laid the foundation for this theme back in 1975, with its funky bassline and Bryan Ferry’s smooth vocals. Rick James’ “Mary Jane” doubles as both a love song and an ode to marijuana, while D’Angelo’s “Brown Sugar” follows a similar double-entendre path.

The La’s “There She Goes” sounds innocent, but its lyrics have long been speculated to reference heroin addiction—or perhaps just the agony of unrequited love. Either way, it belongs here.

One Last Hit: “Ecstasy”

Rounding out the list is Ciara’s “Ecstasy” (both the solo and the Rick Ross feature versions), bringing sensual energy and a club-ready vibe to the mix. It’s the perfect closer to a playlist that rides emotional and sonic highs.

Listen to the Full Playlist

If you’ve ever been in love—or heartbreak—you’ll find something to relate to in these tracks. This playlist is perfect for late-night drives, post-breakup reflection, or simply appreciating the powerful connection between music, emotion, and drugs.

🔊 Stream the full “Love Is the Drug” playlist on Spotify:

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