20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (2024)

It’s no secret that bad parents can cause a lot of damage to their children. These 20 songs explore the different ways that bad parenting can screw kids up. From neglect and abuse to simply not being there for your kids, these songs cover it all.

If you’re looking for an emotional roller coaster ride, look no further than this list. Here are 20 songs about bad parents.

Contents

  • 1. “The Little Girl” by John Michael Montgomery
  • 2. “Mother” by Pink Floyd
  • 3. “Father of Mine” by Everclear
  • 4. “Problem Child” by 50 Cent
  • 5. “Little Toy Guns” by Carrie Underwood
  • 6. “Dinner at Eight” by Rufus Wainwright
  • 7. “Lipstick” by Guttermouth
  • 8. “Mother Knows Best” by Richard Thompson
  • 9. “Cleanin’ Out My Closet” by Eminem
  • 10. “A Boy Name Sue” by Johnny Cash
  • 11. “My Mom” by Eminem
  • 12. “The Story of My Old Man” by Good Charlotte
  • 13. “Father” by Demi Lovato
  • 14. “Perfect” by Simple Plan
  • 15. “Brick” by Ben Folds Five
  • 16. “Piece by Piece” by Kelly Clarkson
  • 17. “Emotionless” by Good Charlotte
  • 18. “Styrofoam Plates” by Death Cab for Cutie
  • 19. “Broken Home” by Papa Roach
  • 20. “Family Portrait” by Pink
  • Final Thoughts
    • Related Posts:

1. “The Little Girl” by John Michael Montgomery

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (1)John Michael Montgomery – The Little Girl (Official Music Video)

Starting off the list is a song that pulls no punches. “The Little Girl” tells the story of a young girl who was neglected by her parents.

The song is sung from the perspective of the little girl, and it’s absolutely heartbreaking. You can find it on his Brand New Me album which was released in 2000.

2. “Mother” by Pink Floyd

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (2)Pink Floyd – ” MOTHER ” The Wall 1980

The next song is one that many people can relate to. “Mother” is a classic Pink Floyd song that deals with the strained relationship between a son and his overbearing mother.

The song is full of frustration and resentment, and it’s easy to see why. This is one of his most popular tracks that have been covered by popular artists over the years.

3. “Father of Mine” by Everclear

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (3)Everclear – Father Of Mine

Everclear’s “Father of Mine” is another song that deals with a difficult relationship between a father and son. This time, it’s the father who is at fault.

The song is about how the father was never there for his son, and how that has affected him. It was released in 1998 as part of the So Much for the Afterglow album.

4. “Problem Child” by 50 Cent

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (4)50 Cent – “Problem Child”

Next on the list is a song that takes a different approach to bad parenting. “Problem Child” is actually sung from the perspective of the child who was raised by a bad parent.

The song is about how all he does is cause problems, and how he was never given a chance to be anything else. It’s a pretty dark song, but it’s also one that many people can relate to.

5. “Little Toy Guns” by Carrie Underwood

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (5)Carrie Underwood – Little Toy Guns (Official Video)

This song is a bit different from the others on the list, in that it’s not specifically about bad parents. However, it does deal with the effects of bad parenting.

“Little Toy Guns” is about how children are affected by their parent’s fights, even when they don’t mean to be. It’s a heartbreaking song that shows how even the best intentions can cause harm.

6. “Dinner at Eight” by Rufus Wainwright

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (6)Dinner at Eight – Rufus Wainwright

“Dinner at Eight” is a song about how bad parents can screw up their children. The song is sung from the perspective of the child, and it’s full of anger and resentment. It’s easy to see why this song resonates with so many people, as it’s a relatable experience for many.

7. “Lipstick” by Guttermouth

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (7)Guttermouth – Lipstick

Next on the list is “Lipstick” by Guttermouth. This song is about a mother who does not care for her son. If you have ever felt unimportant or neglected by your parent, then this song is for you.

It was released in 1997 as part of the Musical Monkey album which can be streamed on all music platforms.

8. “Mother Knows Best” by Richard Thompson

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (8)Richard Thompson – Mother Knows Best

Richard Thompson’s “Mother Knows Best” is a song about a mother who is not only neglectful but also abusive. The song was released in 1991 as part of the Rumor and Sigh album. If you have ever been mistreated by a parent, then this song is definitely for you.

9. “Cleanin’ Out My Closet” by Eminem

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (9)Eminem – Cleanin’ Out My Closet (Official Music Video)

If you’re a fan of rap music, then you have probably heard “Cleanin’ Out My Closet” by Eminem. This song is about the rapper’s complicated relationship with his mother.

He addresses her neglect and abuse in the song and how it has affected him throughout his life. This track can be streamed on all music platforms out there.

10. “A Boy Name Sue” by Johnny Cash

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (10)Johnny Cash – A Boy Named Sue (Live at San Quentin, 1969)

This song is about a boy who was left by his father at a very young age with no intention of ever coming back.

It’s a heart-wrenching story, but ultimately it’s a song about resilience and how even the worst circ*mstances can’t keep a good person down. It was released in 1969 as part of the At San Quentin album.

11. “My Mom” by Eminem

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (11)Eminem – My Mom Lyrics

Eminem seems to dominate this list of songs about bad parents, and for good reason. He had a very difficult childhood, to say the least.

This song is about his mother, who was addicted to drugs and often neglected him. It’s a very honest and candid look at what it’s like to grow up with an addict for a parent.

12. “The Story of My Old Man” by Good Charlotte

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (12)The Story of My Old Man – Good Charlotte

Good Charlotte is a band that is no stranger to songs about bad parents. This song is about a father, who was an alcoholic and often abusive.

It’s a very emotional song, but ultimately it’s one of hope and redemption. You can find it on their The Young and the Hopeless album released in 2002.

13. “Father” by Demi Lovato

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (13)Demi Lovato – “Father” Live

This next song by Demi Lovato is also about an absent father. This time, it’s from the perspective of a daughter who is tired of waiting for her father to come back into her life.

It’s a very powerful song, and it really resonates with anyone who has ever felt like they were invisible to their parents.

14. “Perfect” by Simple Plan

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (14)Simple Plan – Perfect (Official Video) [HD]

Who would ever forget the classic “Perfect” by Simple Plan? This song is about a boy who is trying to live up to the impossible standards set by his father.

It’s a relatable song for anyone who has ever felt like they could never do anything right in their parents’ eyes. You can find it on their 2002 album, No Pads, No Helmets…Just Balls.

15. “Brick” by Ben Folds Five

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (15)Ben Folds Five – Brick

“Brick” by Ben Folds Five is a song a sensitive topic. It’s about abortion and it’s based on the true story of the lead singer’s ex girlfriend who had one when they were in high school.

The song is very powerful and it really makes you think about the complex issue of abortion. You can find it on their Whatever and Ever Amen album.

16. “Piece by Piece” by Kelly Clarkson

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (16)Kelly Clarkson – Piece by Piece (Official Music Video)

This next song is also about an absent father. “Piece by Piece” by Kelly Clarkson is a very emotional song about how her father left her when she was a child and how she never really felt like she had a family. It’s a sad song, but it’s also one of hope and forgiveness.

17. “Emotionless” by Good Charlotte

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (17)Emotionless

Another song by Good Charlotte about bad parents. This time, it’s about a mother who is emotionally abusive.

It’s a very powerful song that really resonates with anyone who has ever been in a similar situation. You can find it on their The Young and the Hopeless album released in 2002.

18. “Styrofoam Plates” by Death Cab for Cutie

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (18)Death Cab for Cutie – “Styrofoam Plates” (Audio)

Next on the list is “Styrofoam Plates” by Death Cab for Cutie. This song is about a father who is an alcoholic and how his drinking has affected his family.

It’s a very honest and candid look at the issue of alcoholism and its effects on families. You can find it on their The Photo Album album released in 2001.

19. “Broken Home” by Papa Roach

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (19)Papa Roach – Broken Home (Official Video)

Up next is “Broken Home” by Papa Roach. This song is about growing up in a broken home and how it can affect children and how they grow up.

It’s a very honest look at the issue, and it really resonates with anyone who has ever been in a similar situation. You can find it on their Infest album released in 2000.

20. “Family Portrait” by Pink

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (20)P!nk – Family Portrait (Official Video)

Last on the list is “Family Portrait” by Pink. This song is about a dysfunctional family and how it can be hard to deal with. It’s a very relatable song for anyone who has ever had problems with their family. You can find it on her Missundaztood album released in 2001.

Final Thoughts

These are just a few of the songs about bad parents out there. If you have been affected by bad parenting, know that you are not alone.

There are others who understand what you’re going through and these songs can help you to feel less alone. We hope these songs help you in some way. Thanks for reading!

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20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum (2024)

FAQs

20 Songs About Bad Parents - Musical Mum? ›

Family Portrait” by Pink

The song is told from the perspective of a child looking back on her family and reflecting on the memories and experiences that have shaped her.

What are some songs about toxic parents? ›

  • “The Little Girl” by John Michael Montgomery. ...
  • “Mother” by Pink Floyd. ...
  • “Father of Mine” by Everclear. ...
  • “Problem Child” by 50 Cent. ...
  • “l*ttle Toy Guns” by Carrie Underwood. ...
  • “Dinner at Eight” by Rufus Wainwright. ...
  • “Lipstick” by Guttermouth. ...
  • “Mother Knows Best” by Richard Thompson.
Feb 8, 2023

Is there any mother and daughter songs? ›

25 Mother-Daughter Songs to Add to Your Sentimental Playlist
  • “In My Daughter's Eyes” by Martina McBride. ...
  • “Mother's Daughter” by Miley Cyrus. ...
  • “Where You Lead” by Carole King. ...
  • “The Mother” by Brandi Carlile. ...
  • “Mama's Song” by Carrie Underwood. ...
  • “Slipping Through My Fingers” by ABBA. ...
  • “I Hope You Dance” by Lee Ann Womack.
Jan 17, 2020

What is the song about divorce from a child perspective? ›

Family Portrait” by Pink

The song is told from the perspective of a child looking back on her family and reflecting on the memories and experiences that have shaped her.

Do kids like their parents music? ›

And the 20-year-olds of today liked the older songs as much as the new stuff they listen to with peers. For real? "They would hear this music and say, 'Oh yeah, that's my parents' music,' with obvious fondness," says Carol Lynne Krumhansl, the psychology professor at Cornell University who led the study.

What songs are about mommy issues? ›

Hive Five: Great Songs With Mommy Issues
  • Eminem: “My Mom" ...
  • Kate Bush: “Mother Stands for Comfort" ...
  • Misfits: “Mommy, Can I Go Out and Kill Tonight" ...
  • John Lennon: “Mother" ...
  • Tupac: “Dear Mama"
May 6, 2011

What is a toxic mother example? ›

One of the most common traits of a toxic mother is a failure to respect boundaries. You may have tried to set limits in your relationship, only for these to go ignored. For example, you might have asked her to respect your privacy but then realize she has been reading your journal entries or snooping on social media.

What is a mothers song to her daughter on her wedding day? ›

"Because You Loved Me" by Celine Dion

This song beautifully describes a mom who supports her daughter through good times and bad (and your wedding-planning journey!).

What song is the other mother humming? ›

The song she sings is the opening theme of the film "Dreaming" by Bruno Coulais, which was sung by the Other Mother's voice actress, Teri Hatcher.

What song is dedicated to a dead daughter? ›

Precious Child” by Karen Taylor-Good

This song is sung from the perspective of a mother who experiences the emotions of losing her daughter. She particularly wrestles with the fact that her daughter passed away before she did, leaving her to grieve and carry her daughter's memory.

Is parental divorce trauma? ›

Divorce can cause trauma because it can make the child feel a deep sense of loss as well as grief. This can be exacerbated by fighting between parents,” Ramirez says.

What is the trauma of children after divorce? ›

Divorce can be a traumatic experience for children, as it can disrupt their most cherished beliefs and uproot the foundation of their lives and routines – their parents. It's no surprise that children's academic performance can be negatively impacted during and after their parents' divorce.

What age do kids remember divorce? ›

Elementary school age (6–12) This is arguably the toughest age for children to deal with the separation or divorce of their parents. That's because they're old enough to remember the good times (or good feelings) from when you were a united family.

Why does my daughter listen to music so much? ›

Youth may listen to music as a way of helping them form their own identities, but also as a way to seek out new friends with similar interests. ConcentrationSome research has found that when a child listens to music they enjoy, their cognitive abilities, such as their ability to concentrate, improves.

Why does my daughter always listen to music? ›

Children and adolescents often use music to explore their identity and discover how they fit in. They often imitate what musical role models do and say - trying on new roles as their personal identity develops. Music provides a way for youth to express and explore their feelings and emotions.

How does music affect a child's brain? ›

Music ignites all areas of child development and skills for school readiness, including intellectual, social-emotional, motor, language, and overall literacy. It helps the body and the mind work together. Exposing children to music during early development helps them learn the sounds and meanings of words.

How do you describe a toxic parent? ›

What is a toxic parent? The term “toxic” parent is a bit nebulous and we probably all define it differently. However, it often refers to parents who are abusive, emotionally immature, have narcissistic traits, or struggle with other personality disorders, mental illnesses, or addiction.

What to do with extremely toxic parents? ›

Setting healthy boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and getting support from family, friends, or a therapist are ways to cope with toxic parents. Therapy can help you recover from trauma. BetterHelp has over 20,000 licensed therapists who provide convenient and affordable online therapy.

What is a toxic parent like? ›

Toxic parents create a negative and toxic home environment. They use fear, guilt, and humiliation as tools to get what they want and ensure compliance from their children. They are often neglectful, emotionally unavailable, and abusive in some cases. They put their own needs before the needs of their children.

What are toxic parent styles? ›

They partake in parenting styles that inflict on-going and repetitive trauma, abuse, humiliation, and ill-will. They don't treat their children with respect as individuals, compromise, take responsibility for their behavior, nor are they likely to apologize.

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