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This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Montclair chapter.

Valentine’s Day isn’t the same love extravaganza for everyone on the planet. For some, the holiday is a grim reminder that romance can suck. A lot. Some people are just better off thriving independently, and that’s okay. If you’re one of those people and need the soundtrack to your single celebrations, here are some of the best songs to add to your playlists.

“How I Look On You” by Ariana Grande

I truly believe this is one of Ariana’s most underrated tracks. Debuted on the “Charlie’s Angels (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack)” that Ariana Grande heavily contributed to came a song that tells the story of a boy using you for your fame, money and looks. This song is a must listen to get over someone who clearly wasn’t valuable to your life.

“BOYSH*T” by Madison Beer

I’m not a fan of a lot of Madison Beer songs, but this one is definitely stellar. What I believe should’ve been a radio hit, “BOYSH*T” is one of the catchiest songs to understand your worth and the true nature of a toxic ex. Life’s too short to be dealing with people who manipulate you and can’t understand how to be a real adult.

“Happier Than Ever” by Billie Eilish

What starts off as a soft-ukulele letter to a man who never paid any attention to her becomes an exhilarating rock-pop explosion of romantic angst. Billie Eilish really stepped out of her comfort zone to give us the perfect song to scream in the car too. I would know; I’ve done it many times.

“Don’t Hurt Yourself” by Beyonce

Another rock song by the queen herself, Beyonce. What I believe to be Beyonce’s best song ever is an anthem that lets a person know exactly what they’re losing when he messes up. In the wise words of Queen B, “When you hurt me, you hurt yourself.”

“Needed Me” by Rihanna

Rihanna continues fueling the fire with an R&B-breakup-essential that is “Needed Me.” Let the world know you are someone worth fighting for and you are a blessing to be around. Boost your confidence by adding this song to your playlist now.

“abcdefu (angrier)” by GAYLE

It’s not the original mix, but it’s the better one. GAYLE’s angrier version of “abcdefu,” her viral TikTok song, is a remedy to all the built-up pain and anger. I feel like when I belt the chorus out, it decreases my high cholesterol more than running a marathon would.

“Look What You Made Me Do” by Taylor Swift

While it’s not a breakup song, it’s still about a man having the audacity so I’m adding it in. Taylor Swift’s comeback single of the decade is not only empowering but demanding of people to stand up for themselves and be the ruler of their own life. Take back your happiness this Valentine’s Day, and don’t let someone poison what could be your happy life.

Hopefully, if you spend Valentine’s Day single this year, these songs make you realize being alone doesn’t mean you have no value. If there’s anything to take away from this, it’s that being single means you haven’t found the person deserving of you yet.

Avery Nixon

Montclair '25

A television and film major, with a minor in creative writing, and aspiring screenwriting who is taking her first step as a writer for multiple organizations at Montclair State University.