8 Iconic Songs by Leo Artists That Capture the Sign’s Spirit

aug 5, 2025

No zodiac sign is known for shining brighter than Leo. The passionate fire sign is represented by a lion because of their strength, courage and regal sense of pride, and when they step into a room, all eyes fall on them. It makes sense, then, that some of the biggest stars in the music world are also proud Leos.

Born at the height of summer between July 23 and Aug. 22, Leos have a love for the spotlight. They're extroverted and charismatic, with a knack for captivating people and winning their hearts in a flash. Obviously, this makes them naturally inclined to the entertainment industry, and their unique power also shines through in their art. Keep scrolling to discover eight of our favorite Leo artists and their songs that capture the sign's spirit.

Shawn Mendes 'Shawn' album cover

(Shawn via Island Records)

Shawn Mendes – 'Treat You Better'

Leos can be a very passionate and loving sign, and they also have a tendency for one-upmanship. When someone else has the things they want, they just have to outdo the competition, and that includes matters of love. That's precisely the premise of Shawn Mendes's "Treat You Better," a moody yet fast-paced love letter to someone who's already taken. Still, Shawn promises he'd be a better partner, making it clear just how much better their life would be with him in it.

Also read about: 20 Contemplative Lyrics From Shawn Mendes's Shawn Album to Use as Your Next Instagram Caption

Demi Lovato – 'Sorry Not Sorry'

Leave it to Leo to act with unapologetic confidence at all time. They don't live with regrets, just like Demi Lovato in her 2017 hit "Sorry Not Sorry." It's an empowered anthem about living in your own self-assurance and how having haters only proves you've got something that they envy. It's a smooth and cool R&B-laden pop track that takes down her detractors as Demi lifts herself up and embraces the love she has for herself, in typical Leo fashion.

Also read about: Demi Lovato's Dancing with the Devil… the Art of Starting Over Lyrics as Instagram Captions

Dua Lipa – 'IDGAF'

At their most optimistic and assertive, you simply can't tell a Leo what to do. They know their worth and won't bow down to anyone, much like Dua Lipa in "IDGAF." Her confidence comes through in the bold beat as she sings about an ex who suddenly wants to come back into her life now that she's famous, trying to steal some of the glory for themself. Dua's no fool and values herself way to much to let this happen, letting him know, in no uncertain terms, that she doesn't care at all about what happens to him.

Also read about: 31 Timeless Lyrics From Dua Lipa's Future Nostalgia to Celebrate the Album's 5th Anniversary

Charli xcx – '360'

Charlie xcx's "360" is yet another rousing and bouncy track about empowerment and recognizing everything she's achieved through hard work, perseverance and skill. Still, the electro-pop jam isn't all about Charli's ego and influence on the genre, as she also takes the time to highlight some of her inspirations and friends who've helped her make her way to the top. After all, Leo is a highly social sign, and they surround themselves with people they trust and admire.

Also read about: 35 Reflective Lyrics From Charli xcx's how i'm feeling now to Use as Captions

Nessa Barrett – 'dying on the inside'

On the other hand, the pride of a Leo can be a bit of double-edged sword. As they care so much about appearances and being the best of the best, they can sometimes have thin skin, with their desire need to be wanted and liked getting the best of them. Nessa Barrett explores the concept thoughtfully in "dying on the inside," a song about all of the unsolicited comments she receives about her appearance, and the pressure to always appear as beautiful as possible. She's not afraid to call out beauty standards and the damage they can do to the body, mind and spirit.

Also read about: Nessa Barrett Explores Her Rage and Intrusive Thoughts in 'BANG BANG!'

Whitney Houston – 'I Will Always Love You'

Leos always manage to steal the spotlight, and it's no exaggeration to say that Whitney Houston did so without trying with her cover of Dolly Parton's "I Will Always Love You." In fact, it was such an emotional and heartfelt rendition that many people instantly assumed it was her original song. She recorded it for the soundtrack of her 1992 film, The Bodyguard, and more than 30 years later, it remains one of the most memorable vocal performances of all time.

Doechii – 'DENIAL IS A RIVER'

Nothing feels illustrative of the life of a Leo quite like a narrative in a song, and we adore the one Doechii paints in "DENIAL IS A RIVER." The song feels fully unfiltered and is equal parts vulnerable and humorous as the artist recounts her story thus far, also taking on the perspective of a therapist who's working with her to reflect on her life and unpack the more troublesome parts of her past that she at first skims over. It's not just a story of fame, but personal turmoil, mental health and giving into vices, with the darkness of her tale balanced by levity and wit.

Also read about: 25 Iconic Doechii Lyrics to Use as Your Next Instagram Caption

Clairo – 'Pretty Girl'

Of course, not all Leos have everything figured out. They can struggle with insecurity, and sometimes become chameleons who are willing to put on different masks in order to be desired in different company. Clairo explores this idea in "Pretty Girl," in which she completely changes herself—wearing different clothes and never speaking out of turn—in order to be more appealing to her partner. It's about forcing yourself into a mold for people and losing who you are in the process, as some Leos are bound to do as they find their way.

Next more Clairo? Click HERE to discover all of her best lyrics to use as Instagram captions.