Unveiling the Top 10 The Weeknd Songs You Need to Hear Now
The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and record producer. He was born on February 16, 1990, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
The Weeknd rose to fame with his mixtapes released anonymously on the internet in 2010, later compiled into the album “Trilogy” in 2012. His unique sound, known for its atmospheric production, dark themes, and haunting vocals, gained critical acclaim and a loyal fanbase.
In 2013, The Weeknd released his debut studio album, “Kiss Land,” followed by “Beauty Behind the Madness” in 2015, featuring hit singles like “Can’t Feel My Face” and “The Hills,” which earned him his first Grammy Award.
His subsequent albums, “Starboy” (2016) and “After Hours” (2020), continued to receive critical acclaim and produced chart-topping singles such as “Starboy,” “I Feel It Coming,” “Blinding Lights,” and “Save Your Tears.” “Blinding Lights” notably became one of the biggest hits of 2020, breaking numerous records for chart longevity and streaming.
Besides his solo work, The Weeknd has collaborated with various artists and producers, expanding his influence across different genres. He is renowned for his captivating live performances and elaborate stage productions.
Outside of music, The Weeknd has ventured into acting, appearing in films like “Uncut Gems” (2019) and the upcoming HBO series “The Idol.”
Overall, The Weeknd is celebrated for his innovative approach to R&B and pop music, pushing boundaries with his sound and visuals while maintaining a mysterious and enigmatic persona.
1. Blinding Lights
“Blinding Lights” is a song by The Weeknd, released as the second single from his fourth studio album, “After Hours,” in 2019. The song was written by The Weeknd (Abel Tesfaye) in collaboration with other songwriters and producers.
Characterized by an upbeat synth-pop sound resembling 1980s electronic music, “Blinding Lights” features pulsating synthesizers and driving percussion. The lyrics depict themes of longing, addiction, and escapism, as The Weeknd navigates through city streets at night in search of love and connection.
The song’s infectious melody, coupled with a catchy chorus, propelled its widespread popularity and commercial success. “Blinding Lights” topped the charts in multiple countries, solidifying itself as one of The Weeknd’s biggest hits.
The accompanying music video for “Blinding Lights” showcases The Weeknd wandering through a cityscape at night, complemented by surreal and neon-lit visuals. Both the song and video received critical acclaim for their cinematic quality and thematic resonance.
“Blinding Lights” garnered widespread acclaim from music critics, earning nominations for multiple prestigious awards. Its record-breaking chart performance and streaming numbers further reinforced The Weeknd’s influence in contemporary pop music.
2. Starboy (feat. Daft Punk)
“Starboy” is a collaborative effort between The Weeknd and French electronic music duo Daft Punk, released as the lead single from The Weeknd’s third studio album of the same name in 2016.
The song merges elements of R&B, pop, and electronic music, characterized by dark and atmospheric production alongside The Weeknd’s smooth vocals and Daft Punk’s signature robotic sound. Lyrically, “Starboy” reflects on The Weeknd’s journey to fame and success, symbolized by his alter ego, the Starboy.
Receiving critical acclaim, “Starboy” became a commercial success, topping charts globally and impressing music critics with its stylish visuals and cinematic music video. The track solidified The Weeknd’s position as a major artist in the music industry.
3. The Hills
“The Hills” is a haunting and moody song by The Weeknd, released in 2015 as the lead single from his album “Beauty Behind the Madness.” The track explores themes of hedonism, temptation, and fame’s consequences.
With dark and atmospheric production, including haunting synths and a heavy bassline, “The Hills” delves into The Weeknd’s lifestyle of drugs, partying, and relationships, portraying a sense of disillusionment and emotional detachment.
Receiving critical acclaim for its atmospheric sound and introspective lyrics, “The Hills” emerged as one of The Weeknd’s biggest commercial successes, topping charts worldwide and earning several award nominations. The song’s music video further enhanced its themes and popularity.
As a boundary-pushing artist, “The Hills” solidified The Weeknd’s reputation and remains one of his most iconic and memorable tracks.
4. Can’t Feel My Face
“Can’t Feel My Face” was released as the third single from The Weeknd’s “Beauty Behind the Madness” album in 2015. The upbeat pop and funk-influenced track depicts themes of infatuation, addiction, and euphoria.
The song, with its infectious melody and energetic production, became one of The Weeknd’s most successful singles, topping charts globally. The accompanying music video, featuring a fiery performance by The Weeknd, earned praise for its visual style and thematic interpretation.
“Can’t Feel My Face” received critical acclaim and garnered award nominations, further demonstrating The Weeknd’s crossover appeal and prominence in mainstream pop music.
5. Save Your Tears
“Save Your Tears,” released in 2020 as the fifth single from “After Hours,” showcases The Weeknd’s knack for crafting upbeat synth-pop tracks with themes of heartbreak, regret, and resilience.
With catchy melodies, emotive vocals, and infectious hooks, “Save Your Tears” climbed the charts and became a standout track from the album. The music video’s visual creativity and thematic resonance further accentuated the song’s impact.
Receiving positive reviews and award nominations, “Save Your Tears” solidified The Weeknd’s reputation as an innovative artist capable of creating memorable pop hits.
6. Earned It
“Earned It” debuted in 2014 as part of the “Fifty Shades of Grey” film soundtrack, earning acclaim for its sultry R&B ballad characterized by haunting melodies and The Weeknd’s emotive vocals.
Reflecting themes of desire, passion, and intimacy, the song’s success led to an Academy Award nomination and a Grammy win. The music video, featuring scenes from the film, added to its popularity.
“Earned It” solidified The Weeknd’s rising star status, showcasing his talent and establishing him as a prominent figure in the music industry.
7. I Feel It Coming (feat. Daft Punk)
“I Feel It Coming,” a collaboration with Daft Punk, exudes a smooth, retro-inspired vibe with funky elements and soulful vocals. The song explores themes of love, desire, and anticipation, earning positive reviews and commercial success.
With a futuristic music video enhancing its appeal, “I Feel It Coming” underscored The Weeknd’s versatility as an artist and his ability to blend musical styles seamlessly.
8. Call Out My Name
“Call Out My Name” from the “My Dear Melancholy” EP in 2018 delves into heartbreak, betrayal, and emotional vulnerability through haunting melodies and evocative vocals. The song, featuring a poignant music video, resonated with audiences and critics alike.
Its commercial success and emotional depth solidified The Weeknd’s reputation as an introspective artist capable of crafting deeply personal music.
9. Heartless
Although “Heartless” is a song by Kanye West, it showcases introspective lyrics and innovative use of auto-tune. With its minimalist electronic production and themes of heartbreak, betrayal, and numbness, the track became a critical and commercial success.
Emphasizing Kanye West’s innovative artistry, “Heartless” remains one of his iconic songs.
10. Often
“Often,” released in 2014, revolves around themes of hedonism and indulgence, boasting The Weeknd’s sexual prowess and lavish lifestyle. The track’s seductive vibe, catchy melody, and suggestive lyrics contributed to its commercial success and popularity.
With a luxurious music video, “Often” solidified The Weeknd’s standing as a leading figure in contemporary R&B and pop music.
