In the pulsating realm of contemporary music, The Weeknd stands as a formidable force, a virtuoso of sonic innovation and lyrical mastery. As we traverse the vast landscape of his illustrious career, it becomes abundantly clear that Abel Tesfaye, the enigmatic architect behind The Weeknd, has consistently bestowed upon us a trove of musical gems. This article embarks on a harmonious journey through the discography of this Canadian sensation, distilling the essence of his artistry to present the “Top 10 Best The Weeknd Songs of All Time.” From the haunting echoes of his early mixtapes to the chart-shattering hits that catapulted him to global stardom, each track on this curated list is a testament to The Weeknd’s unparalleled ability to weave narratives of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. As we delve into the rhythmic landscapes and soul-stirring melodies that define his oeuvre, we invite readers to immerse themselves in the sonic universe of The Weeknd, where emotion and innovation converge to create a timeless symphony. Join us as we celebrate the very essence of musical excellence embodied in the top ten tracks that encapsulate The Weeknd’s indelible mark on the modern musical zeitgeist.
1. Blinding Lights
“Blinding Lights,” released in 2019, stands as one of The Weeknd’s most iconic and celebrated songs, earning its place among the best of his discography. The track effortlessly fuses synth-pop with The Weeknd’s signature R&B sound, creating an infectious and timeless anthem. The song’s production, characterized by pulsating synths and an electrifying ’80s-inspired beat, immediately captivates listeners and sets the stage for a euphoric experience. The Weeknd’s vocals shine as he navigates the highs and lows of a tumultuous relationship, expressing vulnerability and longing. The memorable chorus, with its irresistible melody, has become synonymous with the track’s commercial success, topping charts worldwide and amassing billions of streams.
Beyond its musical prowess, “Blinding Lights” has also achieved cultural significance through its use in various mediums, including movies, commercials, and social media trends. The song’s atmospheric and cinematic qualities make it a perfect fit for a range of contexts, further solidifying its place as one of The Weeknd’s best. As a testament to its enduring popularity, “Blinding Lights” continues to resonate with audiences globally, maintaining its status as a modern classic that defines The Weeknd’s artistic prowess and ability to transcend genres.
2. Starboy (feat. Daft Punk)
“Starboy,” featuring Daft Punk and released in 2016, stands out as a defining moment in The Weeknd’s career, marking a shift towards a more mainstream and polished sound. The collaboration with the electronic music duo Daft Punk brought a futuristic edge to The Weeknd’s R&B roots, resulting in a chart-topping hit that showcases both artists’ distinctive styles. The song’s production is a masterful blend of Daft Punk’s robotic electronic elements and The Weeknd’s soulful vocals, creating an irresistibly catchy and dynamic track.
The narrative of “Starboy” reflects The Weeknd’s journey to success and the sacrifices made along the way, as he embraces his alter ego and sheds aspects of his past self. The accompanying music video, directed by Grant Singer, complements the song’s narrative by visually capturing the transition from the old to the new, symbolizing The Weeknd’s evolution as an artist. “Starboy” not only dominated the charts but also earned critical acclaim, winning the Grammy Award for Best Urban Contemporary Album. Its impact on popular culture, coupled with its commercial success, cements “Starboy” as one of The Weeknd’s best songs, showcasing his ability to reinvent himself while staying true to his artistic essence.
3. The Hills
“The Hills,” released in 2015, stands as one of The Weeknd’s most haunting and provocative tracks, solidifying his status as a trailblazer in the contemporary R&B scene. The song captivates from the beginning with its atmospheric and mysterious production, setting the stage for a narrative that explores themes of excess, fame, and the darker sides of success. The deep, pulsating bassline and ethereal synths create an otherworldly sonic landscape that perfectly complements The Weeknd’s moody and emotive vocals.
Lyrically, “The Hills” delves into the complexities of relationships in the midst of a hedonistic lifestyle, offering a glimpse into the emotional toll of fame. The narrative’s raw honesty resonated with audiences, making it a commercial success and earning critical acclaim. The haunting refrain of “I only call you when it’s half-past five” became an iconic hook, further contributing to the song’s lasting impact on popular culture.
“The Hills” not only topped charts worldwide but also earned The Weeknd two Grammy Awards nominations. Its atmospheric and enigmatic qualities showcase The Weeknd’s ability to push artistic boundaries and create music that transcends traditional genre boundaries. As a result, “The Hills” remains a standout track in The Weeknd’s repertoire, representing a pivotal moment in his career and a testament to his ability to craft emotionally charged and sonically compelling music.
4. Can’t Feel My Face
Released in 2015, “Can’t Feel My Face” is a standout hit in The Weeknd’s discography, marking a departure from his darker R&B sound to a more upbeat and pop-oriented vibe. The song’s infectious energy and groovy rhythm immediately captured listeners’ attention, turning it into a global sensation. Co-written by Max Martin, the track is characterized by its funky guitar riffs, disco-inspired beats, and The Weeknd’s falsetto vocals, creating a danceable and memorable pop anthem.
Lyrically, “Can’t Feel My Face” employs metaphorical language, blending the themes of love and drug use, as The Weeknd sings about the intense emotions and sensations of a passionate relationship. The clever wordplay adds depth to the song, making it both catchy and thought-provoking. The Weeknd’s charismatic delivery and the song’s undeniable hook contributed to its widespread success, earning it critical acclaim and commercial triumph.
The accompanying music video, directed by Grant Singer, complements the song’s infectious vibe, featuring The Weeknd’s charismatic performance against a backdrop of vibrant lights and energetic visuals. “Can’t Feel My Face” not only dominated charts but also became a cultural touchstone, cementing its place as one of The Weeknd’s best songs. The track’s crossover appeal showcases The Weeknd’s versatility as an artist, successfully navigating different genres while maintaining his distinctive voice and style.
5. Save Your Tears
“Save Your Tears,” released in 2020 as part of The Weeknd’s critically acclaimed album “After Hours,” exemplifies his ability to blend nostalgic ’80s synth-pop with contemporary R&B. The track is characterized by its pulsating beats, shimmering synths, and The Weeknd’s soulful vocals, creating a compelling and emotive sonic landscape. The song’s production, in collaboration with Swedish producer Max Martin, is a testament to The Weeknd’s continued evolution and willingness to experiment with his sound.
Lyrically, “Save Your Tears” explores the themes of heartbreak and regret, with The Weeknd expressing a sense of liberation and self-discovery. The poignant lyrics are delivered with a mix of vulnerability and resilience, adding layers to the overall narrative. The chorus, with its anthemic quality, has resonated with audiences, contributing to the song’s commercial success and cultural impact.
The music video for “Save Your Tears,” directed by Cliqua, further enhances the song’s narrative. The visual presentation combines elements of surrealism and theatricality, creating a memorable and visually striking experience that complements the song’s emotional depth.
“Save Your Tears” has not only earned critical acclaim but has also become a fan favorite, reaffirming The Weeknd’s ability to create music that is both sonically captivating and emotionally resonant. The track’s success adds another layer to The Weeknd’s diverse and impressive catalog of songs, solidifying its place among his best works.
6. Earned It
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=14fAxjCW-fc
“Earned It,” featured in the soundtrack of the film Fifty Shades of Grey and released in 2014, showcases a different facet of The Weeknd’s artistry. Departing from his usual dark and mysterious sound, the song embraces a soulful and cinematic atmosphere, perfectly complementing the romantic and seductive themes of the movie. The track, characterized by its lush orchestration and The Weeknd’s velvety vocals, presents a captivating blend of R&B and neo-soul elements.
Lyrically, “Earned It” navigates themes of desire, passion, and intimacy, echoing the sensual tone of the Fifty Shades franchise. The Weeknd’s evocative lyrics, delivered with a sense of vulnerability, add emotional depth to the track, making it a standout in his repertoire. The song’s chorus, with its memorable hook, contributed to its widespread appeal and commercial success.
The accompanying music video, directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson, further enhances the song’s connection to Fifty Shades of Grey, featuring scenes of The Weeknd performing in a dimly lit and opulent theater. The visual presentation aligns seamlessly with the song’s romantic and seductive undertones, creating a memorable cinematic experience.
“Earned It” not only earned The Weeknd an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song but also marked a significant moment in his career by reaching a broader audience. The song’s success showcased The Weeknd’s versatility as an artist, demonstrating his ability to craft music that resonates across different genres and contexts.
7. I Feel It Coming (feat. Daft Punk)
“I Feel It Coming,” featuring Daft Punk, stands as one of The Weeknd’s timeless tracks, securing its place among his best songs of all time. Released in 2016 as part of his critically acclaimed album “Starboy,” the song seamlessly blends The Weeknd’s signature R&B style with Daft Punk’s electronic influence, resulting in a captivating and soulful masterpiece. The collaboration between The Weeknd and Daft Punk brings a unique sonic experience, combining silky vocals, futuristic beats, and a retro vibe.
The song’s lyrics delve into the theme of love, desire, and anticipation, with The Weeknd’s vocals delivering a sense of vulnerability and yearning. The smooth and infectious chorus, coupled with Daft Punk’s robotic harmonies, creates a memorable and irresistible hook that resonates with listeners. “I Feel It Coming” not only showcases The Weeknd’s vocal prowess but also highlights his ability to navigate different genres seamlessly. The track’s production, with its nostalgic nod to ’80s pop, adds a layer of timelessness, ensuring its enduring popularity. As the seventh entry in the list of The Weeknd’s best songs of all time, “I Feel It Coming” remains a standout example of his artistry and musical evolution.
8. Call Out My Name
“Call Out My Name” secures its place as one of The Weeknd’s standout tracks, earning a spot among his best songs of all time. Released in 2018 as part of his EP “My Dear Melancholy,” the song is a poignant exploration of heartbreak and emotional vulnerability. The track’s haunting melody, coupled with The Weeknd’s soulful vocals, creates a powerful and emotive listening experience.
The lyrics of “Call Out My Name” reflect a sense of pain and resignation, capturing the aftermath of a failed relationship. The Weeknd’s raw and introspective delivery adds a layer of authenticity to the song, making it relatable to listeners who have experienced heartbreak. The production, characterized by atmospheric synths and a haunting piano riff, complements the emotional depth of the lyrics, creating a sonic landscape that resonates with the intensity of the subject matter.
As the eighth entry in the list of The Weeknd’s best songs of all time, “Call Out My Name” stands as a testament to his ability to convey complex emotions through his music. It showcases The Weeknd’s artistry in crafting soul-stirring ballads that leave a lasting impact on listeners, solidifying his position as a powerhouse in contemporary R&B.
9. Heartless
“Heartless” takes its place as one of The Weeknd’s most iconic songs, earning a spot among his best tracks of all time. Released in 2019 as a lead single from his critically acclaimed album “After Hours,” the song is a bold exploration of hedonism, fame, and the emotional toll of a turbulent lifestyle. With its pulsating beats and infectious melody, “Heartless” showcases The Weeknd’s ability to seamlessly blend genres, incorporating elements of R&B, pop, and electronic music.
Lyrically, the song delves into the darker aspects of celebrity life, portraying a sense of disillusionment and numbness. The Weeknd’s falsetto vocals add a haunting quality to the track, enhancing the overall atmospheric and moody feel. The chorus, with its anthemic hook, has become synonymous with the song’s title, making “Heartless” an instant and recognizable hit.
As the ninth entry in the list of The Weeknd’s best songs of all time, “Heartless” stands out for its infectious energy and bold sonic experimentation. The song not only dominated charts but also marked a significant evolution in The Weeknd’s musical style, showcasing his versatility as an artist. With its powerful impact and cultural resonance, “Heartless” remains a standout moment in The Weeknd’s discography.
10. Often
“Often” secures its position as one of The Weeknd’s standout tracks, earning a spot among his best songs of all time. Released in 2014 as a single and later included in his album “Beauty Behind the Madness,” the song showcases The Weeknd’s signature blend of seductive lyrics and smooth R&B vibes.
The track’s lyrics revolve around themes of intimacy, desire, and the blurred lines between love and lust. The Weeknd’s falsetto vocals add a sensual and captivating layer to the song, creating an irresistible allure for listeners. The production features a sultry mix of atmospheric beats and catchy melodies, contributing to the overall hypnotic charm of “Often.”
As the tenth entry in the list of The Weeknd’s best songs of all time, “Often” stands out for its provocative lyricism and infectious groove. The song’s success not only solidified The Weeknd’s status as a prominent figure in contemporary R&B but also highlighted his ability to craft music that resonates with a wide audience. With its sultry sound and memorable hooks, “Often” remains a standout track in The Weeknd’s discography, capturing the essence of his seductive and enigmatic musical persona.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
