Throughout the realm of contemporary music, The Weeknd stands tall as one of the most innovative and mesmerizing artists of our time. Since his emergence onto the scene in 2010, Abel Tesfaye, the enigmatic singer-songwriter behind the moniker, has captivated audiences with his hauntingly seductive vocals, introspective lyrics, and genre-bending soundscapes. With a discography that spans over a decade, The Weeknd has consistently pushed boundaries and shattered expectations, carving out his own distinctive path in the world of R&B, pop, and beyond.
In this article, we embark on an enthralling journey through The Weeknd’s illustrious career to uncover the top 10 best songs he has graced us with. These tracks not only showcase his undeniable talent but also represent the evolution and growth he has undergone as an artist. From his early mixtape days to his chart-topping hits, we delve into the essence of The Weeknd’s musical brilliance, exploring the songs that have resonated deeply with fans worldwide.
Prepare to be transported through a tapestry of emotions as we relive the magic of The Weeknd’s timeless creations. Each song on this carefully curated list offers a glimpse into the artist’s soul, unraveling tales of love, heartbreak, temptation, and self-reflection. Join us as we celebrate the finest sonic masterpieces of The Weeknd, and discover why his artistry continues to captivate millions around the globe.
1. “Blinding Lights”
This hit single is one of the top The Weeknd songs of all time. It's an electrifying mix of '80s nostalgia and modern synth-pop, with an infectious, upbeat tempo that keeps fans dancing. The hook is a powerful earworm, and for good reason – the song has been topping charts worldwide since its release in 2019.
The catchy melody is backed by lyrics that tell a darker story – a night out on the town that ultimately leaves the singer feeling empty and alone. This duality gives "Blinding Lights" a depth beyond just being a fun dance track.
Despite only being released a few short years ago, "Blinding Lights" is already considered a classic in the realm of pop music. Its lasting impact reaches across generations, appealing to both longtime fans of The Weeknd and those just discovering his music.
As one of his most widely adored songs, it's fascinating to explore how "Blinding Lights" has influenced popular culture since its debut. From viral TikTok dances to countless remixes and covers by other artists, this track has cemented The Weeknd as one of the most important voices in contemporary music.
Starboy: Because sometimes, the only way to shine bright like a diamond is to take out a few competitors.
2. “Starboy”
The Weeknd's hit song "Starboy" showcases his ability to craft a catchy and energetic track. The collaboration with Daft Punk brings futuristic sounds and beats, which elevates the overall production of the record. In addition to the music, The Weeknd's vocals on "Starboy" showcases his dynamic range. This song also portrays intense emotions of ego, rebellion, and self-expression.
Apart from its commercial success, "Starboy" has received critical acclaim for its creative direction and sound elements. With over 1 billion views on YouTube, this track is undoubtedly one of The Weeknd's most significant contributions to the music industry.
If you haven't already added "Starboy" to your playlist, do it now! Don't miss out on experiencing this masterpiece from The Weeknd's repertoire.
Save Your Tears is not only a great song, but also excellent advice for anyone who's ever tried to do their own home haircut.
3. “Save Your Tears”
The electrifying beats of The Weeknd's "Save Your Tears" struck a chord with music enthusiasts worldwide. Oozing with emotions, the lyrics explore the pain of heartbreak and overcoming it with resilience. With striking visuals and a gripping narrative, the song has taken over the charts and stands among The Weeknd's greatest hits.
In "Save Your Tears", The Weeknd showcases his vocal range, seamlessly blending with the synths and drumbeats to create a haunting yet mesmerizing sound. The song is an ode to retaining one's identity despite societal pressure, urging listeners to stay true to themselves through every high and low.
One unique detail is that The Weeknd performed "Save Your Tears" during his much-anticipated Super Bowl halftime show in 2021, making it an iconic moment in music history.
If you haven't given "Save Your Tears" a listen yet, we highly recommend doing so to experience the magic of its soundscapes and lyrical beauty. Don't miss out on this masterpiece by one of today's biggest musical sensations.
Listening to 'Creepin'' is like discovering your ex's Twitter account and realizing they haven't moved on either.
4. “Creepin'”
The Weeknd's haunting tryst with his past love is beautifully captured in track #4, exploring themes of regret and nostalgia. The ethereal soundscape enhanced by Abel's soulful voice lends a melancholic edge to “Creepin'”. This dramatic ballad is a showcase of The Weeknd's signature style that has earned him critical acclaim.
The song starts with the lyrics "And now I know that you're creepin on the low". It portrays the protagonist as being haunted by the thoughts of his past lover's infidelity. The mellow pacing grows intense when he traces their mutual roots and delves into their intertwined past. With its layered vocals and heart-wrenching lyrics, “Creepin'” is one of The Weeknd's best works to date.
“Creepin'” is unique from other tracks on this list, as it is more understated in terms of production but still packs an emotional punch. Unlike chart-toppers like "Blinding Lights" or "Starboy", this deep cut resonates with fans due to its raw vulnerability.
Pro Tip: Take time to appreciate the quieter moments in The Weeknd's discography; his artistry can be found in every corner of his catalogue.
Warning: listening to 'Can't Feel My Face' may cause uncontrollable toe-tapping and the sudden urge to join a dance party – use with caution.
5. “Can’t Feel My Face”
This chart-topping single of The Weeknd, known as "Track 5 and Face-Numbness," has taken the world by storm. It is one of the most significant songs of his career, thanks to Max Martin's pop-driven production. The catchy tune features a slick disco-funk beat that sees the singer stepping out of his comfort zone. True fans quickly embraced this new direction and propelled it towards mainstream success.
The song was initially released in June 2015 as part of "Beauty Behind The Madness," The Weeknd's second studio album. It quickly gained immense popularity, peaking at number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 Chart, Canadian Hot 100, and UK Singles Chart.
The Weeknd created this classic tune with an anecdote about an infatuated lover addicted to drugs; this metaphor expresses the high experienced when using hard drugs like cocaine. Even though it was supposed to be a dark narrative about addiction in romance, it achieved remarkable commercial success globally.
Fun fact: "Can't Feel My Face" got everybody talking after Tom Cruise performed a lip-sync version in true Rockstar fashion on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon in July 2015.
Warning: Listening to 'I Feel it Coming' may result in uncontrollable urge to dance, sing, and feel like a total badass.
6. “I Feel it Coming”
This song brings back the disco era with a modern twist. The lyrics blended with Daft Punk's beats creates an exhilarating track that is hard not to dance along to. Though it is not the only song featuring Daft Punk on this list, “I Feel it Coming” stands out with its melodic tone and rich vocals.
The catchy chorus and bridge, combined with a thought-provoking message about living in the moment, make it a great addition to any playlist. It also showcases The Weeknd's growth as an artist, expanding his sound beyond his earlier works.
Despite being one of the newer songs on this list, “I Feel it Coming” has quickly become a classic among fans. Its upbeat rhythms will have listeners tapping their feet and singing along in no time.
For those looking for something new to add to their playlists or just wanting to delve deeper into The Weeknd's work, “I Feel it Coming” is definitely worth checking out. Its infectious energy makes it perfect for dancing or simply enjoying the music.
If you're not willing to die for The Weeknd, at least you can listen to 'Die For You' and pretend you would.
7. “Die For You”
As one of the best songs by The Weeknd, this track is a wonderful demonstration of his musical expertise. "Die For You" delivers a profound and emotional message that touches the hearts of listeners in an intense way.
This masterpiece portrays how much he loves his partner and how committed he is to their relationship through all ups and downs. With his magnificent voice, The Weeknd has shown that love can be difficult yet incredibly beautiful at the same time.
Moreover, "Die For You" effectively merges mesmerizing melodies with powerful lyrics to create an unforgettable experience for its listeners. Its soothing rhythm has made it an all-time favorite among fans worldwide.
As you dive deeper into this song, you'll find yourself getting lost in its labyrinthine lyrics and fascinating instrumental arrangements – which are sure to leave you breathless.
Interestingly, many people believe that this song was written about The Weeknd's long-term girlfriend Bella Hadid. Although the artist himself never confirmed or denied the rumors, many fans speculate that the two were featured together in the song's music video released in 2017.
Listening to 'Earned It' makes me feel like a sexy badass, or at least until I remember that I'm just sitting on my couch in sweatpants.
8. “Earned It”
This track, included in the soundtrack of the movie "Fifty Shades of Grey," is a seductive R&B ballad with subtle guitar chords and pulsating beats. It showcases Abel Tesfaye’s ability to masterfully mix sensuality and vulnerability in his lyrics, leaving an unforgettable impression on listeners. The Weeknd's soulful voice and raw emotions make this song one of his best works yet, earning him both critical acclaim and commercial success.
In addition to its smooth melody, “Earned It” also boasts incredible production value, thanks to seasoned producer Stephan Moccio. The track features elegant strings and a haunting piano line that further elevate its emotional depth. According to The Weeknd, the song was inspired by old-school Hollywood cinema as well as R&B legends like Marvin Gaye and Michael Jackson.
Interestingly enough, “Earned It” was initially going to be called “Earned,” but Tesfaye added "It" after hearing it on the hook because he felt it would sound more powerful. The song earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song, and solidified his status as one of the most innovative musicians in modern times.
For those seeking inspiration for their own music journeys, listening to "Earned It" can provide valuable insights into effective storytelling through music. Its seamless blend of emotion, sound design, and narrative structure set it apart from other contemporary tracks while creating an everlasting impact on listeners worldwide.
Buckle up, because The Weeknd takes us on a dark, twisted ride through 'The Hills' and we're all here for it.
9. “The Hills”
This track, ranked ninth among the top 10 songs by The Weeknd, showcases his ability to produce electrifying beats while maintaining an essence of melancholia. "The Hills" narrates a tale of indulgence and excess as portrayed through subtle yet strong vocals. The song has been dubbed one of his most successful releases till date; with over 1 billion views on YouTube and numerous Billboard chart-topping achievements.
The starkly honest and raw lyrics add an unusual touch of darkness to an otherwise upbeat tempo, which has perhaps contributed to its immense popularity among listeners worldwide. Its surreal music video also complements the tonality remarkably well; dipping into imagery that encapsulates the song's darker motifs.
What makes this song stand out is the haunting but hypnotic production that constantly builds up into dizzying heights until they are released in a crashing exhalation during the chorus. Fans have praised the song for its exceptional replay value, longevity and its ability to entice them back into listening on repeat.
According to Billboard, "The Hills" spent six weeks on top of their Hot 100 list in late 2015, making it one of The Weeknd's biggest songs ever.
Abel and Lana's duet is the ultimate prison break-up anthem – just don't send it to your ex behind bars.
10. “Prisoner”
This track showcases The Weeknd's emotional range as he croons about being trapped in his relationship, with Lana Del Rey's haunting vocals complementing the melody. "Prisoner" takes listeners on a journey of love and heartbreak, showcasing The Weeknd's ability to create a dynamic narrative through his music. The lyrics are raw and honest, evoking empathy from the listener. The song features on his third studio album 'Beauty Behind the Madness,' which signaled a shift in his career towards a more mainstream audience.
The Weeknd's emotive voice is on full display in "Prisoner," making it one of his best tracks to date. With its haunting melody and introspective lyrics, it continues to captivate fans around the world. It's worth noting that the collaboration with Lana Del Rey makes this track stand out even more since their voices blend together so seamlessly.
One notable aspect of "Prisoner" is its nostalgic 80s-style beats that give it a retro feel, yet sound modern at the same time. This feeling is emphasized by Abel Tesfaye's melancholic chorus backed by synth-heavy production, which helps keep everything sonically cohesive.
Listeners will appreciate this song for its exceptional musicality as well as for its lyrical brilliance, which gives us an insight into The Weeknd's artistry and emotional depth. Overall, "Prisoner" is an instant classic and deserves all of the accolades that have come its way.
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.
