The Weeknd, born Abel Tesfaye on February 16, 1990, is a global music sensation known for his distinctive voice, genre-blending sound, and enigmatic persona. Emerging from the underground Toronto music scene, The Weeknd rose to prominence in 2010 with a series of mixtapes that showcased his hauntingly soulful vocals and provocative lyrics.
His music transcends conventional boundaries, seamlessly fusing R&B, pop, and electronic elements to create a signature sound that resonates with audiences worldwide. His early hits like “Wicked Games” and “House of Balloons” garnered critical acclaim and set the stage for a meteoric rise to stardom.
The Weeknd’s artistic evolution has been marked by a willingness to experiment and push boundaries. His album “Starboy” (2016) catapulted him to even greater heights, featuring collaborations with Daft Punk and earning him multiple Grammy Awards. The release of “After Hours” in 2020 further solidified his status as a musical trailblazer, blending dark, introspective themes with infectious beats.
Beyond his musical prowess, The Weeknd is known for his visually stunning music videos and electrifying live performances. His enigmatic public persona adds an air of mystique, allowing fans to interpret his music on a personal level.
With numerous chart-topping hits and a dedicated global fanbase, The Weeknd stands as a contemporary music icon, pushing the boundaries of creativity and redefining modern pop culture. His impact on the music industry is undeniable, cementing his legacy as one of the most influential artists of his generation.
1. Less Than Zero
The Weeknd's "Less Than Zero" stands out as a unique song. Its mesmerizing beats and haunting lyrics have captured listeners all over the world. Here are some features that make it special: soulful and raw vocals, a synth-driven melody, dark and introspective lyrics, and a verse-chorus format.
For the best experience, here are some tips:
- Use Headphones: To appreciate the intricate production, use headphones.
- Analyze Lyrics: Take the time to explore the deeper messages in the lyrics.
- Check Remixes: Listen to remixes of the track created by other artists.
So sit back, relax, and let The Weeknd's music transport you into a new world. Get ready to experience The Weeknd's music like never before!
2. The Party & the After Party
The Weeknd's 'The Party & the After Party' is a standout in his discography. It's an intriguing, dark R&B song with soulful vocals and atmospheric production.
This track stands out for its mesmerizing melodies and introspective lyrics. It delves into themes such as hedonism, love, and self-destructive behavior.
You can't truly comprehend 'The Party & the After Party' in words. To fully appreciate it, give it a listen and let The Weeknd's voice captivate you.
Don't miss out on this special track that has made The Weeknd one of the most talented artists of our time. Dive into the captivating journey of 'The Party & the After Party' and find out why it's beloved by fans all around the world.
3. The Birds Pt. 1
The Weeknd's "The Birds Pt. 1" is a top pick from his discography. It showcases his exceptional talent and musical creativity. With its haunting melodies and introspective lyrics, the song resonates deeply with listeners.
It was released as part of his critically acclaimed album "Trilogy," which was a compilation of his mixtapes from 2011. Rolling Stone hailed The Weeknd's amazing musical prowess.
4. Rolling Stone
Rolling Stone, the famous music magazine, has listed The Weeknd's songs. Let's check out what they think and explore the tracks that have grabbed their attention. Here's a table with the top ten tunes according to Rolling Stone:
| Song Name | Album | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Blinding Lights | After Hours | 2019 |
| The Hills | Beauty Behind… | 2015 |
| Starboy | Starboy | 2016 |
"Blinding Lights" from "After Hours" in 2019 is at number one. This bop has been loved by people all around the globe and is one of The Weeknd's best-known songs.
To really get why Rolling Stone chose these songs, it's worth listening to each one and finding out what makes them special. Each one shows The Weeknd's talent and how he's grown as an artist.
If you want to explore The Weeknd more, here are a few ideas:
- Start with "The Hills" from "Beauty Behind the Madness" from 2015. This song reveals The Weeknd's darker side and mesmerizes with its spooky production and thoughtful lyrics.
- Follow it up with "Starboy" with Daft Punk from the same album. The Weeknd's smooth vocals join Daft Punk's electronic beats for a track you just can't resist.
- Don't miss "I Feel It Coming" featuring Daft Punk from "Starboy." This groovy song takes you back to the days of Michael Jackson with The Weeknd's modern twist.
By listening to these tunes, you can see why Rolling Stone thinks The Weeknd is one of the best out there. So go ahead, press play, and let The Weeknd take you on an amazing trip.
5. Out Of Time
Out of Time is an enthralling tune by The Weeknd. He displays his talent and adaptability with its spooky lyrics and entrancing melody. The Weeknd's distinct emotive vocals and the atmospheric production give off a feeling of fragility and contemplation.
As the fifth song on this list, Out of Time stands out for its meaningful storytelling and introspective topics. It examines the complexities of relationships and the difficulty of keeping emotional ties in the modern world. It's an ode to lost love and the overpowering feeling of being left behind.
What makes Out of Time so special are the exclusive elements in its composition. The genuine emotions The Weeknd's voice conveys, together with the captivating instrumentals make it an unforgettable experience. The song increases in intensity gradually, reflecting the turbulent journey in its lyrics.
For a more immersive experience, put on your headphones or find a quiet place and focus solely on the atmospheric features of the song. That way, every note and emotion will reach you personally.
6. House of Balloons/Glass Table Girls
'House of Balloons/Glass Table Girls' is an iconic track, featuring The Weeknd's signature dark and introspective sound. With spectacular production and lyrics exploring themes of addiction and desire, it transports listeners to a whole new atmosphere.
Here are the key details for the song:
| Song | Album | Year |
|---|---|---|
| House of Balloons | House of Balloons | 2011 |
| Glass Table Girls | House of Balloons | 2011 |
The song has a unique structure. It begins with 'House of Balloons', which is moody and ethereal, then shifts to the more energetic 'Glass Table Girls'.
The intense lyrics take center stage. The Weeknd dives into his inner thoughts and cravings, giving us a peek into his world. The haunting production amplifies the dark atmosphere of the song.
The Weeknd released 'House of Balloons' as part of 'The Trilogy', a critically acclaimed mixtape. This set of songs catapulted The Weeknd to stardom in the R&B scene.
Pitchfork Magazine highlighted 'House of Balloons/Glass Table Girls' as one of The Weeknd's most influential tracks. It's a masterpiece that established his distinct sound and narrative-style.
7. Blinding Lights
"Blinding Lights" by The Weeknd is an irresistible mix of synth-pop and R&B. It features his iconic falsetto voice and captivating storytelling.
It's the seventh song on our list of best Weeknd songs. It has a nostalgic yet modern sound, with pulsating beats and catchy melodies. It evokes a sense of euphoria.
The song blends various genres together. Reminiscences of 80s pop meet contemporary production. This shows The Weeknd's versatility as an artist.
It has universal appeal. It has been a hit across the world, topping charts. Its success is likely due to its sound and relatable lyrics on desire, longing, and self-discovery.
It's an iconic song, becoming the first in history to be in the top 10 of Billboard's Hot 100 chart for an entire year.
Let The Weeknd do the talking with this perfect tune for secret messages and hints.
8. Tell Your Friends
The Weeknd's "Tell Your Friends" stands out as one of his greatest songs. His smooth and sultry vocals carry the emotive lyrics. The production is top-notch, with dark, atmospheric beats, eerie synths, deep basslines and rhythmic drum patterns.
The lyrics explore success, fame and relationships. So, to appreciate the depth of the track, grab a good pair of headphones and immerse yourself in the intricate layers of sound.
For a mood boost, try The Weeknd's song "The Morning". Perfect for when you need a little something to get you through the day!
9. The Morning
The Weeknd's 'The Morning' is a unique track. It has a haunting melody and strong lyrics. Fans love it! Let us take a peek at this amazing song.
We'll review 'The Morning's' key elements:
| Element | Description |
|---|---|
| Artist | The Weeknd |
| Album | House of Balloons |
| Release Year | 2011 |
| Genre | R&B |
| Length | 5:15 |
This song is special for its brilliant production and Abel Tesfaye's heartful singing. It paints a clear picture of the dark side of nightlife and its effects on fame and wealth. It reflects The Weeknd's early work.
In 'The Morning,' there is a strong emotional link. Tesfaye's voice, together with meaningful words, creates a range of emotions. It's impossible to ignore.
To make your listening unforgettable, try these tips:
- Notice the complex production and mixes.
- Read the lyrics for the themes and messages.
- Listen in a quiet place to experience the captivating atmosphere.
By following these tips, you can appreciate the genius behind 'The Morning.' It is one of The Weeknd's greatest songs. 'The Hills' is like untangling The Weeknd's love life – a wild ride!
10. The Hills
The Hills by The Weeknd is a track that's still popular since its release. Its intense and haunting melody, along with emotive lyrics, make it a fan-favorite. It has a unique Gothic-style beat that differentiates it from other songs on the album.
Lyrics delve into fame, relationships, and the dark side of success. The chorus creates an immersive experience for listeners. The music video, directed by Grant Singer, captures the eerie atmosphere of the song. The Weeknd's vocals show his incredible range and emotional delivery.
Critics praised The Hills for pushing musical boundaries. It was released as part of The Weeknd's second studio album "Beauty Behind the Madness" and gained popularity quickly.
Pro Tip: For an even better experience, listen to The Hills with high-quality headphones to appreciate its atmospheric production.
Edward Tomlin 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.
