The Weeknd, born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye on February 16, 1990, is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his distinctive voice, enigmatic persona, and genre-blurring music. Rising to fame with his mixtapes released in the early 2010s, The Weeknd quickly garnered attention for his dark, atmospheric R&B sound and introspective lyrics.
With his breakout album “Trilogy” (2012), a compilation of his earlier mixtapes, The Weeknd established himself as a pioneering force in contemporary R&B, exploring themes of love, lust, and excess with haunting melodies and brooding production. He continued to push artistic boundaries with subsequent albums like “Beauty Behind the Madness” (2015) and “Starboy” (2016), which showcased his evolution as an artist and solidified his mainstream appeal.
Beyond his solo work, The Weeknd has collaborated with numerous artists and producers, earning critical acclaim and commercial success with hits like “Can’t Feel My Face,” “The Hills,” and “Blinding Lights.” His distinct blend of pop, R&B, and electronic music, coupled with his introspective lyrics and captivating performances, has made him one of the most influential and iconic figures in modern music.
1. Often
“Often” is a seductive R&B and hip-hop-infused track by The Weeknd, released in 2014 as a single from his second studio album, “Beauty Behind the Madness.” The song captivates listeners with its smooth vocals, catchy melody, and provocative lyrics, showcasing The Weeknd’s signature dark and atmospheric sound.
Lyrically, “Often” explores themes of desire, intimacy, and hedonism. The Weeknd sings about his lavish lifestyle and numerous encounters with women, portraying himself as a confident and charismatic figure who is unapologetic about his pursuit of pleasure. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of confidence and swagger, as The Weeknd boasts about his ability to seduce and satisfy his lovers.
Musically, “Often” features a hypnotic beat, sultry synths, and a minimalist production that creates an atmospheric and sensual vibe. The Weeknd’s smooth and soulful vocals glide effortlessly over the infectious groove, drawing listeners into his world of late-night escapades and steamy encounters.
The accompanying music video for “Often” further enhances the song’s seductive and enigmatic feel, featuring The Weeknd in various luxurious settings as he indulges in his hedonistic lifestyle. The video’s stylish visuals and provocative imagery add to the song’s allure, capturing the essence of The Weeknd’s dark and mysterious persona.
“Often” was a commercial success, topping charts and earning critical acclaim for its infectious melody and provocative lyrics. The song’s exploration of desire and pleasure resonated with audiences, making it a standout track in The Weeknd’s discography and a fan favorite among lovers of R&B and hip-hop music.
2. Heartless
“Heartless” is a dark and brooding R&B song by The Weeknd, released in 2019 as a lead single from his fourth studio album, “After Hours.” The track showcases The Weeknd’s introspective lyricism and emotive vocals, capturing the essence of heartbreak and emotional turmoil.
Lyrically, “Heartless” delves into themes of pain, betrayal, and the consequences of toxic relationships. The Weeknd sings about his struggles with love and trust, recounting experiences of being hurt and deceived by those closest to him. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of vulnerability and raw emotion, as The Weeknd grapples with the aftermath of heartbreak and disillusionment.
Musically, “Heartless” features a haunting melody, atmospheric production, and a pulsating beat that adds to the song’s sense of urgency and intensity. The Weeknd’s emotive vocals soar over the dark and moody instrumentation, capturing the anguish and despair of the song’s subject matter.
The accompanying music video for “Heartless” further enhances the song’s emotional impact, featuring The Weeknd in various surreal and chaotic settings as he navigates through a night of debauchery and self-destruction. The video’s surreal visuals and cinematic storytelling add depth to the song’s narrative, capturing the highs and lows of The Weeknd’s turbulent journey.
“Heartless” was a commercial success, topping charts worldwide and earning critical acclaim for its haunting melody and poignant lyrics. The song’s exploration of heartbreak and emotional turmoil resonated with audiences, making it a standout track in The Weeknd’s discography and a fan favorite among lovers of R&B and soul music.
3. Call Out My Name
“Call Out My Name” is a song by Canadian singer The Weeknd, released in 2018 as part of his EP “My Dear Melancholy.” The song was written by The Weeknd, Frank Dukes, Nicolas Jaar, and Adam Feeney, with production by Frank Dukes and The Weeknd.
“Call Out My Name” is a soulful R&B ballad with haunting melodies and emotionally charged lyrics. The song explores themes of heartbreak and longing, with The Weeknd singing about the pain of a failed relationship and his desire for closure. The lyrics express vulnerability and introspection as The Weeknd reflects on the sacrifices he made for his former lover.
The song’s music video features cinematic visuals and surreal imagery, with The Weeknd wandering through a desolate landscape as he sings about his feelings of betrayal and heartache.
“Call Out My Name” received critical acclaim for its raw emotion and powerful vocal performance by The Weeknd. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in multiple countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. It has since become one of The Weeknd’s most well-known and acclaimed songs.
4. I Feel It Coming (feat. Daft Punk)
“I Feel It Coming” is a song by Canadian singer The Weeknd featuring French electronic music duo Daft Punk. It was released in 2016 as the second single from The Weeknd’s third studio album, “Starboy.” The song was written by The Weeknd, Daft Punk (Thomas Bangalter and Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo), Eric Chedeville, and Martin McKinney, with production by Daft Punk and McKinney.
“I Feel It Coming” is a disco and funk-inspired track with elements of R&B and pop. The song features The Weeknd’s smooth vocals over a retro-sounding instrumental, characterized by funky basslines, groovy guitar riffs, and Daft Punk’s signature electronic flourishes.
Lyrically, “I Feel It Coming” is a love song that explores themes of attraction, desire, and anticipation. The Weeknd sings about being captivated by someone and feeling a strong connection, as he expresses his longing for physical and emotional intimacy.
The song’s music video features The Weeknd performing in a futuristic landscape, accompanied by Daft Punk’s robotic avatars. The video’s aesthetic pays homage to 1980s sci-fi and fantasy films, adding to the song’s nostalgic vibe.
“I Feel It Coming” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in multiple countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. The song’s infectious groove, catchy melody, and collaboration with Daft Punk contributed to its popularity and made it one of The Weeknd’s most successful singles.
5. Earned It
“Earned It” is a soulful and seductive R&B ballad by The Weeknd, released in 2014 as part of the soundtrack for the film “Fifty Shades of Grey.” The song captivates listeners with its smooth vocals, haunting melody, and provocative lyrics, showcasing The Weeknd’s versatility as an artist.
Lyrically, “Earned It” explores themes of desire, temptation, and power dynamics in relationships. The Weeknd sings about the allure of a captivating lover who commands his attention and affection. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of longing and vulnerability, as The Weeknd expresses his willingness to do whatever it takes to please his partner and earn their affection.
Musically, “Earned It” features a lush orchestral arrangement, soulful vocals, and a dramatic production that creates a cinematic and atmospheric vibe. The song’s slow tempo and haunting melody add to its sense of intimacy and intensity, drawing listeners into its seductive allure.
The accompanying music video for “Earned It” further enhances the song’s sensual and enigmatic feel, featuring The Weeknd in various luxurious and provocative settings as he performs alongside a troupe of dancers. The video’s stylish visuals and artistic choreography add depth to the song’s narrative, capturing the essence of desire and passion.
“Earned It” was a commercial success, topping charts worldwide and earning critical acclaim for its soulful sound and evocative lyrics. The song’s inclusion in the “Fifty Shades of Grey” soundtrack further boosted its popularity, solidifying The Weeknd’s status as one of R&B’s most captivating and versatile artists.
6. Save Your Tears
“Save Your Tears” is a song by Canadian singer The Weeknd. It was released in 2020 as the fourth single from his fourth studio album, “After Hours.” The song was written by The Weeknd, Belly, Max Martin, Oscar Holter, and Ahmad Balshe, with production by Max Martin and Oscar Holter.
“Save Your Tears” is a synth-pop and dance-pop track with elements of 1980s-inspired retro pop. The song features The Weeknd’s falsetto vocals over a pulsating beat and lush production, creating an atmospheric and catchy sound.
Lyrically, “Save Your Tears” explores themes of heartbreak, regret, and resilience. The Weeknd sings about a toxic relationship and the emotional toll it takes, as he encourages his partner to let go of their facade and confront their true feelings.
The song’s music video features The Weeknd performing in a surreal and dystopian nightclub setting, with scenes of masquerade masks, distorted faces, and eerie lighting effects. The video’s visual symbolism reflects the song’s themes of isolation and disillusionment.
“Save Your Tears” was a commercial success, reaching the top 10 on the charts in multiple countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. The song’s infectious melody, emotive vocals, and atmospheric production contributed to its popularity and made it one of the standout tracks from “After Hours.”
7. Can’t Feel My Face
“Can’t Feel My Face” is an electrifying pop and funk-inspired track by The Weeknd, released in 2015 as a single from his second studio album, “Beauty Behind the Madness.” The song immediately captivated listeners with its infectious beat, catchy melody, and dynamic vocals, propelling The Weeknd to even greater heights of fame.
Lyrically, “Can’t Feel My Face” explores themes of love, addiction, and euphoria. The Weeknd sings about the exhilarating rush of being with someone who makes him feel alive, even as he grapples with the consequences of their toxic relationship. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of passion and intensity, as The Weeknd describes the irresistible pull of love and desire.
Musically, “Can’t Feel My Face” features a funky bassline, pulsating beat, and upbeat tempo that give the song its infectious energy. The Weeknd’s smooth vocals glide effortlessly over the catchy melody, adding to its irresistible charm and making it impossible not to dance along.
The accompanying music video for “Can’t Feel My Face” further enhances the song’s energetic and playful vibe, featuring The Weeknd performing in a dimly lit club as he captivates the audience with his dynamic stage presence and charismatic persona. The video’s stylish visuals and vibrant choreography add to the song’s appeal, capturing the essence of its funky and infectious groove.
“Can’t Feel My Face” was a commercial juggernaut, topping charts worldwide and earning critical acclaim for its infectious sound and energetic performance. The song’s universal themes of love and desire resonated with audiences, making it a standout track in The Weeknd’s discography and a fan favorite among lovers of pop and funk music.
8. The Hills
“The Hills” is a haunting and atmospheric R&B track by The Weeknd, released in 2015 as the lead single from his album “Beauty Behind the Madness.” The song immediately captivated listeners with its dark and brooding production, introspective lyrics, and mesmerizing vocals, solidifying The Weeknd’s reputation as a pioneering force in contemporary music.
Lyrically, “The Hills” explores themes of desire, temptation, and the darker aspects of fame and success. The Weeknd sings about his struggles with hedonism and the emptiness that comes with his lifestyle, grappling with feelings of guilt and disillusionment as he navigates through the highs and lows of his career. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of vulnerability and raw emotion, as The Weeknd confronts his demons and confronts the consequences of his actions.
Musically, “The Hills” features a hypnotic beat, moody synths, and a minimalist production that create a chilling and atmospheric vibe. The Weeknd’s haunting vocals soar over the haunting melody, drawing listeners into the depths of his despair and longing.
The accompanying music video for “The Hills” further enhances the song’s dark and enigmatic feel, featuring The Weeknd in various surreal and chaotic settings as he grapples with his inner demons. The video’s stylish visuals and atmospheric cinematography add depth to the song’s narrative, capturing the essence of The Weeknd’s tortured psyche.
“The Hills” was a commercial success, topping charts worldwide and earning critical acclaim for its innovative sound and evocative lyrics. The song’s exploration of fame and self-destruction resonated with audiences, making it a standout track in The Weeknd’s discography and a fan favorite among lovers of R&B and alternative music.
9. Starboy (feat. Daft Punk)
“Starboy” is a captivating electro-pop and R&B fusion by The Weeknd, featuring electronic music duo Daft Punk. Released in 2016 as the lead single from his album of the same name, “Starboy” immediately made waves with its infectious beat, sleek production, and introspective lyrics, showcasing The Weeknd’s evolution as an artist.
Lyrically, “Starboy” delves into themes of fame, success, and reinvention. The Weeknd reflects on his rise to stardom and the changes that come with it, embracing his alter ego “Starboy” as he navigates the complexities of his newfound celebrity status. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of confidence and swagger, as The Weeknd asserts his dominance and celebrates his achievements in the music industry.
Musically, “Starboy” features a pulsating beat, atmospheric synths, and a hypnotic melody that give the song its infectious energy. Daft Punk’s signature electronic sound adds depth and texture to the track, complementing The Weeknd’s smooth vocals and creating a futuristic and immersive listening experience.
The accompanying music video for “Starboy” further enhances the song’s enigmatic and stylish vibe, featuring The Weeknd in various luxurious and surreal settings as he embraces his newfound identity as “Starboy” and confronts his past self. The video’s sleek visuals and artistic storytelling add depth to the song’s narrative, capturing the essence of The Weeknd’s transformation as an artist.
“Starboy” was a commercial success, topping charts worldwide and earning critical acclaim for its innovative sound and captivating visuals. The song’s exploration of fame and reinvention resonated with audiences, making it a standout track in The Weeknd’s discography and a fan favorite among lovers of pop and electronic music.
10. Blinding Lights
“Blinding Lights” is a song by Canadian singer The Weeknd. It was released in 2019 as the second single from his fourth studio album, “After Hours.” The song was written by The Weeknd, Belly, Max Martin, Oscar Holter, and Ahmad Balshe, with production by Max Martin and Oscar Holter.
“Blinding Lights” is an upbeat synth-pop and electronic track with influences from 1980s pop music. The song features pulsating synthesizers, driving drums, and The Weeknd’s distinctive falsetto vocals, creating a nostalgic and energetic sound.
Lyrically, “Blinding Lights” explores themes of love, longing, and escapism. The Weeknd sings about feeling intoxicated by a romantic relationship and the thrill of being with someone who makes him feel alive and free. The song’s lyrics also reference themes of self-destruction and recklessness, as The Weeknd grapples with his inner demons.
The song’s music video features The Weeknd driving through a neon-lit cityscape at night, evoking a sense of loneliness and alienation. The video’s retro aesthetic and cinematic visuals complement the song’s nostalgic vibe.
“Blinding Lights” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in multiple countries, including the United States and the United Kingdom. The song’s infectious melody, catchy hooks, and nostalgic production contributed to its popularity and made it one of The Weeknd’s biggest hits.
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.
