In the realm of contemporary music, few artists have managed to redefine the boundaries of their genre as significantly as Abel Tesfaye, known professionally as The Weeknd. Since bursting onto the scene in the early 2010s with his enigmatic blend of moody R&B, intoxicating electronic beats, and hauntingly introspective lyrics, The Weeknd has carved out a unique space for himself within the music industry. His evolution from the shadowy figure of his mixtape days to a global superstar has been both fascinating and unprecedented. With a discography that spans across a decade, The Weeknd’s songs have not only topped charts worldwide but have also left an indelible mark on the hearts of millions of listeners. His ability to oscillate between vulnerable ballads and infectious dance tracks, all while maintaining a distinctively dark and cinematic aesthetic, is nothing short of remarkable. As we dive into the labyrinth of his musical offerings, selecting the top 10 best The Weeknd songs of all time is no small feat. This list aims to encapsulate the essence of his musical genius, showcasing tracks that have defined his career, influenced the music industry, and resonated deeply with fans across the globe. From the early echoes of his mixtape era to the polished, chart-topping hits of his more recent albums, this selection represents a journey through the various phases of The Weeknd’s evolving sound and artistic expression, highlighting the milestones of an illustrious career that continues to defy expectations and push the boundaries of contemporary music.
1. Blinding Lights
“Blinding Lights” stands as a cornerstone in The Weeknd’s illustrious discography, capturing the essence of his signature sound while pushing sonic boundaries. Released as a lead single from his fourth studio album, “After Hours,” the song immediately captivated audiences worldwide with its infectious synth-pop melodies and nostalgic ’80s-inspired production. Its pulsating rhythm, coupled with The Weeknd’s haunting vocals, creates an irresistible energy that propels listeners into a hypnotic trance. Lyrically, “Blinding Lights” explores themes of longing, escapism, and the relentless pursuit of euphoria, resonating with audiences on a deeply emotional level. The song’s undeniable catchiness and universal appeal have solidified its status as one of The Weeknd’s greatest hits, earning critical acclaim and dominating charts across the globe. Whether blasting through speakers in a packed nightclub or accompanying a late-night drive, “Blinding Lights” remains an enduring anthem that continues to define the very essence of The Weeknd’s musical prowess.
From its electrifying opening notes to its anthemic chorus, “Blinding Lights” effortlessly encapsulates The Weeknd’s ability to blend genres seamlessly, creating a timeless masterpiece that transcends generations. Its cinematic quality, reminiscent of a neon-lit cityscape, evokes a sense of both nostalgia and innovation, drawing listeners into a sonic journey unlike any other. The song’s success not only underscores The Weeknd’s artistic evolution but also solidifies his position as one of the most influential voices in contemporary music. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to The Weeknd’s music, “Blinding Lights” serves as a quintessential representation of his unparalleled talent and enduring impact on popular culture. As it continues to dominate airwaves and inspire countless covers and remixes, “Blinding Lights” remains a shining example of The Weeknd’s ability to craft sonic landscapes that resonate with audiences worldwide, solidifying its place as one of the best songs of all time in his illustrious repertoire.
2. Starboy (feat. Daft Punk)
“Starboy,” featuring Daft Punk, emerges as a standout track in The Weeknd’s repertoire, fusing his signature R&B sensibilities with Daft Punk’s iconic electronic soundscapes. Serving as the title track of his third studio album, “Starboy” immediately captivated audiences with its bold production and infectious energy. The collaboration between The Weeknd and Daft Punk resulted in a dynamic synergy, blending retro-futuristic vibes with contemporary flair. From its pulsating beat to its memorable hook, the song exudes confidence and swagger, reflecting The Weeknd’s rise to superstardom. Lyrically, “Starboy” explores themes of fame, excess, and the price of success, offering a glimpse into the complexities of celebrity culture. The track’s slick production, coupled with The Weeknd’s smooth vocals, creates an irresistible anthem that resonates with listeners worldwide.
Beyond its commercial success, “Starboy” stands as a testament to The Weeknd’s versatility and innovation as an artist. The collaboration with Daft Punk not only elevated the song to new heights but also cemented its status as a modern classic. With its infectious rhythm and catchy melody, “Starboy” has become a mainstay in pop culture, inspiring countless covers, remixes, and dance routines. Whether blasting through speakers in a club or serving as the soundtrack to a night out, the song’s electrifying energy continues to captivate audiences, reaffirming its place as one of The Weeknd’s best songs of all time. As an embodiment of his artistic evolution and collaborative spirit, “Starboy” remains a shining gem in The Weeknd’s illustrious discography, leaving an indelible mark on the music industry.
3. The Hills
“The Hills” stands as a monumental track in The Weeknd’s catalog, showcasing his prowess in crafting dark, atmospheric soundscapes that resonate deeply with listeners. Released as a single from his second studio album, “Beauty Behind the Madness,” the song immediately captivated audiences with its haunting production and raw, emotive lyrics. From its brooding bassline to its eerie synths, “The Hills” exudes an air of mystery and intrigue, drawing listeners into its hypnotic embrace. Lyrically, the song delves into themes of hedonism, temptation, and the pitfalls of fame, offering a visceral glimpse into The Weeknd’s turbulent journey through the excesses of celebrity life. His haunting vocals, filled with longing and anguish, add an extra layer of depth to the track, creating a sense of intimacy and vulnerability that resonates with audiences on a profound level.
As one of The Weeknd’s most iconic songs, “The Hills” has left an indelible mark on popular culture, earning widespread acclaim and commercial success. Its dark, atmospheric sound has become synonymous with The Weeknd’s unique aesthetic, influencing countless artists across genres. Whether it’s the gripping narrative of the lyrics or the infectious melody that hooks listeners in, “The Hills” continues to captivate audiences worldwide, transcending generational boundaries. As an anthem for those navigating the complexities of love, desire, and fame, the song remains a timeless classic in The Weeknd’s illustrious discography, solidifying its place as one of his greatest songs of all time.
4. Can’t Feel My Face
“Can’t Feel My Face” emerges as a sensational track in The Weeknd’s repertoire, infusing his trademark R&B sound with infectious pop sensibilities. Released as a single from his second studio album, “Beauty Behind the Madness,” the song quickly became a global phenomenon, captivating audiences with its irresistible hooks and catchy melodies. From its funky guitar riff to its pulsating beat, “Can’t Feel My Face” exudes an undeniable energy that commands attention from the first note. Lyrically, the song explores themes of infatuation, addiction, and the intoxicating allure of love, offering a captivating narrative that resonates with listeners on a visceral level. The Weeknd’s smooth vocals soar over the track, infusing it with a sense of urgency and passion that is impossible to ignore.
Beyond its commercial success, “Can’t Feel My Face” solidifies The Weeknd’s status as a pop powerhouse, showcasing his ability to seamlessly blend genres and push musical boundaries. Its infectious groove and undeniable catchiness have made it a staple on radio airwaves and dance floors alike, earning critical acclaim and numerous accolades. Whether it’s the infectious chorus that gets stuck in your head or the electrifying energy that fills every beat, “Can’t Feel My Face” remains an unforgettable anthem that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. As a testament to The Weeknd’s artistry and undeniable talent, the song cements its place as one of his greatest hits of all time, leaving an indelible mark on the music landscape.
5. Save Your Tears
“Save Your Tears” stands out as a poignant and electrifying track in The Weeknd’s illustrious discography, showcasing his ability to blend emotive lyricism with infectious pop melodies. Released as a single from his critically acclaimed album “After Hours,” the song immediately captivated audiences with its dynamic production and hauntingly beautiful vocals. From its pulsating beat to its soaring synth arrangements, “Save Your Tears” creates an atmosphere of longing and heartache, drawing listeners into its spellbinding narrative. Lyrically, the song explores themes of regret, betrayal, and self-redemption, offering a compelling portrayal of emotional resilience in the face of heartbreak. The Weeknd’s emotive delivery infuses the track with a raw vulnerability, inviting listeners to empathize with the pain and longing expressed in every word.
As one of The Weeknd’s standout songs, “Save Your Tears” has garnered widespread acclaim and commercial success, earning praise for its infectious hooks and captivating production. Its irresistible chorus and infectious groove have made it a favorite among fans and critics alike, cementing its status as a modern pop classic. Beyond its musical appeal, “Save Your Tears” resonates on a deeper level, serving as a powerful anthem of self-empowerment and resilience in the face of adversity. Whether it’s the cathartic release of the chorus or the haunting melody that lingers in the mind, “Save Your Tears” continues to captivate audiences worldwide, reaffirming The Weeknd’s position as one of the most compelling voices in contemporary music.
6. Earned It
“Earned It” emerges as a mesmerizing and soulful track in The Weeknd’s repertoire, showcasing his ability to infuse emotive lyricism with seductive melodies. Released as part of the soundtrack for the film “Fifty Shades of Grey,” the song immediately captivated audiences with its sultry production and haunting vocals. From its haunting piano chords to its sweeping orchestral arrangements, “Earned It” exudes an aura of sensuality and allure, drawing listeners into its captivating embrace. Lyrically, the song explores themes of desire, intimacy, and the complexities of romantic relationships, offering a glimpse into the tangled emotions of love and lust. The Weeknd’s smooth and emotive delivery adds an extra layer of depth to the track, evoking a sense of longing and passion that resonates with listeners on a profound level.
Beyond its inclusion in the film’s soundtrack, “Earned It” has earned widespread acclaim and commercial success, garnering praise for its evocative sound and powerful vocals. Its seductive melody and infectious chorus have made it a favorite among fans and critics alike, solidifying its status as one of The Weeknd’s standout hits. Moreover, the song’s success underscores The Weeknd’s versatility as an artist, demonstrating his ability to seamlessly transition between genres while maintaining his distinctive sound. Whether it’s the haunting melody that lingers in the mind or the emotive lyrics that tug at the heartstrings, “Earned It” continues to captivate audiences worldwide, reaffirming The Weeknd’s position as one of the most captivating voices in contemporary music.
7. I Feel It Coming (feat. Daft Punk)
“I Feel It Coming,” featuring Daft Punk, shines as a dazzling and euphoric track in The Weeknd’s repertoire, showcasing his ability to blend smooth R&B vibes with futuristic electronic elements. Released as a single from his album “Starboy,” the song immediately captivated audiences with its infectious groove and shimmering production. From its funky bassline to its shimmering synths, “I Feel It Coming” exudes an irresistible energy that transports listeners to a cosmic dancefloor. Lyrically, the song explores themes of love, anticipation, and emotional connection, offering a dreamy portrayal of romantic yearning and intimacy. The Weeknd’s velvety vocals effortlessly glide over the track, complemented by Daft Punk’s signature robotic harmonies, creating a mesmerizing sonic landscape that captivates from start to finish.
As a collaboration between two musical powerhouses, “I Feel It Coming” has earned widespread acclaim and commercial success, earning praise for its infectious melody and infectious rhythm. Its timeless appeal and undeniable catchiness have made it a favorite among fans and critics alike, solidifying its status as one of The Weeknd’s standout hits. Moreover, the song’s seamless blend of genres highlights The Weeknd’s versatility as an artist, showcasing his ability to push musical boundaries while maintaining his distinctive sound. Whether it’s the celestial atmosphere that envelops the listener or the undeniable chemistry between The Weeknd and Daft Punk, “I Feel It Coming” continues to enchant audiences worldwide, reaffirming its place as one of the most beloved tracks in The Weeknd’s illustrious discography.
8. Call Out My Name
“Call Out My Name” emerges as a haunting and emotionally-charged track in The Weeknd’s repertoire, showcasing his ability to channel raw vulnerability into captivating music. Released as a single from his EP “My Dear Melancholy,” the song immediately resonated with audiences, drawing them into its poignant narrative and soul-stirring melody. From its atmospheric production to its heart-wrenching lyrics, “Call Out My Name” exudes a sense of longing and heartache that cuts deep. Lyrically, the song explores themes of love, loss, and betrayal, offering a raw and unfiltered portrayal of emotional pain and resilience. The Weeknd’s soulful vocals soar over the track, conveying a depth of emotion that leaves a lasting impact on listeners.
As one of The Weeknd’s most powerful songs, “Call Out My Name” has earned widespread acclaim and commercial success, garnering praise for its emotive storytelling and haunting beauty. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics have struck a chord with fans and critics alike, solidifying its status as a modern classic. Moreover, the song’s introspective nature highlights The Weeknd’s artistic growth and maturity as an artist, showcasing his ability to delve into the depths of human emotion with honesty and authenticity. Whether it’s the achingly beautiful chorus or the soul-stirring falsetto, “Call Out My Name” continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, serving as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of music to heal and console.
9. Heartless
“Heartless” stands out as a bold and electrifying track in The Weeknd’s expansive discography, showcasing his ability to infuse raw emotion with pulsating beats and infectious hooks. Released as a lead single from his album “After Hours,” the song immediately captivated audiences with its edgy production and unapologetic lyrics. From its gritty bassline to its hypnotic synth arrangements, “Heartless” exudes an air of defiance and recklessness, drawing listeners into its dark and intoxicating world. Lyrically, the song explores themes of hedonism, self-destruction, and the pursuit of pleasure at any cost, offering a visceral glimpse into The Weeknd’s inner turmoil and emotional turmoil. His impassioned vocals drive home the song’s message with an intensity that is impossible to ignore, leaving a lasting impact on listeners.
As one of The Weeknd’s most provocative songs, “Heartless” has garnered widespread acclaim and commercial success, earning praise for its infectious energy and undeniable catchiness. Its bold sound and unapologetic attitude have made it a favorite among fans and critics alike, solidifying its status as a modern anthem for those living on the edge. Moreover, the song’s introspective lyrics and haunting melody showcase The Weeknd’s evolution as an artist, demonstrating his willingness to push musical boundaries while staying true to his distinctive sound. Whether it’s the electrifying chorus that demands attention or the pulsating rhythm that keeps listeners hooked, “Heartless” continues to captivate audiences worldwide, serving as a testament to The Weeknd’s enduring influence and artistic brilliance.
10. Often
“Often” emerges as a seductive and provocative track in The Weeknd’s repertoire, showcasing his ability to blend smooth R&B with tantalizing lyrics and irresistible beats. Released as a single from his album “Beauty Behind the Madness,” the song immediately captivated audiences with its steamy production and suggestive lyrics. From its hypnotic rhythm to its sultry melodies, “Often” exudes an aura of confidence and allure, drawing listeners into its intoxicating atmosphere. Lyrically, the song explores themes of desire, intimacy, and indulgence, offering a voyeuristic glimpse into The Weeknd’s hedonistic lifestyle. His smooth and sensual vocals glide effortlessly over the track, adding an extra layer of allure and sophistication.
As one of The Weeknd’s most sensual tracks, “Often” has earned widespread acclaim and commercial success, garnering praise for its infectious groove and provocative lyrics. Its irresistible hook and catchy chorus have made it a favorite among fans and critics alike, solidifying its status as a modern classic. Moreover, the song’s seamless blend of seductive melodies and bold lyricism highlights The Weeknd’s mastery of his craft, showcasing his ability to push boundaries while maintaining his distinctive sound. Whether it’s the infectious beat that gets listeners moving or the suggestive lyrics that titillate the imagination, “Often” continues to captivate audiences worldwide, reaffirming The Weeknd’s status as a trailblazer in contemporary R&B.
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.
