The Weeknd, a virtuoso of contemporary music, has cemented his place in the pantheon of global superstars with his unique blend of R&B, pop, and soul. Born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye in Toronto, Canada, The Weeknd burst onto the music scene in the early 2010s, captivating audiences with his enigmatic persona and a voice that blends haunting vulnerability with an undercurrent of dark, seductive energy. His artistry is not just confined to his vocal prowess; it extends into his lyricism, which explores themes of love, longing, and the complexities of fame and personal transformation. Over the years, The Weeknd has amassed a discography that is both critically acclaimed and commercially successful, navigating the evolution of sound with an ease that few artists manage. From the raw, emotional depth of his early mixtapes to the polished, synth-heavy vibes of his later albums, his musical journey has been marked by a constant reinvention that keeps fans on their toes. In this article, we delve into the Top 10 Best The Weeknd Songs of All Time, a celebration of his most impactful tracks that have left an indelible mark on the industry. These songs are not just chart-toppers; they are milestones in The Weeknd’s career, each telling a story of artistic growth, personal struggles, and triumphs. From the dark, brooding beats of his debut to the infectious, dance-worthy rhythms of his latest releases, this list encapsulates the essence of The Weeknd’s musical genius, showcasing his ability to touch the soul and move the body in equal measure. Join us as we explore the depths of The Weeknd’s discography, highlighting the songs that define his legacy as one of the most influential artists of our time.
1. I Feel it Coming
“I Feel It Coming” stands tall among The Weeknd’s greatest hits, capturing the essence of his signature blend of smooth R&B and synth-pop. Released in 2016 as part of his chart-topping album “Starboy,” the song features the iconic collaboration with Daft Punk, adding a futuristic and ethereal touch to the artist’s sultry vocals. The track’s undeniable groove and infectious melody create an immersive experience for listeners, seamlessly blending retro vibes with contemporary production.
The Weeknd’s emotive delivery shines through in “I Feel It Coming,” as he croons about the vulnerability and excitement of falling in love. The song’s catchy chorus and pulsating rhythm contribute to its timeless appeal, making it a standout in The Weeknd’s extensive discography. With its nostalgic undertones and the perfect synergy between The Weeknd’s soulful voice and Daft Punk’s electronic mastery, “I Feel It Coming” cements its place as one of the top tracks in The Weeknd’s repertoire, offering a sonic journey that resonates with fans across genres and generations.
2. Die For You
“Dying for You” emerges as a standout gem in The Weeknd’s repertoire, showcasing the artist’s emotional depth and storytelling prowess. Released as part of his 2016 album “Starboy,” this track delves into the complexities of love and commitment. The song’s lush production, characterized by a fusion of synth-pop and R&B elements, provides a captivating backdrop for The Weeknd’s soulful vocals.
In “Die For You,” The Weeknd explores the sacrifices one is willing to make for a deep and enduring connection. The lyrics convey a profound sense of devotion and the willingness to go to great lengths for the person he loves. The poignant narrative, coupled with the song’s melodic hooks and atmospheric soundscapes, creates an immersive experience for listeners. “Die For You” stands as a testament to The Weeknd’s ability to craft emotionally resonant music that transcends traditional genre boundaries, leaving an indelible mark on his audience and solidifying its place as one of his top tracks of all time.
3. Earned It
“Earned It” represents a pivotal moment in The Weeknd’s career, serving as the lead single from the soundtrack of the critically acclaimed film “Fifty Shades of Grey” in 2015. This soulful ballad not only showcases The Weeknd’s vocal prowess but also introduces a more cinematic and orchestral dimension to his sound. The track’s sensual and seductive undertones perfectly align with the film’s theme, creating an atmosphere of passion and allure.
The Weeknd’s hauntingly captivating vocals take center stage in “Earned It,” as he navigates themes of desire and the complexities of romantic relationships. The song’s orchestral arrangement, combined with its sultry lyrics, elevates it to a level of sophistication that resonated with both fans and critics alike. “Earned It” not only earned The Weeknd an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song but also marked a transition in his career towards mainstream success. As a timeless anthem of love and lust, “Earned It” remains a standout track in The Weeknd’s catalog, demonstrating his ability to seamlessly blend soulful melodies with cinematic grandeur.
4. The Hills
“The Hills” emerges as a haunting and hypnotic masterpiece in The Weeknd’s repertoire, solidifying its place as one of his most iconic tracks. Released in 2015 as a single and later featured on his album “Beauty Behind the Madness,” the song catapulted The Weeknd into mainstream stardom with its dark and enigmatic production. The track’s atmospheric beats, accompanied by The Weeknd’s brooding vocals, create an immersive sonic experience that captures the essence of the artist’s mysterious and seductive persona.
Lyrically, “The Hills” delves into themes of excess, fame, and the tumultuous nature of relationships. The Weeknd’s raw and emotive delivery adds a visceral quality to the narrative, painting a vivid picture of the high-stakes lifestyle he navigates. The song’s enigmatic lyrics, coupled with its genre-defying sound that blends R&B, pop, and electronic elements, resonated with a wide audience. “The Hills” not only topped charts globally but also garnered critical acclaim, earning The Weeknd multiple award nominations. As a transformative moment in his career, this track cements its status as one of The Weeknd’s best, showcasing his ability to craft emotionally charged and sonically innovative music.
5. Prisoner
“Prisoner” stands out as a compelling collaboration between The Weeknd and Lana Del Rey, released in 2015 as part of The Weeknd’s album “Beauty Behind the Madness.” This hauntingly beautiful duet encapsulates a toxic and passionate love affair, with the artists’ voices intertwining seamlessly over a moody and pulsating beat. The song’s production, characterized by its atmospheric synths and rhythmic intensity, creates a sonic landscape that perfectly complements the tumultuous emotions expressed in the lyrics.
The chemistry between The Weeknd and Lana Del Rey in “Prisoner” is palpable, as they navigate themes of desire, pain, and the inescapable nature of a destructive relationship. The track’s anthemic chorus and infectious melody contribute to its enduring appeal, captivating listeners with its dark and cinematic allure. “Prisoner” showcases The Weeknd’s ability to collaborate with other talented artists and push the boundaries of his sound, offering a unique blend of R&B, pop, and alternative elements. As a standout track in both artists’ discographies, “Prisoner” remains a testament to their artistic prowess and the evocative power of their combined musical expressions.
6. Blinding Lights
“Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd is undoubtedly one of the top best songs of all time by the artist. Released in 2019 as part of his fourth studio album, “After Hours,” the track quickly gained widespread acclaim and commercial success. With its infectious synth-pop beat and catchy melody, “Blinding Lights” perfectly encapsulates The Weeknd’s signature blend of pop and R&B. The song’s lyrics, which explore themes of love, longing, and escapism, resonate deeply with listeners, further solidifying its status as a modern classic.
Beyond its musical excellence, “Blinding Lights” has also become iconic for its accompanying music video, which features The Weeknd wandering through the streets of Las Vegas amidst a neon-lit backdrop. The video’s retro aesthetic and cinematic visuals perfectly complement the song’s nostalgic vibe, making it a visually stunning and memorable experience. Additionally, “Blinding Lights” has been praised by critics for its production quality and The Weeknd’s powerhouse vocals, further cementing its status as one of his best songs of all time. With its irresistible hooks and timeless appeal, “Blinding Lights” continues to captivate audiences around the world, solidifying its place as one of the top tracks in The Weeknd’s impressive discography.
7. Starboy
“Starboy” is another standout hit by The Weeknd, released in 2016 as the title track of his third studio album. Featuring electronic and hip-hop elements, the song showcases The Weeknd’s versatility as an artist. Its pulsating beat and infectious hook immediately grab the listener’s attention, while the lyrics offer a glimpse into The Weeknd’s rise to fame and the trappings of celebrity culture.
The song’s music video, directed by Grant Singer, further adds to its allure with its sleek visuals and dark, atmospheric tone. In the video, The Weeknd is depicted as a stylish and enigmatic figure, embodying the persona of a “Starboy” navigating the excesses of fame and fortune. With its catchy chorus and memorable production, “Starboy” became an instant hit, topping the charts in multiple countries and earning critical acclaim.
Notably, “Starboy” features guest vocals from the French electronic duo Daft Punk, adding an extra layer of intrigue and depth to the track. Their collaboration with The Weeknd resulted in a seamless fusion of their distinct styles, creating a truly unforgettable musical experience. As one of The Weeknd’s most successful songs to date, “Starboy” remains a fan favorite and a standout highlight in his impressive repertoire.
8. Save Your Tears
“Save Your Tears” is a captivating track by The Weeknd, released in 2020 as part of his critically acclaimed album “After Hours.” The song showcases The Weeknd’s trademark blend of pop and R&B, featuring lush production, infectious melodies, and emotionally resonant lyrics. With its catchy hook and pulsating beat, “Save Your Tears” explores themes of heartbreak, regret, and resilience, striking a chord with listeners around the world.
The song’s music video, directed by Cliqua, adds an extra layer of depth to the track, featuring The Weeknd in a surreal and visually striking performance. In the video, The Weeknd portrays a tormented character who grapples with the pain of lost love and the pressures of fame. Through its cinematic visuals and compelling storytelling, the music video enhances the emotional impact of “Save Your Tears,” further solidifying its status as one of The Weeknd’s standout songs.
“Save Your Tears” received widespread acclaim from critics and audiences alike, earning praise for its infectious energy, poignant lyrics, and polished production. The song’s success on the charts further cemented The Weeknd’s status as one of the most influential artists in contemporary music. With its timeless appeal and universal themes, “Save Your Tears” continues to resonate with listeners, making it a standout track in The Weeknd’s illustrious discography.
9. Creepin’
“Creepin'” is a haunting track by The Weeknd, released in 2013 as part of his compilation album, “Trilogy.” The song showcases The Weeknd’s unique blend of R&B, electronic, and alternative sounds, creating an atmospheric and emotionally charged listening experience. With its atmospheric production, moody instrumentation, and introspective lyrics, “Creepin'” delves into themes of desire, temptation, and inner conflict.
The Weeknd’s soulful vocals glide effortlessly over the track’s brooding melody, drawing listeners into a dark and hypnotic sonic landscape. As the song unfolds, The Weeknd explores the complexities of relationships and the darker aspects of human nature, delivering a raw and unfiltered portrayal of desire and longing.
While “Creepin'” may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as some of The Weeknd’s other hits, it remains a fan favorite and a standout track in his discography. Its haunting melodies, evocative lyrics, and atmospheric production make it a compelling listen that leaves a lasting impression. As one of The Weeknd’s deeper cuts, “Creepin'” showcases his artistic range and ability to create music that resonates on a visceral level, cementing its place as a standout track in his illustrious career.
10. Can’t Feel My Face
“Can’t Feel My Face” is an electrifying pop anthem by The Weeknd, released in 2015 as the lead single from his second studio album, “Beauty Behind the Madness.” The song’s upbeat tempo, infectious melody, and catchy hooks immediately captivate listeners, making it one of The Weeknd’s most commercially successful tracks to date. With its irresistible groove and danceable rhythm, “Can’t Feel My Face” is a certified party starter that has become a staple on dance floors around the world.
Lyrically, “Can’t Feel My Face” explores themes of infatuation, addiction, and reckless abandon, with The Weeknd’s smooth vocals adding an air of seduction and mystery to the track. The song’s production, helmed by hitmakers Max Martin and Ali Payami, is polished and dynamic, incorporating elements of pop, funk, and R&B to create a sound that is both contemporary and timeless.
“Can’t Feel My Face” was met with widespread critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising its infectious energy, catchy hooks, and radio-friendly appeal. The song quickly topped the charts in multiple countries and earned The Weeknd numerous accolades, including Grammy nominations for Record of the Year and Best Pop Solo Performance. As one of The Weeknd’s signature hits, “Can’t Feel My Face” continues to captivate audiences with its irresistible charm and undeniable swagger, solidifying its place as one of the top tracks in his impressive repertoire.
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.
