The Weeknd has etched his name into the annals of contemporary music with his soulful voice, innovative soundscapes, and poignant lyrics. As a torchbearer for the R&B genre, his discography boasts an impressive array of hits that have captivated audiences worldwide. In this exploration of his musical repertoire, we delve into the essence of The Weeknd’s artistry, seeking to unearth the gems that have solidified his status as a modern icon. From his early mixtapes to chart-topping albums, each song serves as a testament to his evolution as an artist and the profound impact he has had on the music industry. With a blend of seductive melodies, introspective storytelling, and infectious beats, The Weeknd’s songs transcend mere entertainment, resonating with listeners on a deeply personal level. From heart-wrenching ballads to electrifying anthems, his music spans a spectrum of emotions, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in his world. Join us as we embark on a journey through The Weeknd’s top 10 songs of all time, celebrating the artistry, passion, and creativity that have made him a force to be reckoned with in the realm of modern music.
1. Blinding Lights
“Blinding Lights” stands as The Weeknd’s electrifying anthem, captivating listeners with its infectious energy and nostalgic synth-pop vibe. Released in 2019 as part of his album “After Hours,” the track quickly soared to the top of charts worldwide and cemented itself as a modern classic. Its pulsating beats, reminiscent of 80s pop, seamlessly blend with The Weeknd’s soulful vocals, creating a sonic journey that’s both timeless and contemporary.
The song’s lyrics delve into themes of longing and escapism, as The Weeknd croons about seeking solace in the night, chasing thrills and fleeting moments of euphoria. Its irresistibly catchy chorus, coupled with its driving rhythm, makes it impossible not to dance along.
“Blinding Lights” has not only become a staple in The Weeknd’s repertoire but also a cultural phenomenon, featured in commercials, films, and viral TikTok videos. Its cinematic quality evokes images of neon-lit cityscapes and midnight drives, evoking a sense of exhilaration and freedom.
As one of The Weeknd’s most iconic tracks, “Blinding Lights” continues to shine brightly, captivating audiences with its magnetic charm and undeniable allure, solidifying its place as one of the best songs of all time.
2. Starboy (feat. Daft Punk)
“Starboy” catapulted The Weeknd into a new stratosphere of fame and acclaim, featuring a dynamic collaboration with electronic music pioneers Daft Punk. Released in 2016 as the title track of his album, the song swiftly became a global sensation, dominating airwaves and playlists alike.
The track’s bold and infectious energy is immediately felt from the opening bars, with Daft Punk’s signature electronic flourishes blending seamlessly with The Weeknd’s soulful vocals. Lyrically, “Starboy” exudes confidence and swagger as The Weeknd reflects on his rise to stardom, shedding his former identity to embrace a new persona.
With its pulsating beat and infectious hook, “Starboy” is a certified anthem, empowering listeners to embrace their own power and ambition. Its sleek production and memorable melodies make it a standout in The Weeknd’s discography and a testament to his evolution as an artist.
The accompanying music video further solidifies the song’s impact, featuring striking visuals and stylish aesthetics that perfectly complement its futuristic sound. “Starboy” not only showcases The Weeknd’s versatility as a performer but also cements his status as a global superstar.
As a collaboration between two musical powerhouses, “Starboy” continues to shine brightly, leaving an indelible mark on pop culture and securing its place as one of The Weeknd’s greatest hits of all time.
3. The Hills
“The Hills” emerges as a dark and brooding masterpiece within The Weeknd’s repertoire, offering a hypnotic blend of R&B and alternative vibes. Released in 2015 as part of his album “Beauty Behind the Madness,” the song immediately captivated audiences with its haunting production and visceral lyrics.
From its haunting opening notes, “The Hills” plunges listeners into a world of hedonism and emotional turbulence, as The Weeknd navigates themes of desire, excess, and vulnerability. His haunting falsetto floats effortlessly over the track’s atmospheric beats, creating an atmosphere that is simultaneously intoxicating and unnerving.
Lyrically, “The Hills” delves into the darker aspects of fame and relationships, painting a vivid portrait of a protagonist grappling with inner demons and seeking solace in fleeting pleasures. Its raw honesty and emotional depth resonate deeply with listeners, allowing them to immerse themselves in The Weeknd’s world.
“The Hills” quickly became a commercial juggernaut, topping charts around the world and earning critical acclaim for its innovative sound and captivating storytelling. Its accompanying music video, featuring surreal imagery and provocative symbolism, further enhanced the song’s impact, solidifying its status as a modern classic.
As one of The Weeknd’s most iconic tracks, “The Hills” continues to cast a long shadow over the musical landscape, leaving an indelible mark on pop culture and securing its place as one of his greatest songs of all time.
4. Can’t Feel My Face
“Can’t Feel My Face” emerges as an electrifying pop anthem in The Weeknd’s repertoire, infusing infectious grooves with irresistible hooks. Released in 2015 as part of his album “Beauty Behind the Madness,” the song quickly became a ubiquitous presence on radio waves and dance floors alike.
From its pulsating opening beats to its soaring chorus, “Can’t Feel My Face” exudes an undeniable energy that’s impossible to resist. The Weeknd’s smooth vocals glide effortlessly over the track’s vibrant instrumentation, creating a sonic experience that’s both exhilarating and infectious.
Lyrically, “Can’t Feel My Face” explores themes of intoxication and infatuation, as The Weeknd paints a vivid picture of a love so intense it’s almost euphoric. The song’s infectious refrain, coupled with its upbeat tempo, makes it an instant party starter and a mainstay on playlists for years to come.
The accompanying music video further amplifies the song’s impact, featuring The Weeknd’s charismatic performance against a backdrop of neon-lit streets and pulsating nightlife. Its stylish visuals perfectly complement the song’s energetic vibe, enhancing the overall experience for listeners.
As one of The Weeknd’s most commercially successful tracks, “Can’t Feel My Face” continues to captivate audiences with its infectious charm and undeniable groove, solidifying its place as one of his greatest songs of all time.
5. Save Your Tears
“Save Your Tears” emerges as a hauntingly poignant ballad within The Weeknd’s diverse musical repertoire, blending melancholic melodies with pulsating synth-pop beats. Released in 2020 as part of his acclaimed album “After Hours,” the song swiftly garnered widespread acclaim for its emotive lyricism and infectious hooks.
From its opening chords, “Save Your Tears” envelops listeners in a world of heartache and longing, as The Weeknd’s soulful vocals convey a sense of vulnerability and raw emotion. The track’s atmospheric production, characterized by its shimmering synths and driving rhythms, creates a sonic landscape that’s as immersive as it is captivating.
Lyrically, “Save Your Tears” explores themes of love and loss, as The Weeknd reflects on a failed relationship and the pain of unrequited affection. His poignant lyrics and evocative storytelling resonate deeply with listeners, drawing them into the song’s emotional narrative.
Despite its melancholic subject matter, “Save Your Tears” also possesses a sense of catharsis and empowerment, as The Weeknd finds solace in his own resilience and self-worth. Its anthemic chorus and infectious melody make it a standout track in The Weeknd’s discography, earning it a place as one of his most beloved songs of all time.
As a testament to The Weeknd’s artistry and versatility, “Save Your Tears” continues to captivate audiences with its haunting beauty and emotional depth, solidifying its place as a modern classic in the realm of pop music.
6. Earned It
“Earned It” stands as a soulful and seductive ballad within The Weeknd’s repertoire, captivating listeners with its lush instrumentation and evocative lyricism. Featured on the soundtrack for the 2015 film “Fifty Shades of Grey,” the song quickly became a standout track, earning critical acclaim and commercial success.
From its sensual opening notes, “Earned It” exudes an aura of romance and allure, as The Weeknd’s velvety vocals weave effortlessly through the track’s richly layered production. The song’s instrumentation, characterized by its sultry strings and haunting piano chords, creates a cinematic atmosphere that’s both elegant and intoxicating.
Lyrically, “Earned It” explores themes of desire and devotion, as The Weeknd croons about the intensity of love and the lengths one is willing to go to for their partner. His emotive delivery and poignant lyricism resonate deeply with listeners, evoking a sense of passion and longing.
The song’s accompanying music video, featuring The Weeknd’s captivating performance alongside scenes from “Fifty Shades of Grey,” further enhances its impact, adding visual depth to its already immersive sound.
As one of The Weeknd’s most iconic tracks, “Earned It” continues to enchant audiences with its sensual charm and timeless appeal, solidifying its place as one of his greatest songs of all time.
7. I Feel It Coming (feat. Daft Punk)
“I Feel It Coming” emerges as a mesmerizing collaboration between The Weeknd and electronic music icons Daft Punk, offering a blend of retro-futuristic vibes and infectious grooves. Released in 2016 as part of The Weeknd’s album “Starboy,” the song quickly became a fan favorite and a chart-topping hit.
From its shimmering opening chords to its euphoric chorus, “I Feel It Coming” envelops listeners in a euphoric sonic experience that’s both nostalgic and fresh. The Weeknd’s smooth vocals glide effortlessly over the track’s disco-inspired beats, evoking a sense of blissful nostalgia and anticipation.
Lyrically, “I Feel It Coming” explores themes of love and connection, as The Weeknd expresses his desire for a genuine and lasting relationship. His heartfelt delivery and emotive lyricism resonate deeply with listeners, capturing the universal experience of longing and desire.
The song’s collaboration with Daft Punk adds an extra layer of magic, with their signature electronic flourishes and infectious rhythms infusing the track with energy and excitement. The result is a dynamic and irresistibly catchy anthem that’s perfect for both the dance floor and late-night drives.
As one of The Weeknd’s most beloved tracks, “I Feel It Coming” continues to captivate audiences with its infectious charm and undeniable groove, solidifying its place as one of his greatest songs of all time.
8. Call Out My Name
“Call Out My Name” emerges as a raw and emotionally charged ballad within The Weeknd’s repertoire, showcasing his vulnerability and introspection. Released in 2018 as part of his EP “My Dear Melancholy,” the song quickly became a standout track, praised for its haunting melodies and poignant lyricism.
From its haunting opening chords to its soul-baring lyrics, “Call Out My Name” lays bare The Weeknd’s heartache and anguish following a tumultuous relationship. His impassioned vocals soar over the track’s atmospheric production, conveying a sense of longing and betrayal that resonates deeply with listeners.
Lyrically, “Call Out My Name” delves into themes of love and loss, as The Weeknd reflects on a past lover who failed to appreciate his sacrifices and devotion. His candid lyricism and raw honesty evoke a powerful sense of empathy and connection, inviting listeners into his world of pain and introspection.
The song’s minimalist instrumentation and haunting melodies create a sense of intimacy and vulnerability, allowing The Weeknd’s emotions to take center stage. Its haunting refrain and evocative storytelling make it a standout track in his discography, earning critical acclaim and commercial success.
As one of The Weeknd’s most emotionally resonant tracks, “Call Out My Name” continues to captivate audiences with its raw intensity and heartfelt lyricism, solidifying its place as one of his greatest songs of all time.
9. Heartless
“Heartless” emerges as a bold and unapologetic anthem within The Weeknd’s discography, showcasing his hedonistic persona and fearless attitude. Released in 2019 as a lead single from his album “After Hours,” the song quickly made waves with its infectious energy and gritty lyricism.
From its pulsating beats to its defiant vocals, “Heartless” exudes an aura of confidence and bravado that’s impossible to ignore. The Weeknd’s impassioned delivery and gritty lyricism paint a vivid portrait of a protagonist embracing a life of excess and indulgence, unapologetically pursuing pleasure without regard for consequence.
Lyrically, “Heartless” explores themes of escapism and self-destruction, as The Weeknd reflects on his tumultuous journey through fame and fortune. His candid lyricism and raw honesty resonate deeply with listeners, capturing the exhilarating highs and crushing lows of his experiences.
The song’s dynamic production, characterized by its pulsating synths and driving rhythms, creates a sense of urgency and intensity that propels the track forward. Its infectious chorus and anthemic hook make it a standout in The Weeknd’s repertoire, earning critical acclaim and commercial success.
As one of The Weeknd’s most electrifying tracks, “Heartless” continues to captivate audiences with its unfiltered energy and fearless attitude, solidifying its place as one of his greatest songs of all time.
10. Often
“Often” emerges as a seductive and swaggering track within The Weeknd’s repertoire, weaving together irresistible beats with provocative lyricism. Released in 2014 as a single preceding his album “Beauty Behind the Madness,” the song quickly became a fan favorite for its infectious groove and risqué themes.
From its hypnotic opening chords to its sultry vocals, “Often” oozes with an air of confidence and allure. The Weeknd’s smooth delivery and suggestive lyricism create a captivating atmosphere that’s equal parts seductive and mysterious, drawing listeners into its intoxicating rhythm.
Lyrically, “Often” explores themes of desire and indulgence, as The Weeknd paints a vivid picture of late-night escapades and carnal pleasures. His candid lyricism and unabashed sensuality resonate deeply with audiences, capturing the thrill of hedonistic pursuits and the allure of forbidden desires.
The song’s sleek production, characterized by its pulsating beats and atmospheric synths, adds to its irresistible charm, creating a sonic backdrop that’s as captivating as it is infectious. Its catchy chorus and infectious hook make it a standout track in The Weeknd’s discography, earning both critical acclaim and commercial success.
As one of The Weeknd’s most provocative and alluring songs, “Often” continues to captivate listeners with its sultry vibe and undeniable groove, solidifying its place as one of his greatest hits of all time.
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.
