The Weeknd, born Abel Tesfaye on February 16, 1990, is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and record producer. He first gained widespread recognition with his mixtapes released in 2011, which showcased his unique blend of R&B, pop, and electronic music. His debut studio album, *Kiss Land* (2013), was followed by *Beauty Behind the Madness* (2015), which featured hits like “Can’t Feel My Face” and “The Hills,” propelling him to global fame. The Weeknd’s distinct falsetto vocals, dark and introspective lyrics, and atmospheric production have continued to define his sound across subsequent albums like *Starboy* (2016) and *After Hours* (2020), solidifying his reputation as a major figure in contemporary music.
1. I Feel it Coming
“I Feel It Coming” is a song by The Weeknd featuring French electronic duo Daft Punk, released on November 18, 2016, as part of The Weeknd’s album *Starboy* (2016). The track is characterized by its smooth, retro-inspired pop and disco vibes, showcasing The Weeknd’s trademark falsetto vocals. Co-produced by Daft Punk and The Weeknd, “I Feel It Coming” explores themes of love and desire, with lyrics that convey a sense of anticipation and longing. The song received positive reviews for its nostalgic sound and catchy melody, and its music video features a sci-fi aesthetic that complements its space-age romance theme.
2. Die For You
“Die for You” is a song by The Weeknd from his album *Starboy* (2016), released on November 25, 2016. The track is a slow-paced R&B ballad that showcases The Weeknd’s introspective lyrics and emotive vocals. “Die for You” explores themes of love, devotion, and sacrifice in a relationship, with The Weeknd expressing his willingness to go to great lengths for his partner. The song’s production features atmospheric synths and a subdued beat, creating a moody and intimate atmosphere. “Die for You” received praise for its emotional depth and heartfelt delivery, contributing to the thematic richness of *Starboy*.
3. Earned It
“Earned It” is a song by The Weeknd, released on December 23, 2014, as part of the soundtrack for the film *Fifty Shades of Grey*. The track, also known as “Earned It (Fifty Shades of Grey),” is a sultry and atmospheric R&B ballad that showcases The Weeknd’s falsetto vocals. Co-written by The Weeknd, Stephan Moccio, Jason Quenneville, and Ahmad Balshe, “Earned It” explores themes of seduction, desire, and longing, fitting the film’s themes of romance and intimacy. The song’s production features orchestral elements and a haunting melody, adding to its sensual and cinematic feel. “Earned It” received critical acclaim and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song.
4. The Hills
“The Hills” is a song by The Weeknd, released on May 27, 2015, as a single from his album *Beauty Behind the Madness* (2015). The track is a dark and atmospheric R&B song that explores themes of hedonism, fame, and complicated relationships. Co-produced by Illangelo and Mano, “The Hills” features The Weeknd’s distinctive vocals and a moody production style characterized by heavy bass and haunting synths. The song’s lyrics depict a narrative of tumultuous love and the emotional aftermath of fame and excess. “The Hills” became a commercial success, topping charts worldwide and solidifying The Weeknd’s reputation as a leading figure in modern R&B and pop music.
5. Prisoner
“Prisoner” is a song by The Weeknd featuring Lana Del Rey, released on November 22, 2020, as part of The Weeknd’s album *After Hours* (2020). The track is a synth-pop and darkwave ballad that explores themes of longing, obsession, and emotional captivity in a toxic relationship. The collaboration between The Weeknd and Lana Del Rey brings together their distinct vocal styles, with The Weeknd’s falsetto complementing Del Rey’s smoky vocals. “Prisoner” received positive reviews for its atmospheric production and the chemistry between the two artists, contributing to the thematic depth of *After Hours*.
6. Blinding Lights
“Blinding Lights” is a song by The Weeknd, released on November 29, 2019, as the second single from his album *After Hours* (2020). The track is an uptempo synth-pop and electropop song with influences from 1980s music, characterized by its infectious beat, retro-inspired synths, and The Weeknd’s powerful vocals. Co-written by The Weeknd, Max Martin, Oscar Holter, and Belly, among others, “Blinding Lights” explores themes of yearning, nostalgia, and escapism. The song received critical acclaim for its catchy melody and energetic production, becoming a commercial success and topping charts worldwide. Its music video, featuring The Weeknd wandering through neon-lit cityscapes, enhances the song’s retro-futuristic aesthetic.
7. Starboy
“Starboy” is a song by The Weeknd featuring French electronic duo Daft Punk, released on September 21, 2016, as the lead single from his album *Starboy* (2016). The track is a blend of pop, R&B, and electronic music, characterized by its catchy hook, smooth vocals by The Weeknd, and Daft Punk’s signature production style. “Starboy” explores themes of fame, success, and self-confidence, with The Weeknd embracing his alter ego as a “starboy” who revels in his achievements and lifestyle. The song was a commercial success, topping charts worldwide and earning critical acclaim for its innovative sound and collaboration with Daft Punk.
8. Save Your Tears
“Save Your Tears” is a song by The Weeknd, released on August 9, 2020, as the fifth single from his album *After Hours* (2020). The track is an upbeat synth-pop and dance-pop song that features The Weeknd’s signature falsetto vocals and melancholic lyrics. Co-written by The Weeknd, Max Martin, Oscar Holter, and Belly, among others, “Save Your Tears” explores themes of heartbreak, regret, and emotional resilience. The song’s production blends retro and contemporary elements, with pulsating beats and catchy melodies. “Save Your Tears” received positive reviews for its infectious hooks and emotive delivery, becoming a commercial success and reaching high positions on music charts worldwide.
9. Creepin’
“Creepin'” is a song by The Weeknd from his album *Kiss Land* (2013), released on September 10, 2013. The track is known for its dark and atmospheric production, characteristic of The Weeknd’s early style. “Creepin'” explores themes of paranoia, obsession, and the darker aspects of relationships, with The Weeknd’s haunting vocals adding to the song’s eerie atmosphere. The track showcases The Weeknd’s ability to blend R&B with electronic and experimental elements, setting the tone for the thematic complexity found throughout *Kiss Land*.
10. Can’t Feel My Face
“Can’t Feel My Face” is a song by The Weeknd, released on June 8, 2015, as the third single from his album *Beauty Behind the Madness* (2015). The track is an uptempo pop and funk-inspired song with elements of disco and R&B. Co-written by The Weeknd, Max Martin, Savan Kotecha, and Ali Payami, among others, “Can’t Feel My Face” features a catchy melody, upbeat production, and The Weeknd’s distinctive vocals. The song’s lyrics metaphorically depict the highs and lows of a turbulent relationship, with references to addiction and emotional numbness. “Can’t Feel My Face” became a commercial success, topping charts worldwide and receiving critical acclaim for its infectious energy and memorable chorus.
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.
