From the moment The Weeknd burst onto the music scene, he’s been nothing short of a sensation. With his haunting voice, cinematic production, and genre-defying sound, Abel Tesfaye has carved out a space in pop music that’s uniquely his own. Whether he’s crooning about heartbreak, lost love, or the darker side of fame, each of his tracks leaves an indelible mark, resonating deeply with listeners around the globe.
In this article, we’re diving into the top 10 most popular songs that have defined The Weeknd’s meteoric rise. Spanning across multiple chart-topping albums, these tracks have not only dominated the airwaves but also solidified his status as one of the most innovative and influential artists of his generation. From the hypnotic allure of Blinding Lights to the raw vulnerability of Wicked Games, each song tells a story, pulling you deeper into The Weeknd’s world with every beat. So whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his music, get ready to explore the tracks that have shaped his legacy and left an unforgettable imprint on pop culture worldwide.
1. Blinding Lights (2019)
Released in late 2019, Blinding Lights quickly became one of The Weeknd’s signature tracks, skyrocketing to global success. Its infectious 80s-style synth-pop sound, paired with Abel’s evocative vocals, created a perfect storm that dominated the charts well into 2020. The song paints a vivid picture of longing and desperation, with The Weeknd yearning for connection in a world that feels distant. It’s a track that pulses with energy, blending nostalgia with modern production to create something timeless. The unforgettable melody and fast-paced rhythm made Blinding Lights an instant classic, earning its place as one of the most streamed songs of all time.
2. The Hills (2015)
The Hills, released in 2015, introduced a darker, more mysterious side to The Weeknd’s music. With its eerie production and haunting lyrics, the song delves into the tumultuous nature of fame and relationships. The track’s heavy bassline, combined with Abel’s haunting falsetto, struck a chord with listeners, propelling it to the top of the charts. The song’s raw, unfiltered look at toxic love and late-night escapades makes it one of his most compelling and iconic tracks. Its cinematic music video only added to the song’s allure, cementing The Hills as a fan favorite.
3. Can’t Feel My Face (2015)
When Can’t Feel My Face dropped in 2015, it became an instant summer anthem. The track, with its funky, disco-infused baseline and glossy pop production, was a clear departure from The Weeknd’s darker material. However, beneath the catchy hooks lies a deeper metaphor about addiction and self-destruction. As Abel croons about the highs and lows of a toxic relationship, the song’s upbeat sound contrasts with the heavy subject matter. This juxtaposition made Can’t Feel My Face a massive hit, earning critical praise and dominating radio airwaves worldwide.
4. Starboy (feat. Daft Punk) (2016)
Starboy, the title track from The Weeknd’s 2016 album, showcases a slick collaboration with the iconic electronic duo Daft Punk. The song is a declaration of Abel’s arrival as a global superstar, with lyrics reflecting the pressures and excesses of fame. The electro-infused beat, coupled with The Weeknd’s smooth vocal delivery, created an intoxicating blend that resonated with fans instantly. Starboy became a massive commercial success, topping charts and earning platinum certifications worldwide. The collaboration with Daft Punk added a futuristic edge to the track, making it one of The Weeknd’s most memorable releases.
5. Save Your Tears (2019)
Released as part of After Hours in 2019, Save Your Tears is a bittersweet anthem about regret and emotional distance. The retro-inspired production, with its shimmering synths and dreamlike atmosphere, contrasts with the song’s melancholic lyrics. Abel’s voice soars as he reflects on a past relationship, imploring his former lover to move on without sorrow. The track’s emotional depth and catchy chorus made it a standout on the album and a favorite among fans. Its accompanying music video, filled with surreal imagery, further solidified Save Your Tears as one of The Weeknd’s most iconic releases.
6. Earned It (2014)
Earned It, released in 2014 as part of the Fifty Shades of Grey soundtrack, introduced The Weeknd to a broader, more mainstream audience. The sultry ballad, with its orchestral arrangement and seductive lyrics, perfectly captured the steamy tone of the film. Abel’s smooth vocal delivery and the song’s slow, sensual tempo made it an instant hit. It garnered critical acclaim and earned The Weeknd his first Academy Award nomination, solidifying his place as a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
7. Wicked Games (2011)
As one of The Weeknd’s earliest releases, Wicked Games is a haunting introduction to his moody, atmospheric sound. Released in 2011, the song explores themes of lust, heartbreak, and emotional numbness, with Abel’s voice drenched in raw emotion. The sparse, minimalistic production allows his voice to take center stage, drawing listeners into a world of late-night confessions and self-destruction. Wicked Games set the tone for The Weeknd’s early career, showcasing his ability to blend vulnerability with dark, brooding beats.
8. In the Night (2015)
In the Night, released in 2015, is a throwback to the 80s with its pulsating beat and infectious chorus, but it’s also one of The Weeknd’s most poignant songs. Beneath the upbeat tempo lies a tragic story of a woman escaping a traumatic past. Abel’s falsetto soars as he sings about pain and resilience, creating a stark contrast between the song’s lively production and its heavy subject matter. The retro vibes and emotional depth made In the Night a standout track on Beauty Behind the Madness, resonating deeply with fans.
9. I Feel It Coming (feat. Daft Punk) (2016)
Another collaboration with Daft Punk, I Feel It Coming, released in 2016, showcases a softer, more romantic side of The Weeknd. The song’s smooth, disco-pop production and laid-back groove are a perfect match for Abel’s soothing vocals. With its nostalgic feel and simple, yet heartfelt lyrics, I Feel It Coming became an instant favorite for fans and critics alike. The song’s timeless quality, coupled with Daft Punk’s signature touch, made it a standout track on Starboy and one of The Weeknd’s most beloved songs.
10. Call Out My Name (2018)
Call Out My Name, released in 2018 as part of the My Dear Melancholy EP, is one of The Weeknd’s most emotionally charged songs. The track deals with heartbreak and unrequited love, with Abel’s voice dripping with raw emotion. The slow, haunting production complements the song’s melancholic lyrics, creating a powerful ballad that resonates deeply with anyone who’s experienced loss. Call Out My Name showcases The Weeknd’s ability to channel pain into beautiful music, making it one of his standout tracks.
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.
