In the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary music, few artists have managed to capture the zeitgeist quite like The Weeknd. With his signature sound—a mesmerizing blend of R&B, pop, and electronic influences—he has consistently pushed boundaries and redefined genres. From haunting ballads to pulsating anthems, The Weeknd’s catalog is a testament to his artistic versatility and emotional depth.
Since bursting onto the scene with his enigmatic mixtapes, The Weeknd has not only amassed a legion of dedicated fans but has also garnered critical acclaim and numerous awards. His unique ability to weave intricate narratives about love, heartbreak, and self-discovery resonates deeply with listeners around the globe.
As we dive into the top 10 most popular songs of The Weeknd, prepare to revisit some of the tracks that have shaped his career and left an indelible mark on the music industry. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to his sound, this countdown promises to highlight the very best of The Weeknd, showcasing the artistry that has made him a defining voice of our generation. Get ready to relive the magic!
1. “Blinding Lights” (2019)
Released in 2019, “Blinding Lights” is a modern pop masterpiece that draws heavily from 1980s synthwave nostalgia while maintaining a fresh, contemporary edge. The Weeknd’s soaring vocals and emotionally charged delivery bring to life themes of longing, love, and redemption. The track’s pulsating beats and shimmering synth melodies create a euphoric atmosphere, making it irresistible to listeners. Lyrically, the song explores a deep yearning for connection, with lines that convey vulnerability and hope. The chorus is anthemic and instantly memorable, inviting fans to sing along and lose themselves in the rhythm. Beyond its chart-topping success, “Blinding Lights” became a cultural phenomenon, soundtracking countless moments and reaching a diverse global audience. The accompanying music video, featuring The Weeknd wandering through neon-lit streets, enhances the song’s nostalgic yet futuristic vibe. With its universal appeal and timeless sound, “Blinding Lights” stands as one of The Weeknd’s most iconic and enduring tracks.
2. “The Hills” (2015)
Dark, brooding, and deeply introspective, “The Hills,” released in 2015, reveals the shadowy side of fame and human desire. The song’s haunting production, built around a menacing bassline and eerie atmospheric effects, sets the stage for The Weeknd’s confessional lyrics. His raw, emotive delivery explores the complexities of relationships clouded by secrets and temptations. Lines like, “When I’m faded, I forget what I came for,” capture the inner turmoil that often accompanies hedonism and excess. The track’s hypnotic refrain, paired with its chilling soundscape, creates a hauntingly beautiful listening experience. “The Hills” resonated deeply with fans, earning critical acclaim and massive commercial success. The music video, featuring fiery car crashes and surreal imagery, adds to the track’s mysterious allure. As one of The Weeknd’s most defining songs, “The Hills” cemented his reputation as an artist unafraid to delve into the darker corners of human emotion and experience.
3. “Can’t Feel My Face” (2015)
“Can’t Feel My Face,” released in 2015, marked The Weeknd’s seamless leap into mainstream pop, delivering a funky, infectious anthem that dominated airwaves worldwide. The track’s upbeat tempo and sleek production, reminiscent of Michael Jackson’s disco-infused hits, immediately captured listeners’ attention. Beneath the danceable groove lies a metaphorical exploration of intoxicating love, with lyrics that balance playful allure and emotional intensity. The Weeknd’s dynamic vocal performance elevates the song, showcasing his ability to blend emotional depth with pop sensibilities. The accompanying music video features electrifying visuals of The Weeknd performing in a smoky club, eventually engulfed in flames—a metaphor for the song’s fiery passion. “Can’t Feel My Face” became a cultural juggernaut, topping charts and earning multiple accolades. It’s a track that perfectly encapsulates the thrill of infatuation, and its timeless appeal ensures its place as one of The Weeknd’s most iconic hits.
4. “Starboy” (feat. Daft Punk) (2016)
When The Weeknd teamed up with Daft Punk for “Starboy” in 2016, the result was an electrifying blend of R&B and electronic music that redefined his sound. The track is a bold declaration of his rise to fame, juxtaposing celebration with self-reflection. The slick production, driven by hypnotic beats and Daft Punk’s signature robotic flourishes, creates a futuristic soundscape that is both sophisticated and infectious. The lyrics reflect The Weeknd’s duality—acknowledging the perks of stardom while critiquing its pressures and excesses. Lines like, “Look what you’ve done, I’m a motherf****** starboy,” embody the tension between triumph and vulnerability. The visually striking music video, featuring symbolic imagery of destruction and rebirth, amplifies the song’s themes. “Starboy” became an instant hit, topping charts and earning a Grammy Award. This track not only showcases The Weeknd’s evolving artistry but also highlights his ability to push boundaries while staying true to his essence.
5. “I Feel It Coming” (feat. Daft Punk) (2016)
“I Feel It Coming,” another collaboration with Daft Punk, is a silky, romantic ballad that showcases The Weeknd’s softer side. Released in 2016, the song exudes warmth and intimacy, with lush production that pays homage to classic 80s R&B. The Weeknd’s tender vocals glide effortlessly over the dreamy, pulsating beat, creating an atmosphere of vulnerability and connection. Lyrically, the track speaks to the beauty of patience and understanding in a relationship, emphasizing emotional and physical closeness. Daft Punk’s subtle yet impactful contributions add a layer of sophistication, enhancing the song’s timeless appeal. The music video, set on a distant, otherworldly landscape, features ethereal visuals that complement the track’s serene mood. “I Feel It Coming” stands out as a heartfelt, introspective moment in The Weeknd’s catalog, proving that his ability to craft emotional narratives is just as powerful as his knack for creating chart-topping anthems.
6. “Heartless” (2019)
Released in 2019, “Heartless” finds The Weeknd diving deep into themes of detachment, indulgence, and self-reflection. The track’s moody, trap-infused production sets a dark, introspective tone, with thundering basslines and eerie synths creating an almost hypnotic effect. Lyrically, The Weeknd wrestles with his emotions, grappling with the conflict between hedonism and vulnerability. Lines like, “Never need a b****, I’m what a b**** need,” reveal a persona hardened by fame yet haunted by a longing for genuine connection. His vocal delivery alternates between smooth and sharp, perfectly capturing the tension within the narrative. The accompanying music video amplifies this duality, showcasing a visually surreal journey through Las Vegas that mirrors the song’s themes of excess and emptiness. “Heartless” became a fan favorite, not only for its raw honesty but also for its infectious rhythm. It is a testament to The Weeknd’s ability to explore complex emotions while delivering music that resonates deeply with listeners.
7. “Save Your Tears” (2020)
“Save Your Tears,” released in 2020, is a bittersweet anthem that seamlessly blends heartache with pop brilliance. The Weeknd’s velvety vocals soar over a retro-inspired production, featuring shimmering synths and a driving beat that evoke 80s nostalgia. The song’s lyrics explore themes of regret and emotional vulnerability, capturing the lingering pain of a broken relationship. Lines like, “You could’ve asked me why I broke your heart,” reflect both introspection and unresolved feelings, making the track deeply relatable. The chorus, with its infectious melody, has a cathartic quality that invites listeners to sing along and process their own emotions. The music video, featuring surreal visuals and bold artistic choices, adds another layer of intrigue, solidifying the song’s impact. “Save Your Tears” resonated with fans and critics alike, becoming one of The Weeknd’s most celebrated tracks. It showcases his unmatched ability to craft music that is simultaneously nostalgic and fresh, emotional yet universally appealing.
8. “Often” (2014)
“Often,” released in 2014, is a quintessential example of The Weeknd’s sultry and provocative style. The track delves into themes of desire, casual encounters, and the complexities of modern relationships. Its smooth, hypnotic production features minimalist beats and subtle electronic flourishes, creating a seductive soundscape. The Weeknd’s delivery is both effortless and intense, drawing listeners into a narrative that is equal parts alluring and unapologetic. Lines like, “She asked me if I do this every day, I said, ‘Often,'” encapsulate the nonchalant yet deeply intimate tone of the song. “Often” stands out for its ability to balance raw sensuality with introspection, making it a staple in The Weeknd’s early discography. Its memorable hook and addictive rhythm have ensured its longevity on playlists, while its honest and unfiltered lyrics provide a glimpse into The Weeknd’s persona during this phase of his career.
9. “Take My Breath” (2021)
“Take My Breath,” released in 2021, is a pulsating dance anthem that perfectly fuses retro influences with modern pop energy. The track opens with a shimmering, cinematic build-up that transitions into a high-octane beat, instantly transporting listeners to the dance floor. Lyrically, the song explores themes of passion, desire, and surrender, with lines that encourage living in the moment. The Weeknd’s vocals, layered with falsettos and emotive intensity, add depth to the song’s seductive tone. The production, heavily influenced by 80s synthwave, features vibrant electronic textures and a driving bassline that create a euphoric listening experience. The music video, with its kaleidoscopic visuals and striking imagery, further enhances the track’s dynamic appeal. “Take My Breath” demonstrates The Weeknd’s ability to evolve his sound while staying true to his artistic identity. It’s a song that not only invites listeners to dance but also immerses them in a world of electrifying emotion and energy.
10. “In the Night” (2016)
“In the Night,” released in 2016, is a hauntingly beautiful track that explores the darker, more vulnerable side of love and resilience. The song’s production is a masterful blend of pulsating beats and soaring melodies, evoking both urgency and passion. The Weeknd’s ethereal vocals bring raw emotion to lyrics that tell a poignant story of a woman’s struggles and triumphs. Lines like, “She was young and all she had was the city,” highlight themes of survival and self-discovery, creating a narrative that is both heartbreaking and empowering. The music video, with its dramatic, noir-inspired visuals, adds another layer of depth to the song, capturing the emotional intensity of its themes. “In the Night” is a testament to The Weeknd’s ability to blend storytelling with sonic innovation, creating a track that resonates long after the final note. It remains one of his most evocative and unforgettable pieces, showcasing his artistic versatility and emotional depth.
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.
