Abel Tesfaye, known to the world as The Weeknd, has become one of the most iconic and influential artists of our generation. With his signature blend of haunting vocals, moody production, and genre-defying sound, The Weeknd has captured the hearts of millions while redefining the boundaries of modern music. From his underground mixtape days to dominating global charts, his artistry continues to evolve, leaving an indelible mark on the industry.
In this article, we take a journey through The Weeknd’s extraordinary discography to highlight his top 10 most popular songs of all time. These are the tracks that have set records, stirred emotions, and turned casual listeners into lifelong fans. Whether it’s the pulsating energy of his dance anthems or the raw vulnerability of his ballads, each song on this list represents a moment of magic that has cemented his status as a musical legend.
Get ready to uncover the songs that defined a generation, from the dark and brooding beginnings of House of Balloons to the dazzling heights of After Hours and beyond. Let the countdown begin as we celebrate The Weeknd’s greatest hits—and relive the unforgettable moments they’ve given us!
1. Blinding Lights (2019)
“Blinding Lights” stands as one of The Weeknd’s most iconic tracks, achieving global recognition and chart dominance since its release in 2019. From the moment its infectious synthwave melodies kick in, the song grabs your attention and doesn’t let go. The track blends a nostalgia-fueled ’80s aesthetic with modern production, crafting a sound that feels both timeless and fresh. Its energetic, danceable beats are paired with emotionally charged lyrics, where The Weeknd sings of longing, love, and the need for someone to guide him out of the darkness. The song’s production is pristine, with shimmering synths and pulsating bass lines creating a mesmerizing atmosphere that draws listeners in. But it’s The Weeknd’s hauntingly beautiful vocals that truly elevate “Blinding Lights.” His delivery is filled with a sense of yearning and vulnerability, matching the song’s themes of emotional desperation. “Blinding Lights” quickly became a cultural phenomenon, topping charts around the world and earning the distinction of being the longest-charting song in Billboard Hot 100 history. Its blend of catchy hooks, infectious rhythms, and heartfelt lyrics made it a standout hit and a defining moment in The Weeknd’s career. The song’s success also marked a shift in pop music, with its retro influences and slick production appealing to a wide audience, transcending generations. As the song continued to dominate the charts, it cemented The Weeknd’s place as one of the most influential artists of the 2010s. “Blinding Lights” has become a modern pop classic, its anthemic energy and emotional depth ensuring its place in the music landscape for years to come.
2. Starboy (2016)
“Starboy,” released in 2016, marked a major turning point in The Weeknd’s career. Featuring the iconic electronic duo Daft Punk, the song introduces a more polished, sleek sound that blends dark pop with electronic and futuristic production. The track explores themes of fame, materialism, and the identity struggles that come with success. With the opening lines, “I’m a motherfucking starboy,” The Weeknd boldly declares his rise to the top of the music world. But beneath the braggadocio, there’s a sense of vulnerability, as he reflects on the toll fame has taken on his personal life. The collaboration with Daft Punk was a masterstroke, as their signature production style—characterized by haunting synths, robotic vocals, and pulsing beats—blends seamlessly with The Weeknd’s haunting voice and introspective lyrics. The result is a track that feels both futuristic and grounded in emotional truth. The song’s catchy hook, paired with its hypnotic rhythm and infectious energy, made it an instant hit, topping charts around the world and earning critical acclaim. “Starboy” also became a cultural moment, reflecting the excesses of modern celebrity culture and the internal conflicts that often accompany fame. The music video, with its sleek visuals and symbolism, added another layer of depth to the song, reinforcing the themes of transformation and identity. As one of the standout tracks from The Weeknd’s Starboy album, the song showcased his evolution as an artist, blending pop, electronic, and R&B elements in a way that was both commercially successful and artistically innovative.
3. Can’t Feel My Face (2015)
“Can’t Feel My Face,” released in 2015, was a game-changer for The Weeknd, propelling him into mainstream superstardom. Produced by the legendary Max Martin, the track is a masterful blend of funk, pop, and soul, with an upbeat tempo that contrasts sharply with the darker, more introspective lyrics. On the surface, the song sounds like an upbeat, danceable anthem, but beneath the surface, it’s a metaphorical ode to addiction and passion. The Weeknd sings about being consumed by love, likening the experience to the sensation of not being able to feel his face—an indication of being overwhelmed by emotion and desire. The track’s infectious groove and polished production made it a staple on radio stations worldwide, and its catchy chorus quickly became a sing-along favorite. The Weeknd’s vocal performance is nothing short of captivating, as he effortlessly transitions between sultry falsettos and soulful delivery, capturing the highs and lows of love and addiction. The song’s impact was undeniable, earning nominations at major award shows, including the Grammy Awards, and solidifying The Weeknd’s position as a major force in pop music. “Can’t Feel My Face” is a perfect example of The Weeknd’s ability to blend infectious melodies with emotionally charged storytelling. It’s a song that, while fun and energetic on the surface, invites deeper reflection on the complexities of love, desire, and addiction. The track became one of the defining hits of 2015 and remains one of The Weeknd’s signature songs to this day.
4. The Hills (2015)
“The Hills,” released in 2015, is one of The Weeknd’s darkest and most atmospheric tracks. With its brooding production, eerie melodies, and intense basslines, the song perfectly encapsulates the mysterious and tortured persona that The Weeknd often portrays in his music. Lyrically, “The Hills” delves into themes of secrecy, guilt, and lust, with The Weeknd exploring the darker side of relationships. The song opens with the iconic line, “I only call you when it’s half-past five,” immediately setting the tone for a narrative of late-night escapism and complicated emotions. The Weeknd’s haunting vocals, filled with raw emotion, enhance the song’s dark, almost hypnotic quality. The lyrics reveal a sense of self-destruction, as he navigates toxic relationships and a constant yearning for something that feels unattainable. “The Hills” is an exploration of fame and its consequences, with the metaphor of “the hills” representing both the allure and danger of the world he inhabits. The song’s ominous, yet mesmerizing production, which features heavy bass and eerie synths, adds to the sense of unease and urgency that permeates the track. It’s a stark contrast to some of his earlier work, showcasing The Weeknd’s ability to experiment with darker, more introspective themes while maintaining his unique sound. “The Hills” became an instant fan favorite and a critical success, reaching the top of the charts and earning multi-platinum certification. Its atmospheric energy and haunting vibe have made it one of The Weeknd’s most memorable tracks, cementing his reputation as a master of moody, cinematic R&B.
5. Save Your Tears (2020)
“Save Your Tears,” from The Weeknd’s After Hours album, is a shimmering pop track that contrasts upbeat, danceable production with deeply emotional lyrics. The song is a reflection on regret and heartbreak, with The Weeknd singing about a relationship that’s gone wrong and the pain of watching someone move on. The track’s dreamy synth-driven production gives it a retro feel, reminiscent of ’80s pop, yet it feels entirely modern in its execution. The Weeknd’s falsetto delivery conveys a sense of vulnerability, as he sings about trying to hold on to something that has already slipped away. The catchy chorus, which repeats the phrase “Save your tears for another day,” reflects the bittersweet sentiment of someone trying to mask their sadness, even as they acknowledge the hurt. The song’s reflective lyrics are juxtaposed against its upbeat, almost celebratory instrumental, creating a dynamic tension that makes the track feel both uplifting and melancholic. “Save Your Tears” was one of the standout hits of 2020, earning widespread acclaim for its production, lyrics, and emotional depth. The song’s music video, featuring The Weeknd with a bandaged face, became iconic for its surreal and unsettling imagery, further enhancing the song’s themes of self-inflicted pain and emotional turmoil. The remix of “Save Your Tears” featuring Ariana Grande further propelled the song’s success, adding a new layer of vocal dynamics and broadening its appeal. “Save Your Tears” is a perfect example of The Weeknd’s ability to craft pop music that is both commercially successful and deeply personal, resonating with listeners on an emotional level.
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.
