With his hypnotic voice, genre-defying sound, and enigmatic persona, The Weeknd has emerged as one of the most influential artists of the 21st century. Since the release of his haunting mixtapes in 2011, Abel Tesfaye—better known as The Weeknd—has captivated audiences worldwide with his sultry R&B, synth-heavy pop, and introspective lyrics. Whether he’s crooning about heartbreak, desire, or redemption, his music resonates deeply, earning him countless fans and accolades, including Grammy Awards, chart-topping hits, and record-breaking streams.
From the shadowy depths of House of Balloons to the glimmering neon haze of After Hours and beyond, The Weeknd has continually reinvented himself while crafting timeless anthems. But which songs truly stand out as his greatest masterpieces? In this countdown, we’ll dive into his most iconic tracks—the ones that have defined his career, dominated the charts, and left an indelible mark on pop culture. Are you ready to revisit the seductive melodies of “Earned It,” the euphoric highs of “Blinding Lights,” and the raw emotion of “Call Out My Name”?
Join us as we explore The Weeknd’s top 10 most popular songs of all time—a journey through heartbreak, hedonism, and undeniable musical genius!
1. Blinding Lights (2019)
“Blinding Lights” is one of The Weeknd’s most iconic tracks, a song that not only defined his career but also left a lasting mark on pop music. Released in 2019 as part of his After Hours album, the song embraces an electrifying 1980s synthwave sound, blending nostalgic melodies with modern production. From the moment its pulsating beat kicks in, listeners are transported into a cinematic, neon-lit world full of longing and excitement.
Lyrically, “Blinding Lights” explores themes of obsession, love, and desperation. The Weeknd sings about being unable to live without someone, rushing through the city at night to be with them. The song’s urgent energy mirrors this emotional tension, capturing the euphoria and recklessness of infatuation. His smooth vocals glide effortlessly over the synth-driven production, making every line feel both intimate and grand.
The song was an unprecedented success, breaking multiple records and topping the Billboard Hot 100 for weeks. It went on to become one of the most streamed songs of all time and played a major role in The Weeknd’s halftime performance at the Super Bowl LV. Whether blasting in a nightclub or playing through a pair of headphones, “Blinding Lights” remains a thrilling anthem that never loses its spark.
2. Starboy (2016)
With its sleek production and confident delivery, “Starboy” marked a new era for The Weeknd when it was released in 2016. The title track of his third studio album, the song saw him collaborating with the legendary French electronic duo Daft Punk, blending futuristic beats with his signature moody R&B style. The result was an atmospheric and hypnotic anthem about the double-edged sword of fame.
The lyrics offer a candid glimpse into The Weeknd’s rise to superstardom, addressing the excess, material wealth, and inner conflicts that come with it. Lines like “Look what you’ve done, I’m a motherf**ing Starboy”* exude both pride and exhaustion, reflecting the contradictions of success. While the track boasts a hard-hitting beat and pulsating synths, there’s an underlying melancholy in his voice, as if he’s both celebrating and lamenting his lifestyle.
3. The Hills (2015)
Dark, moody, and intensely atmospheric, “The Hills” is one of The Weeknd’s most haunting and defining tracks. Released in 2015 as part of Beauty Behind the Madness, the song became a massive hit, resonating with audiences for its raw emotion and hypnotic production. Unlike many of his other chart-topping songs, this one leans heavily into his alternative R&B roots, embracing eerie instrumentals and deep, distorted basslines.
Lyrically, “The Hills” is brutally honest, delving into themes of secrecy, infidelity, and emotional detachment. The opening line, “Your man on the road, he doin’ promo,” sets the stage for a song about a forbidden affair, filled with late-night escapades and complicated feelings. The chorus, with its now-iconic refrain “I only call you when it’s half past five”, highlights the fleeting and impersonal nature of the relationship, making it clear that love is not the driving force.
4. Can’t Feel My Face (2015)
“Can’t Feel My Face” is one of The Weeknd’s most infectious and commercially successful songs, blending pop, funk, and R&B into a track that’s impossible to resist. Released in 2015 as part of Beauty Behind the Madness, the song marked a significant shift in The Weeknd’s career, moving him from a dark, underground R&B artist to a mainstream pop sensation. Its groovy bassline, upbeat tempo, and smooth falsetto delivery immediately drew comparisons to Michael Jackson, further solidifying The Weeknd’s ability to cross genres effortlessly.
Lyrically, the song can be interpreted in multiple ways. On the surface, it seems to be about the euphoric highs and lows of a toxic romance. However, many fans and critics believe it’s actually a metaphor for substance addiction, a theme that often appears in The Weeknd’s music. The lines “I know she’ll be the death of me, at least we’ll both be numb” suggest a relationship that is both exhilarating and destructive.
The song was an instant hit, peaking at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and dominating radio airwaves. Its energetic rhythm and addictive melody made it a club favorite, while its deeper meaning kept listeners intrigued. “Can’t Feel My Face” remains one of The Weeknd’s most celebrated tracks, showcasing his evolution into a true pop superstar.
Despite its dark themes, the song became one of The Weeknd’s biggest commercial successes, topping the Billboard Hot 100 and earning critical acclaim. Its eerie music video, featuring a car crash and a fiery house, perfectly complements the song’s brooding energy. Years later, “The Hills” remains a fan favorite, embodying the raw, unfiltered emotions that make The Weeknd’s music so compelling.
“Starboy” was an instant hit, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and solidifying The Weeknd as a global superstar. The song’s music video, filled with luxury cars, high fashion, and a symbolic destruction of his past self, reinforced its themes of reinvention and transformation. The song continues to be one of his most recognizable and influential releases.
5. Save Your Tears (2020)
A standout track from After Hours, “Save Your Tears” perfectly encapsulates The Weeknd’s signature blend of heartbreak and nostalgia. Released in 2020, the song draws heavy inspiration from 1980s synth-pop, featuring shimmering production and an irresistibly melancholic melody. It’s a song that feels both retro and futuristic, combining dreamy instrumentals with deeply emotional lyrics.
The track explores themes of regret, lost love, and emotional distance. The Weeknd sings about a relationship that has ended, yet he still sees his former lover suffering from the heartbreak. The chorus, with its pleading line “I don’t know why I run away”, captures his inner conflict—he knows he’s hurt someone he cares about, yet he struggles to change his ways. His delivery is haunting yet effortlessly smooth, making every lyric feel both personal and universal.
The song gained even more popularity when a remix featuring Ariana Grande was released, adding a new dynamic to the already powerful track. It quickly climbed the charts and became another massive hit for The Weeknd. “Save Your Tears” is an emotionally charged anthem that resonates with anyone who has ever looked back on a love they let slip away.
6. Earned It (2015)
Few songs showcase The Weeknd’s sultry, cinematic style as well as “Earned It”. Released in 2015 as part of the Fifty Shades of Grey soundtrack, the song quickly became synonymous with passion and seduction. It deviates from his usual dark R&B sound, incorporating orchestral elements and a slow, dramatic tempo that feels both intimate and grand.
The lyrics are a direct reflection of the film’s themes, portraying a relationship filled with admiration, desire, and dominance. The Weeknd’s smooth vocals glide effortlessly over the lush strings and soft percussion, creating an atmosphere of pure sensuality. Lines like “You make it look like it’s magic” add to the song’s hypnotic charm, making it one of his most romantic offerings.
“Earned It” was a commercial success, earning The Weeknd his first Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. It also won a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance, further proving his ability to blend contemporary R&B with cinematic elegance. The song’s seductive nature and timeless appeal continue to make it a fan favorite, standing out as one of The Weeknd’s most unique and sophisticated tracks.
7. Die For You (2016)
“Die For You” is one of The Weeknd’s most emotionally charged love songs, originally released in 2016 as part of his Starboy album. The track showcases his ability to blend vulnerability with smooth, atmospheric production, making it a deeply affecting ballad about devotion and longing.
The lyrics tell the story of a complicated relationship where love persists despite difficulties. The Weeknd’s voice drips with emotion as he sings lines like “Even though we’re going through it, and it makes you feel alone, just know that I would die for you.” There’s a sense of desperation and undying love in every word, making the song incredibly relatable for anyone who has struggled with distance or obstacles in a relationship.
Though it wasn’t initially released as a single, “Die For You” slowly gained popularity over the years, becoming a sleeper hit. In 2022, the song experienced a resurgence thanks to social media, eventually leading to an official remix featuring Ariana Grande. The track’s longevity proves its lasting impact and emotional depth, solidifying it as one of The Weeknd’s most cherished songs.
8. Call Out My Name (2018)
“Call Out My Name” is one of The Weeknd’s most heart-wrenching and emotionally raw songs. Released in 2018 as part of the My Dear Melancholy EP, this track dives deep into themes of unrequited love, heartbreak, and lingering emotional scars. The song’s haunting production, combined with The Weeknd’s signature melancholic delivery, creates an atmosphere of sorrow and regret that resonates with anyone who has experienced a painful breakup.
Lyrically, the song is filled with desperation and longing, with The Weeknd lamenting how he gave everything to someone who ultimately didn’t choose him. The lines “I put you on top, I claimed you so proud and openly” express the pain of devotion that wasn’t reciprocated. Fans have speculated that the song is about his high-profile relationship with Selena Gomez, particularly given its references to self-sacrifice and emotional wounds.
Musically, the track’s slow, moody instrumentation enhances its emotional weight. The blend of somber piano chords, atmospheric synths, and The Weeknd’s soaring vocals make for a deeply immersive listening experience. “Call Out My Name” quickly became a fan favorite, solidifying its place as one of his most powerful breakup anthems.
9. I Feel It Coming (2016)
A stark contrast to The Weeknd’s darker themes, “I Feel It Coming” is a smooth, feel-good love song that radiates warmth and nostalgia. Released in 2016 as part of Starboy, this track features the iconic electronic duo Daft Punk, whose signature retro-futuristic production elevates the song to an instant classic.
The song’s lyrics depict a budding romance where The Weeknd reassures his partner that love doesn’t have to be rushed or complicated. Lines like “Just a simple touch and it can set you free” and “We don’t have to rush when you’re alone with me” emphasize emotional connection over fleeting passion. It’s a refreshing departure from his usual themes of heartbreak and excess, showcasing his ability to craft a more tender and uplifting track.
The production, heavily influenced by 1980s pop and R&B, is irresistibly smooth. The combination of The Weeknd’s velvety vocals and Daft Punk’s crisp, minimalist beat results in a timeless, romantic groove that feels like a modern take on Michael Jackson’s sound. “I Feel It Coming” was a commercial success, proving that The Weeknd could master both dark, brooding R&B and bright, feel-good anthems with equal finesse.
10. Wicked Games (2011)
“Wicked Games” is one of The Weeknd’s most iconic early tracks, marking the beginning of his ascent to fame. Released in 2011 as part of his debut mixtape House of Balloons, this song introduced the world to his signature style—moody, introspective, and emotionally raw.
The lyrics paint a picture of a man lost in loneliness, using fleeting romance and vices to escape his pain. Lines like “Bring your love, baby, I could bring my shame” and “I got my heart right here, I got my scars right here” encapsulate The Weeknd’s recurring themes of self-destruction and emotional emptiness. His voice carries a haunting quality, making every lyric feel deeply personal.
Musically, the song blends alternative R&B with eerie, atmospheric production, creating an intoxicating sense of despair. The minimalistic beat, distant echoes, and The Weeknd’s melancholic crooning create an immersive experience that draws listeners into his world of heartbreak and hedonism.
Though it was one of his earliest releases, “Wicked Games” remains a fan favorite, often credited with shaping the alternative R&B movement. It’s a testament to The Weeknd’s ability to craft emotionally resonant music that lingers long after the song ends.
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.
