In the realm of modern music, few artists have left as indelible a mark as The Weeknd. With his unique blend of R&B, pop, and electronic influences, he has captivated listeners around the globe. From haunting melodies to introspective lyrics, his songs explore themes of love, heartbreak, and the darker sides of fame. As we dive into the top 10 most popular The Weeknd songs of all time, we celebrate not just his chart-topping hits but also the emotional journeys they take us on. Each track encapsulates a moment in time, resonating with fans and shaping the musical landscape. Whether it’s the sultry vibes of “Earned It” or the anthemic power of “Blinding Lights,” The Weeknd’s discography is a testament to his artistry and evolution. Join us as we count down these iconic tracks, uncovering the stories behind the music and the reasons they have become timeless classics. Get ready to relive the magic and discover what makes The Weeknd a true superstar in the industry!
1. “Blinding Lights” (2019)
“Blinding Lights” is one of those rare songs that feels instantly timeless. Released in 2019, it marked a defining moment in The Weeknd’s career, fusing his signature emotional depth with an irresistible retro vibe. With its pulsating synths and driving 1980s-inspired beat, the track takes listeners on a neon-lit joyride through themes of longing, desperation, and late-night yearning. At its core, it’s about someone who can’t function without the presence of their love interest, and The Weeknd delivers that emotion with urgency and vulnerability. His smooth vocals soar over the production, drawing you into a cinematic world of speeding cars, empty streets, and aching hearts. The song’s chorus is infectious, almost euphoric, masking the heartbreak in its lyrics with a beat that makes you want to dance. It’s that tension between sorrow and euphoria that makes “Blinding Lights” so powerful. Topping charts worldwide and breaking records for its longevity, it became a cultural phenomenon. Whether you hear it on the radio, in a commercial, or blasting from speakers at a party, it never loses its impact. It’s proof of The Weeknd’s unique ability to merge classic influences with a modern edge, creating music that sticks with you.
2. “The Hills” (2015)
“The Hills” dives headfirst into the raw and murky depths of desire, secrecy, and the dark side of fame. Released in 2015, it marked a sharp contrast to The Weeknd’s more pop-oriented tracks, returning to the haunting, confessional tone that originally made him stand out. From the very first note, the song is unsettling in the best way—its distorted bass and eerie melodies wrap around his voice like smoke, creating a sense of tension that never lets go. Lyrically, “The Hills” explores the twisted nature of a relationship that thrives in the shadows. There’s an honesty in how he lays bare the toxic patterns, admitting to being someone different in the daylight than in the dead of night. The Weeknd’s vocal delivery is intense and vulnerable, perfectly matching the emotional chaos of the lyrics. It’s not just about lust—it’s about the fear and power that come with being truly seen. The track resonated with fans for its brutal candor and sonic edge, becoming a massive hit. “The Hills” isn’t just a song—it’s an experience that takes you into the heart of darkness and dares you to look around.
3. “Can’t Feel My Face” (2015)
“Can’t Feel My Face” is where The Weeknd brought his dark romanticism into full pop territory—and completely owned it. Released in 2015, the song signaled a major crossover moment for him, blending funk, pop, and R&B into a groovy, radio-friendly hit that still held onto his signature intensity. On the surface, it’s a sleek, upbeat anthem about love, but scratch a little deeper and you’ll find the familiar themes of obsession and self-destruction. His comparison of love to a numbing, addictive high feels both seductive and dangerous. The production, reminiscent of Michael Jackson’s golden era, gave the track a throwback flavor that felt fresh and nostalgic all at once. The Weeknd’s charisma shines through in every line—he’s playful, magnetic, and totally in control. It’s impossible not to move when this track comes on, and yet the lyrics carry a deeper sting if you pay attention. The song dominated the airwaves and earned multiple award nominations, catapulting him further into pop stardom. “Can’t Feel My Face” proved that The Weeknd could write chart-toppers without sacrificing the complexity that made his earlier work so compelling. It’s a masterclass in musical duality: glossy on the outside, intense underneath.
4. “Starboy” (feat. Daft Punk) (2016)
“Starboy” marked a bold new chapter in The Weeknd’s evolution—a sleek, confident declaration of who he had become. Teaming up with the legendary Daft Punk in 2016, the track combined robotic precision with a dark R&B edge, creating something that felt futuristic yet grounded in personal truth. The lyrics pull no punches as The Weeknd reflects on his rapid rise to fame, wealth, and reinvention. He sheds his past persona and steps fully into the role of the ‘Starboy’—flawed, self-aware, and unapologetically in control. The beat is minimalist but hypnotic, built around pulsing synths and a sharp, menacing groove that lingers long after the song ends. Daft Punk’s signature touch adds a surreal layer to the production, making the track sound like something out of a neon-soaked dream. What makes “Starboy” hit so hard is its mix of swagger and sorrow. There’s pride in his accomplishments, but also an undercurrent of emptiness that fame hasn’t filled. The accompanying video, where he literally destroys his past self, perfectly mirrors the song’s themes. “Starboy” isn’t just a hit—it’s a statement, a transformation, and one of the most iconic entries in The Weeknd’s catalog.
5. “I Feel It Coming” (feat. Daft Punk) (2016)
“I Feel It Coming” is like a warm breeze on a summer night—smooth, romantic, and quietly mesmerizing. Another collaboration with Daft Punk from 2016, the song showcases a softer, more affectionate side of The Weeknd. It’s about emotional availability, vulnerability, and the anticipation of love—not the chaos of obsession or pain that’s common in his other songs. Instead, it’s a gentle invitation to slow down and connect. The retro-inspired production, full of airy synths and mellow grooves, feels like a modern homage to 80s slow jams. The Weeknd’s voice glides effortlessly, tender and reassuring, while Daft Punk’s influence adds an ethereal glow that elevates the entire track. Lyrically, the song is refreshingly simple, focusing on the moment before intimacy—when feelings start to bloom and everything is filled with possibility. There’s no rush here, just a sincere promise to be present and attentive. This track resonated deeply with listeners, offering a sense of comfort and romantic idealism. It’s a standout for how it balances style and substance, allowing The Weeknd to flex his vocal control while delivering one of his most emotionally open performances. “I Feel It Coming” remains one of his most universally beloved songs.
6. “Heartless” (2019)
“Heartless” is a wild, confessional ride through the highs and lows of indulgence, detachment, and emotional fallout. Released in 2019, this track sees The Weeknd returning to the reckless abandon of his earlier days—fast living, late nights, and a heart that’s gone numb. From the moment the beat drops, it’s clear you’re in for a bold, unfiltered expression of what it means to feel everything and nothing all at once. The production is gritty and bass-heavy, almost chaotic, perfectly echoing the turmoil in the lyrics. The Weeknd doesn’t hide his flaws—he embraces them. He sings about chasing pleasure while losing himself in the process, all delivered with a swaggering vocal that balances arrogance with vulnerability. There’s a raw honesty here, a glimpse into the emptiness that success and excess can’t fill. While the beat keeps your head nodding, the story keeps you thinking. It’s both a banger and a confession. “Heartless” is more than just a club track—it’s a dark mirror held up to fame, love, and personal destruction. It shows The Weeknd’s willingness to go deep, even when the truths are uncomfortable, making it a standout in his discography.
7. “Save Your Tears” (2020)
“Save Your Tears” is deceptively bright—catchy and danceable on the surface, but aching with regret underneath. Released in 2020, this synth-pop gem finds The Weeknd reflecting on a past relationship with a bittersweet mix of apology and distance. The 80s-inspired beat, full of shimmering synths and toe-tapping rhythms, gives the song a nostalgic, almost cheerful sound, but the lyrics tell a different story. He’s watching someone he hurt move on, and while he wishes things were different, he doesn’t beg. Instead, he quietly urges her to save her tears—because he’s already made peace with the fallout. The Weeknd’s vocal performance is haunting in its restraint, letting the pain simmer just beneath the surface. It’s the kind of song you might dance to at a party, only to suddenly realize how sad it really is. That emotional duality is what makes it so powerful. Paired with a surreal music video featuring masked faces and eerie imagery, the track became one of his most talked-about releases from the After Hours era. “Save Your Tears” is an anthem for anyone who’s faced heartbreak with quiet dignity and still found the strength to keep dancing.
8. “Often” (2014)
“Often” is pure seduction wrapped in moody production and daring honesty. Released in 2014, the track is one of The Weeknd’s most provocative songs, boldly diving into themes of lust, power, and emotional detachment. From the first few seconds, the beat creeps in like a late-night encounter—dark, smooth, and undeniably intoxicating. Lyrically, The Weeknd doesn’t hold back, offering a candid look into a lifestyle fueled by fleeting connections and physical desire. His vocals alternate between soft crooning and sharp falsetto, giving the track an almost hypnotic pull. There’s no sugarcoating here—he sings with a bluntness that’s both brash and intriguing. “Often” doesn’t pretend to be about love; it’s about control, indulgence, and living on the edge. Yet beneath the surface, there’s a sense of isolation—a man filling a void but never quite feeling whole. This song became a favorite among fans for its boldness and sleek, R&B-meets-electronic vibe. It captures The Weeknd at his most unapologetic, embracing the darker shades of human desire while crafting a sound that’s both smooth and unsettling. “Often” isn’t for the faint-hearted—it’s a late-night confession in musical form.
9. “In the Night” (2016)
“In the Night” is a haunting tale disguised as a dance track. Released in 2016, it explores heavy themes of trauma and survival through the story of a woman who hides her pain beneath a glamorous exterior. Inspired by the energy of Michael Jackson’s classic hits, the song blends upbeat production with deeply emotional lyrics. The Weeknd’s vocals soar with urgency and empathy, capturing both the beauty and sadness of his subject’s world. The pounding drums and pulsing synths make the song feel like a club anthem, but the lyrics go much deeper. He sings about someone who’s been hurt and is now putting on a brave face every night, trying to escape her past through performance and appearance. There’s something cinematic about the whole experience, especially when paired with the intense, noir-style music video. “In the Night” showcases The Weeknd’s ability to tell compelling stories that mix light and dark, gloss and grit. It’s one of his most poignant songs, wrapped in a beat that keeps you moving even as the words linger. It’s not just a song about nightlife—it’s a tribute to resilience and the quiet strength people carry behind their smiles.
10. “Pray for Me” (with Kendrick Lamar) (2018)
“Pray for Me,” a collaboration between The Weeknd and Kendrick Lamar for the Black Panther soundtrack, is more than just a superhero anthem—it’s a cry for help from the front lines of internal and external battles. Released in 2018, the song blends sleek electronic production with a sense of urgency, as The Weeknd opens with a haunting chorus asking, “Who’s gonna pray for me?” His voice carries the weight of someone who feels isolated in his struggle, burdened by the expectations that come with being strong. Kendrick Lamar enters with sharp, introspective verses that confront violence, responsibility, and identity—making it clear that the fight isn’t just physical but emotional and spiritual too. The contrast between The Weeknd’s pleading vocals and Kendrick’s rapid-fire intensity creates a layered, powerful dynamic. It’s a song about being a protector and a survivor, even when no one’s watching your back. Perfectly fitting the themes of Black Panther, “Pray for Me” also stands strong on its own, resonating with anyone who’s ever felt overwhelmed by the pressure to carry others while barely holding themselves together. It’s an anthem for the weary, the warriors, and everyone in between.
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.
