In the ever-evolving landscape of modern music, few artists have managed to capture the zeitgeist quite like The Weeknd. With his unique blend of R&B, pop, and electronic influences, Abel Tesfaye—better known as The Weeknd—has transformed the music scene, creating a sound that resonates with millions worldwide. His haunting vocals, introspective lyrics, and innovative production have not only earned him critical acclaim but have also solidified his status as a cultural icon.
From the gritty streets of Toronto to global superstardom, The Weeknd’s journey is a testament to his artistry and resilience. Each song tells a story, inviting listeners into a world of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Whether it’s the sultry allure of “Blinding Lights” or the raw vulnerability of “Call Out My Name,” his tracks have become anthems for a generation.
Join us as we dive into the top 10 most popular songs of The Weeknd, exploring the hits that have defined his career and left an indelible mark on the music industry. Get ready to rediscover the magic of The Weeknd and celebrate the tracks that have made him a household name!
1. “Blinding Lights” (2019)
“Blinding Lights,” released in November 2019, exploded into the cultural landscape with its bold, neon-soaked 80s synth-pop energy. The song began as a nostalgic tribute to retro soundscapes, but quickly evolved into something bigger—an anthem of yearning, vulnerability, and late-night longing. Its driving beat, shimmering synth lines, and heart-pounding rhythm create an irresistible momentum that compels listeners to move. The Weeknd’s vocal performance carries both urgency and tenderness, conveying the ache of craving connection in a world bathed in artificial light. Lyrically, it tells a cinematic story of someone lost in the city’s glow, seeking warmth and clarity in a chaotic environment. The contrast of euphoric sound and emotional depth gave the song universal appeal. It dominated music charts around the world for months, set multiple records, and became not just a hit, but a defining cultural moment of the decade. Whether played in a car, at a club, or through headphones at midnight, “Blinding Lights” feels electric, transformative—a song that captures nostalgia and reinvention perfectly.
2. “Starboy” (2016)
With “Starboy,” released in September 2016, The Weeknd embarked on a bold new chapter—one defined by sleek production, introspective themes, and genre-blending creativity. Teaming up with electronic legends Daft Punk, he crafted a track that married his R&B roots with cosmic, futuristic textures. The lyrics explore fame’s dark side, the toll of public scrutiny, and the duality of self-image—how stardom can be both empowering and isolating. The chorus is hypnotic and memorable, each verse steeped in swagger and melancholy. Production-wise, the song feels polished yet edgy, leaning into electronic minimalism while preserving melodic hooks. Naturally, the result became an instant classic—its sleek aesthetic matched by sharp storytelling. The Weeknd’s delivery feels confident, restless, and emotionally complex, making “Starboy” much more than a club track—it’s a statement. Audiences responded enthusiastically, and the song cemented his reputation as an untouchable innovator in modern pop and R&B, unafraid to explore darkness through glamour and groove.
3. “Can’t Feel My Face” (2015)
Released in June 2015, “Can’t Feel My Face” was a bold departure for The Weeknd—high-energy, irresistibly funky, and almost celebratory in tone, while still carrying its signature emotional weight. The track pulses with Motown-inspired groove and electric vitality, producing a sound that’s instantly memorable. But beneath the surface lies layered meaning: the lyrics weave themes of addiction and complicated love, using metaphors of danger and intoxication. Much like heartbreak or obsession, the relationship described is exhilarating yet destructive. The chorus—infectiously catchy—makes it feel like a pop anthem, but the emotional undercurrents give it depth. The Weeknd’s vocals are smooth and soulful, alternating between control and release as the song progresses. Fans quickly made it a summer staple, dancing to its beat while connecting with its raw message. Its success cemented his mainstream breakthrough and demonstrated his ability to fuse vulnerability with pop-leaning soundscapes.
4. “The Hills” (2015)
Released in May 2015, “The Hills” exemplifies The Weeknd’s darker aesthetic: brooding, atmospheric, and emotionally charged. Built on a heavy, ominous beat and layered with haunting vocal effects, the song transports listeners into the late-night routines and emotional complexity of nightlife. The lyrics focus on secrecy, indulgence, and the pressures of fame—set against a backdrop of heartache and moral ambiguity. The Weeknd’s voice navigates these themes with raw intensity, blending confession with detached cool. It feels like a late-night confession whispered over raw electronic textures. The production’s tension—combining minimalism with cinematic weight—creates a haunting presence that lingers long after the song ends. “The Hills” resonated deeply with fans and critics alike, becoming one of his signature tracks. It dominated charts globally and defined The Weeknd’s brand of emotive, moody pop. The dark side of fame, longing, and self-exploration all intersect in this track, showcasing his ability to transform personal introspection into modern musical storytelling.
5. “I Feel It Coming” (2016)
Another collaboration with Daft Punk, “I Feel It Coming,” released in November 2016, presents a lush and romantic side of The Weeknd, smooth and breezy in sharp contrast to the darkness of “Starboy.” The track unfolds gently, with warm, retro-inspired synths and a laid‑back groove that evokes nostalgia without sounding dated. The lyrics speak of emotional openness and the excitement of rekindling a relationship, portraying intimacy as healing and hopeful. The Weeknd’s vocals glide softly over the track, inviting connection with subtle power. Meanwhile, Daft Punk’s signature understated production textures create a dreamlike atmosphere—effortless yet deeply affecting. It’s a song about vulnerability, patience, and emotional honesty, where anticipation unfolds into tenderness. “I Feel It Coming” became an immediate favorite for its romantic tone and polished craft—and it appealed across generations. It underscores The Weeknd’s versatility: he can turn introspection into danceable grooves, and sadness into songs that feel sweet and genuine.
6. “Heartless” (2019)
“Heartless,” released alongside “Blinding Lights” in November 2019, dives into raw emotional detachment beneath a deceptively energetic beat. The song pairs throbbing production and trap–influenced rhythm with lyrics that expose emotional numbness and self-destructive escapism. The Weeknd sings unapologetically about seeking thrills while shutting out feelings—embracing a persona that denies empathy and connection. His vocal takes are urgent, sometimes distant, perfectly matching the conflicted tone of the lyrics. The juxtaposition of glossy, upbeat surfaces with internal voids creates a compelling tension that’s both addictive and unsettling. “Heartless” resonated widely, topping charts and becoming emblematic of the way sadness can hide behind confidence. It’s a track that digs into detachment—not as resignation but as emotional armor. The Weeknd’s artistry shines here in his ability to turn darkness into a compelling sonic narrative, delivering a song that’s honest in its naked pain and hypnotic in its drive.
7. “Pray for Me” (2018)
Part of the *Black Panther* soundtrack, “Pray for Me” dropped in February 2018 as a collaboration with Kendrick Lamar that merged supercharged hip-hop energy and thematic depth. The track matches The Weeknd’s soulful vocals with Kendrick’s introspective verses, exploring themes of inner struggle, identity, and responsibility. The production is cinematic—driving drums, soaring synths, and a pulse that feels both urgent and epic. Lyrically, the artists confront fame, moral complexity, and inner demons, asking listeners—and themselves—to keep them accountable. The chorus is haunting and reflective, and the verses laden with emotional weight. Combined, the contrast of vulnerability and bravado gives the track power and resonance. “Pray for Me” became an anthem—motivational, dark, and cathartic. It showcased The Weeknd’s ability beyond soulful crooning: to sit comfortably in charged social and emotional commentary. The song earned critical praise and broad cultural reach, bridging art, identity, and cinematic storytelling seamlessly.
8. “After Hours” (2020)
The title track from his 2020 album, “After Hours,” was released in March and sets a tone of introspection, regret, and longing. Its slow-building arrangement begins with mood-soaked synths and subdued beats that gradually swell into emotional intensity. The lyrics chronicle heartbreak and self-reflection with cinematic vividness: a late-night reckoning with past mistakes, loss, and the desperate grip of regret. The Weeknd’s vocals emerge as raw and unfiltered, moving from fragile confession to resigned strength. The production supports this journey—from minimalist verses to sweeping choruses and echoing atmosphere. It feels intimate, personal, and expansive at once. “After Hours” stands as one of The Weeknd’s most mature works, weaving emotional storytelling into rich soundscapes. It resonated with listeners navigating their own introspection and reckoning. Universally praised, the song reveals his capacity to turn pain and vulnerability into art that’s immersive, cinematic, and deeply human.
9. “Save Your Tears” (2020)
Released in August 2020, “Save Your Tears” delivers a shimmering tension between emotional pain and upbeat danceability. At first listen, its melody feels bright and celebratory, but the lyrics reveal regret, irony, and the aftermath of heartbreak. The Weeknd sings about revisiting an ex, watching their life move on, and confronting the echoes of lost love—suggesting they should “save their tears” because he’s already moved past. His vocal crooning balances elegiac melancholy with polished cool, making the emotional dissonance feel both raw and refined. The production blends retro synth tones with modern pop polish, creating an infectious groove that belies the song’s emotional weight. Its catchy chorus and layered meaning quickly made it a favorite, provoking both dancefloor joy and reflective introspection. “Save Your Tears” further cemented The Weeknd’s brilliance at writing pop music that is deeply layered—where sound and substance meet, and where heartbreak can still feel irresistibly catchy.
10. “Often” (2014)
Released in 2014, “Often” offers a raw glimpse into The Weeknd’s early aesthetic—sensual, nocturnal, and unapologetically explicit. The track glides with oppressive atmosphere and sultry bass, setting the stage for lyrics steeped in lust, fantasy, and emotional ambiguity. The Weeknd’s vocals are breathy and hypnotic, weaving desire and detachment into each line. The production is minimal yet immersive, crafting a dark soundscape that feels both intimate and unsettling. Through his words, he invites listeners into an exploration of physical longing—describing nights spent in pursuit of pleasure, but also moments of emotional distance hiding beneath seductive encounters. “Often” resonated as a bold statement—sexually frank, musically adventurous, and emotionally nuanced. It cemented The Weeknd’s brand in the early 2010s as an artist unafraid to explore the tension between lust and vulnerability. The song remains a signature track in his catalog—a defining expression of the edgy, late‑night persona that first captured widespread attention.
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.
