The Weeknd, known for his haunting vocals, dark lyricism, and genre-blurring sound, has become one of the most influential figures in modern music.
His unique blend of pop, R&B, and electronic influences has captivated listeners worldwide. Here’s a list of the best The Weeknd songs that showcase his journey from underground sensation to global superstar.
1. Blinding Lights
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“Blinding Lights” became a global hit with its retro synthwave production and infectious melody. The song’s 80s-inspired beat and The Weeknd’s mesmerizing vocals made it one of the biggest hits of 2020, breaking chart records.
2. The Hills
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“The Hills” is a dark, moody track that blends haunting vocals with atmospheric production. The song’s raw lyrics about fame and personal struggles resonated with fans, solidifying The Weeknd’s distinct style.
3. Can’t Feel My Face
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“Can’t Feel My Face” is a funky, upbeat track that showcases The Weeknd’s pop sensibilities. With its smooth production and catchy chorus, the song became a summer anthem and introduced him to a broader audience.
4. Save Your Tears
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“Save Your Tears” blends melancholic lyrics with an upbeat, retro-inspired melody. The song explores themes of regret and heartbreak while keeping listeners hooked with its infectious production.
5. Earned It
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“Earned It” is a sultry, orchestral track from Fifty Shades of Grey that showcases The Weeknd’s powerful vocals. Its seductive vibe and haunting melody made it a standout hit, earning him a Grammy nomination.
6. Starboy (featuring Daft Punk)
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“Starboy” is an electrifying collaboration with Daft Punk, blending sleek production with The Weeknd’s smooth vocals. The track became a major hit, combining futuristic beats with lyrics about fame and success.
7. I Feel It Coming (featuring Daft Punk)
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“I Feel It Coming” is another collaboration with Daft Punk, bringing a softer, more romantic vibe to The Weeknd’s discography. Its smooth, 80s-inspired production and dreamy vocals make it a timeless track.
8. Often
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“Often” is a sultry track that showcases The Weeknd’s signature mix of R&B and dark, seductive lyrics. Its hypnotic beat and smooth vocals made it a standout track on Beauty Behind the Madness.
9. Call Out My Name
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“Call Out My Name” is a heart-wrenching ballad where The Weeknd’s emotional delivery takes center stage. The song’s stripped-back production and powerful lyrics about heartbreak resonate deeply with listeners.
10. In the Night
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“In the Night” blends 80s pop influences with dark, haunting lyrics. The song’s driving beat and The Weeknd’s soaring vocals create a sense of urgency that keeps listeners hooked from start to finish.
11. Heartless
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“Heartless” sees The Weeknd diving into darker themes of fame and excess. The song’s moody production and lyrics about emotional detachment make it a standout on his After Hours album.
12. Wicked Games
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“Wicked Games” is one of The Weeknd’s early hits that defined his signature style—dark, sensual, and raw. The song’s haunting production and vulnerable lyrics about love and lust introduced the world to his unique sound.
13. Die for You
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“Die for You” is a romantic, emotional track that showcases The Weeknd’s softer side. The song’s smooth production and heartfelt lyrics make it a standout ballad in his discography.
14. Pray for Me (with Kendrick Lamar)
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“Pray for Me” is a collaboration with Kendrick Lamar for the Black Panther soundtrack. The song’s dramatic production and powerful lyrics about sacrifice and heroism make it an anthemic standout.
15. Take My Breath
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“Take My Breath” brings a pulsating, upbeat energy with its sleek production and infectious chorus. The song’s 80s-inspired vibe and high-energy beat make it a modern pop anthem.
Conclusion
The Weeknd’s ability to blend dark themes with smooth, addictive melodies has made him one of the most innovative and influential artists in pop music. These best The Weeknd songs highlight his versatility, from sultry R&B tracks to upbeat, danceable hits. Whether you’re a fan of his early work or his recent chart-toppers, The Weeknd continues to redefine the boundaries of modern pop.
