
Released on January 31, 2025, Hurry Up Tomorrow is The Weeknd’s sixth studio album and serves as a notable finale to the modern trilogy initiated with the critically acclaimed After Hours in 2020, followed by the conceptually rich Dawn FM in 2022. Born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, The Weeknd has become a dominant figure in 21st-century R&B and pop, delivering chart-topping hits such as “Starboy, ””The Hills, ””Wicked Games, ”and “Call Out My Name.”
In addition to his musical success, Tesfaye has made a mark in acting, portraying himself in the acclaimed film Uncut Gems (2019) and starring alongside Lily-Rose Depp in the controversial HBO series The Idol. He also contributed to the Grammy-winning soundtrack for Black Panther, produced by Kendrick Lamar and Anthony “Top Dawg”Tiffith. With four Grammy awards to his name, including a win for Best Melodic Rap Performance in 2022 for his feature on Kanye West’s “Hurricane, ” The Weeknd holds a prominent position in the music industry.
The artist has hinted that Hurry Up Tomorrow could symbolize more than just the end of a trilogy; it may serve as a final farewell to both his artistic persona and his alter ego. After headlining the Super Bowl in 2021—an acknowledgment of the snubbing of After Hours at that year’s Grammy Awards—it’s hard to envision Tesfaye stepping away from the spotlight completely. This album embodies his signature themes of heartbreak and self-reflection, centering around the experience of a tormented celebrity ensnared by the consequences of fame.
22 I Can’t F*****g Sing
Track 3 – 0:12
This brief 12-second interlude gives listeners a glimpse of Abel lamenting his inability to sing, nestled between the tracks “Cry For Me”and “São Paulo.”This snippet alludes to the moment The Weeknd lost his voice and couldn’t perform at the SoFi Stadium during his 2022 tour, making it a notable yet brief addition to Hurry Up Tomorrow.
21 Until We’re Skin & Bones
Track 5 – 0:22
This transitional piece serves as a bridge, moving from “São Paulo”into the expansive soundscape of “Baptized In Fear.”The otherworldly instrumentation evokes imagery from a sci-fi film, providing a unique sonic experience that contrasts sharply with the album’s darker themes.
20 Big Sleep
Track 16 – 3:45
“Big Sleep”stands out for its mesmerizing sound, particularly its psychedelic opening that feels reminiscent of Mac Miller’s work. The song unfurls with an eerie ambiance that resonates like a haunting score, showcasing both exceptional production and vocal artistry.
19 Sao Paulo (feat. Anitta)
Track 4 – 5:02
This collaborative piece featuring Brazilian sensation Anitta elicited mixed reactions upon release. While energetic and catchy, some listeners believe it feels out of sync with the album’s darker tone. Nonetheless, it serves as a vibrant counterpoint that offers a palate cleanser amidst the more somber tracks.
18 Drive
Track 18 – 3:09
In “Drive, ”The Weeknd channels an essence of escapism amid chaos. The narrative evokes a sense of freedom, pairing a longing for adventure with the thrill of the open road, where carefree moments with a romantic partner and shared freedom take precedence.
17 Give Me Mercy
Track 17 – 3:36
While the overall production of Hurry Up Tomorrow is immersive and innovative, “Give Me Mercy”features a distinctive and experimental beat that alludes to classic 1980s pop sounds. This track effectively marries an upbeat melody with poignant lyrics, showcasing The Weeknd’s ability to evoke both joy and introspection.
16 Enjoy The Show (feat. Future)
Track 10 – 5:01
Collaborating once again with Future, “Enjoy the Show”is solid but might not reach the heights of their previous collaborations like “Low Life”or “Coming Out Strong.”Future’s unautotuned performance paired with atmospheric beats creates a captivating listening experience, albeit more understated than expected.
15 Take Me Back To LA
Track 15 – 4:14
“Take Me Back To LA”serves as a reflective response to “Escape from LA, ”with The Weeknd revisiting past relationships and expressing a preference for solitude and self-awareness. The song’s nostalgic tone encapsulates themes of self-discovery and clarity, echoing throughout the album.
14 Cry For Me
Track 2 – 3:44
The production of “Cry For Me”is intricately strange and serves as a powerful entry point into the album, capturing the volatile essence of the journey that unfolds over its lengthy 85-minute runtime.
13 I Can’t Wait To Get There
Track 12 – 3:09
With a sound reminiscent of Bruno Mars layered over a Tyler, the Creator beat, “I Can’t Wait To Get There”stands out as one of the most approachable tracks. Positioned strategically at the start of the album’s second half, it offers breezy vibes perfect for summer drives.
12 Red Terror
Track 20 – 3:52
“Red Terror”features haunting synth arrangements that reflect its ominous title. It opens with a dissonant influence, as The Weeknd poignantly sings a goodbye to an unnamed child, embodying themes of loss and closure.
11 Opening Night
Track 8 – 1:36
If only “Opening Night”were longer, its heavy reverb and captivating sound design would undoubtedly position it among the top tracks of the album. The resonance of a ringing phone evokes memories of Tame Impala’s “Past Life, ”providing a seamless transition into “Reflections Laughing.”
10 Given Up On Me
Track 11 – 5:55
Running nearly 6 minutes, “Given Up On Me”features a significant beat shift that creates a sense of unpredictability. The opening moments capture Abel’s struggles with insecurity and self-doubt, bolstered by contributions from producers Mike Dean and Metro Boomin, making it a standout track despite its jarring transitions.
9 Reflections Laughing (feat. Florence + The Machine & Travis Scott)
Track 9 – 4:51
Featuring Travis Scott, “Reflections Laughing”opens with Western-influenced acoustic guitar lines, contributing to its cinematic quality. The layered production enhances the ethereal atmosphere, allowing Scott’s contributions to float seamlessly within the track.
8 Niagara Falls
Track 14 – 4:37
“Niagara Falls”pleasantly reveals its charm upon repeated listens, gradually establishing itself as a listener favorite. Its romantic vibe and accessibility mark it as one of the lighter tracks on the album, resonating with timeless qualities.
7 Without a Warning
Track 21 – 4:58
Exuding the essence of The Weeknd’s artistry, “Without a Warning”captures the tragic celebrity narrative central to the album. As the penultimate track, it encapsulates the overarching themes, creating a powerful sense of closure as the curtain draws on the project.
6 Baptized In Fear
Track 6 – 3:52
“Baptized In Fear”opens with a gritty, industrial sound reminiscent of a cyberpunk setting. The reflective lyrics challenge the listener and create a haunting ambiance, making this track deeply confessional and a standout on the album.
5 Open Hearts
Track 7 – 3:55
Transitioning from the heavier tone of “Baptized In Fear, ””Open Hearts”serves as a perfect complement, offering an upbeat feel that resonates across party and club playlists. Its infectious rhythm encourages listeners to dance and celebrate.
4 Hurry Up Tomorrow
Track 22 – 4:51
The title track finds The Weeknd seeking redemption and absolution from his past, a theme threaded throughout the album and the trilogy. The traditional ballad format allows him to showcase his vocal prowess, serving as a poignant farewell and a reflective closure to the narrative.
3 Timeless
Track 13 – 4:16
Produced by Pharrell, “Timeless”is an addictive anthem that resonates with listeners long after its initial release. Playboy Carti impresses on the feature, showcasing diverse cadences and vocal styles that further elevate the track’s appeal.
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