About this album

Sound: "A haunting blend of pulsating synths and confessional lyrics that explore love, despair, and redemption."

Where they were

Released on March 20, 2020, 'After Hours' marked The Weeknd's fourth studio album, following his critically acclaimed 'Starboy' from 2016. By this point, he had solidified his status as a leading figure in contemporary R&B and pop, showcasing a more introspective and mature sound compared to his earlier work.

Why it matters

'After Hours' debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and produced several chart-topping singles, including 'Blinding Lights,' which became one of the most successful songs of 2020. Its exploration of darker themes led to widespread critical acclaim and discussions about mental health, further cementing The Weeknd's influence on modern pop culture.

Essential tracks

  • "Blinding Lights" — 'Blinding Lights' revitalizes the 80s synthwave sound with infectious energy, becoming a cultural phenomenon and defining track of the year.
  • "Heartless" — With its stark production and raw emotion, 'Heartless' captures the struggle between fame and personal turmoil that defines the album's narrative.
  • "Save Your Tears" — 'Save Your Tears' combines upbeat melodies with poignant lyrics about heartbreak, encapsulating the album's theme of emotional vulnerability.

Release Date

March 20, 2020

Artist Origin

Canada

Tracklist

  1. 1 Alone Again 4:12
  2. 2 Too Late 3:59
  3. 3 Hardest to Love 3:31
  4. 4 Scared to Live 3:11
  5. 5 Snowchild 4:07
  6. 6 Escape From LA 5:55
  7. 7 Heartless 3:20
  8. 8 Faith 4:43
  9. 9 Blinding Lights 3:24
  10. 10 In Your Eyes 3:57
  11. 11 Save Your Tears 3:35
  12. 12 Repeat After Me (interlude) 3:15
  13. 13 After Hours 6:02
  14. 14 Until I Bleed Out 3:10