Review
"Starboy" by The Weeknd really marked a monumental shift in his career when it dropped back in 2016. I must say, teaming up with Daft Punk for that killer title track was a genius move. It’s got this new, electrifying sound that blends perfectly with The Weeknd's evolving image. Not to mention, "Starboy" the single was everywhere – you couldn't tune into a radio station without catching it playing, climbing its way to the top of the charts globally.
The whole album thrums with this sort of high-octane, hip-hop swagger that takes a page from the playbook of legends like Wu-Tang and 50 Cent. It feels like The Weeknd is not only nodding to the sounds of his youth but also stepping into the glossy shoes of superstardom with all its glitzy, sometimes gritty, trappings. The lyrics throughout "Starboy" plays with themes of fame and fortune, shining a light on the luxurious yet isolating nature of celebrity. This album didn't just ride the waves of musical trends; it set the record for Spotify's single-day streams at the time, which says a lot about its impact. It's fascinating to see The Weeknd embrace and transcend his musical roots, continuing to define and redefine his sound. - Sienna
Artist Bio
The Weeknd, born Abel Tesfaye in Toronto, started releasing music in 2011 with a trilogy of mixtapes that quickly caught both critical and commercial attention, paving the way for a successful deal with Republic Records. He’s built a signature sound that sits at the crossroads of R&B, pop, and electronic, known for its moody atmosphere and catchy, often introspective songwriting. Since his official debut with *Kiss Land* in 2013, he’s delivered major albums like *Beauty Behind the Madness*, *Starboy*, and *After Hours*, earning multi-platinum sales, multiple Grammy Awards, and a string of global hits like "Blinding Lights." The Weeknd is also recognized for dynamic collaborations with artists such as Ariana Grande, Daft Punk, and Drake, and for continually evolving his visual and musical style. Fans of artists like Frank Ocean, Michael Jackson, or Drake will likely find something to enjoy in The Weeknd’s wide-ranging catalog.
