Abel Tesfaye, also known as The Weeknd, just produced his sixth studio album and final installment of a trilogy, backing his two previous studio albums, After hours (2020), and Dawn FM (2022). This album not only concluded the trilogy, but also signifies the end of Abel’s stage name, The Weeknd. Abel originally was said to use the name as a type of mask. Now that he’s more comfortable with fame, he’s ready to take all the credit as himself.
The album spans 84 minutes, and contains different themes of fame, self-doubt, and the want for a genuine connection with someone. Within the music, I think that this album was essential for showcasing The Weeknd’s versatility. Abel blended different genres such as funk, synth-pop, and even 70s soul. The album also featured big artists such as Travis Scott, Playboi Carti, and Future.
The production of the album, in my opinion, seemed expansive and cinematic. Producers like Oneohtrix Point Never and Mike Dean enhanced the album’s sophisticated sound.
Hurry Up Tomorrow was meant to reflect on the burdens of fame, and the want or need for authenticity. Tracks like “Wake Me Up” and “Cry for Me” express themes of morality and emotional vulnerability. Some critics are speaking about the theme being overused in celebrities’ songs, but I think that Abel’s poetic lyrics did an amazing job of expressing his own thoughts and feelings and painted a vivid enough picture that anyone would be able to empathize with.
Hurry Up Tomorrow stands out as a huge introspective work in The Weeknd’s discography. I think this was the perfect album for his last hurrah with his stage name. I look forward to hearing what kind of new sound he can adapt with his new (and old) identity.
