The Weeknd has officially unveiled his new album, Hurry Up Tomorrow, which is being heralded as the final installment of his musical legacy. This highly anticipated release serves as the concluding chapter of The Weeknd's artistic trilogy, following the successful albums After Hours (2020) and Dawn FM (2022). Enthusiasts and critics alike are buzzing with excitement over the near ninety-minute powerhouse of sound, which explores the themes of legacy, vulnerability, and the passage of time.
Significantly, Hurry Up Tomorrow opens with the track “Wake Me Up,” setting the tone with its lush instrumentals and candid lyrics. Acknowledging his growth and changing persona, The Weeknd, also known as Abel Tesfaye, admits he is unsure about the longevity of his moniker during this reflective piece. Following the success of his previous masterpieces, The Weeknd seems to find himself at a crossroads, facing the realities of his artistic expression. Songs such as "Cry for Me" hint at introspective moments, especially concerning past relationships, like his well-known one with model Bella Hadid.
During the passionate chorus of “Cry for Me,” The Weeknd sings, "And I hope you cry for me like I cry for you / Every night for you, take it easy on me, baby / ‘Cause I tried with you, saw my life with you / End of time with you, now we’re strangers." This poignant examination of heartbreak clearly signals the depth of emotion underpinning his new work.
The Weeknd also debuted the mesmerizing track “Open Hearts” on last night’s episode of Jimmy Kimmel Live!. His performance showcased not only his musical prowess but also set the stage for the album's overarching themes. Presented in stark black and white, the performance unfolded like cinematic art, evoking surreal imagery reminiscent of works by David Lynch. The animated stop-motion ending amazed viewers and provided insights about the album’s aesthetic, hinting at the accompanying film due to hit theaters on May 16.
This cinematic quality reflects the introspective tone and artistic ambition imbued throughout Hurry Up Tomorrow. The presence of collaborations with high-profile artists, such as Playboi Carti and Anitta, particularly on tracks like “Timeless” and “São Paulo,” adds to the richness of this final chapter. Nevertheless, notable is the uncredited feature by Lana Del Rey, who lends her ethereal voice to “The Abyss,” which has fans excited about the reunion of these two powerhouse artists.
An element of social awareness accompanies this album release, as The Weeknd previously announced he would donate proceeds from “Take Me Back to LA” to the LA Regional Food Bank. This commitment came after he initially delayed the album to contribute $1 million to wildfire relief efforts following his planned Rose Bowl concert cancellation. His efforts reveal a deep connection between his artistry and the issues plaguing his community.
One of the darkest and most brooding tracks, “Baptized in Fear,” showcases The Weeknd at his most vulnerable. Delving deep, the lyrics reveal feelings of paralysis and drowning: "I fell asleep in the tub, I was there with paralysis / My foot hit the faucet, water started flowing in / Couldn't scream for help, I just slowly felt the pressure hit." This haunting self-reflection articulates the weight of guilt and past mistakes, illuminating his struggle against inner demons.
Indeed, it appears Hurry Up Tomorrow serves as The Weeknd’s farewell to fans as he navigates the bittersweet and often painful transition from one chapter of his life to another. Tracks like “Give Me Mercy” and “Red Terror” maintain the emotional themes prevalent throughout the album, as he confronts the tough choices brought on by fame and his significant legacy.
What truly stands out across Hurry Up Tomorrow is the consistent musical mastery present, marrying pop sensibilities with complex emotional narratives. The Weeknd has asserted his multi-faceted artistry, regardless of what lies on the horizon. Although there are hints of closure, he also leaves listeners with hopeful threads entwined within the album's vibrant tapestries.
The album closes with the title track, referencing his first mixtape's initial song “High For This,” creating a full-circle moment. This gesture not only brings nostalgia but also emphasizes his evolution and growth throughout his musical career. Whether or not this album signifies the end of The Weeknd, his ability to merge music with visual storytelling keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
Fans eagerly wait for the premiere of the Hurry Up Tomorrow film, anticipating its exploration of the album's themes through dynamic mediums. Through unique performances and engaging visual experiences, The Weeknd proves he has pulled readers and listeners alike deep within his artistic world as he prepares for this potential closure.
One thing is for sure: Hurry Up Tomorrow is not merely an album; it is The Weeknd's masterclass, offering fans the chance to connect with him one last time before he potentially steps away from his moniker, entering the next chapter of his artistic life.