If someone told me that Abel Tesfaye (aka. The Weeknd) could be featured on a picnic playlist in 2012, I probably would have laughed in disbelief. But here we are in 2018 and The Weeknd's chart-topping 2016 single, "I Feel It Coming," is my track of the week. From 2011 to 2015, the Weeknd pioneered a dark alternative r&b sound that featured very raunchy and druggy subject matter. Through his mysterious persona and creative music, the Weeknd was able to cultivate a niche fanbase of devoted listeners. However, like all people, Abel would evolve over time and so did his music. With poppy tracks like "Can't Feel My Face," The Weeknd aimed to make his music more accessible to the public while still staying true to his craft. Now, Abel is one of the biggest music stars on the planet.
One of Abel's most popular songs, "I Feel It Coming," is a perfect example of his evolved pop sound layered over blatant sexual lyrics. Nevertheless, Daft Punk's amazing production and The Weeknd's angelic vocal performance are what really sell this song as a picnic track. The lighthearted instrumental features elements of vintage disco and synth funk with a sprinkle of Daft Punk's style, making the groove of the song absolutely infectious. Although I am not crazy about the song lyrics, the hook is very catchy and the Weeknd delivers a great performance. The song sounds like a happy ending with credits rolling and a perfect choice for those sunny days.
You can learn more about The Weeknd here:
About The Curator - Mussie Fitsum
I am a student at the University of Maryland, College Park where I am studying Criminal Justice and Criminology with a minor in International Development and Conflict Management. After college, I want to get my law degree and practice criminal law. I am also a big music lover that listens to r&b, hip-hop, rock, reggae, and pop. But, I am also trying to expand my taste in music as much as I can to appreciate the different amount of genres out there. I also started a music blog in August 2018; so if you like reading interesting takes on music and concert opinions, then give it a glance.
Music Blog: https://tuneexpressions.com/