Is Hurry Up Tomorrow The Weeknd's Weakest Link? A Thorough Review

David

3 min read

Post on May 18, 2025

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Is "Hurry Up and Wait" The Weeknd's Weakest Link? A Thorough Review

The Weeknd's discography is a sprawling landscape of sonic exploration, from the drug-fueled melancholia of House of Balloons to the stadium-filling anthems of After Hours. But with each acclaimed project comes the inevitable question: are there any weaker tracks? While subjective, many fans point to "Hurry Up and Wait," a standout track from his 2020 album After Hours, as a potential contender for his weakest link. Let's delve deep into this controversial claim and explore why some consider it a misstep, while others defend its place in his extensive catalog.

A Closer Look at "Hurry Up and Wait"

"Hurry Up and Wait" is an interesting beast. Unlike the majority of After Hours, which leaned heavily into a synth-driven, 80s-inspired sound, this track opts for a more stripped-down, almost minimalist approach. The production is sparse, focusing on a repetitive, almost hypnotic beat and a melancholic melody. The Weeknd's vocals, though typically strong, feel somewhat subdued and less emotionally charged than in his other hits. The lyrics, while painting a picture of impatience and longing, lack the sharp, evocative imagery found in songs like "Blinding Lights" or "Save Your Tears."

This minimalist approach, while intentionally stylistic, is precisely what some critics find underwhelming. Compared to the high-octane energy of much of After Hours, "Hurry Up and Wait" feels like a pacing misstep, a lull in an otherwise exhilarating album. The repetitive nature of the song, while perhaps contributing to its hypnotic quality, can also lead to listener fatigue, especially after repeated listens.

Arguments in Favor of "Hurry Up and Wait"

However, it's unfair to dismiss "Hurry Up and Wait" entirely. Its understated nature allows the raw emotion in The Weeknd's vocals to shine through, showcasing a vulnerability rarely seen in his more flamboyant tracks. The song's simplicity also creates a unique atmosphere, a departure from the album's usual sonic extravagance. It offers a moment of reflection, a breath of fresh air amidst the intensity of the surrounding songs. For some, this deliberate shift in tone is precisely what makes it a valuable addition to the album's overall narrative. Think of it as the quiet moment before the storm, the necessary pause before the next explosive track.

Furthermore, the song's minimalist production serves to highlight the quality of The Weeknd's vocal performance. The lack of overwhelming instrumentation allows the listener to focus solely on his emotive delivery, appreciating the nuances and subtle inflections in his voice.

The Verdict: Weakest Link or Underrated Gem?

Ultimately, whether "Hurry Up and Wait" is The Weeknd's weakest link is entirely subjective. Its understated nature and departure from the album's prevalent style make it a polarizing track. While its simplicity might not appeal to everyone, and it certainly lacks the immediate catchiness of some of his other hits, it offers a unique listening experience and showcases a different facet of The Weeknd's artistry. It's a song that rewards repeated listens and a deeper understanding of his musical evolution. So, is it weak? Perhaps not. But it's undoubtedly a less commercially successful and less instantly satisfying track compared to his other prominent works.

What are your thoughts? Let us know in the comments below! Do you think "Hurry Up and Wait" is The Weeknd's weakest song?