What You Need
The Weeknd
The Allure of Forbidden Desire in The Weeknd's 'What You Need'
The Weeknd's song 'What You Need' is a sultry and provocative track that delves into the themes of desire, temptation, and the forbidden. The lyrics present a narrative where The Weeknd positions himself as the answer to a woman's needs, contrasting himself with another man who is described as what she wants. The repetition of 'He's what you want' versus 'I'm what you need' suggests a dichotomy between superficial desires and deeper, unacknowledged cravings.
The song's seductive tone is amplified by The Weeknd's signature style, which often blends R&B with a darker, more atmospheric production. The lyrics 'I'm the drug in your veins, just fight through the pain' evoke the addictive nature of the relationship he is proposing, one that is intense and possibly destructive. The Weeknd's portrayal of himself as a necessary vice, an antidote to the woman's current situation, creates a sense of urgency and a push towards the taboo.
The narrative of 'What You Need' is not just about physical desire, but also about emotional fulfillment. The Weeknd is convincing the woman that he can provide something beyond what she experiences with the other man. The song's allure lies in the idea of a secret, more satisfying connection that exists outside the boundaries of her current relationship. The Weeknd's music often explores these complex, sometimes dark aspects of love and relationships, and 'What You Need' is a quintessential example of this exploration.