Popular (feat. Madonna & Playboi Carti)

The Weeknd's song 'Popular,' featuring Madonna and Playboi Carti, delves into the dark side of fame and the lengths to which some people will go to achieve it. The lyrics paint a picture of an individual obsessed with the idea of being in the limelight, to the point of losing their authenticity and, metaphorically, their soul. The Weeknd, known for his moody, atmospheric music that often explores themes of excess, love, and melancholy, uses this track to critique the culture of celebrity and the toxic desire for popularity.

In the song, the protagonist is depicted as someone who craves attention and validation from the public. The repeated lines 'Beggin' on her knees to be popular' and 'Sell her soul to be popular' suggest a willingness to sacrifice personal integrity for the sake of fame. The Weeknd's use of religious imagery, such as 'pray her soul to keep' and 'prays to the sky,' highlights the almost spiritual reverence some hold for fame, treating it as a deity to be worshipped. The collaboration with Madonna, an icon who has navigated the complexities of fame for decades, adds depth to the song's message, as she embodies the very pinnacle of pop culture success.

The song also touches on the transactional nature of fame, with lines like 'Money on top of me, money on top of her' and 'Shawty fuck with me 'cause she know I'm popular.' These lyrics suggest that relationships in the world of celebrity are often based on status and financial gain rather than genuine connection. The Weeknd's portrayal of this character, who is 'never be free 'cause she popular,' serves as a cautionary tale about the entrapment and isolation that can come with fame. Overall, 'Popular' is a reflective piece on the perils of chasing notoriety, questioning whether the price of popularity is worth the cost to one's soul.