The Hills

The Weeknd's 'The Hills' is a haunting exploration of hedonism, fame, and the duality of one's true self versus the facade presented to the world. The song, characterized by its dark, moody production and The Weeknd's signature falsetto, delves into themes of excess, addiction, and the superficial nature of relationships in the limelight.

The lyrics paint a picture of a clandestine relationship, where discretion is key ('Keep our business on the low-low') and emotions are secondary to physical pleasure ('I only love it when you touch me, not feel me'). The Weeknd, the stage name of Abel Tesfaye, often explores his struggles with substance abuse and the impact it has on his relationships. In 'The Hills,' he admits that his true self emerges when he's 'fucked up,' suggesting a battle between his public persona and who he really is when under the influence. The repetition of these lines throughout the song emphasizes the cyclical nature of his behavior and the difficulty of breaking free from it.

The chorus references the famous saying 'The hills have eyes,' alluding to the idea that there are always observers, or 'eyes,' watching one's every move, especially in the context of fame. This could also be a metaphor for the artist's own self-awareness and the judgment he faces from both himself and others. The Weeknd's use of Amharic phrases at the end of the song ('Ewedihalehu' meaning 'I love you' and 'Yene konjo' meaning 'my beautiful') adds a personal touch, as he is of Ethiopian descent. These phrases, juxtaposed with the rest of the song's content, create a complex picture of love and identity within the chaos of celebrity life.