The Hills (remix) (feat. Nicki Minaj)

The Weeknd's 'The Hills (remix)' featuring Nicki Minaj delves into the complex interplay between desire, disconnection, and the darker sides of fame and relationships. The song opens with Nicki Minaj's vivid and provocative imagery, setting a tone of raw, unfiltered intimacy. Her lyrics paint a picture of a relationship fueled by physical attraction and substance use, highlighting a sense of dependency and escapism. The metaphor of 'doing lines of some coke' underscores the intensity and addictive nature of their connection, while the reference to 'third base' suggests a level of comfort and safety within their illicit encounters.

The Weeknd's chorus reveals a stark contrast between his public persona and his true self, which only emerges when he's under the influence. The repeated line, 'When I'm fucked up, that's the real me,' suggests a deep-seated struggle with identity and authenticity. He admits to only reaching out to his lover during late-night hours, indicating a relationship that thrives in the shadows, away from the scrutiny of the public eye. This nocturnal connection is both a refuge and a prison, as it allows him to be his true self while also highlighting his inability to form genuine emotional bonds.

The song's bridge, 'Hills have eyes,' alludes to the constant surveillance and judgment that come with fame. The Weeknd questions who has the right to judge his actions, emphasizing the theme of hidden truths and the masks people wear. The repeated plea to 'hide your lies' and the assertion that 'only you to trust' reflect a deep mistrust of the outside world and a reliance on the secrecy of their relationship. The closing lines in Amharic, 'Ewedihalehu' (I love you) and 'Yene fikir' (my love), add a layer of vulnerability and sincerity, contrasting with the otherwise hedonistic and detached tone of the song.