The Weeknd took to the stage at todays Super Bowl LV halftime show, headlining one of the years most watched events. The musical project of Abel Tesfaye, the musician hit the mark, performing key songs from his career ranging from 2011’s House of Balloons to his latest record, After Hours.
Beginning with a flashing Vegan inspired set, the musician was perched a top the stadium, looking down as a choir performed Call Out My Name. Before long, the choir separates and The Weekend appears in a shimmering red blazer, akin to the stylised visuals for his fourth studio album After Hours, shrouded in blinding lights. Launching into his 2016 Star Boy whilst lit up in neon reds and blues, the singer was quick to show off his vocal abilities on In The Night, whilst the brooding choral tones of the choir created a mesmerising accompaniment to the singers captivating vocals. One of the sets best moments came in the form of Can’t Feel My Face. Entering a hall of mirrors and lights, the musician is quickly flanked by look alikes with bandaged faces, creating a frenzied scene.
Playing through his hits including I Feel It Coming, Earned It, House Of Balloons and his latest single, Save Your Tears, The Weeknd crafted a setlist that not only features career highlights, but also tracks that expertly showcase his vocal abilities and songwriting mastery. Moving through R&B, pop and dark eace, the musician brought his charisma and stage presence to the stadium, never letting a moment slip. Earned It was complete with full string accompaniment and a truly epic closing note.
Closing his performance with his 2020 smash hit Blinding Lights, The Weeknd took to the field within a sea of his clones, putting on an enchanting light show. Taking over the field with slick choreography and frenzied scenes, the musician ended his set on a high, having put on one of the most captivating Super Bowl half time shows in recent years. Whilst there were moments of glitz, glam and fire works, the musician let his vocals take centre stage, continuing to prove himself as one of his generations greatest vocalists. He opted out of sensory overloaded staging and surprise musical guesses, creating a moment all about the music.
Watch The Weeknd’s Pepsi Super Bowl LV Halftime Show above!