The Weeknd’s “The Hills” is a raw and unapologetic exploration of lust, addiction, and the complexity of human connections. It touches on the themes of hedonism, the fleeting nature of fame, and the duality of a person’s character. The lyrics depict a tumultuous relationship fueled by desire and excess, illustrating the songwriter’s internal struggle with his own vices. The Weeknd, also known as Abel Tesfaye, often uses his music to delve into the darker sides of fame, love, and hedonism, and “The Hills” is no exception. The song is about the contradictory nature of his relationships and the impact of fame on his personal life.
If you’ve ever wondered about the price of fame and its impact on personal relationships, “The Hills” by The Weeknd paints a vivid picture. Let’s take a closer look at the lyrics and the story behind the song.
“The Hills” Lyrics Meaning
The song opens with “Your man on the road, he doin’ promo”, hinting at a life of constant travel and work, a common theme in The Weeknd’s music. “You said, ‘Keep our business on the low-low’” suggests a secret relationship, possibly an affair. The Weeknd wants more, striving to get out of the friend zone, but the relationship remains hidden.
“I only call you when it’s half-past five / The only time that I’ll be by your side” reveals the casual nature of their relationship, which is based more on convenience than commitment. The lines “I only love it when you touch me, not feel me / When I’m fucked up, that’s the real me” reflect a raw and vulnerable admission that his true self-emerges in moments of excess and hedonism.
The chorus reflects a cycle of substance abuse and toxic relationships, suggesting that these vices provide him with a sense of authenticity and self-realization. “I’m just tryna live life for the moment / And all these motherfuckers want a relapse” illustrates his desire to live freely while battling the temptations of his past.
The lines “Hills have eyes, the hills have eyes / Who are you to judge?” could be a reference to the Hollywood Hills, a symbol of fame and excess, suggesting that in this world of fame, everyone is watching and judging. However, he questions their right to judge, emphasizing the hypocrisy in their scrutiny.
The Story Behind “The Hills”
“The Hills” was released in 2015, during a period when The Weeknd was grappling with his newfound fame and the excesses that came with it. His music often delves into themes of fame, addiction, and the hedonistic lifestyle, and “The Hills” is a prime example.
The song is a reflection of his internal battle with his vices and the impact they have on his relationships. The Weeknd has been open about his struggles with drugs and the allure of the celebrity lifestyle, and “The Hills” serves as an outlet for these themes. The raw and candid lyrics provide a glimpse into his world, highlighting the duality of his character and the complexity of his relationships.
In “The Hills,” The Weeknd confronts his demons and the reality of his lifestyle, creating a haunting anthem that resonates with those who have experienced the darker sides of fame and desire. It’s a stark reminder of the toll that excess and hedonism can take on one’s personal life and relationships.