Meaning of Popular by The Weeknd

The Weeknd and Madonna have teamed up to deliver a powerful and thought-provoking song titled "Popular." The overall theme of the song revolves around the pursuit of fame and the lengths some individuals are willing to go to attain and maintain popularity. With its catchy beats and compelling lyrics, "Popular" tackles the darker side of the entertainment industry and emphasizes the sacrifices made by those yearning for the spotlight.One standout lyric from the song is, "She calls the paparazzi, then she acts surprised." This lyric sheds light on society's obsession with fame and the manufactured nature of celebrity culture. It delves into the idea that some individuals intentionally attract media attention, only to feign surprise when caught in the spotlight. This lyric suggests that the desire for popularity can drive people to manipulate their own lives for the sake of publicity.Another important lyric in "Popular" is, "Sell her soul to be popular." This line serves as a metaphor for the compromises and sacrifices individuals make to achieve fame. It touches upon the notion that some people are willing to compromise their integrity, personal values, and even their own happiness to be in the public eye. The idea of selling one's soul to be popular is a haunting concept that symbolizes the loss of authenticity in the pursuit of recognition and societal validation.Furthermore, the lyric, "Flashin' lights is all she ever wants to see," conveys the addictive nature of fame. It suggests that the allure and excitement of being in the spotlight become an insatiable craving for some individuals. The lyric hints at the idea that once someone experiences the attention and adoration that come with being popular, it becomes their sole focus and source of fulfillment. This theme speaks to the potential dangers of becoming consumed by external validation and the constant need for approval.Additionally, the collaboration with Playboi Carti in the post-chorus adds another layer of depth to the song. The repeated phrase, "Money on top of me, money on top of her," highlights the materialistic aspect of fame. It touches upon the idea that money and wealth often accompany popularity, and for some individuals, financial gains become a primary motivation for seeking fame. This lyric suggests that one's value and self-worth may become intertwined with their financial success and material possessions, perpetuating a cycle of validation through wealth.In a surprising turn, the bridge of the song introduces Madonna, who, through her lines, "Pop-Popular, born to be popular" and "She in debt, twenty mill', but she run it up," sheds light on the financial struggles that can come with maintaining popularity. Madonna's presence highlights the harsh reality that even those who have achieved great success in the entertainment industry may still face financial challenges. This theme helps to emphasize the underlying message of the song – that the pursuit of popularity often comes with its own set of consequences and hardships.Overall, "Popular" by The Weeknd and Madonna takes a critical look at the pursuit of fame and the darker side of the entertainment industry. Through its standout lyrics and imaginative themes, the song explores the lengths individuals may go to in order to achieve and sustain their popularity. It serves as a reminder that true fulfillment and happiness should not be solely dependent on external validation, but rather on staying true to one's values and finding satisfaction in genuine connections and personal growth.