Debuting at #3 on Billboard, “Timeless” by The Weeknd featuring Playboi Carti is one of the star-powered rap collaborations in recent memory. Carti’s verse on the single is a bold statement in his campaign to become one of the world’s biggest rappers. Carti has developed a reputation for having different vocal styles throughout his career, and his verse on the track shows off his versatility and range. After an unoriginal Future cosplay in his disappointing recent single, “ALL RED”, “Timeless” re-establishes Carti’s position in the rap game and builds hype for his upcoming album I AM MUSIC. The Weeknd’s contribution to the song is underwhelming as he decides to rap instead of sing–a baffling decision considering the direction his music has taken in the past couple of years and the fact that he hasn’t dropped a genuinely great verse since the Starboy era. The true unsung heroes of this track are the star-studded lineup of producers: Pharell Williams, Mike Dean, Ojivolta, and Twisco. The drums are dreamy and hypnotic whereas the synths have a playful and animated quality–Pharell’s signature. While not perfect, “Timeless” is definitely one of the most unique rap songs to grace the charts in recent years.
4 STARS
“The Weeknd at Massey Hall October 17, 2013 amber lighting” by The Come Up Show is licensed under CC BY 2.0.