Popular (with Playboi Carti & Madonna) - From The Idol Vol. 1 (Music from the HBO Original Series)

"Popular" is a collaboration featuring the diverse talents of the Dark Prince of R&B, The Weeknd; the Queen of Pop, Madonna; and the Avant-garde Prince of Hip-Hop, Playboi Carti. The track is part of The Idol, Vol. 1, the official soundtrack of The Weeknd's HBO drama series, The Idol. It stars Lily Depp as Joselyn, who has an intricate connection with The Weeknd's cult leader character, Tedros.

In this complex exploration of the price of fame, the three artists weave a tapestry of perspectives, revealing the struggles, sacrifices, and temptations faced by those seeking to maintain their identity in an industry designed to corrupt. It mirrors the narrative woven throughout The Idol series.

The Weeknd assumes the perspective of his character Tedros as he takes the stage in the first verse. He paints a vivid picture of a girl who yearns for fame, despite feigning indifference and surprise when caught by the paparazzi. Deep down, there's nothing she desires more. "Do you see her?" The Weeknd questions. She seeks the glamorous life, even if she pretends to shun the limelight. If you truly knew her, you'd realize she lives a lie, summoning the paparazzi and then acting taken aback.