Singer: The Weeknd & Anitta
Genre: Other
Released: September 19, 2025
Tracklist:
- São Paulo (Single Version)
- São Paulo
- São Paulo (Live From São Paulo)
- São Paulo (Single Version Acapella)
Zipped folder link:
The Weeknd – São Paulo (feat. Anitta) | Review & Summary
Release & Background
- “São Paulo” is a single by The Weeknd and Brazilian singer Anitta, released on October 30, 2024 via XO and Republic Records.
- It serves as part of The Weeknd’s sixth studio album Hurry Up Tomorrow (2025), and marks their first official collaboration.
- The track was first premiered live at a one-night-only concert in São Paulo on September 7, 2024, where Anitta joined The Weeknd.
Sound, Genre & Style
- “São Paulo” blends Brazilian funk with The Weeknd’s dark-toned, moody style, producing a fusion of Latin rhythm and atmospheric pop/R&B.
- Production credits include The Weeknd, Mike Dean, Sean Solymar. The production is lush, with rhythmic percussion, synths, and tropical undertones that give it both energy and sensuality.
Lyrical Themes & Atmosphere
- The song uses São Paulo (the city) as more than a place — it becomes a mood, an emblem of escape and intensity. The lyrics explore moments of passion, fleeting romance, desire, and possibly the tension between allure and the transient nature of such feeling. (The Portuguese and English interplay with Anitta’s verses adds cultural texture and heightens the emotional atmosphere.)
Music Video & Imagery
- The video is visually striking and somewhat unsettling. Directed by Freeka Tet, it features Anitta masked and pregnant, with her belly performing unusual visual functions (e.g. a face or mouth emerging from it). This adds to the surreal, haunting feel of the track.
- The thematic aesthetic leans into dark fantasy, the disturbing and beautiful, reinforcing The Weeknd’s traditional flair for blending glamour with discomfort.
Chart Performance & Reception
- The song performed well commercially in multiple countries. It peaked in the charts in Brazil, Canada, and made significant placements in Europe.
- It became one of Anitta’s highest-charting singles in several territories.
What Works & What’s Less Strong
Strengths:
- Genre-fusion: The blend of Brazilian funk with The Weeknd’s darker pop/R&B aesthetic feels fresh and gives the track a distinct identity.
- Vocal chemistry: Anitta’s contributions (both in Portuguese and her style) add flavor, contrast, and authenticity, enhancing the track beyond just a guest verse.
- Visual & atmospheric coherence: The video and promotional rollout (the São Paulo concert, teasers) create a compelling narrative and build hype.
Weaknesses / Potential Caveats:
- For some listeners, the surreal and somewhat grotesque imagery in the video may be off-putting or distracting from the song itself.
- The track balances sensual rhythm with moodiness, but that may not appeal to fans of either extreme: those wanting pure party funk or full-on introspection; “São Paulo” sits in between.
Overall Impression & Verdict
“São Paulo” is a bold, creative moment in The Weeknd’s catalogue. It shows that he is still evolving, willing to experiment with genre blending, and embrace global influences. The collaboration with Anitta brings both style and cultural depth, and the production underlines The Weeknd’s knack for mood and ambivalence — attraction mixed with darkness.
If you’re looking for something that’s more than just a radio-hit: this track is cinematic, haunting, and sensual. It's a highlight for Hurry Up Tomorrow and a reminder that The Weeknd isn’t just about chart power; he aims to provoke and immerse.
Verdict: Highly recommended for fans of dark pop, Latin/ Brazilian-funk crossovers, and anyone who appreciates music that’s as much about atmosphere as melody.
“Read the full review of The Weeknd – São Paulo on MySongsLover and explore more global music reviews, artist news, and trending updates.”
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