Released on August 28, 2015, Beauty Behind the Madness catapulted The Weeknd from mysterious mixtape marvel to global pop powerhouse. With chart-topping hits, cinematic ballads, and a production dream team, the album redefined what alt-R&B could sound like on the world stage. But beyond the diamond plaques and Grammy wins, here are five fun and lesser-known facts that give the album even more sparkle.
1. “The Hills” Rose from a Home Studio in Toronto
The eerie, cinematic hit began with a demo by producer Mano and evolved inside The Weeknd’s own home studio. Illangelo sculpted the final version with lo-fi vocals and a slow-building structure, saving the bridge and outro for last. Every sound choice feels like a thunderstorm waiting to break.
2. “Can’t Feel My Face” Premiered at an Apple Keynote
Before taking over dance floors worldwide, the Max Martin-produced hit made its debut at Apple’s Worldwide Developers Conference. The Weeknd performed the track live—right between software updates and tech reveals—proving that great pop thrives in unexpected places.
3. Ed Sheeran Wrote “Dark Times” in the Moment
Ed Sheeran and The Weeknd met up with no song in hand—just inspiration, instruments, and good energy. They created “Dark Times” together on the spot, writing and recording in real time. The track captured their shared love for late-night melodies and honest lyrics.
4. “Earned It” Plays Twice in Fifty Shades of Grey
The Weeknd’s sultry ballad “Earned It” became so integral to the film’s mood that it appears twice in the movie. Its orchestral production and seductive vocal helped bridge the world of the screen with the world of Beauty Behind the Madness, where a longer version was featured on the album.
5. Lana Del Rey and The Weeknd Shared Instant Studio Chemistry
When Lana Del Rey joined The Weeknd for “Prisoner,” their voices blended like a dream. The session felt effortless, with both artists feeding off each other’s cinematic style and emotional depth. The result is a gorgeously moody track that still feels suspended in time.
From home-studio magic to surprise pop premieres, Beauty Behind the Madness is a masterclass in creativity, collaboration, and cinematic ambition. Whether you’re here for the Michael Jackson-inspired grooves or the midnight confessions, there’s always more to discover behind the madness.