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Can't Feel Your Face by The Weeknd

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“Can’t Feel my Face” is a well-written and flawlessly produced energetic disco-funk dance hit from R&B newcomer The Weeknd.

Concept
An infectious dance recording reminiscent of Michael Jackson’s hits in the 70s and 80s.

Lyric
The lyrics describe loving a woman akin to the way an addict feels about his drug of choice. And I know she'll be the death of me, at least we'll both be numb And she'll always get the best of me, the worst is yet to come But at least we'll both be beautiful and stay forever young This I know, yeah, this I know She told me, don't worry about it She told me, don't worry no more We both know we can't go without it She told me you'll never be in love, oh, oh, woo

Groove
An uptempo funky very danceable groove that combines 8th rock and 16th R&B rhythmic figures.

Melody
All of the three song sections are built on distinctive catchy repeated hook lines. They contrast each other in range and phrasing which gives the recording a listenablity that doesn’t wear out.

Harmony
Only one chord in the verse and chorus with two additional minor diatonic chords in the pre-chorus. (Verse) i (Pre-chorus) bVII i bVII i bVII bVI bVII i (Chorus) i

Structure
Verse Pre-chorus Chorus Verse Pre-chorus Chorus Chorus Breakdown Pre-Chorus Chorus Chorus Tag ABC ABCC Breakdown BCC Tag

Signature
No signature intro.

Production
The tracks are tight, crisp, and percussive with enough textural contrast, breaks, dropouts and returns to give dancers a lot of motivation. Pop veteran Max Martin’s experienced hand is felt throughout.

Performance
The Weeknd sings with passion and a fiery rhythmic intensity. Although showing talent and promise, he is not highly original or distinctive.

Predicted Longevity
Can’t Feel My Face” is written, performed, and produced with flair and quality. Though not a pop smash, within the dance genre it should have a long run. 4 stars on the “Cat Scale” from 1 to 5.