Weeknd
Beauty Behind The Madness
Rare & Collectible Vinyl Records

2023 Black 2LP gatefold in outer with shrink sleeve and inner sleeves. Released in August 2015, The Weeknd’s album "Beauty Behind The Madness" marked a pivotal moment in his career, thrusting him from the alternative R&B scene into the global pop spotlight. Building upon the atmospheric, moody soundscapes of his earlier mixtapes, this sophomore studio effort incorporated more mainstream pop and R&B influences, largely due to collaborations with high-profile producers like Max Martin and Kanye West. The album’s lead singles—most notably "Can’t Feel My Face," "The Hills," and "Earned It"—showcased The Weeknd’s versatility and ability to craft both radio-friendly hits and dark, introspective tracks. Notably, "Earned It" had already achieved massive success as part of the "Fifty Shades of Grey" soundtrack, broadening his audience prior to the album’s release.

From a broader perspective, "Beauty Behind The Madness" played a significant role in shaping contemporary pop and R&B in the latter half of the 2010s. The album received critical acclaim and commercial success, debuting at number one on the Billboard 200 and earning multiple Grammy nominations, including a win for Best Urban Contemporary Album. Its fusion of pop, R&B, and alternative elements influenced a wave of artists who sought to emulate its brooding yet accessible sound. The project also cemented The Weeknd’s reputation for exploring themes of love, addiction, and fame, setting the stage for even more ambitious work in his subsequent releases.