Valerie
The Weeknd · Trilogy [2012]
When he must take responsibility
For the choices he has made
There are certain things that he must do
Things that he must say
Like "I love you"
And "I need you"
"I only want you"
And nobody's going to know
If it's true (ooh)
I never thought I'd feel this kind of hesitation (tonight)
My hand on another girl (ooh)
I wish I didn't have to lie
I wish I could let you know
Cause I love you
And I need you
I only want you
And nobody's going to know if it's true
Valerie
I know you can see through me
(I know you can see through my lies, oh oh)
Valerie (oh Valerie)
You just choose to never know
(No you just don't know, what I do, what I do)
Valerie (Valerie)
Why pretend to trust in me?
(I don't know why you try to trust in me baby, but I think I might know)
Valerie
You'd rather this than be alone
(Oh, oh, oh, oh, oh, oh)
Cause I love you
And I need you
I only want you (oh)
And nobody's going to know if it's true
Cause I love you (ooh)
And I need you (yea)
I only want you (ooh)
And nobody's going to know if it's true
And I love you (cause I love you baby)
And I need you (and I need you)
I only want you
And nobody gonna know (ooh)
Valerie - The Weeknd
Released as part of The Weeknd's Trilogy, 'Valerie' stands as a defining track from his 2012 era, blending R&B sensibilities with a distinct synth-pop edge. The song explores themes of toxic relationships and emotional manipulation through a haunting, atmospheric production that became a signature sound for the artist during this period. Its rhythmic structure and melodic hooks helped solidify The Weeknd's reputation as a genre-bending force in contemporary music, influencing a wave of artists who followed. The track remains a staple of his discography, celebrated for its ability to capture the complexity of modern romance while maintaining a polished, radio-friendly aesthetic that bridged the gap between underground indie and mainstream pop.