Released as part of Starboy in 2016, I Feel It Coming by The Weeknd, featuring Daft Punk, quickly became one of the standout tracks on the album, captivating listeners with its irresistible blend of seductive lyrics, smooth production, and disco-inspired sound. As one of the final singles from Starboy, this track marked a significant moment in the evolution of The Weeknd’s music, encapsulating his ability to create infectious, yet deeply emotional songs that explore themes of love, desire, and the vulnerability of human connection.
While Starboy features a wide range of sounds and collaborations, I Feel It Coming stands apart due to its sultry, groove-driven beat and its palpable romantic energy. The combination of The Weeknd’s distinct voice and Daft Punk’s signature production style creates a song that feels both contemporary and nostalgic, capturing the essence of disco and funk while maintaining the modern R&B vibe that The Weeknd is known for.
In this review, we will explore the themes, musical production, and cultural impact of I Feel It Coming, examining why the song resonates with listeners and how it highlights The Weeknd’s growth as an artist.
Lyrical Analysis: Seduction, Vulnerability, and the Fear of Love
From the opening lines, I Feel It Coming sets the tone for a slow, sensual exploration of love and attraction. The Weeknd invites his lover to relax, reassuring her that they don’t have to rush into anything:
“Tell me what you really like / Baby, I can take my time / We don’t ever have to fight / Just take it step by step.”
These lines already establish the song’s key themes: patience, intimacy, and a careful approach to love. The Weeknd conveys a sense of understanding and empathy, promising that there is no pressure or need to rush. This gives the song a laid-back, yet emotionally charged atmosphere, as if he is trying to create a space of comfort and trust with his lover.
Vulnerability and Fear of Love
As the song progresses, The Weeknd explores the idea of vulnerability, particularly the fear of love that his partner has experienced:
“You’ve been scared of love and what it did to you / You don’t have to run, I know what you’ve been through.”
Here, he recognizes the emotional scars that his lover has from past relationships and offers a sense of security by reassuring her that he understands her fears. The repetition of the line “You don’t have to run” suggests that his lover is reluctant to open up, possibly due to past hurt, but he is offering a safe haven, a place where love can be explored without the risk of being hurt.
This sentiment of emotional safety is reinforced throughout the song, with The Weeknd gently coaxing his partner into letting go of her inhibitions:
“Just a simple touch and it can set you free / We don’t have to rush when you’re alone with me.”
The simplicity of a touch, the intimacy of being alone together, becomes a metaphor for the ease of connection. There is no need for grand gestures or fast-paced moves; the idea is that love and trust can grow naturally and organically.
Desire and Anticipation
The repeated refrain of “I feel it coming” throughout the song conveys a sense of building anticipation, the longing for something that is inevitable. It’s the sensation of waiting for a relationship to fully bloom, for love to emerge at its own pace:
“I feel it coming, I feel it coming, babe.”
This line serves as both a reassurance and an invitation. The Weeknd’s repeated affirmation of “I feel it coming” suggests that he senses the connection growing, and he is confident that love will eventually take shape. It’s a subtle yet powerful way of expressing desire, as if he knows that they are on the verge of something meaningful, but they just need to allow it to unfold naturally.
Overcoming Loneliness and Connection
The lyrics also address the theme of loneliness, particularly the idea that his lover has been isolated or reluctant to let anyone in. The Weeknd offers himself as a solution to that solitude, promising that he can fill the void and offer comfort:
“You don’t need a lonely night / So baby, I can make it right.”
This line directly speaks to the need for companionship and intimacy. It suggests that love doesn’t have to be isolating or difficult; instead, it can be an antidote to loneliness, a way to find solace and warmth in another person.
Musical Composition: A Tribute to Disco with a Modern Twist
The production of I Feel It Coming is undeniably one of the highlights of the song. The collaboration with Daft Punk is evident in the funky, groovy beat that anchors the track. The use of shimmering synths, warm bass lines, and disco-inspired drums evokes a sense of nostalgia for the late 70s and early 80s, yet the song feels entirely fresh and relevant for today’s music landscape.
Daft Punk’s Influence and Production Style
Daft Punk, known for their electronic music mastery, plays a significant role in shaping the sonic texture of I Feel It Coming. Their signature use of funky basslines and atmospheric synths creates a lush, dreamy soundscape that complements The Weeknd’s voice perfectly. The song’s instrumental composition is sleek and smooth, capturing the essence of disco while remaining grounded in modern pop and R&B sensibilities.
The rhythmic beat of the song pulses steadily throughout, drawing from the iconic sounds of 70s disco, but with a modern edge that ensures the track doesn’t sound dated. The lush, glossy production reflects the song’s themes of luxury and intimacy, while still maintaining a sense of organic warmth that invites listeners into its sensual world.
The Weeknd’s Vocals: Smooth, Sultry, and Emotionally Charged
The Weeknd’s vocal performance on I Feel It Coming is as smooth and seductive as ever. His falsetto, which has become one of his trademarks, is put to full use here, soaring through the chorus and creating a sense of yearning and desire. His delivery is confident, yet tender, as he navigates the delicate balance between seduction and vulnerability. The vocal layers in the chorus add richness to the track, heightening its sensual energy.
The Weeknd’s ability to convey emotion through his voice is one of the reasons I Feel It Coming resonates so deeply with listeners. He navigates the vulnerability of the lyrics with ease, balancing desire and empathy. His voice, combined with Daft Punk’s polished production, creates a track that feels both nostalgic and contemporary, a true blend of classic and modern influences.
The Groove and Rhythm
The infectious groove that drives I Feel It Coming is a testament to the power of rhythm in evoking emotional responses. The steady drum beat and syncopated basslines create a sense of movement and momentum, making the track feel like a slow dance between two people. The groove is sensual and smooth, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in the rhythmic pulse of the song.
Cultural Impact and Reception
Since its release, I Feel It Coming has become a fan favorite, earning praise for its seamless blend of retro and modern sounds. The collaboration with Daft Punk further cemented The Weeknd’s place as one of the most innovative artists of his generation. The track has been widely celebrated for its sultry vibe, infectious groove, and its ability to evoke emotion through both its lyrics and musical production.
The song’s cultural impact lies in its ability to bridge generations. While it draws heavily from the disco and funk music of the past, it also appeals to younger audiences with its contemporary pop sensibilities. It’s a track that speaks to the timeless nature of desire and the complexity of human connection, making it relevant to listeners of all ages.
Conclusion
I Feel It Coming by The Weeknd, featuring Daft Punk, is a beautifully crafted song that captures the emotional depth of love, vulnerability, and desire. With its infectious groove, slick production, and powerful lyrics, the track stands as a testament to The Weeknd’s artistic growth and his ability to blend genres with ease. It’s a song that invites listeners to immerse themselves in a world of intimacy, empathy, and anticipation, while offering a sense of comfort and understanding to those who may be hesitant to love again.
Whether you’re drawn to the smooth, seductive vibe, the nostalgic disco influences, or the raw emotional vulnerability in the lyrics, I Feel It Coming is a track that will continue to resonate for years to come.