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The Weeknd’s “A Lesser Man” Lyrics & Meaning
“A Lesser Man,” written by MIKE DEAN, Sam Levinson & The Weeknd, is the song released on the 19th of June, 2023. It is the lead single of 2023 The Idol Episode 3 (Music from the HBO Original Series). The meaning of “A Lesser Man” by The Weeknd is the reveal of an enigmatic character, challenging perceptions and embracing self-awareness. He unveils a mesmerizing narrative that intertwines with his role as co-creator and co-writer of the HBO show “The Idol.” This song immerses us in the complex emotions of Tedros, the character The Weeknd portrays in the series. As the lyrics unfold, we are drawn into a story of identity and power, where Tedros challenges perceptions, demands respect, and confronts his own limitations.
Embedded below is the Official Visualizer of the song from YouTube. Read the rest of the article while the music plays in the background. The complete lyrics of the song “A Lesser Man” by The Weeknd are at the end of this article.
What Are “A Lesser Man” Lyrics by The Weeknd About?
The Weeknd’s “A Lesser Man” lyrics intertwine with his role as the co-creator, co-writer, and star of the HBO show “The Idol.” This song unveiled as a surprise during his After Hours Til Dawn Tour in Horsens, Denmark, delves into the complex emotions of the protagonist, Tedros, portrayed by The Weeknd in the series. The Weeknd paints a vivid picture of a character struggling with his identity. Also, he showcases his signature musical style that captivates audiences worldwide. The line-by-line analysis of the meaning of the lyrics behind the song “A Lesser Man” by The Weeknd is below.
“A Lesser Man” lyrics by The Weeknd are a gripping exploration of enigma, power, and self-realization, asserting its narrative prowess.
Verse 1: The Mysterious Persona of a “Deadbeat Man”
What you don’t even know
Verse 1 to “A Lesser Man” Lyrics by The Weeknd
I’m a deadbeat man, never know when to fold
Spent a lot for your soul
You gon’ make that back, I’ma take what I own
Far away from my home
In this hot a… town but my blood’s still cold
And better let them know
The first verse of “A Lesser Man” lyrics by The Weeknd commences with a mysterious tone as his haunting vocals take center stage. In the opening lines, the lyrics suggest an enigmatic persona lurking beneath the surface. The protagonist, Tedros, describes himself as a “deadbeat man,” hinting at a troubled past or perhaps a dark side to his character. Despite this, he possesses an air of confidence, claiming to have spent a significant amount for someone’s soul.
This insinuates a transactional nature, possibly indicating that Tedros has the power to manipulate others for personal gain. Although physically distant from his home, he retains a cold and detached demeanor. The closing line, “better let them know,” exudes a warning, implying that he demands respect and acknowledgment for his abilities.
Pre-Chorus: Unapologetic Assertiveness and Transactional Nature
When you see them that you make sure they pay you
Pre-Chorus to “A Lesser Man” Lyrics by The Weeknd
Pay you in cash
I don’t do favors
I don’t do that
You don’t want to see me
See me get mad
No matter how bad you
You think I am, am
In the pre-chorus of “A Lesser Man” by The Weeknd, Tedros emphasizes that when encountering certain individuals, it is essential they pay him in cash. This highlights his unwillingness to do any favors without direct compensation. He challenges the perception others have of him, refusing to be underestimated or taken lightly.
Chorus, Outro: Juxtaposition of Self-Perception and Listener’s Perception
I’m a lesser man, a lesser man
A lesser man than you think I am
You think you know but you have no idea
I’m a lesser man, you’re the best of them
F… the rest of them
I’m a lessеr man, ah, ah, ah
Than you knowA lesser man than you think I am
Chorus & Outro to “A Lesser Man” Lyrics by The Weeknd
A lesser man than you think I am, I am, am
I think you should know, darling
Ah, ah, ah
The chorus and outro of “A Lesser Man” by The Weeknd bring forth a juxtaposition between Tedros’ self-perception and the perception others have of him. He labels himself a “lesser man.” But he challenges the listener’s assumptions by suggesting that they have no idea of his true identity. This contradiction serves to intensify the enigmatic nature of his character. While he acknowledges his own flaws and limitations, he positions the listener as someone who possesses a higher regard for him. The declaration of being a “lesser man” is juxtaposed with a sense of admiration for the listener. This addresses them as “the best of them” while disregarding the rest.
Verse 2: Power Dynamics and Seductive Manipulation
Show the world what I know
Verse 2 to “A Lesser Man” Lyrics by The Weeknd
How you work that tongue to collect thеir souls
And seen you do it before
Make them fall in love, make them beg for more
You can put on a show
You’re my one top star, you’re my bottom girl
And before you kiss them and go
The second verse of “A Lesser Man” lyrics by The Weeknd delves deeper into Tedros’ relationship with another character close to him. He describes the power this person holds over others, particularly in their ability to enchant and manipulate through seduction. Tedros acknowledges having witnessed this power before, implying familiarity with the individual’s tactics. He elevates them to the status of a “top star” while positioning himself as their counterpart, the “bottom girl.” This juxtaposition of power dynamics and roles further highlights the complexity of their relationship.
What Are the Lyrics of the Song “A Lesser Man” by The Weeknd?
These are the lyrics of The Weeknd’s “A Lesser Man” via Genius:
[Verse 1]
What you don’t even know
I’m a deadbeat man, never know when to fold
Spent a lot for your soul
You gon’ make that back, I’ma take what I own
Far away from my home
In this hot a… town but my blood’s still cold
And better let them know[Pre-Chorus]
When you see them that you make sure they pay you
Pay you in cash
I don’t do favors
I don’t do that
You don’t want to see me
See me get mad
No matter how bad you
You think I am, am[Chorus]
I’m a lesser man, a lesser man
A lesser man than you think I am
You think you know but you have no idea
I’m a lesser man, you’re the best of them
F… the rest of them
I’m a lessеr man, ah, ah, ah
Than you know[Verse 2]
Show the world what I know
How you work that tongue to collect thеir souls
And seen you do it before
Make them fall in love, make them beg for more
You can put on a show
You’re my one top star, you’re my bottom girl
And before you kiss them and go[Pre-Chorus]
Don’t leave until you make sure they pay you
Pay you in cash
I don’t do favors
I don’t do that
You don’t want to see me
See me get mad
No matter how bad you
You think I am, am[Chorus]
I’m a lesser man, a lesser man
A lesser man than you think I am
You think you know but you have no idea
I’m a lesser man, you’re the best of them
F… the rest of them
I’m a lesser man, ah, ah, ah
Than you know[Bridge]
A lesser man than you think I am
A lesser man than you think I am, I am, am
I think you should know, darling
Ah, ah, ah[Instrumental Outro]
The Weeknd’s “A Lesser Man” Lyrics
What Is the Conclusion of The Weeknd’s “A Lesser Man” Lyrics Meaning?
The lyrics of “A Lesser Man” by The Weeknd delve into the enigmatic persona of Tedros, his character in the HBO show “The Idol.” His unique musical style completely captures the intricate emotions and power dynamics woven throughout the song. Tedros, despite viewing himself as a “lesser man,” challenges the listeners to question their perception of him. Also, this song brings us to an environment where identity is complex and constantly evolving. It showcases The Weeknd’s incredible talent as both a storyteller and musician. This leaves a deep impact on those who embark on this mesmerizing musical journey.
‘A Lesser Man‘ is one of two new The Weeknd songs on The Idol this week, with the second one ‘Take Me Back‘ played over the end credits. It is also one of a slew of tracks from The Weeknd that are coming out on almost every new episode of The Idol, after the singer decided his music would have more impact if it was released throughout the entire run of The Idol, instead of being released as a new album when the first episode premiered.
Michelle Topham via Leo Sigh on “A Lesser Man” by The Weeknd
Comment on the meaning behind the song “A Lesser Man” lyrics by The Weeknd below or on the Twitter handle “@laviasco”. We have also analyzed “Die For You,” “Until I Bleed Out,” “In Your Eyes,” “Snowchild,” “After Hours,” “Starboy,” “Blinding Lights,” “Heartless,” and “Lost In the Fire” by The Weeknd.
