The Weeknd’s new record takes inspiration from The Smiths, Prince, and Talking Heads

In a new interview, The Weeknd has detailed some of the influences behind his new forthcoming album. Apparently the follow-up to ‘Beauty Behind The Madness’ takes inspiration from the likes of The Smiths, Prince, and Talking Heads.

Speaking to VMAN, Abel Tesfaye said: “There are new inspirations on this album… The production feels aggressive but still sexy. The Smiths, Bad Brains, Talking Heads, Prince, and DeBarge play roles.”

“We wrote it all in Los Angeles,” The Weeknd disclosed, adding, “I think it’ll be the best-sounding album I’ve ever done. It’s hard to label the sound because, when I first came out, nobody would label it R&B. I just want to keep pushing the envelope without it feeling forced.”

In other The Weeknd news, sources at his label Republic Records recently hinted at a possible Daft Punk collaboration. Blimey.