Meaning and Lyrics of Best Friends by The Weeknd

“Best Friends” by The Weeknd is a poignant exploration of the complex boundaries between friendship and romantic relationships. Through a blend of heartache and honesty, the song delves into the challenges and emotional intricacies of maintaining a platonic relationship when there are underlying romantic feelings.

Intro:
The repetition of “yeah” and “oh” sets a tone of contemplation and intrigue. It hints at the playful yet serious nature of the song’s subject matter, setting the listener up for an emotional journey.

Chorus:
The chorus begins with an acknowledgment of the current state of the relationship: “Oh, what we got / Baby, what we got is secure.” This suggests a stable, perhaps long-standing bond between the two individuals. The mention of “toxic love” alludes to past experiences where love was damaging, causing pain and separation. This past experience serves as a backdrop to why the current relationship is so carefully navigated. When The Weeknd sings, “You’re my best friend now,” he highlights the shift from a potentially romantic involvement to a deep, non-romantic connection. There is a clear fear of emotional vulnerability — “I don’t want to be responsible / For your heart if we fall,” as he doesn’t trust himself not to harm the other person emotionally if they become more than friends. This establishes a protective stance, born out of love and a fear of ruining something precious.

Verse:
In the verse, the lyrics delve into moments of intimacy (“I love it when we climax”). However, he reassures that he would “never burn you” or “hurt you,” emphasizing a desire to protect the other person from emotional pain. The connection is multifaceted, containing elements of love, care, and physical attraction. Yet, there is a plea to focus on “friendship” rather than letting their emotions get “sidetracked” by “catchin’ little feelings.” The line “Thought we had arrangements” implies that there was an initial understanding or agreement about the boundaries of their relationship, which is now being questioned. This highlights a shift or confusion in expectations — a common theme in relationships where lines blur between friends and lovers.

Pre-Chorus:
The pre-chorus reiterates a significant change: “Oh, friends no more / Sex as friends no more.” This repetition underscores the realization that the dynamics have irrevocably changed. The disappointment and sadness are palpable as he notes that his partner no longer wants to continue the casual sexual relationship aspect, indicating that emotions have complicated what was once a clear arrangement.

Chorus:
In the recurring chorus, the insecurities and fears resurface. The repetition reinforces the sentiment: the relationship they have is valued and needs to be preserved, even if it means avoiding romantic entanglements. There is a deep affection (“I love you so”), but the necessity to maintain distance and not “get close” is a recurring theme to avoid further complications and heartache.

Outro:
The outro, marked by the phrase “Dawn FM (Radio),” seems to serve as a sign-off, a moment of moving on or taking a step back from the intense emotions discussed. It acts as a metaphorical nod to ending the intense discussion and continuing with life.

Overall, “Best Friends” captures a realistic portrayal of navigating the thin line between friendship and romantic involvement. It emphasizes the value of preserving a meaningful connection despite the underlying complexity of emotions and physical attraction. The Weeknd uses the song to discuss the importance of boundaries, the pain of past toxic relationships, and the delicate balance needed to maintain a healthy and secure bond with someone who means a great deal to you.