The Weeknd released the music video for “Baptized in Fear,” a track from his album “Hurry Up Tomorrow,” on Friday, June 6.
In the video, the artist, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, is seen sitting alone in a deserted row of church pews, singing lyrics about a harrowing experience of paralysis and the inability to cry for help. The visuals depict his hand being engulfed in marble-like liquid, symbolizing a struggle with inner demons and a purgatorial battle for rebirth, as stated in a release.
While not officially released as a single like “Timeless,” “São Paulo,” and “Cry for Me,” “Baptized in Fear” has gained popularity among fans of the album, which debuted at No. 1. The Weeknd had initially suggested this might be his final album under his current moniker, but later indicated it could signify a “rebirth.” Billboard praised the song as a standout track on the album, describing it as “dark and morbid” and representative of The Weeknd’s peak artistry.
The unexpected video release accompanies the theatrical debut of “Hurry Up Tomorrow,” a psychological thriller directed by Trey Edward Shults, which acts as a companion piece to the album.