Anitta and The Weeknd have unveiled their new single, “São Paulo,” accompanied by a strikingly surreal music video. Released on Wednesday, the video features Anitta in lingerie, portraying a character with a pregnant belly that sings. The unsettling visuals are perfectly timed for the Halloween season and depict Anitta wandering through New York City, visibly distressed. The camera focuses on her expanding stomach, which bizarrely develops lips to sing the lyrics originally penned by The Weeknd.
The video is directed by experimental artist Freeka, with visual effects created by Manny Lemus. Earlier this week, Anitta teased the project by sharing a photo of herself in a hotel room wearing the same outfit and belly from the video. In her post, she hinted at the secretive nature of the project, stating, “It was meant to be kept a secret…” The Weeknd responded humorously with “Omg… Congrats [crying laughing emoji],” and shared the photo again, adding, “@Anitta you hid it so well in São Paulo.”
The pair first performed “São Paulo” during The Weeknd’s “One Night Only” concert in Brazil back in September. This single will be part of The Weeknd’s forthcoming album, Hurry Up Tomorrow, as reported by Billboard Brasil.
In an interview with the publication, The Weeknd expressed his belief in the song’s potential: “We knew [the song ‘São Paulo’] was too special to just play on stage. We saw great potential in the song and found the beat, which is the heart of the show.” Anitta also shared her surprise at how her playful verses turned into a serious collaboration: “I wrote some verses as a joke and never imagined they would become serious.
Suddenly, I received the finished song. I loved it! I felt very honored and flattered.”
With its unique concept and engaging visuals, “São Paulo” promises to captivate audiences while showcasing the innovative synergy between Anitta and The Weeknd.
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