Lyrically, "Often" is a candid exploration of the Weeknd’s "nocturnal lifestyle," revolving around casual sex, drug use, and the desensitization that comes with fame.

The song's sonic identity is anchored by a prominent sample from Turkish singer Nükhet Duru’s 1978 track "Ben Sana Vurgunum," which translates to "I am in love with you". The high-pitched, ethereal vocal loop creates a haunting, almost voyeuristic backdrop that complements the song's themes of repetitive, hollow indulgence. Lyrical Themes and the "Burden" of Pleasure

The song remains a staple of his catalog, often cited by fans as one of his most "nocturnal" and "atmospheric" tracks, perfectly capturing the "wolf in pop clothing" persona that would eventually make him the first artist to surpass 100 million monthly listeners on Spotify. The Weeknd review – a wolf in pop clothing - The Guardian

"Often," released in June 2014, serves as a pivotal bridge in The Weeknd’s discography, marking his transition from the underground "dark R&B" architect of Trilogy to a global pop juggernaut. The Sound of Nocturnal Excess

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