Overview
The Weeknd, born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, is a Canadian singer-songwriter, record producer, and actor who is recognized for pioneering alternative R&B and achieving significant global success in music, film, and philanthropy.
Early Life and Background
- Born in Toronto in 1990 to Ethiopian immigrant parents and raised in Scarborough by his mother and grandmother.
- Fluent in Amharic and French, attended French immersion schools, and later dropped out of high school at age 17.
- Adopted the stage name "The Weeknd" due to a trademark conflict, after leaving home on a weekend.
Career Milestones
- Began anonymously releasing music online in 2009, gaining attention through YouTube and blogs.
- Released three influential mixtapes in 2011: House of Balloons, Thursday, Echoes of Silence.
- Signed to Republic Records in 2012, releasing the compilation Trilogy and debut studio album Kiss Land (2013).
- Achieved commercial breakthrough with Beauty Behind the Madness (2015), spawning hits like "Can't Feel My Face" and "The Hills".
- Continued success with the chart-topping albums Starboy (2016), After Hours (2020), Dawn FM (2022), and Hurry Up Tomorrow (2025).
- Notable songs include "Blinding Lights", "Save Your Tears", and multiple collaborations with prominent artists.
- Headlined the Super Bowl LV halftime show in 2021 and featured in major tours worldwide.
Artistry and Influence
- Influenced by Michael Jackson, Prince, R. Kelly, and Ethiopian singers.
- Known for blending R&B with pop, electronic, and hip-hop, helping define "alternative R&B".
- Recognized for emotive falsetto vocals, dark lyrical themes, and genre-crossing production.
Acting and Other Ventures
- Made acting debut in Uncut Gems (2019) and co-created/starred in the HBO series The Idol (2023).
- Engaged in fashion, tech, and beverage collaborations, and invested in various businesses.
Controversies and Legal Issues
- Faced public feuds with artists such as Drake and minor disputes with others.
- Subject to multiple plagiarism lawsuits regarding song similarities.
- Encountered criticism for lyrics and controversy related to The Idol's production and content.
Philanthropy and Advocacy
- Donated significant funds to educational, health, and humanitarian causes, including COVID-19, Black Lives Matter, and hunger relief.
- Appointed as a UN World Food Programme Goodwill Ambassador in 2021.
Personal Life
- Known for maintaining privacy but had high-profile relationships with Bella Hadid and Selena Gomez; currently with Simi Khadra.
- Open about past substance use, now identifies as "sober lite".
- Diagnosed with ADHD in 2023 and prefers limited media exposure.
Achievements and Recognition
- Winner of four Grammy Awards, 22 Juno Awards, and numerous Billboard and American Music Awards.
- Holds records for streaming, diamond-certified singles, and chart performance.
- Acknowledged by Time as one of the world's most influential people (2020).
Discography and Tours
- Studio albums: Kiss Land, Beauty Behind the Madness, Starboy, After Hours, Dawn FM, Hurry Up Tomorrow.
- Headlined major tours and participated in global festivals.
Filmography
- Includes Uncut Gems, The Idol (TV), and the companion film Hurry Up Tomorrow.
Questions / Follow-Ups
- Will The Weeknd officially retire his stage name after the current album cycle?
- What direction will his music or public persona take following Hurry Up Tomorrow?