The Weeknd

The Weeknd Cannes 2023

The Weeknd

The Weeknd (born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye on February 16, 1990) is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and record producer. Known for his distinctive voice and eclectic musical style, The Weeknd has become one of the most influential artists in contemporary music.

Early Life

Abel Tesfaye was born in Toronto, Ontario, to Ethiopian immigrants. He was raised by his mother and grandmother in the Scarborough district of Toronto. Tesfaye attended West Hill Collegiate Institute and Birchmount Park Collegiate Institute but did not graduate from either.

Career

2010–2011: Career Beginnings

The Weeknd began his career by anonymously uploading several songs to YouTube in late 2010. He released his debut mixtape, House of Balloons, in March 2011, which received critical acclaim. This was followed by two more mixtapes, Thursday and Echoes of Silence, which were also well-received.

2012–2014: Trilogy and Kiss Land

In 2012, The Weeknd signed with Republic Records and re-released his three mixtapes as a compilation album titled Trilogy. His debut studio album, Kiss Land, was released in 2013 and featured the singles "Kiss Land" and "Live For".

2015–2017: Beauty Behind the Madness and Starboy

The Weeknd's second studio album, Beauty Behind the Madness (2015), included the hit singles "Can't Feel My Face" and "The Hills". The album won the Grammy Award for Best Urban Contemporary Album and was nominated for Album of the Year.

In 2016, he released his third studio album, Starboy, which included the title track featuring Daft Punk. The album won the Grammy Award for Best Urban Contemporary Album.

2018–2020: My Dear Melancholy and After Hours

In 2018, The Weeknd released the EP My Dear Melancholy,. His fourth studio album, After Hours, was released in 2020 and included the chart-topping single "Blinding Lights".

2021–Present: Dawn FM

In 2022, The Weeknd released his fifth studio album, Dawn FM, which features the single "Take My Breath".

Musical Style and Influences

The Weeknd's music is often characterized by its dark themes and eclectic mix of genres, including R&B, pop, and alternative R&B. His influences include Michael Jackson, Prince, and R. Kelly.

Personal Life

The Weeknd has been in high-profile relationships with model Bella Hadid and singer Selena Gomez. He is known for his philanthropic efforts, including donations to various causes and organizations.

Discography

• Kiss Land (2013)
• Beauty Behind the Madness (2015)
• Starboy (2016)
• After Hours (2020)
• Dawn FM (2022)

Awards and Nominations

The Weeknd has received numerous awards and nominations, including multiple Grammy Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and American Music Awards.

See Also

• List of awards and nominations received by The Weeknd
• XO (record label)
• List of artists who reached number one on the Hot 100 (U.S.)