The Weeknd

ABOUT

The Weeknd, born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye on February 16, 1990, is a Canadian singer, songwriter, record producer, and actor who has revolutionized the music industry with his unique sound and emotional songwriting. His distinct blend of R&B, pop, and alternative music has garnered him significant acclaim, numerous awards, and a dedicated global fanbase.

BEFORE FAME

The Weeknd's journey to stardom began in the bustling city of Toronto, Ontario. A native of Scarborough, an eastern district of the city, Tesfaye was raised by his Ethiopian immigrant parents. Struggling with his identity and personal issues during his teenage years, he dropped out of high school at 17 and began to find solace in music. Initially, he anonymously uploaded his tracks to YouTube under the moniker "The Weeknd" in 2010. His mixtapes "House of Balloons," "Thursday," and "Echoes of Silence" released in 2011, were instrumental in gaining him initial attention and critical praise.

TRIVIA

• The Weeknd garnered early recognition with his anonymous online releases, often praised for their raw and emotional depth.
• His hairstyle, often compared to a pineapple or palm trees, became iconic during his early career years before he opted for a more conventional look.
• He officially chronicled his rise to stardom with the release of his debut studio album "Kiss Land" in 2013.
• His hit singles "Can't Feel My Face," "The Hills," and "Blinding Lights" have topped music charts worldwide, solidifying his status as a global superstar.
• The Weeknd performed at the Super Bowl LV halftime show in 2021, showcasing his theatrical and immersive performance style.

FAMILY LIFE

Abel Tesfaye has been relatively private about his personal life, often reflecting on his experiences and emotions through his music rather than public statements. However, it is known that he was raised by his mother and grandmother after his parents separated. His mother worked multiple jobs to support the family, which has been a source of inspiration for him. Tesfaye’s Ethiopian heritage significantly influences his identity, and he maintains a close connection to his roots.

ASSOCIATED WITH

The Weeknd has collaborated with a plethora of prominent artists across different genres, further highlighting his versatility and broad appeal. These collaborations include Drake, with whom he has maintained a mutually beneficial relationship since his early career, as well as notable acts like Ariana Grande, Daft Punk, Kendrick Lamar, and Future. His work with Daft Punk on hits like "Starboy" and "I Feel It Coming" are among his most successful collaborations to date. Through his influential music and dynamic collaborations, The Weeknd continues to shape the contemporary music landscape.