The Weeknd
The Weeknd is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and producer known for his dark, atmospheric approach to pop and R&B. He was born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye on February 16, 1990, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Rising from Toronto’s underground scene in the early 2010s, he gained critical acclaim with mixtapes like *House of Balloons* and solidified his global status with albums such as *Starboy* and *After Hours*. His signature falsetto and moody production combine electronic, alternative, and R&B elements, crafting a sound that has redefined contemporary pop’s emotional depth and sonic texture. His relevance in the music scene comes from his ability to fuse cinematic storytelling with genre-blurring production, often exploring themes of fame, excess, and vulnerability. Fans return for his immersive visuals and layered narratives that extend beyond the music, creating a cultural impact that resonates across social media and inspires a dedicated, global audience.
Latest Stories
The Weeknd Grabs Dinner With ‘Elden Ring’ and ‘NieR’ Directors
The singer is a big video game buff, completing both games recently.
Crunchyroll Crowns Final Season of 'My Hero Academia' Anime of the Year
Check out the full list of winners — including 'One Piece,' 'Lazarus,' and 'Gachiakuta' — below.
The Weeknd Teases Unreleased Anitta Collaboration During Rio Concert
The Canadian singer-songwriter was also accompanied by visuals directed by iconic Japanese director Takashi Miike.
Drake, Bad Bunny, and Kanye West Among Spotify's Most-Streamed Artists of All Time
The Weeknd, Ariana Grande, Justin Bieber, Travis Scott, and more also make appearances on the latest rankings.
XO and WWE Launch New Collection Ahead of WrestleMania 42: How to Buy
WrestleMania takes over the Vegas area this weekend.
The Weeknd Says 'House of Balloons' Wouldn't Exist Without 'Samurai Champloo'
"It’s safe to say I wouldn’t be here without anime," the pop juggernaut said in a statement.
The Weeknd Tapped to Present at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards
The Weeknd will announce the recipient for Anime of the Year at the ceremony.
Amy Seimetz Has One Message After ‘The Idol’ Got Scrapped
'Don't let the bastards grind you down,' said the prolific director and actress.
The Weeknd "Beauty Behind The Madness" 10th Anniversary Translucent Vinyl: How to Buy
The 2015 album that reshaped mainstream R&B returns on transparent vinyl, available now on Complex.
The Weeknd Is First Artist With 30 Songs to Earn 1 Billion Spotify Streams
Among the singer's highest-streamed songs on are "Timeless" and "Starboy."
The Weeknd Secures $1 Billion Catalog Deal, Retains Creative Control of His Work
The singer's first-of-its-kind deal places him among a small group of artists, including Michael Jackson and Queen, with billion-dollar catalogs.
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Erick Sermon Says He Earns $250K Every Three Months From Metro Boomin and The Weeknd Hit
The rapper breaks down how a decades-old EPMD track turned into massive modern royalties.
The Weeknd Has Grossed Over $1 Billion With the After Hours Til Dawn Tour
The tour kicked off in 2022 and is set to conclude with a leg of dates next year.
Fan Who Rushed at Ariana Grande on Red Carpet Charged With Being a Public Nuisance
Cynthia Erivo quickly stepped in when Johnson Wen rushed Ariana Grande.
The Weeknd Gives $350K in Relief to Jamaica After Hurricane Melissa
The 'Cry For Me' hitmaker has partnered with World Food Programme to provide relief to over 220,000 Jamaicans.
The Weeknd Splurges on $55 Million Miami Estate That Can Host a Megayacht
The eight-bedroom waterfront Florida mansion spans 19,000 square feet.
Five Key Moments From the Michael Rubin REFORM Alliance Casino Night Hosted by Jay-Z & Meek Mill
From an epic performance by The Weeknd to Hov’s million-dollar watch auction, the invite-only event was a star-studded gala for the ages.