The Weeknd
Abel Makkonen Tesfaye (born February 16, 1990), known professionally as The Weeknd, is a Canadian singer-songwriter, record producer, and actor. He is known for his tenor vocal range, use of falsetto, and a dark, cinematic style in his music.
| The Weeknd | |
|---|---|
| |
| Born | February 16, 1990
Toronto, Ontario, Canada |
| Birth name | Abel Makkonen Tesfaye |
| Nationality | Canadian |
| Occupation | Singer, songwriter, record producer, actor |
| Years active | 2009–present |
| Genres | R&B, pop, alternative R&B |
| Labels | XO, Republic Records |
| Known for | Blinding Lights, Starboy, The Hills, Save Your Tears, After Hours |
He began releasing music anonymously in 2009. In 2011, he released three mixtapes: House of Balloons, Thursday, and Echoes of Silence. These projects helped define the alternative R&B sound. He later signed with Republic Records and released the compilation album Trilogy (2012).
His debut studio album Kiss Land (2013) reached the top ten in the United States. He gained global success with Beauty Behind the Madness (2015) and Starboy (2016). These albums produced hit songs such as Can't Feel My Face, The Hills, Starboy, and Die for You.[1]
In 2020, he released After Hours, which included Blinding Lights. The song became the best-performing track in the history of the Billboard Hot 100. He followed this with Dawn FM (2022) and Hurry Up Tomorrow (2025).
The Weeknd is one of the best-selling music artists, with over 75 million records sold. He has won multiple awards, including Grammy Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and American Music Awards.
Early life
Abel Tesfaye was born on February 16, 1990, in Toronto, Ontario. He is the only child of Ethiopian immigrant parents.
He was raised by his mother and grandmother. He grew up speaking Amharic and also learned French in school.
As a teenager, he left school and lived with friends. During this period, he faced financial struggles and experimented with music production.[2]
Career
2009–2012: Early work and Trilogy
Tesfaye started uploading songs to YouTube in 2009. His identity was not known at first.
In 2011, he released three mixtapes: House of Balloons, Thursday, and Echoes of Silence. These gained critical attention and built his early fan base.
In 2012, he released Trilogy, which compiled the mixtapes with remastered tracks.[3]
2013–2016: Breakthrough success
His first studio album Kiss Land (2013) expanded his audience.
He achieved major success with Beauty Behind the Madness (2015). Songs like The Hills and Can't Feel My Face reached number one.
His next album Starboy (2016) also topped charts and included global hits.
2018–2022: Continued growth
He released the EP My Dear Melancholy (2018), which returned to his darker sound.
In 2020, After Hours became one of his most successful albums. The single Blinding Lights broke streaming and chart records.
He followed this with Dawn FM (2022), which explored new wave and synth-based sounds.
2023–present
Tesfaye co-created and starred in the TV series The Idol (2023).
In 2025, he released Hurry Up Tomorrow, which debuted at number one. He also acted in a film of the same name.
Artistry
The Weeknd's music blends R&B, pop, and electronic styles. His work often features themes of love, fame, and isolation.
His sound is influenced by artists such as Michael Jackson and Prince. His music videos are known for strong visual storytelling.
Personal life
Tesfaye keeps his personal life private. He has been in relationships with public figures but avoids frequent media attention.
He has spoken about his past struggles and growth over time.[4]
Health
Tesfaye has discussed mental health challenges and lifestyle changes. In recent years, he has reduced substance use.
Discography
2012 – Trilogy 2013 – Kiss Land 2015 – Beauty Behind the Madness 2016 – Starboy 2018 – My Dear Melancholy 2020 – After Hours 2022 – Dawn FM 2025 – Hurry Up Tomorrow
Awards and nominations
- Grammy Awards – Multiple wins - Billboard Music Awards – Multiple wins - American Music Awards – Multiple wins - MTV Video Music Awards – Multiple wins - Juno Awards – Multiple wins