NEWS REVIEWS BEST NEW MUSIC FEATURES LISTS THE PITCH VIDEO PODCAST GRAMMYS 2023

By Isabelia Herrera, Jill Mapes, Alphonse Pierre, Gio Santiago, and Sam Sodomsky

February 8, 2023

The Weeknd, born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and record producer who has taken the music industry by storm. With his unique blend of R&B, pop, and electronic music, he has captured the attention of millions of fans around the world. In this article, we’ll explore the rise of The Weeknd and take a closer look at his music.

Early Life and Career:

The Weeknd was born on February 16, 1990, in Toronto, Canada. He grew up in a low-income neighborhood and was raised by his grandmother. His parents were both Ethiopian immigrants who worked multiple jobs to support their family. The Weeknd began making music in his teens and released his first mixtape, “House of Balloons,” in 2011. The mixtape was critically acclaimed and helped to launch his career.

Musical Style:

The Weeknd’s music is known for its unique blend of R&B, pop, and electronic music. He often sings about love, relationships, and heartbreak, and his music has a dark and moody tone. His use of falsetto vocals and electronic beats has helped to set him apart from other artists in the industry. His most recent album, “After Hours,” is a perfect example of his signature sound.

Major Achievements:

The Weeknd has achieved significant success in the music industry over the years. He has won three Grammy Awards, eight Billboard Music Awards, and two American Music Awards, among others. He has also been nominated for an Academy Award and has performed at the Super Bowl halftime show. His hit singles, including “Blinding Lights” and “Can’t Feel My Face,” have become anthems for fans around the world.

Philanthropy:

The Weeknd is also known for his philanthropic work. He has donated millions of dollars to various charities, including Black Lives Matter, the Equal Justice Initiative, and the World Food Programme. He has also used his platform to raise awareness about social and political issues, including police brutality and racism.