Who is The Weeknd?
The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, is a globally renowned Canadian singer, songwriter, and record producer. Known for his soulful vocals, innovative sound, and dark, enigmatic persona, he has left an indelible mark on the music industry. With a career that has spanned over a decade, The Weeknd has continuously evolved, pushing musical boundaries and setting new records.
The Weeknd’s Early Life and Background
Born on February 16, 1990, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, The Weeknd was raised in Scarborough by Ethiopian immigrant parents. His upbringing was deeply influenced by Ethiopian culture, including music, language, and traditions. Raised by a single mother after his father left at an early age, he faced numerous challenges but found solace in music.
At the age of 17, Tesfaye dropped out of high school and started experimenting with different sounds, drawing inspiration from genres like R&B, alternative, hip-hop, and electronic music. These formative years shaped his unique style, which would later define his career.
The Weeknd’s Rise to Stardom
The Weeknd’s journey to fame began in 2010 when he anonymously uploaded three songs to YouTube under the moniker “The Weeknd.” His mysterious identity and distinct sound intrigued listeners, leading to widespread curiosity.
In 2011, he released a series of critically acclaimed mixtapes, including:
- House of Balloons
- Thursday
- Echoes of Silence
These projects gained massive recognition, and by 2012, he had compiled them into the album Trilogy, which saw commercial success. The Weeknd’s breakthrough came with the 2015 album “Beauty Behind the Madness,” featuring global hits like The Hills and Can’t Feel My Face. From there, his fame skyrocketed.
The Weeknd’s Most Successful Albums and Hit Songs
The Weeknd has released several chart-topping albums, each showcasing his artistic evolution:
| Album | Release Year | Notable Songs |
| Kiss Land | 2013 | “Live For,” “Pretty” |
| Beauty Behind the Madness | 2015 | “The Hills,” “Can’t Feel My Face” |
| Starboy | 2016 | “Starboy,” “I Feel It Coming” |
| After Hours | 2020 | “Blinding Lights,” “Save Your Tears” |
| Dawn FM | 2022 | “Sacrifice,” “Take My Breath” |
Among these, Blinding Lights from After Hours became one of the most streamed songs of all time, cementing The Weeknd’s legacy in modern music.
The Weeknd’s Net Worth in 2024
As of 2024, The Weeknd’s estimated net worth is approximately $300 million. His wealth comes from multiple revenue streams, including:
1. Music Sales and Streaming Revenue
With billions of streams on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube, The Weeknd generates massive revenue from music sales and royalties.
2. Sold-Out Concerts and World Tours
The Weeknd’s After Hours Til Dawn Tour grossed over $200 million, making it one of the highest-grossing tours of the year. His live performances continue to be a major financial success.
3. Brand Collaborations and Endorsements
The Weeknd has lucrative deals with brands such as:
- Puma (Global Ambassador)
- H&M (Fashion Collection)
- Beats by Dre (Music Partnership)
4. Business Ventures and Investments
Beyond music, The Weeknd has expanded his wealth through real estate investments, his XO brand, and partnerships in the esports and technology sectors.
5. Acting and Film Projects
The Weeknd has also ventured into acting, making an appearance in the 2019 film Uncut Gems. He continues to explore opportunities in television and film.
The Weeknd’s Philanthropy and Humanitarian Efforts
The Weeknd is known for his generous donations to various causes, including:
- $1 million to COVID-19 relief funds
- $500,000 to the Black Lives Matter movement
- $1 million to aid hunger relief in Ethiopia
His philanthropy reflects his commitment to giving back and supporting global humanitarian efforts.
The Weeknd’s Personal Life and Relationships
The Weeknd’s personal life has always fascinated fans. His high-profile relationships include:
- Bella Hadid (Model) – On-and-off relationship from 2015 to 2019
- Selena Gomez (Singer) – Dated in 2017
Despite his public romances, The Weeknd maintains a relatively private lifestyle, focusing on his career and artistic growth.
The Weeknd’s Influence on Modern Music
The Weeknd’s impact on the music industry is undeniable. His genre-blending style, cinematic music videos, and boundary-pushing visuals have influenced a new generation of artists. He has earned numerous awards, including:
- Grammy Awards
- Billboard Music Awards
- American Music Awards
- Juno Awards
- MTV Video Music Awards
Conclusion: The Weeknd’s Legacy in 2024 and Beyond
The Weeknd’s journey from an underground artist to a global icon is a testament to his talent, resilience, and business acumen. His ability to reinvent himself, dominate the charts, and expand into multiple industries solidifies his status as one of the greatest musicians of the modern era.
As he continues to push creative boundaries, his influence will undoubtedly shape the music industry for years to come. Whether through chart-topping hits, record-breaking tours, or impactful philanthropy, The Weeknd remains a force to be reckoned with.