Introduction
The Weeknd is the stage name of Abel Tesfaye, a Canadian singer, songwriter and record producer. He is one of the most popular R&B artists today, known for his unique sound and wide vocal range. The Weeknd has built an impressive career in music over the past decade and has amassed a sizable net worth along the way.
Background and Early Life
Abel Tesfaye was born on February 16, 1990 in Toronto, Canada. His parents were Ethiopian immigrants who arrived in Canada in the 1980s. Tesfaye was raised in the neighbourhood of Scarborough in Toronto. As a teenager, he dropped out of high school and became involved in petty crimes and drug use. This led him to meet producer Jeremy Rose, who helped him record his first songs and mix tapes under the name The Weeknd in 2010.
Music Career Beginnings
The Weeknd’s first major mixtape, House of Balloons, was released in 2011 to critical acclaim. This mixtape and his next two, Thursday and Echoes of Silence, helped The Weeknd gain a following and land a major record deal with Republic Records in 2012. His first studio album, Kiss Land, was released in 2013.
The Weeknd’s career reached new heights with the release of his second studio album, Beauty Behind the Madness, in 2015. The album’s lead single “Can’t Feel My Face” was a massive global hit. He continued his success with 2016’s Starboy and several more hit singles like “The Hills”, “Earned It” and “Blinding Lights.”
Recent Career Highlights
- Released his fourth studio album After Hours in 2020, which contained the chart-topping single “Blinding Lights”
- Performed at the Super Bowl LV halftime show in 2021
- Continued releasing new singles in 2022 like “Take My Breath” and “Sacrifice”
- Set to star in and co-write an episode of the animated series The Simpsons
The Weeknd has won three Grammy Awards, eight Billboard Music Awards and two American Music Awards so far in his career. He continues to be one of the top R&B/pop musicians today.
Net Worth and Assets
The Weeknd’s net worth is estimated to be $300 million as of 2023. His music sales, tours, and business deals have earned him an immense fortune.
Some highlights:
- His After Hours world tour grossed over $130 million from 2019-2022
- Reportedly earned $20 million as a brand ambassador for Tidal streaming service
- Signed a $100 million recording contract with Universal Music Group in 2022
- Has endorsement deals with companies like Puma and H&M
The Weeknd owns several luxury vehicles like a McLaren P1, a Lamborghini Aventador, and a Bentley Bentayga. He also owns a $70 million mansion in Hidden Hills, California.
Personal Life and Other Interests
Little is known about The Weeknd’s personal life as he keeps it very private. He dated model Bella Hadid on and off from 2015 to 2019.
Outside of music, The Weeknd has said he’s interested in venturing into the film and TV world. He co-wrote and starred in an episode of American Dad in 2020 and has expressed interest in further acting roles. Philanthropy-wise, he’s donated $250,000 to Black Lives Matter and $500,000 to healthcare workers in Ethiopia during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Accomplishments and Legacy
With only a decade of mainstream success, The Weeknd has already left a strong mark on the music industry. His unique style and vocal abilities have influenced many new artists. He’s also earned praise for expanding R&B music into new directions and seamlessly blending different genres like pop, hip hop and house music.
At just 32 years old, The Weeknd is sure to continue evolving his sound and aesthetics. His career accomplishments so far including 3 Grammys, 10 Billboard Music Awards and becoming one of the world’s best-selling musicians ensure his legacy is already secure. With his talent and work ethic, The Weeknd should remain one of the most popular and innovative R&B artists for years to come.
