The Weeknd

Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, known professionally as The Weeknd, is a Canadian singer, songwriter, record producer, and actor born on 16 February 1990 in Toronto. Raised by his mother and grandmother in the Scarborough area, he is of Ethiopian descent and grew up speaking Amharic at home. He began his music career in 2010 by anonymously uploading songs to YouTube, which gained attention for their moody and atmospheric R&B sound. He later released a series of successful mixtapes that were eventually compiled into his 2012 album, Trilogy. Over the years, he has evolved into a global superstar known for his high vocal range and hits such as "Can't Feel My Face," "The Hills," "Starboy," and the record-breaking "Blinding Lights." His work often blends pop, R&B, and electronic elements, and he is recognised for his elaborate, cinematic music videos and live performances. Beyond music, he has moved into acting, including a lead role in the 2025 film Hurry Up Tomorrow, which serves as a companion to his musical projects. As of June 2026, he is one of the most successful artists in the world, currently performing his massive, multi-year After Hours Til Dawn stadium tour.