The Weeknd: Biography, Age, Stats & Facts
The Weeknd, born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye on February 16, 1990, is a Canadian singer-songwriter and actor. Known for his unique blend of R&B, pop, and alternative music, he has become one of the most influential artists of his generation.
Early Life and Career
The Weeknd began his musical journey in 2009, releasing music anonymously on YouTube. His early mixtapes, House of Balloons, Thursday, and Echoes of Silence, gained critical acclaim and a loyal fan base. He signed with Republic Records in 2012, releasing his debut studio album, Kiss Land, in 2013.
Rise to Fame
The Weeknd’s breakthrough came with his second and third studio albums, Beauty Behind the Madness (2015) and Starboy (2016). These albums featured hit singles like “Can’t Feel My Face”, “The Hills”, and “Starboy”, propelling him to international fame.
Achievements and Awards
Throughout his career, The Weeknd has won numerous awards, including four Grammy Awards, 20 Billboard Music Awards, and 22 Juno Awards. He has sold over 75 million records worldwide and holds the record for the most simultaneous top three spots on the Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart.
Personal Life
Born in Toronto, Ontario, to Ethiopian immigrant parents, The Weeknd grew up speaking Amharic. He is known for his distinctive hairstyle and his reclusive nature during his early career. He has been in high-profile relationships with celebrities like Bella Hadid and Selena Gomez.
Recent Work
The Weeknd continues to innovate and explore new musical styles. His latest album, Hurry Up Tomorrow (2025), features the hit single “Timeless”. He also co-created and starred in the HBO drama series The Idol in 2023.
Fun Facts
- The Weeknd’s stage name was inspired by dropping the “e” in “weekend” to avoid copyright issues.
- He has collaborated with artists like Kanye West, Beyoncé, and Drake.
- He made his film debut in the 2019 movie Uncut Gems.