Abel Makkonen Tesfaye Profile

Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, known professionally as The Weeknd, is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and record producer. Born on February 16, 1990, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, he is the son of Ethiopian immigrants. Raised primarily by his mother and grandmother after his parents separated, Tesfaye was influenced by a range of musical styles, including Ethiopian music and artists like Michael Jackson. ​

In 2010, Tesfaye anonymously uploaded songs to YouTube under the moniker "The Weeknd," gaining attention for his unique sound. The following year, he released three critically acclaimed mixtapes: House of Balloons, Thursday, and Echoes of Silence. These projects showcased his distinctive blend of R&B, pop, and electronic music, establishing him as a significant figure in the alternative R&B scene. ​

The Weeknd Wiki

The Weeknd's debut studio album, Kiss Land, was released in 2013, followed by Beauty Behind the Madness in 2015, which included hit singles like "Can't Feel My Face" and "The Hills." His third album, Starboy (2016), further solidified his status in the music industry. Subsequent albums include After Hours (2020), featuring the record-breaking single "Blinding Lights," and Dawn FM (2022), a concept album exploring themes of purgatory and enlightenment. ​

Pitchfork

Throughout his career, The Weeknd has received numerous accolades, including four Grammy Awards, 20 Billboard Music Awards, 22 Juno Awards, six American Music Awards, and a Latin Grammy Award. He has also been nominated for an Academy Award and a Primetime Emmy Award. ​

As of 2024, The Weeknd's net worth is estimated to be around $300 million, reflecting his success in music sales, touring, and business ventures. ​