Known for his mysterious persona, haunting vocals, and genre-bending sound, The Weeknd has become one of the most influential artists in contemporary music. From anonymous mixtapes to Grammy wins and Super Bowl halftime shows, his journey is as captivating as his music.
The Weeknd Biography
Born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye on February 16, 1990, in Toronto, Canada, The Weeknd is of Ethiopian descent and was raised in the Scarborough district by his mother and grandmother after his father abandoned the family when he was a toddler. His early life was marked by hardship, absentee parenting, and early exposure to drugs and music.
He dropped out of high school and moved into a one-bedroom apartment with friends, where his journey into music production and songwriting began. He initially rose to fame anonymously by uploading songs to YouTube in 2010 under the name “The Weeknd,” intentionally omitting the “e” due to trademark issues.
ALSO READ: Bruno Mars: Grammy-Winning Artist & Life with Jessica Caban
Career
The Weeknd’s career took off in 2011 when he released a trilogy of mixtapes—House of Balloons, Thursday, and Echoes of Silence—which gained critical acclaim and underground popularity. His breakthrough into the mainstream came after collaborating with Drake and signing with Republic Records.
His debut studio album, Kiss Land (2013), was followed by a series of hits like Beauty Behind the Madness (2015) and Starboy (2016), both of which solidified his global fame. The Weeknd’s album After Hours (2020) featured the viral hit Blinding Lights, which spent over 100 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100—breaking records and redefining the pop sound.
In 2021, he performed at the Super Bowl LV Halftime Show, showcasing his theatrical creativity to millions. He later transitioned into acting, starring in HBO’s The Idol, further diversifying his already dynamic career.
The Weeknd Songs
The Weeknd is known for a distinctive catalog that spans R&B, pop, alternative, and electronic genres. His most iconic tracks include:
- Can’t Feel My Face
- The Hills
- Starboy
- Blinding Lights
- Save Your Tears
- Earned It
- Take My Breath
These songs, paired with his emotionally raw lyrics and unique aesthetic, have made him a streaming juggernaut and a chart-topping artist.
The Weeknd Net Worth
As of 2025, The Weeknd’s net worth is estimated to be over $300 million. His fortune comes from record sales, global tours, merchandise, endorsements with brands like Puma and H&M, and his work in film and television. His deal with Universal Music Group is considered one of the most lucrative in the music industry.
Family
Raised by a single mother, Samra Tesfaye, The Weeknd has often expressed admiration for her sacrifices and strength. His father was mostly absent from his life, which he has addressed in various interviews and lyrics. While he keeps most of his family matters private, it’s clear that his upbringing has deeply shaped his artistry.
ALSO READ: Nicki Minaj: Rap Queen, Past with Meek Mill & Marriage to Kenneth Petty
The Weeknd and Bella Hadid
One of the most talked-about relationships in pop culture was between The Weeknd and Bella Hadid. The couple first started dating in 2015, went through a few high-profile breakups and reconciliations, and were last seen together in 2019 before parting ways for good.
Their relationship inspired several of The Weeknd’s songs, including Call Out My Name and In the Night, where heartbreak, passion, and longing are central themes.
The Weeknd Age
As of 2025, The Weeknd is 35 years old. With over a decade in the industry, he has evolved from a mysterious underground artist into one of the most recognized global pop icons.
The Weeknd Instagram
You can follow The Weeknd on Instagram (@theweeknd), where he has amassed over 78 million followers. His feed is a carefully curated blend of artistic visuals, music announcements, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into his performances and life. While he’s known to keep things enigmatic, his posts offer fans just enough to stay intrigued.
Conclusion
The Weeknd’s story is one of resilience, mystery, and reinvention. From uploading mixtapes online to reshaping the modern music landscape, Abel Tesfaye has proven that true artistry doesn’t always follow the rules. His haunting melodies, cinematic visuals, and emotional honesty continue to captivate audiences worldwide, and it’s clear, his journey is far from over.
ALSO READ: Harry Styles: From One Direction Star to Style Icon & Romantic Life