Born in 1990, in Scarborough, Ontario, Abel Tesfaye has become one of the most recognizable artists in the world with his unique brand of synth-infused pop and R&B. Raised by his single mother and his grandmother, he dropped out of high school at age 17 and worked retail jobs while beginning to write and record his music. By 2008, he was already operating under the moniker of The Weeknd, and began recording demo tapes and songs in 2009 for other artists.

He quickly earned the attention and notoriety of fellow-Toronto artist, Drake, who praised his music and budding career. In March of 2011, The Weeknd released his first album, House of Balloons, for free download, and was met with wide critical acclaim from the likes of Rolling Stone and Pitchfork. In November of the same year, he was featured on Drake’s Grammy-winning album, Take Care, which featured The Weeknd as a vocalist and co-producer on two tracks, while co-writing three others. By the end of 2011, he had cemented his place in the scene.

With five major studio albums, 17 JUNO Awards, and 4 Grammy Awards to his name, The Weeknd reigns as one of the most-streamed artists in the world. In 2021, The Weeknd became the first Canadian artist to ever headline the Super Bowl halftime show, solidifying his status as a pop phenomenon. With involvements in many different businesses, he also has a hand in the film industry, having acted and produced several productions.

In the summer of 2020, Tesfaye partnered with TD Bank to launch Black HXOUSE, an entrepreneurial initiative within the Toronto-based incubator, HXOUSE, that aims to empower BIPOC individuals with mentorship, tools, and networking opportunities. The Weeknd was awarded with a key to the City of Toronto by Mayor Olivia Chow in 2025.

Awards:

• JUNO Award(s)
• Grammy Award(s)
• Billboard Music Award(s)
• MTV Music Award(s)
• BET Her Award
• NRJ Music Award of Honor
• MuchMusic Award(s)
• iHeart Radio Award(s)
• Key to the City of Toronto