Early Life

Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, better known artistically as The Weeknd, was born on February 16, 1990 in Toronto, Canada. He is the only child of Ethiopian immigrants and grew up in a multicultural neighborhood in Scarborough. His father left the family when he was very young, and his maternal grandmother played a key role in his upbringing, teaching him to speak Amharic.

Adolescence & Challenges

During his adolescence, Abel struggled with drug use and personal issues, eventually dropping out of high school and living on the streets for a period. Despite these difficulties, he found solace in music, exploring genres like soul, post-funk, hip-hop, indie rock, quiet storm, and junk.

Career Start

In 2009, he began uploading original songs to YouTube under the name "The Weeknd," removing the "e" from "weekend" to give it a personal touch. His first mixtape, House of Balloons, launched his career and became a fan favorite.

Rise to Fame

In 2012, he co-founded XO, a record label that represents his work team and close friends. Throughout his career, he has won multiple awards, including several Grammys, and has been nominated for an Oscar. The Weeknd's lyrics explore themes of relationships and personal experiences, connecting deeply with his audience.

Why I Like Him

What stands out most about The Weeknd is his unique sound, smooth voice, and innovative production. Songs like "Call Out My Name" or "After Hours" create a deep emotional connection, allowing me to understand my own feelings through his music. Even after facing difficult circumstances, he found his escape in music, which inspires me greatly.