Renowned artist The Weeknd, known for his chart-topping hits, is embracing a transformative phase in his career. As anticipation builds for the release of his upcoming album, Hurry Up Tomorrow, the 34-year-old musician has indicated that this will likely mark the end of his journey under the iconic persona that propelled him to international stardom. This bold decision reflects not only his personal growth but also his desire to explore new creative avenues.
In a revealing cover story for Variety, published on January 10, the artist, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, shared insights about his intention to retire his stage name following the completion of his current album trilogy. This trilogy commenced with the critically acclaimed After Hours in 2020, continued with the innovative Dawn FM in 2022, and will culminate with Hurry Up Tomorrow on January 24. The first album soared to the top of the Billboard 200 and produced the blockbuster single ?Blinding Lights,? which not only topped the Billboard Hot 100 for four consecutive weeks but also set records with a staggering 57-week presence in the top 10. Recently, it was honored as the No. 1 song on Billboard?s Top Hot 100 Songs of the 21st Century chart.
During the interview, Tesfaye hinted that this final installment of the trilogy would symbolize a significant chapter closure in his career. He clarified that this chapter pertains to ?my existence as The Weeknd,? indicating a profound shift in his artistic identity and personal aspirations. This evolution suggests that he is ready to redefine himself beyond the persona that has captivated millions worldwide.
Discussing the complexities of his persona, Tesfaye expressed, ?It?s a headspace I?ve gotta get into that I just don?t have any more desire for.? He elaborated on the pressures of fame, stating, ?You have a persona, but then you have the competition of it all. It becomes this rat race: more accolades, more success, more shows, more albums, more awards and more No. 1s. It never ends until you end it.? This candid reflection underscores his desire to escape the relentless pursuit of success that often accompanies celebrity status.
The artistic shift was foreshadowed by the appearance of billboards proclaiming ?The End Is Near? in cities around the globe in late December. In a May 2023 interview with W Magazine, Tesfaye remarked, ?It?s getting to a place and a time where I?m getting ready to close the Weeknd chapter. I?ll still make music, maybe as Abel, maybe as The Weeknd. But I still want to kill The Weeknd.? His statements reflect a desire to transition into a new phase of creativity while still maintaining his passion for music.
In his conversation with Variety, the ?Blinding Lights? singer reiterated his commitment to music, stating, ?I don?t think I can stop doing that.? He emphasized the importance of challenge in his artistic endeavors, adding, ?And for me right now, the Weeknd, whatever that is, it?s been mastered. No one?s gonna do the Weeknd better than me, and I?m not gonna do it better than what it is right now.? This perspective reveals his understanding of the necessity for growth and change in the creative process.
Tesfaye also shared that a pivotal moment during his headline-making 2022 concert at SoFi Stadium, where he had to stop mid-performance due to losing his voice, played a significant role in his decision to retire the Weeknd persona. ?Part of me actually was thinking, ?You lost your voice because it?s done,’? he reflected. He conveyed a desire to avoid overstaying his welcome in the industry, stating, ?You said what you had to say. Don?t overstay at the party ? you can end it now and live a happy life ? I just want to know what comes after.? This insight reveals a thoughtful approach to his legacy and future aspirations.
For a closer look at Tesfaye?s journey and his thoughts on this pivotal transition, check out the cover of Variety below.
