The Weeknd: Biography of the Canadian Music Sensation
Canadian singer, songwriter, and record producer known for his distinctive countertenor vocals and genre-blending music that explores themes of escapism, romance, and melancholia.
The Weeknd emerged anonymously in 2010 through YouTube uploads, later achieving global fame with multi-platinum albums and record-breaking singles. He has won four Grammy Awards, an Academy Award nomination, and holds several Billboard chart records.
- He legally changed his stage name from 'The Weekend' to 'The Weeknd' to avoid trademark conflicts with a Canadian band.
- Dropped out of high school at 17 and left home, later describing this period as involving heavy drug use that influenced his early music.
- Maintained anonymity until 2011 by removing his face from covers and refusing interviews, fueling mystique around his identity.
- His 2021 Super Bowl halftime show performance sparked controversy due to elaborate set delays and allegations of being 'blacklisted' by the Grammys afterward.
- Donated $1 million to Ethiopian famine relief in 2021 and $500,000 to Black Lives Matter causes, reflecting his heritage and social activism.
