Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, known by his stage name, “The Weeknd,” is a Canadian singer-songwriter who has significantly influenced the music industry globally. Since his Trilogy mixtapes released and promoted by his fellow Torontonian Drake, The Weeknd has become one of the most impactful figures in alternative R&B and dark pop music. Starting from his Billboard Award performances of “Can’t Feel My Face” (2015), “Starboy” (2016), and “Blinding Lights” (2020), they have not only topped global charts but also redefined contemporary music with their creative approach. Known for his distinct, airy vocals and intimate lyricism, Tesfaye resonates with relatable emotional depth. On January 31, 2025, Tesfaye released his sixth and final studio album, Hurry Up Tomorrow, marking the end of his fourteen-year-long persona as The Weeknd.
Hurry Up Tomorrow’s twenty-two-track album delves deep into guilt, heartbreak, and redemption themes. The song “Wake Me Up” sets the tone, opening the album with an electrifying melody. Tracks “Open Hearts,” “Timeless,” and “The Abyss” showcase The Weeknd’s wide vocal range combined with upbeat yet alternative melodies. Throughout the album, he expresses his discontent with the crushing isolation and regret he experiences from his life of fame, questioning his sanity. Aggressive tracks such as “São Paulo” and “Cry For Me” all exemplify The Weeknd’s internal struggle through its vicious, soul-shaking production and equally furious lyrics. Hurry Up Tomorrow provides listeners with Abel Tesfaye’s conflicting morals: abandoning the world he has created as The Weeknd or continuing it to please his fans.
Writing credits and guest artists from Playboi Carti, Annita, Travis Scott, Future, and Lana Del Ray significantly enhance the success of Hurry Up Tomorrow. All the artists bring their unique style to the album, enriching The Weeknd’s story without overshadowing his presence. Most of the aforementioned artists have collaborated with the Toronto-born Tesfaye on two or three of his previous body of work, and their contributions to this album are no less significant. Over the years, The “Secrets” singer has surrounded himself with friends from the music industry who have become part of the team he ensemble for each of his music releases.
At this point, it’s safe to say that there is no doubt that The Weeknd’s past fourteen years have left behind an unforgettable legacy. From humble beginnings releasing mixtapes in high school to becoming a worldwide sensation, The Weeknd revolutionized contemporary music through his unparalleled creativity in R&B and pop music. Even though Abel Tesfaye’s career as The Weeknd is over, fans are eager to see what he has in store for the future.
