The Weeknd Biography: Age, Net Worth, Height, Career, and Facts
Introduction
Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, better known as The Weeknd, is a Canadian singer, songwriter, and record producer who has taken the music world by storm. With his distinctive voice, genre-blending sound, and unforgettable hits, The Weeknd has solidified his place as one of the most influential artists of his generation. From his early mixtapes on YouTube to global domination with chart-topping albums, The Weeknd’s career has been marked by groundbreaking achievements and a string of iconic songs that resonate with millions of fans around the world.
In this detailed biography, we’ll explore The Weeknd’s early life, rise to fame, career milestones, and personal details that have shaped his legacy as an artist. Let’s dive into the journey of one of the music industry’s biggest stars.
Early Life and Education
Full Name, Birthdate, and Birthplace
The Weeknd was born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye on February 16, 1990, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He is of Ethiopian descent, with both of his parents originally from Ethiopia. His father, Makkonen Tesfaye, abandoned the family when Abel was just a toddler, and he was raised by his mother, Samra Tesfaye, in a low-income neighborhood in Scarborough, Toronto.
Family Background
The Weeknd’s upbringing was tough, marked by financial struggles and family hardships. Raised in a single-parent household, he was exposed to a variety of music by his mother, who played songs by artists such as Michael Jackson and Prince. However, it was his early exposure to R&B, soul, and hip hop that began to influence his musical interests, laying the foundation for his future career.
Childhood, Schooling, and Early Interests
As a child, The Weeknd had an interest in music but was largely self-taught. He dropped out of high school at the age of 17, citing a desire to focus on his music career. He moved to Toronto’s Parkdale neighborhood, where he began experimenting with music and started producing his own songs. He later rose to prominence after posting several of his songs on YouTube, a decision that would eventually lead him to a record deal.
The Weeknd’s early influences included artists like Michael Jackson, Prince, and The Notorious B.I.G. His unique ability to combine these influences into his own sound was one of the key factors in his success.
Career
How The Weeknd Started His Career
The Weeknd’s journey to stardom began in 2010 when he anonymously uploaded his first mixtape, House of Balloons, to YouTube. The mixtape, which blended R&B, electronic, and alternative sounds, quickly gained attention and caught the ear of both fans and industry insiders. His unconventional style, along with his dark, atmospheric lyrics, set him apart from other artists of the time.
Following the success of House of Balloons, The Weeknd released two more mixtapes in 2011, Thursday and Echoes of Silence. These mixtapes cemented his reputation as a rising star in the music scene and attracted the attention of major labels. In 2012, he signed a deal with Republic Records and began working on his debut studio album.
Major Milestones, Achievements, and Growth
The Weeknd’s debut studio album, Kiss Land (2013), marked the beginning of his mainstream success. While the album was well-received critically, it was his next release, Beauty Behind the Madness (2015), that truly launched him into superstardom. The album featured the hit single “Can’t Feel My Face,” which topped charts worldwide and earned The Weeknd his first Grammy Award.
In 2016, The Weeknd released Starboy, which further solidified his place in the music industry. The album’s title track, featuring Daft Punk, became an instant hit and won multiple awards. The Weeknd followed up with My Dear Melancholy (2018) and After Hours (2020), both of which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 and included major hits like “Blinding Lights,” “Save Your Tears,” and “Heartless.”
Famous Projects, Movies, Albums, and Shows
- Albums:
- Kiss Land (2013)
- Beauty Behind the Madness (2015)
- Starboy (2016)
- My Dear Melancholy (2018)
- After Hours (2020)
- Notable Songs:
- “Blinding Lights”
- “Can’t Feel My Face”
- “The Hills”
- “Starboy”
- “Save Your Tears”
- Tours:
- The Madness Fall Tour (2015)
- Starboy: Legend of the Fall Tour (2017)
- After Hours Tour (2022)
The Weeknd has also appeared in films such as Uncut Gems (2019), where he played a fictionalized version of himself, further proving his versatility as an entertainer.
Personal Life
Relationships
The Weeknd has had several high-profile relationships throughout his career. He was previously in a relationship with model Bella Hadid, and later dated singer Selena Gomez. However, his relationships have often been a subject of media scrutiny, and much of his music reflects the themes of heartbreak and romance.
Hobbies, Lifestyle, and Personality Traits
Outside of music, The Weeknd is known for his love of fashion, often making headlines with his bold and unique sense of style. He’s been seen wearing everything from high-end designer clothing to casual streetwear. He’s also a fan of basketball and has been involved in various charity events, often attending NBA games and supporting sports causes.
The Weeknd is known for his somewhat private lifestyle, although he frequently uses social media to connect with his fans and share glimpses of his personal life. He’s known for his deep, introspective personality, which is reflected in his music and public persona.
Awards and Achievements
The Weeknd’s career has been marked by an array of prestigious awards and achievements. He has won multiple Grammy Awards, including Best Urban Contemporary Album for Starboy and Best R&B Performance for “Earned It.” Additionally, he has won American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, and MTV Video Music Awards, among others.
His song “Blinding Lights” made history by staying in the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 for a record-breaking 90 weeks, becoming the longest-charting song of all time. The Weeknd’s ability to produce chart-topping hits consistently has made him one of the most successful and influential musicians in modern pop and R&B.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Estimated Net Worth
As of 2025, The Weeknd’s net worth is estimated to be around $300 million. His income is primarily derived from his music sales, streaming royalties, and lucrative tour earnings. His tours consistently gross hundreds of millions of dollars, with the After Hours Tour being one of the highest-grossing tours of 2022.
Main Income Sources
The Weeknd’s main income sources include album sales, concert tours, merchandise, and endorsements. His partnership with major brands like Puma and his involvement in the fashion industry have also contributed to his substantial wealth.
Lifestyle
The Weeknd enjoys a luxurious lifestyle, owning multiple properties, including a mansion in Los Angeles. He’s often seen driving high-end cars and attending exclusive events. Despite his fame, he remains relatively private and often keeps his personal life out of the spotlight.
Philanthropy / Social Impact
The Weeknd is known for his charitable contributions. In 2020, he donated $1 million to various causes related to COVID-19 relief, including food programs and medical supplies. He also made a $500,000 donation to Black Lives Matter and has supported organizations fighting racial inequality, hunger, and poverty.
Charitable Work and Campaigns
- COVID-19 Relief: Donated to organizations providing food and medical assistance.
- Black Lives Matter: Contributed to the movement and called for justice for racial inequality.
- The Weeknd x World Food Program: Raised awareness for hunger through his social media platform.
Controversies
While The Weeknd has largely kept a low profile in terms of personal scandals, he has occasionally been involved in controversy surrounding his music videos and public statements. For instance, his music video for “Save Your Tears” received criticism for its portrayal of face surgery, sparking debates about body image and beauty standards.
However, The Weeknd has always addressed these issues with grace, often stating that his art is meant to provoke thought and conversation.
Fun Facts
- The Weeknd is known for his signature hairstyle, a large, bushy “mop-top” hairstyle that became iconic during the early years of his career.
- He was once a member of a music collective called XO, founded by The Weeknd himself.
- His song “Blinding Lights” is one of the most-streamed songs of all time, surpassing a billion streams on Spotify.
Social Media Presence
The Weeknd is active on multiple social media platforms, where he shares personal updates, upcoming projects, and connects with his fans.
- Instagram: @theweeknd
- Twitter: @theweeknd
- TikTok: @theweeknd
- YouTube: The Weeknd’s official channel
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- How old is The Weeknd?
- The Weeknd is 35 years old (born February 16, 1990).
- What is The Weeknd’s net worth?
- The Weeknd’s estimated net worth is $300 million as of 2025.
- How tall is The Weeknd?
- The Weeknd is 5 feet 8 inches (1.73 meters) tall.
- Is The Weeknd married?
- As of 2025, The Weeknd is not married.
- What are The Weeknd’s most famous songs?
- Some of his most famous songs include “Blinding Lights,” “Can’t Feel My Face,” and “Starboy.”
- Does The Weeknd have any children?
- No, The Weeknd does not have children as of 2025.
- What was The Weeknd’s first album?
- The Weeknd’s first album was Kiss Land, released in 2013.
- What is The Weeknd’s biggest achievement?
- The Weeknd’s biggest achievement includes breaking the record for the most weeks spent in the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Blinding Lights.”
- What is The Weeknd’s relationship status?
- The Weeknd is currently not publicly in a relationship.
- Where does The Weeknd live?
- The Weeknd lives in Los Angeles, California, in a luxurious mansion.
Conclusion
The Weeknd’s influence on modern music is undeniable. From his hauntingly unique voice to his genre-defying sound, he has created a legacy that will likely endure for years to come. His commitment to pushing boundaries and his ability to continually evolve as an artist ensure that his place in the music industry remains secure. Whether through his chart-topping hits or his impactful philanthropy, The Weeknd continues to inspire millions worldwide.
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