The Weeknd Plans to Drop Stage Name After Final Album - Here's Why
The Weeknd, known for his distinctive R&B sound and persona, has announced plans to transition to using his birth name, Abel Tesfaye, following the release of his upcoming album "Hurry Up Tomorrow."
The Weeknd performing with raised arms
In a recent Variety interview, Tesfaye explained his decision to close The Weeknd chapter of his career, citing the endless pursuit of accolades and success that comes with the persona. "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. 1's. It never ends until you end it."
A pivotal moment came during his 2022 Los Angeles concert when he lost his voice and had to reschedule. This incident led him to reflect on his artistic journey: "Part of me actually was thinking, 'You lost your voice because it's done; you said what you had to say.'"
Despite retiring The Weeknd persona, Tesfaye remains committed to creating music. He emphasizes that while no one can do The Weeknd better than him, he's ready for new challenges. "Everything needs to feel like a challenge. And for me right now, The Weeknd, whatever that is, it's been mastered."
The artist's final album as The Weeknd, "Hurry Up Tomorrow," releases on January 25, with an accompanying Lionsgate film scheduled for May.