The Weeknd Ends Grammy Boycott with Surprising Performance and Bold Return

After years of publically boycotting the Grammy Awards, The Weeknd made a bold return to the show, taking fans by surprise with his performance at the 67th Grammy Awards. His unexpected presence marked a significant shift in his relationship with the Recording Academy, which he had previously criticized for being “corrupt.” This change of heart comes after an overhaul of the Grammy Awards voting system, aimed at promoting transparency and diversity.

A New Era of Grammy Voting: The Weeknd’s Return and the Academy’s Evolution

The change that swayed The Weeknd’s decision to return was rooted in the Grammy’s efforts to modernize. In a heartfelt speech, Harvey Mason Jr., the CEO of The Recording Academy, acknowledged the criticisms and emphasized the improvements made to the voting process. The Academy, in an attempt to become more inclusive, has added over 3,000 new voting members, with nearly 40% of them being people of color. The revamped voting process, which no longer relies on a small review committee, instead gives the power to the thousands of Academy members to choose nominees based on their votes.

“I remember waking up to the headlines that The Weeknd called out the academy for lack of transparency in our awards,” said Mason Jr. “But you know what? Criticism is ok. I heard them. I felt his conviction.”

The changes aim to make the Grammys more reflective of the diverse and evolving music landscape, and The Weeknd’s performance felt like a symbolic moment in this new era.

The Weeknd Returns with ‘Cry For Me’ and Delivers a Powerful Message

The Grammy Awards not only saw The Weeknd’s unexpected return but also a memorable performance. The Canadian artist performed his haunting new single “Cry For Me” live on stage, captivating audiences with his emotional delivery. The song, from his latest album Hurry Up Tomorrow, has quickly gained traction, and this live performance only further solidified its popularity.

As he sang, “I hope you cry for me like I cry for you,” his powerful lyrics resonated with fans, reflecting the emotional depth and vulnerability that have come to define his musical identity. His choice to perform this track at the Grammys was a poignant reminder of how his music often delves into personal and complex themes, making it universally relatable.

A Tribute to Resilience: How the 2025 Grammys Paid Tribute to Los Angeles Firefighters

This year’s Grammy Awards took place in a city still reeling from the devastating effects of wildfires. Despite the challenges, the event carried a message of hope and resilience. The show was streamed live on CBS Television Network and Paramount+, paying tribute to firefighters who risked their lives battling the wildfires that ravaged parts of Los Angeles. The Grammy Awards also contributed to raising funds for the communities affected by the fires.

Mason Jr. took a moment during the ceremony to reflect on the power of music in times of hardship. “Music is a powerful force for good. It heals us. It unites us, and we need that in this city right now,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of the Grammys’ role in uplifting spirits and providing solace during such difficult times.

The Weeknd’s Impact Continues: ‘Hurry Up Tomorrow’ Soars to No. 1 on Billboard

The Weeknd’s presence at the Grammys isn’t the only major development in his career. His latest album, Hurry Up Tomorrow, has already achieved remarkable success. Released on January 31, 2025, the album debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart, marking his fifth chart-topping album. Hurry Up Tomorrow joins the ranks of his previous hits, including After Hours (2020), My Dear Melancholy (2018), Starboy (2016), and Beauty Behind the Madness (2015).

The Weeknd’s consistent ability to dominate the charts further cements his status as one of the most influential and innovative artists in modern music. His album’s success is a testament to his ongoing relevance and the ever-growing connection he has with his fanbase.

The Cinematic Visuals of ‘Cry For Me’ A Glimpse into The Weeknd’s Vision

In addition to his Grammy performance, The Weeknd has continued to captivate audiences with his visual artistry. The music video for “Cry For Me” is a cinematic masterpiece, shot in black-and-white with haunting visuals that align with the song’s somber mood. The Weeknd, dressed in a sparkling outfit with his face partially obscured by a hood, walks through darkness toward a woman, reflecting the song’s themes of longing and emotional turmoil.

This artistic expression adds another layer to his already multifaceted persona, showcasing his ability to weave together music, visuals, and emotional depth in ways that leave a lasting impact on his audience.

What’s Next for The Weeknd: The Path Forward

As The Weeknd continues to make waves in the music industry, his relationship with the Grammys now appears to be on a path of reconciliation and mutual respect. While Mason Jr. acknowledges that there is still “work to be done,” the progress made thus far has paved the way for a more inclusive and transparent future.

With new projects on the horizon and an ever-expanding influence, The Weeknd shows no signs of slowing down. His return to the Grammy stage and the success of Hurry Up Tomorrow are just the beginning of a new chapter in his already legendary career. As he continues to push the boundaries of music and art, fans and critics alike can only anticipate what his next move will be.

A Stunning Transformation: The Weeknd’s Journey Back to the Grammys

The Weeknd’s return to the Grammy stage represents more than just a performance—it signifies a profound transformation in the relationship between the artist and the Academy. By acknowledging the changes made within the voting process and accepting the invitation to perform, The Weeknd has closed a chapter of criticism and opened a new one of potential collaboration and growth.

As The Weeknd’s music continues to evolve, so too does his connection with the Grammys and the music industry as a whole. This dynamic shift has sparked renewed excitement and anticipation for what lies ahead, both for The Weeknd and for the future of the Grammy Awards. With an evolving music landscape and an artist who is constantly breaking new ground, there’s no telling what extraordinary achievements await.