The Shocking Truth Behind The Weeknd’s Stage Name How a Rebellious Decision Led to Global Stardom
From a rebellious teen to a global icon, The Weeknd’s journey is a tale of bold choices, survival, and reinvention. Discover the story behind the name that changed music forever!
How Did The Weeknd Get His Stage Name? The Story Behind the Moniker
The Weeknd, one of the most recognized names in the music industry, is set to drop his iconic moniker. Fans worldwide are curious about how this unique stage name came to be. Let’s dive into the intriguing backstory of The Weeknd’s identity and what it symbolizes.
From Abel Tesfaye to The Weeknd: A Bold Leap
“I left home when I was about 17,” the artist revealed. Dropping out of high school, Abel Tesfaye convinced his friend Lamar to follow suit. Together, they packed up their mattresses, loaded them into a beaten-up van, and left home on a fateful weekend, never to return.
This moment of rebellion and independence inspired his stage name. Initially, House of Balloons, his first mixtape, was going to carry the title “The Weeknd,” symbolizing the transformative experience. Abel admitted, “I hated my name at the time, so I tried it as a stage name. It sounded cool.”
However, there was one hiccup: a Canadian band had already claimed the name “Weekend.” So, Tesfaye dropped the “e,” and The Weeknd was born—a bold rebranding move that would soon dominate the global music scene. The name stuck, and the rest is history, as it now resonates with millions of listeners who associate it with innovative sound, emotionally charged lyrics, and cutting-edge performances.
Battling Pressure: The Weeknd’s Struggles and Resilience
In a recent interview with Variety, The Weeknd reflected on his journey, revealing personal challenges that shaped his artistry. After experiencing vocal strain during a demanding schedule, he sought medical advice. “I saw my doctor the next day. There’s nothing wrong with you—your [vocal cords] are inflamed, but nothing out of the ordinary.”
This realization pointed to deeper issues. “There was a lot of self-imposed pressure: flying to L.A. between concerts, getting into character,” he explained. Balancing personal and professional expectations took its toll, but it also fueled his creative drive. His rise to fame wasn’t just about the music; it was about conquering mental battles and personal demons, navigating the pressures of being in the public eye while staying true to his artistic vision.
The Roots of Success: Survival and Delusion
Behind the glitz and glamor lies a story of survival. Abel reflected, “Maybe it was that year, but maybe it was my whole life: survival, school, family, friendships, relationships, making it in the music industry.”
For The Weeknd, delusion played a pivotal role. “You know, delusion helps!” he admitted, emphasizing how dreaming big allowed him to overcome obstacles and embrace his artistic journey. With such gritty resilience, Abel was able to turn his challenges into a source of inspiration. The Weeknd’s transformation from a troubled teenager to a world-renowned artist is not just a success story—it’s a testament to the power of perseverance, self-belief, and defying the odds.
What’s Next for The Weeknd?
As The Weeknd prepares to shed his stage name, fans are left wondering about his next move. Will he embrace his given name, Abel Tesfaye, or adopt another moniker entirely? Whatever the choice, his story continues to captivate audiences, proving that reinvention and resilience are at the heart of his success.
With multiple Grammy Awards and a dedicated fanbase, The Weeknd’s legacy is already secured. His future may bring a new phase, but one thing is certain: his influence on popular music will continue to be undeniable, whether he’s performing under his current name or a new identity.
