The Weeknd Postpones New Album Due to California Wildfires Beyoncé Takes Action Too
The Weeknd has announced the delay of his highly anticipated album, Hurry Up Tomorrow, due to the ongoing California wildfires. Originally set to be released on January 24, 2025, the album will now hit shelves on January 31, 2025, to show respect for the impacted Los Angeles residents. In addition to this, the musician also canceled his one-off Los Angeles show scheduled for January 25, 2025, at the Rose Bowl. He made it clear that his decision stems from a place of concern for the people of LA County.
A Heartfelt Statement From the Artist
In a statement posted to Instagram, The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, expressed his sympathy: “This city has always been a profound source of inspiration for me, and my thoughts are with everyone impacted during this difficult time.” His Hurry Up Tomorrow album, a follow-up to his previous works After Hours and Dawn FM, is touted as the final chapter of a trilogy. This release will also mark the end of his career under the Weeknd moniker.
A New Era for The Weeknd
While Tesfaye continues to focus on his humanitarian efforts, he has made it clear that his desire to shed the Weeknd persona is real. In a previous interview with W magazine in 2023, he shared: “As the Weeknd, I’ve said everything I can say… I still want to kill the Weeknd. And I will. Eventually.” Fans are eagerly awaiting the next phase of his career, which may include music under his real name, Abel.
The album will feature collaborations with artists such as Playboi Carti, Anitta, Max Martin, and Pharrell Williams, promising a thrilling and diverse mix of sounds.
Humanitarian Focus Amid Wildfire Crisis
While The Weeknd has made his album’s release a secondary priority, his dedication to helping those affected by the wildfires is evident. Tesfaye’s XO Humanitarian Fund has previously contributed a generous $4.5 million towards hunger relief efforts in Gaza, and he is now focused on supporting LA wildfire recovery efforts.
Beyoncé Joins the Effort with Delay and Donation
In a similar move, Beyoncé has postponed a scheduled announcement on January 14, 2025, expressing her solidarity with the affected families. In a heartfelt statement, she said, “I continue to pray for healing and rebuilding for the families suffering from trauma and loss.” Beyoncé, through her BeyGood foundation, has donated $2.5 million to wildfire relief efforts. She also urged her fans to join her in supporting those in need.
The Grammys: A Renewed Sense of Purpose
While the Grammy Awards ceremony, set to take place on February 2, 2025, at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, will proceed as scheduled, it will carry a new purpose. Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy Group, confirmed that the event will honor the bravery of the first responders and raise additional funds for the wildfire relief efforts. This year’s Grammy awards will be a tribute to the heroes working tirelessly to protect the Los Angeles community.
Universal Music Group Cancels Grammy Events
In response to the ongoing crisis, Universal Music Group has decided to cancel all of its Grammy-related events, including artist showcases and parties, as a mark of respect to the situation in California.
