Abel Tesfaye, better known by his stage name The Weeknd, is a musical force that has taken the world by storm over the past decade. With his distinctive blend of alternative R&B, pop, and electronic music, the Toronto-born artist has achieved extraordinary success in both the music industry and beyond. From his early days of struggle to now being one of the wealthiest and most recognized entertainers globally, The Weeknd’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. His rise from homelessness to the status of a global icon demonstrates not only his talent but also his tenacity and vision. In addition to his immense financial success, The Weeknd has garnered attention for his romantic relationships with several high-profile celebrities, adding to his mystique and intrigue. So, how rich is The Weeknd, and how did he rise to such prominence?
Early Struggles: From Homeless to Superstar
Born to Ethiopian immigrants in Scarborough, Toronto, Abel Tesfaye grew up in a challenging environment. He was raised by his mother and grandmother after his parents separated. His early life was marked by financial hardships, and at the age of 17, Abel dropped out of high school and found himself homeless, struggling to make ends meet. Living on the streets and occasionally couch-surfing with friends, he adopted the nickname N.Gien, a symbol of his nomadic and often perilous lifestyle.
Despite the challenges, The Weeknd immersed himself in music, drawing inspiration from various genres and experimenting with sounds that would later become his signature style. In 2010, he anonymously uploaded a series of tracks to YouTube, which caught the attention of Drake, fellow Toronto native and rapper. This exposure helped propel his career, leading to the release of his critically acclaimed mixtape trilogy: House of Balloons, Thursday, and Echoes of Silence in 2011. These early projects earned him a cult following and laid the foundation for what was to come.
A Billionaire Artist
Fast forward to today, The Weeknd is not only a multi-platinum artist but also one of the wealthiest musicians on the planet. According to Forbes, his net worth has skyrocketed to an estimated $300 million in 2024, and he is fast on track to becoming a billionaire. His wealth stems from several lucrative streams: album sales, world tours, music royalties, brand partnerships, and more recently, real estate and business ventures.
Music Earnings
The Weeknd’s music career is his primary source of wealth. His albums, including Beauty Behind the Madness (2015), Starboy (2016), and After Hours (2020), have generated hundreds of millions in sales. His hit single “Blinding Lights” set a record as the longest-charting song in Billboard Hot 100 history. His ability to craft chart-topping hits, coupled with massive global tours, has earned him millions. In 2023 alone, his After Hours til Dawn tour grossed over $350 million, cementing his status as a top-earning performer.After Hours (2020), have generated hundreds of millions in sales. His hit single “Blinding Lights” set a record as the longest-charting song in Billboard Hot 100 history. His ability to craft chart-topping hits, coupled with massive global tours, has earned him millions. In 2023 alone, his After Hours til Dawn tour grossed over $350 million, cementing his status as a top-earning performer.
Business Ventures and Endorsements
The Weeknd’s entrepreneurial spirit also shines through his partnerships with major brands. He has worked with companies like Apple, Puma, and H&M, securing endorsement deals worth millions. He also invested in tech and real estate, further diversifying his income streams. In 2021, he became a co-owner of the esports organization OverActive Media, expanding his reach into the world of gaming.Puma , and H&M, securing endorsement deals worth millions. He also invested in tech and real estate, further diversifying his income streams. In 2021, he became a co-owner of the esports organization OverActive Media, expanding his reach into the world of gaming.
In addition, The Weeknd’s collaboration with HBO’s The Idol, a show in which he starred and co-created, reportedly earned him significant sums. This venture into television only adds to his ever-growing empire.
Dating A-List Female CelebritiesDating A-List Female Celebrities
Beyond his professional achievements, The Weeknd has been linked romantically with several high-profile women, further elevating his celebrity status. His most publicized relationships include supermodel Bella Hadid and pop star Selena Gomez. The on-and-off relationship with Hadid captivated fans for years, making them one of Hollywood’s most talked-about couples. Although they ultimately parted ways, the allure of their romance lingered in the media.
The Weeknd’s relationship with Selena Gomez in 2017 also became tabloid fodder, with the two frequently spotted at major events together. This relationship, though brief, added to the intrigue surrounding his personal life. His romantic escapades have cemented his image as a superstar who moves in elite circles, contributing to his allure and mystique.
The Weeknd’s Legacy
The Weeknd’s journey from a homeless, struggling artist to a global superstar and multi-millionaire is a testament to his extraordinary talent and perseverance. Today, he stands as one of the wealthiest musicians of his generation, with a portfolio that extends far beyond music. His ability to continually evolve his sound and persona while engaging with a wide audience ensures his legacy will be remembered for decades to come. Furthermore, his relationships with some of the most famous women in the world have added an additional layer of fascination to his already incredible story.
While The Weeknd’s wealth is substantial and growing, his contributions to music, art, and culture may ultimately be the most valuable assets he leaves behind. From N.Gien to billionaire artist, The Weeknd has truly mastered the art of reinvention, consistently pushing boundaries and breaking new ground. It’s safe to say that his journey is far from over, and the future holds even more success for this musical genius
