The Weeknd made a triumphant return to the Grammy Awards on February 2, 2025, ending a four-year boycott that began in 2021.
The artiste, born Abel Tesfaye, had previously withdrawn from the event, citing concerns over the Recording Academy’s transparency and fairness in the nomination process.
Taking the stage at Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena, The Weeknd delivered a captivating performance of “Cry for Me” and “Timeless” from his latest album, Hurry Up Tomorrow.
He was joined by rapper Playboi Carti, adding an electrifying dynamic to the set.
The Weeknd’s return was facilitated by significant reforms within the Recording Academy. CEO Harvey Mason Jr. acknowledged past criticisms and implemented changes aimed at increasing diversity and transparency among voting members.
These efforts appear to have mended the rift, leading to The Weeknd’s unexpected yet welcome appearance.
Hurry Up Tomorrow, released on January 24, 2025, concludes a trilogy that began with After Hours in 2020 and continued with Dawn FM in 2022.
The album features collaborations with artists such as Anitta, Lana Del Rey, Justice, Giorgio Moroder, Future, Florence and the Machine, and Travis Scott.
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