stayc main image

Amy Winehouse: The Timeless Voice That Defined a Generation

January 7, 2025

Amy Winehouse was a singular talent whose soulful voice, raw lyrics, and bold persona left an indelible mark on music history. Despite her tragically short career, Amy’s influence on contemporary...

Read more
stayc main image

Madonna: The Queen of Reinvention and Pop Culture Icon

January 7, 2025

Few artists have shaped modern music and culture like Madonna. With a career spanning over four decades, she has consistently pushed boundaries, redefined pop music, and challenged societal norms...

Read more
stayc main image

Fleetwood Mac: The Timeless Legacy That Continues to Inspire

January 7, 2025

Fleetwood Mac, one of the most iconic rock bands of all time, has left an indelible mark on music history. Known for their dynamic harmonies, raw emotional storytelling, and genre-defying sound...

Read more
stayc main image

Brent Faiyaz and Sonder: Redefining Modern R&B with Vulnerability and Style

January 7, 2025

In the ever-evolving world of R&B, Brent Faiyaz and his collaborative group Sonder stand out as trailblazers, blending smooth melodies, raw emotion, and a modern edge. Known for his introspective...

Read more
stayc main image

Stevie Wonder: A Genius Who Redefined Music and Culture

January 7, 2025

Stevie Wonder is a name that transcends music, standing as a symbol of creativity, resilience, and innovation. As one of the most celebrated artists of all time, Wonder’s extraordinary talent...

Read more
stayc main image

ANOTR: Energizing House Music with Innovation and Style

January 7, 2025

In the vibrant world of house music, Dutch duo ANOTR has emerged as one of the most exciting and innovative acts of recent years. Comprised of Jesse van der Heijden and Oguzhan Guney, ANOTR has...

Read more
stayc main image

PARTYNEXTDOOR: Redefining Modern R&B with Emotion and Atmosphere

January 7, 2025

PARTYNEXTDOOR, the enigmatic Canadian singer, songwriter, and producer, has emerged as a pivotal figure in reshaping the landscape of modern R&B. Born Jahron Anthony Brathwaite in Mississauga...

Read more
stayc main image

Dean Martin: The King of Cool and His Timeless Charm

January 7, 2025

Few entertainers have embodied charisma, charm, and effortless talent quite like Dean Martin. Known as the King of Cool, Martin was more than just a singer or actor—he was a cultural icon whose...

Read more
stayc main image

Questlove to Direct Documentary for Saturday Night Live’s 50th Anniversary

December 25, 2024

Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, the Grammy and Oscar-winning musician and filmmaker, is set to direct a music documentary celebrating the 50th anniversary of Saturday Night Live. Known for his...

Read more
stayc main image

Blondie Announces New Album for 2025 with Producer John Congleton

December 25, 2024

Blondie, the legendary new wave band that has defined decades of music, has officially confirmed their next album, set to release in 2025. The iconic group is teaming up with renowned producer...

Read more
stayc main image

The Kid LAROI: From Rising Star to Global Sensation

December 25, 2024

At just 20 years old, The Kid LAROI has already cemented his status as one of the most exciting and influential young artists in the music industry. Born Charlton Kenneth Jeffrey Howard in Sydney...

Read more
stayc main image

Clairo: Redefining Pop Music with Vulnerability and Innovation

December 25, 2024

Clairo, born Claire Cottrill, has emerged as one of the most authentic and innovative voices in contemporary music. The 25-year-old singer-songwriter first gained attention in 2017 with her viral...

Read more

From Scarborough to Stardom: The Weeknd Receives Toronto's Highest Honor Ahead of Homecoming Concerts

stayc main image

The Weeknd’s meteoric rise from Toronto’s underground music scene to global superstardom came full circle this weekend as Mayor Olivia Chow presented the Grammy-winning artist with the Key to the City a symbolic gesture cementing his legacy as one of Toronto’s most influential cultural ambassadors.

A Hero’s Welcome!

Amid roaring cheers from fans, Abel Tesfaye (born and raised in Scarborough) accepted the honor ahead of his four sold-out After Hours ‘Til Dawn Tour shows at Rogers Centre. “I’m deeply honored,” Tesfaye said in an emotional statement. “Toronto is where I found my voice, and I’m committed to helping the next generation find theirs.”

Mayor Chow didn’t hold back praise: “From Scarborough to the global stage, he’s reshaped modern music while lifting up our communities.” She also declared July 26-27 “Weeknd Weekend” across the city, coinciding with the tour’s first two explosive performances.

More Than Music: The Weeknd’s Toronto Legacy

The ceremony highlighted Tesfaye’s philanthropic ties to his hometown:

  • $500K donation to Scarborough Health Network during COVID-19
  • Support for the University of Toronto’s Ethiopian Studies program
  • Co-founding HXOUSE, a nonprofit incubator for local creatives
  • New pledges to fund Birchmount Park Collegiate (his alma mater) and the Boys & Girls Club of West Scarborough

“He represents the best of our city,” Chow added, nodding to his blend of artistic innovation and grassroots advocacy.

The Homecoming Concerts: Night 1 Highlights

Fans at the July 27 show were treated to a career-spanning setlist, from early mixtape cuts to Hurry Up Tomorrow (2025) hits, plus nostalgic nods to Toronto landmarks. Social media erupted over:

  • A surprise appearance by Toronto rapper Pressa on “Heartless” 
  • A Scarborough-signature roti delivered to him onstage mid-performance
  • A tearful speech: “This city made me believe the impossible was possible.”

What’s Next?

With two more Toronto dates (Aug. 7-8) before the tour’s finale, Tesfaye’s homecoming celebration is far from over. As the After Hours ‘Til Dawn juggernaut supporting his three consecutive Billboard Top 10 albums rolls on, one thing’s clear: The Weeknd’s roots remain as vital as his reach.

From Scarborough to Stardom: The Weeknd Receives Toronto's Highest Honor Ahead of Homecoming Concertsfrom-scarborough-to-stardom-the-weeknd-receives-torontos-highest-honor-ahead-of-homecoming-concertsEbrunida KaradagJul 31, 2025The Weeknd’s meteoric rise from Toronto’s underground music scene to global superstardom came full circle this weekend as Mayor Olivia Chow presented the Grammy-winning artist with the Key to the...