stayc main image

Tyla: The South African Star Making Waves on the Global Music Scene

December 25, 2024

In 2024, amidst the dynamic world of popular music, few artists have made waves quite like Tyla. Emerging from Johannesburg—fondly called “Joburg” by locals—the South African singer has transformed...

Read more
stayc main image

The Legacy of King Von: A Rising Star Gone Too Soon

December 25, 2024

In the realm of modern hip-hop, few artists have managed to leave as profound an impact in as short a time as Dayvon Daquan Bennett, better known by his stage name, King Von. Born on August 9, 1994...

Read more
stayc main image

Adele’s ‘Million Years Ago’ Ordered Off Streaming Platforms Amid Plagiarism Allegations

December 25, 2024

A shocking turn of events has rocked the music industry as a judge has ordered Adele’s hit song “Million Years Ago” to be removed from all streaming platforms globally. The decision comes after a...

Read more
stayc main image

Unheard Michael Jackson Tracks Discovered in Abandoned Storage Unit

December 25, 2024

In a surprising twist worthy of a thriller, previously unheard Michael Jackson music has been unearthed from an abandoned storage unit. The discovery, which has sent shockwaves through the music...

Read more
stayc main image

The Complex Genius of Future: Chaos, Influence, and Emotional Alchemy

December 24, 2024

Over the past decade, Future has built a legacy that defies convention. Narcotized, addled, and tender by turns, his music is a kaleidoscope of trap ballads, twerk anthems, trippy blues, and...

Read more
stayc main image

Billie Eilish: A Record-Breaking Year and a Bold New Era

December 24, 2024

Billie Eilish, the multi-Grammy-winning artist and Gen Z icon, has once again proven her dominance in the music world. In August, the 22-year-old singer-songwriter became Spotify’s most-streamed...

Read more
stayc main image

Maroon 5: A Legacy of Pop-Rock Excellence

December 24, 2024

For over two decades, Maroon 5 has remained a prominent name in the music industry, captivating audiences with infectious pop-rock hits, smooth vocals, and an ability to evolve with the times...

Read more
stayc main image

GloRilla and Kehlani Bring Holiday Vibes with New Single ‘Xmas Time’

December 24, 2024

GloRilla and Kehlani are spreading festive cheer with their brand-new holiday track, Xmas Time. The unexpected collaboration between the rising rap star and the R&B powerhouse delivers a fresh...

Read more
stayc main image

Tyrese Gibson Hints at New TGT Music After 11-Year Hiatus

December 24, 2024

Tyrese Gibson, the multi-talented R&B singer, actor, and performer, has thrilled fans with the news that his supergroup TGT may be making a long-awaited return to the music scene. Known for their...

Read more
stayc main image

Dua Lipa Releases Stunning Live Album from London's Royal Albert Hall

December 24, 2024

Pop sensation Dua Lipa has gifted fans an early holiday treat with the release of her first-ever live album, recorded at the iconic Royal Albert Hall in London. The album captures a spellbinding...

Read more
stayc main image

Why Coldplay Plans to Release Only Two More Albums

December 24, 2024

Coldplay, one of the most iconic bands of the 21st century, recently revealed their intention to release just two more albums before stepping away from studio recordings. This surprising...

Read more
stayc main image

Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre Release Highly Anticipated Missionary Album

December 24, 2024

Snoop Dogg and Dr. Dre, two of the most iconic names in hip-hop, have officially dropped their long-awaited album, Missionary. The project, which serves as a sequel to Dre’s legendary 2001 album...

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...