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How Drake Defined Summer 2022 with his House Album “Honestly, Nevermind”.

November 22, 2024

When Drake dropped "Honestly, Nevermind" in June 2022, it sent ripples through the music industry. Known for blending hip-hop, R&B, and pop, the Toronto-born artist turned heads with a sharp left...

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Ariana Grande: Redefining Pop Stardom in a Changing Musical Landscape

November 22, 2024

In 2018, Ariana Grande was the sole female artist to top the Billboard Hot 100 as a solo act with her hit *“thank u, next.”* While Beyoncé, Camila Cabello, and Cardi B also reached No. 1 that year...

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Gracie Abrams: Redefining Pop Music with Vulnerability and Depth

November 22, 2024

In an era where the music industry often leans toward commercialized hits and polished perfection, Gracie Abrams emerges as a beacon of authenticity. Her unique approach to pop music, rooted in raw...

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Why Every Aspiring Music Creator Should Experience Coachella 2024

January 22, 2024

Coachella isn’t just a festival—it’s a rite of passage for music lovers and creators alike. Each year, it transforms the Empire Polo Club in Indio, California, into a world-class stage for global...

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Mike Posner: From Chart-Topping Hits to Personal Transformation

November 20, 2024

Michael Robert Henrion Posner, known professionally as Mike Posner, emerged as a prominent figure in the music industry with his distinctive blend of pop, R&B, and electronic sounds. Born on...

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Ed Sheeran Calls Out Unauthorized Use of His Vocals: A Growing Problem in the Music Industry

November 20, 2024

Ed Sheeran recently revealed that his vocals were used without his permission on a new Band Aid single—a situation he says he would have “respectfully declined” had he been asked. The incident has...

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The Weeknd: Crafting a Unique Artistic Image

November 20, 2024

In the world of contemporary music, The Weeknd stands as an enigmatic figure who has mastered the art of reinvention and authenticity. From his early days of mysterious mixtapes to becoming a...

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Tyler, The Creator: A Transformative Music Journey

November 20, 2024

Tyler, The Creator, born Tyler Gregory Okonma, has become one of the most influential and dynamic artists in the music industry. From his brash, rebellious beginnings to his present-day status as a...

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Bad Bunny: Breaking Language Barriers in Global Music

November 20, 2024

In a world where English often dominates the global music charts, Bad Bunny has emerged as a game-changing force, proving that music transcends language. Born Benito Antonio Martínez Ocasio in...

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Post Malone: Blending Genres for a Unique Sound

November 20, 2024

In an era where musical boundaries often blur but few truly innovate, Post Malone has carved out a unique space for himself by seamlessly blending rap, rock, and pop. His genre-defying approach has...

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Lorde's *Pure Heroine*: The Album That Revolutionized Pop Music

November 20, 2024

When Lorde’s breakout single “Royals” first hit airwaves, it was clear the pop landscape was about to change. At just 16, Ella Yelich-O’Connor, the New Zealand artist known as Lorde, captivated the...

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Lizzo: Empowerment and Being Unapologetically Yourself

November 18, 2024

Lizzo’s rise to stardom is nothing short of inspiring. With her infectious personality, powerhouse vocals, and bold, body-positive message, she has become a beacon of empowerment in the music...

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

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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...