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The Making of Michael Jackson's "Thriller": A Blueprint for Music Creators

January 18, 2024

Released on November 29, 1982, by Epic Records, "Thriller," the sixth studio album by American singer Michael Jackson, stands as a monumental achievement in music history. Produced by Quincy Jones...

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Meet RIIZE: The Rising Stars of K-Pop

January 18, 2024

Unveiling the Members of SM Entertainment's Latest Sensation RIIZE, an acronym for RISE&REALIZE, is a dynamic 7-member boy group that has been taking the K-Pop world by storm since their debut...

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Who Are the Next GEN K-Pop Group Debut's To Anticipate in 2024?

January 18, 2024

Also known as NCT Tokyo, this group is the latest sub-unit of NCT, managed by SM Entertainment. The six-member group includes Sion, Riku, Yushi, Daeyoung, Ryo, and Sakuya...

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"In Harmony with H.E.R.: A Deep Dive into Stripped-Down Songwriting"

January 17, 2024

In the world of songwriting, H.E.R. stands as a beacon of authentic storytelling and melodic mastery. Her class on Studio.com, "Stripped-Down Songwriting: Write Songs That Tell Stories,"...

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"A Symphony of Insight: A Sonical.ly Review of Hans Zimmer's MasterClass"

January 17, 2024

Hans Zimmer: a name synonymous with cinematic grandeur. From the intense beats of "The Dark Knight" to the adventurous tunes of "Pirates of the Caribbean," his music has defined a generation...

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A Sonical.ly Review of Andrew Huang's Music Production Course

January 16, 2024

Irrespective of your preferred music genre, Andrew Huang's course offers a valuable perspective into the intricate process of producing a song, spanning from concept to mastering. Priced at $279...

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Sonical.ly MasterClass Review - Alicia Keys

January 16, 2024

Have you ever craved the wisdom and insight of a true musical genius? Enter Alicia Keys and her MasterClass, a captivating journey into the heart of songwriting and music production...

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"Is Drake's Music Really 'Pop'? Mos Def Thinks it's "Shopping'' Music

January 14, 2024

Yasiin "Mos Def" Bey stirred up the hip-hop community recently with his candid remarks about Drake's music, stating, "Drake is pop to me." The acclaimed lyricist did not mince words...

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"American Dream: 21 Savage's Solo Odyssey and the Big Drake Question"

January 13, 2024

Noteworthy is the absence of Drake, sparking questions about the collaboration that never materialized. While the album showcases collaborations with artists like Doja Cat and Lil Durk, Drake's....

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Jay-Z x D'Angelo's Collaboration on 'I Want You Forever' for 'The Book of Clarence' Soundtrack"

January 12, 2024

Breaking new ground, Jay-Z and D'Angelo have united for the first time, giving birth to the enchanting single, "I Want You Forever."

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BTS's Jung Kook Victorious as Artist of the Year at the 2024 Circle Chart Music Awards

January 10, 2024

In a triumphant moment that left the global music community buzzing with excitement, the multi-talented Jung Kook of BTS secured his place as the Artist of the Year at the Circle Chart Music Awards...

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Metallica - A Thrash Metal Band Like No Other

December 26, 2023

However, a few thrash metal bands broke through this barrier and became very popular. This article will discuss the history of one such band: Metallica, which is arguably...

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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...