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1989 (Taylor’s Version) coming out October 27 2023

August 16, 2023

In a thrilling announcement that has set fans' hearts beating with excitement, global superstar Taylor Swift has officially revealed that her re-recorded album "1989"...

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Tay-K: From a Sudden Rise to a Sudden Downfall

August 15, 2023

Tay-K, born Taymor McIntyre, was one such artist whose meteoric ascent was shadowed by a series of criminal acts that ultimately led to his incarceration. His story reflects the complexities...

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Deciphering "Bad idea, right?" by Olivia Rodrigo

August 15, 2023

By now we all know Olivia Rodrigo, the teenage sensation who has taken the music industry by storm. She has a gift for capturing the deep emotions of youth in her songs. In her hit track "Good 4 u,"..

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Laufey's "From the Start": A TikTok-Propelled Success Story

August 15, 2023

In the rapidly evolving landscape of the music industry, the power of social media platforms in catapulting songs to unprecedented fame is undeniable. Laufey's hit single "From the Start"

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ITZY’s ‘Kill My Doubt’ Sweetens the Stage

August 15, 2023

Superstar K-pop group ITZY is a 5-member group consisting of Yeji, Lia, Ryujin, Chaeryoung and Yuna who have released their long-awaited mini album ‘Kill My Doubt’. ITZY has come across much success..

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Somi Returns with a Catchy ‘Game Plan’

August 10, 2023

Somi is one of Korea’s most successful solo artists in the industry who placed first after competing in a survival show ‘Produce 101’ and debuting with K-pop group ‘I.O.I’...

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Dua Lipa's Sleeper Hits

August 10, 2023

Dua Lipa, the talented British singer, and songwriter, has made an indelible mark on the music industry with her chart-topping hits that resonate with audiences around the world. Her discography...

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Chief Keef: The Pioneer of Trap Music

August 10, 2023

Chief Keef stands as a trailblazing figure who reshaped the genre and introduced a new wave of music known as drill. Being raised in Chicago's South Side, Chief Keef's rise to fame...

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The Irresistible Allure of Fuji Kaze's "Shinunoga E-Wa"

August 9, 2023

If you're currently nodding your head in agreement, then you're likely familiar with the captivating melody of Fuji Kaze's "Shinunoga E-Wa." Released as part of his debut album "HELP EVER HURT...

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Travis Scott’s Long-Awaited Album: Utopia

August 8, 2023

In the ever-evolving landscape of hip-hop, few artists have managed to captivate and redefine the genre quite like Travis Scott. Known for his innovative sound, genre-blurring approach...

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Playboi Carti and His Influence on The Music Industry

August 7, 2023

Born Jordan Terrell Carter on September 13, 1996, Carti's introduction to music began at an early age, as he dabbled in both writing and formulating beats. However, it wasn't until he gained...

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Tory Lanez's "Hurts Me"; A Srategic Move or a Sincere Effort?

August 7, 2023

In June, Tory Lanez made headlines by dropping a fresh single titled "Hurt Me," a creation that emerged from behind bars as he awaits his sentencing in the Megan Thee Stallion shooting case...

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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...