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Pop Smoke: A Rising Star Taken Too Soon

August 18, 2023

Pop Smoke had a brief but impactful career. Born Bashar Barakah Jackson on July 20, 1999, in Brooklyn, New York, Pop Smoke quickly rose to...

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Julia Michaels' Raw Emotion and Vulnerability in New EP "Amethyst"

August 18, 2023

Julia Michaels, the gifted singer-songwriter known for her emotionally charged lyrics and captivating melodies, has once again captured the hearts of fans worldwide...

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French Montana's "Unforgettable" Makes a Remarkable Comeback in 2023

August 18, 2023

"Unforgettable," featuring Swae Lee of the American hip-hop duo Rae Sremmurd, made its debut in 2017 as part of French Montana's album "Jungle Rules." The song immediately...

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Remembering XXXTentacion: A Legacy in Music

August 17, 2023

The music industry has seen its fair share of influential figures throughout its history, and XXXTentacion, born Jahseh Dwayne Ricardo Onfroy, was undoubtedly one of the most polarizing artists....

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Hottest Songs in Canada Right Now

August 17, 2023

Canada has always been a hub for music enthusiasts, with a diverse taste that spans across various genres. The Canadian music charts are dynamic, reflecting the changing preferences of the listeners..

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The Boyz Bring ‘Christmas In August’ with New Album

August 17, 2023

K-pop group The Boyz return with their latest full-length album ‘Pt.1 Christmas In August’. The Boyz read the room and brought 6 tracks that perfectly match the fresh summer vibe of the season! ...

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Sabrina Carpenter's "Feather": A Musical Transformation

August 17, 2023

Sabrina Carpenter's song ‘Feather’ has taken an unexpected journey from its original soulful ballad form to a captivating and dynamic "sped-up" version. This transformation was not only inspired by...

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The Explosive Sounds of Jungle's Album "Volcano"

August 16, 2023

On August 11, 2023, the musical landscape experienced a seismic shift with the release of Jungle's highly anticipated album "Volcano." This eclectic masterpiece...

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

Sabrina Carpenter’s Short n’ Sweet

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...