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K-Pop Demon Hunters soundtrack dominates UK charts as Ozzy Osbourne tributes surge

July 30, 2025

In a surprising twist, the Demon Hunter K-pop soundtrack has claimed the top spot on the UK charts, reflecting the growing influence of the genre beyond its South Korean origins. Meanwhile, the...

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Viral Throwback: Connie Francis’s 1962 Song “Pretty Little Baby” Is TikTok’s Unexpected Anthem

July 30, 2025

This week's noteworthy tale: The 1962 B-side song "Pretty Little Baby," a decades-old deep cut by pop icon Connie Francis, has gone viral on TikTok, exposing a new generation to a voice from the...

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IVE’s ‘Supernova Love’ Blew Up on TikTok, and Now We’re All Orbiting Their Era

July 30, 2025

You’ve heard it. You’ve seen it. You’ve probably tried (and failed) to hit that head flick without dislocating something. Yes, we’re talking about the “Supernova Love” trend, the latest...

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The Weeknd Is Touring the World] and It’s Giving Apocalypse, But Make It Sexy

July 30, 2025

First, he gave us heartbreak. Then he gave us the high notes. Now, The Weeknd is giving world tour energy and yes, it’s cinematic, chaotic, and somehow still deeply romantic. From House of Balloons...

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Rock Your Body Now’ Is the Song That Walked Into the Party, Took the Aux, and Never Gave It Back

July 30, 2025

There’s always that one song. The one that hits the speakers, and suddenly everyone’s doing choreography they didn’t know they knew. That song, right now, is “Rock Your Body Now.” It didn’t just...

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“Like JENNIE”: The Song That Redefines Cool Without Even Trying

July 30, 2025

When JENNIE released “Like JENNIE,” it wasn’t just a comeback, it was a lesson in effortless power. Soft but sharp, understated but unforgettable, the track doesn’t ask for attention. It just...

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Bryson Tiller Is Outside Again And He’s Bringing the Feels Worldwide

July 30, 2025

He’s mysterious. He’s moody. He disappears for years and then shows up like nothing happened with bangers. Yes, Bryson Tiller is officially on a world tour, and if you’ve ever whispered...

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“California” by the Elevator Boys Is More Than a Summer Hit; It’s a Statement

July 27, 2025

The Elevator Boys, Jacob, Julien, Bene, Tim, and Luis, just dropped “California”, their most personal track to date. They are well-known for their charm and choreography, but this time they..

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‘Preparing for one of the greatest comebacks,’ Fans hype Drake’s new track with Central Cee

July 27, 2025

Drake has done it again, dropping a new track that has sent fans into a frenzy. This time, the Canadian rap icon has teamed up with UK artist Central Cee for a collaboration that blends their...

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Timeless Soundscapes: Moby’s Cross-Generational Collaboration with Øneheart

July 27, 2025

A distinctive new release is bringing people from different generations and places together in a music world that has been altered by technology upheavals and cultural differences. The 59-year-old...

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Tame Impala Releases New Single "End of Summer," Signaling Artistic Evolution

July 27, 2025

The psychedelic music project led by Kevin Parker debuts first track since 2020's The Slow Rush. Australian musician Kevin Parker has unveiled "End of Summer," the first new Tame Impala single in...

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Xiu Xiu Pulls Music from Spotify Over AI Investments; It’s a Bold Stand

July 27, 2025

The experimental rock group Xiu Xiu formally declared that they would be removing their music from Spotify in response to the platform's investment in artificial intelligence (AI)-powered combat...

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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...