What is The Weeknd's real name? Details explored as singer claims he's 'brainstorming' new stage name ideas

The Weeknd is a Canadian singer and songwriter who has gained popularity over the years with hits such as Blinding Lights, Starboy, and Can’t Feel My Face. Today, however, he is contemplating a significant change in his career.

Recently, The Weeknd, whose actual name is Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, indicated that he may retire his stage name. He has used the name “The Weeknd” since the beginning of his music career. Now, he suggests that he would like to embark on a new chapter in his life and career.

While he is not entirely certain when it will happen, he indicates it may be soon. Fans are wondering what name he might use next and what impact this will have on his music and public persona.

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A look into The Weeknd’s early life and career beginnings

Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, The Weeknd, was born on February 16, 1990, in Toronto, Canada. His parents are Ethiopian immigrants. He was raised in the Scarborough neighborhood of Toronto by his mother and grandmother.

According to Wikipedia (last accessed on May 14, 2025), Abel left high school and began to concentrate on music. He started posting songs on YouTube in 2010. He referred to himself as “The Weeknd” after dropping out of school and starting a new life in the music industry.

His name was based on leaving one weekend and never returning. He removed the “e” from the word “weekend” since there was already a Canadian band with that name. His music grew popular over time, and the name stuck.

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Why is The Weeknd thinking about changing his name?

Abel Tesfaye has stated that he feels ready for a new chapter in his life. He says that the title “The Weeknd” was a character he created, but now he wants to be more of himself. According to People Magazine on May 1, 2025, he explained that he is “brainstorming” new concepts for a stage name.

He also stated that his next film, Hurry Up Tomorrow, could be the last project where he goes by the name The Weeknd. However, he mentioned that this is not yet a finalized decision. He still has tour commitments and wants to connect with fans before making such a significant change.

Though he is contemplating leaving the name, he is not leaving music. It’s more about personal development, he said. According to Entertainment Weekly on May 1, 2025, he believes it could be the end of something or the beginning of something new.

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Is he already using his real name online and in public?

In 2023, he updated his social media display names to “Abel Tesfaye.” However, he continues to use “The Weeknd” on his main pages and for live performances. According to NBC News on May 8, 2023, this was the first indication that he may want to distance himself from his stage name.

He has mentioned that he would like to gradually drop “The Weeknd” and rediscover who Abel is. This may imply that future releases and shows will feature his birth name rather than the stage name. However, for now, fans can still find “The Weeknd” on music platforms and live stages.

He is attempting to strike a balance between maintaining his existing fan base and growing as an artist. He states that he hopes to make the transition in a way that keeps his connection with his audience intact. The transition, if it happens, will not occur overnight.

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The Weeknd is considering leaving behind the moniker that made him a household name. He has revealed that he intends to evolve and possibly start afresh in his music career. Although the move is not yet official, it suggests he is contemplating his musical and other future endeavors.