In a revealing interview with Variety, the renowned R&B artist Abel Tesfaye, known as The Weeknd, discussed his mental health struggles and the decision to reconsider his public image. A pivotal moment occurred during his 2022 concert at SoFi Stadium when he lost his voice mid-performance, leading him to question his career path. This incident marked a turning point, prompting him to reassess his life and music. Despite contemplating retirement of his persona, The Weeknd assures fans that he has no plans to stop creating music. Instead, he seeks fresh challenges and aims to step away from the relentless pursuit of accolades.

Reevaluating Life After a Pivotal Moment

The Weeknd's experience at SoFi Stadium left an indelible mark on him. He felt defeated and realized the immense pressure he had placed upon himself. This event served as a catalyst for introspection, pushing him to take a break and reflect on his life and career. He acknowledged the need to confront his mental breakdown and understand its impact, which became the inspiration for his upcoming album. The Weeknd decided it was time to rethink how he presents himself in the music industry, aiming for a more authentic expression.

During the interview, The Weeknd shared his feelings about the moment when he lost his voice during the concert. It was a stark reminder of the toll his career had taken on him. He described this as "the last straw," leading him to recognize the overwhelming self-imposed pressure. This realization prompted him to pause and evaluate his life. He admitted to needing time to understand what happened, face his challenges, learn something new, and start afresh. The Weeknd emphasized that this period of reflection would help him grow personally and professionally, ensuring that his future work remains meaningful and impactful.

A New Direction Without Abandoning Music

The Weeknd clarified that while he is considering retiring his public persona, he has no intention of leaving the music scene. He explained that the desire to retire the persona stems from a need for change and fresh challenges. For The Weeknd, the constant competition for more success, awards, and recognition had become a never-ending cycle. He wanted to break free from this pattern and explore new avenues in his artistry. The Weeknd expressed his commitment to evolving as an artist, emphasizing that his passion for music remains unwavering.

Speculation about The Weeknd's next move intensified in December 2024 when mysterious billboards appeared in major cities, hinting at "The End Is Near." These cryptic messages were followed by a social media post showcasing images from all his albums, signaling the conclusion of a chapter in his career. The Weeknd is set to release the final album in his trilogy, "Hurry Up Tomorrow," on January 24. This album promises to encapsulate his journey and reflect on the lessons learned. While he may be stepping away from his current persona, The Weeknd remains dedicated to delivering innovative and heartfelt music to his fans.