The Weeknd's Abel Makkonen Tesfaye: Why He's Embracing His Ethiopian Roots Now

Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, better known by his stage name The Weeknd, has long been known for his ethereal voice, groundbreaking music, and trendsetting style. His ability to blend R&B, pop, and electronic elements into chart-topping hits has earned him worldwide fame and acclaim. However, in recent years, fans and the media have witnessed a shift in the artist's approach to his identity, particularly regarding his Ethiopian roots.

Born to Ethiopian immigrant parents in Toronto, Canada, The Weeknd’s upbringing was shaped by his heritage, but his connection to his roots was not always at the forefront of his public persona. His early music, marked by themes of escapism, heartbreak, and excess, did not often reference his Ethiopian heritage directly. But with recent developments in his personal and professional life, The Weeknd has begun to embrace his roots more openly and with pride. This newfound embrace of his Ethiopian heritage marks a significant shift in both his identity and his music.

A New Connection with Ethiopia

For many years, The Weeknd has been tight-lipped about his Ethiopian background, with only subtle hints in his early interviews and lyrics. Born to Ethiopian parents who moved to Canada in the early 1980s, The Weeknd’s connection to Ethiopia was not initially a central part of his public persona. However, as he has matured and his career has evolved, there seems to have been a conscious effort on his part to connect with his Ethiopian heritage in more tangible ways.

This shift became evident in his recent public appearances and statements. The Weeknd has increasingly spoken about his pride in his Ethiopian roots, often using his platform to promote and support Ethiopian culture. He has spoken about his deep respect for the country’s history, people, and traditions, particularly the influence of Ethiopian music, which has roots in jazz, traditional folk songs, and contemporary sounds. His awareness of how his cultural background has shaped his identity as an artist is also becoming more apparent in his work.

The Role of Family and Ethiopian Culture

A pivotal moment in The Weeknd’s exploration of his Ethiopian heritage came when he began reconnecting with his family. Growing up, he was raised by his mother and grandmother, and his father was absent from his life. The Weeknd's connection to his Ethiopian roots was shaped by his mother’s stories and the traditions passed down from her. But it wasn't until he was an adult that he began to explore these traditions on a deeper level.

The Weeknd’s return to Ethiopia in 2019 marked an important milestone in his journey to embrace his roots. While in the country, he was able to reconnect with extended family and immerse himself in the culture. He visited various historical landmarks, including the UNESCO World Heritage sites and the ancient city of Lalibela, known for its rock-hewn churches. It was during this trip that The Weeknd began to seriously reflect on the richness of his Ethiopian identity and how it had been largely absent from his public narrative.

Ethiopian culture is rich in music, religion, and art, and it’s clear that The Weeknd has drawn inspiration from these elements. His recent work, including his album After Hours, showcases a more refined and deliberate musicality, with nuanced emotional depth and a clear nod to his cultural influences.

Ethiopian Music and the Impact on His Sound

Ethiopian music, often characterized by its unique scales and rhythms, has had a significant influence on The Weeknd’s sound. While he never explicitly identified his music with Ethiopia in his early career, elements of Ethiopian musical tradition can be traced throughout his work. The rich textures and emotional depth of his voice are reminiscent of the soulful, melodic traditions found in Ethiopian music.

The Weeknd has hinted at his growing appreciation for Ethiopian music and has even spoken about the profound impact it has had on his songwriting. His recent musical explorations have reflected a more eclectic mix of influences, blending R&B, funk, electronic music, and now, subtly, Ethiopian jazz and folk music. This evolution speaks to his ongoing desire to explore and celebrate his cultural identity through his music.

Furthermore, his exploration of Ethiopian musical traditions is evident in some of his visual imagery. In the music video for “Save Your Tears,” for example, The Weeknd is seen wearing traditional clothing that seems to be inspired by Ethiopian culture, symbolizing a more conscious effort to acknowledge his heritage.

Giving Back to Ethiopia

Beyond music, The Weeknd has also made a concerted effort to give back to his Ethiopian roots. He has consistently used his platform to raise awareness about various social issues affecting Ethiopia, including humanitarian crises and political instability. One of his most significant contributions came in the form of a donation to the World Food Programme in response to the famine in Ethiopia. His charitable acts reflect a desire to support and uplift his homeland.

Additionally, The Weeknd’s investment in the Ethiopian entertainment and arts scene has drawn attention. By supporting local artists and collaborating with Ethiopian creatives, he has further strengthened his connection to the culture. This not only amplifies Ethiopian voices but also showcases the country's diverse talent on a global stage, with The Weeknd serving as a proud ambassador.

The Weeknd’s Future as an Ethiopian Ambassador

The Weeknd’s embrace of his Ethiopian roots signals a larger shift in how he views his identity as an artist and public figure. While he has always been vocal about issues such as mental health, addiction, and relationships, his growing acknowledgment of his Ethiopian heritage provides an added layer of complexity to his public persona.

As The Weeknd continues to evolve as an artist, it's likely that his Ethiopian roots will play a larger role in shaping his future music and philanthropic efforts. Given his global influence, his decision to highlight his heritage could pave the way for more visibility of Ethiopian culture and music in the international music scene. The Weeknd’s journey from a quiet artist to one who embraces his Ethiopian identity is inspiring, not only for those of Ethiopian descent but for anyone seeking to reconnect with their cultural roots.

Conclusion

Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, known worldwide as The Weeknd, is undergoing an exciting transformation as he begins to fully embrace his Ethiopian heritage. After years of subtle nods to his roots, he is now openly celebrating the culture that helped shape him. From his growing appreciation for Ethiopian music to his efforts to support the country’s social causes, The Weeknd’s evolving identity is a testament to the power of cultural pride and personal growth.

As his career continues to flourish, it’s clear that The Weeknd's Ethiopian roots will remain a core part of his identity. Fans can expect to see more of these influences in his music, visuals, and philanthropic efforts, solidifying his place not only as a global superstar but also as an ambassador for Ethiopian culture on the world stage.

Disclaimer:

This article is for informational purposes only and reflects the author’s perspective on The Weeknd’s relationship with his Ethiopian heritage. The artist’s personal beliefs, artistic choices, and cultural connections are subject to change. Always verify current information with trusted sources.