What Is The Weeknd’s Net Worth?
As of today, March 31, 2025, The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Makkonen Tesfaye, boasts a substantial net worth of $300 million. This financial success is primarily attributed to his multifaceted career as a recording artist, record producer, and astute entrepreneur. His influence in the Hip-Hop/Rap/R&B genres is undeniable, marked by a unique musical style that has garnered both critical acclaim and widespread commercial success.
The Weeknd’s Diverse Income Streams
The Weeknd’s financial portfolio is diversified across various revenue streams. A significant portion of his wealth stems from music sales, with over 70 million records sold in the United States alone. His discography includes multiple platinum-certified albums and singles, contributing substantially to his overall earnings. Concert tours also play a pivotal role in his income. During touring years, The Weeknd can generate upwards of $90 million before taxes. For example, between June 2017 and June 2018, his earnings reached a staggering $90 million, primarily from touring and record sales. His entrepreneurial ventures, including collaborations with brands and his “XO” branded merchandise, further augment his income. He has collaborated with companies spanning various industries, from condom manufacturers to e-cigarette producers, in addition to serving as a brand ambassador for Puma and being one of the prominent faces of Apple Music.
Real Estate Holdings
The Weeknd’s real estate investments reflect his high net worth and discerning taste. In December 2019, he acquired a penthouse in Los Angeles overlooking the prestigious Beverly Hills Country Club for $21 million. This property incurs a monthly HOA fee of $6,800, indicative of the luxury amenities and prime location. The Weeknd previously owned a three-acre estate in Hidden Hills, California, purchased in June 2017 for $18 million. The property features a 13,000-square-foot residence with nine bedrooms and 11 bathrooms, along with a 1,200-square-foot guest house. He sold this home to Madonna in April 2021 for $20 million. In August 2021, The Weeknd made a significant real estate investment by purchasing a 33,000-square-foot mansion in Bel Air, Los Angeles, for $70 million. Situated on 1.6 acres, this property offers panoramic views of the Bel-Air Country Club and includes amenities such as an indoor pool, sports court, movie theater, gym, music studio, and outdoor pool.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Abel Makkonen Tesfaye was born on February 16, 1990, in Toronto, Ontario. Raised by his mother and grandmother, The Weeknd’s early life was shaped by his Ethiopian heritage and involvement in the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. He began experimenting with drugs at age 11 and dropped out of high school before his final year. His stage name, “The Weeknd,” originated from his decision to leave high school and his family’s house “one weekend and never came home.” In the early stages of his music career, The Weeknd collaborated with producer Jeremy Rose, who envisioned creating “dark R&B.” Rose produced several songs featuring The Weeknd, then using monikers like “Kin Kane” and “The Noise.” These tracks were uploaded to YouTube, gaining The Weeknd a substantial following and attracting the attention of Drake. The Weeknd’s first major release was the mixtape “House of Balloons,” which included tracks produced with Jeremy Rose (though Rose was not initially credited). The album’s success led to collaborations with Drake, including touring together, with The Weeknd as the opening act.
Breakthrough and Subsequent Success
In 2012, The Weeknd partnered with Republic Records in a joint venture that established his own imprint, XO. This collaboration resulted in the release of “Trilogy,” a compilation of his first three mixtapes, finally crediting Jeremy Rose for his contributions. The album reached number four on the U.S. Billboard 200. His first studio album, “Kiss Land,” was released a year later and debuted at number two on the U.S. Billboard Top 200. The following years saw The Weeknd collaborating with artists like Justin Timberlake and Ariana Grande, in addition to extensive touring. “Beauty Behind the Madness,” The Weeknd’s second studio album released in 2015, sold 412,000 units in its first week and reached the top spot on the U.S. Billboard 200. The Weeknd achieved a Guinness World Record in 2017 for the Most Streamed Album on Spotify in One Year. In 2020, he announced his next album, “After Hours,” followed by “Dawn FM” in 2022. These albums have significantly boosted the Weeknd’s net worth.
Business Ventures and Investments
Beyond music, The Weeknd has ventured into various business endeavors. He owns shares in the esports company OverActive Media Group, showcasing his interest in diverse investment opportunities. In August 2020, he partnered with TD Bank to launch Black HXOUSE, aiming to support emerging Black creatives. The Weeknd has also explored the NFT market, auctioning off visual artwork and an unreleased song on Nifty Gateway in March 2021. He joined Tom Brady’s NFT platform, Autograph, as a board member in October 2021, further solidifying his presence in the digital asset space. These investments and partnerships have helped The Weeknd increase his net worth.
The Weeknd’s Musical Style and Influences
The Weeknd is primarily recognized as a singer, although his music is often associated with rap and hip-hop genres. His musical style is influenced by artists such as Michael Jackson and Prince. His lyrics frequently explore themes of emotional intensity, blending indie and electronic styles with R&B. This unique musical style has garnered critical acclaim and has contributed to the Weeknd’s overall brand and success, therefore, increasing his net worth.
Philanthropic Efforts and Recognition
The Weeknd has demonstrated a commitment to philanthropy through various charitable initiatives. He donated $1 million in April 2021 through the United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) to support relief efforts in Ethiopia, addressing the Tigray War’s impact on the region. In March 2022, he partnered with the WFP to launch the XO Humanitarian Fund, donating $1 from every ticket sold during his After Hours til Dawn Tour, along with a personal donation of $500,000. The Weeknd’s achievements have been recognized with numerous awards, including four Grammy Awards, a Latin Grammy Award, 20 Billboard Awards, 22 Junos, six American Music Awards, and two MTV Video Music Awards. These awards further solidify the Weeknd as a leader in the music industry.