‘’The Idol’’ star Abel Tesfaye, famously known as The Weeknd, takes center stage on Vanity Fair’s June 2023 cover, beautifully captured by Mark Seliger. Donned in Prada and accessorized with a classic Rolex, Tesfaye showcases his unique style.
The Los Angeles-based cover story, with its background being Tesfaye’s own residence, is a fashion exhibition curated by stylist Matthew Henson. The array of designer wear includes pieces from notable labels such as Ferragamo, Bottega Veneta, Gabriela Hearst, Umit Benan B+, Gucci and Miu Miu.
The expert team crafting the look includes Daronn Carr, who’s in charge of Tesfaye’s hair, Christine Nelli on grooming duties, and Hasmik Kourinian handling tailoring. Adding the finishing touches to the ambiance, the set design is meticulously curated by Thomas Thurnauer.
Abel Tesfaye has been a transformative figure in the pop music landscape over the past decade. From his humble beginnings in Toronto to his meteoric rise to global stardom, Tesfaye has consistently pushed the boundaries of what pop music can be, infusing it with elements of R&B, soul, and electronic music. Now, he is set to take on a new challenge, transitioning into the world of film and television with a HBO series, “The Idol“.
Tesfaye’s journey to stardom was anything but conventional. He began his career by anonymously releasing music on YouTube under the moniker The Weeknd. His unique blend of musical styles and themes quickly garnered a cult following, and his enigmatic persona only added to his allure. Despite his initial obscurity, Tesfaye’s grand ambitions were evident from the start. He was not content with being a niche artist; he sought global recognition and success.
His music, often characterized by themes of shame, dissolution, and seduction, resonated with a broad audience. Tesfaye’s songs often feature a grinning, wounded villain, a character that is deeply flawed yet undeniably compelling. His ability to fuse chaos and glamour into his music has been a key factor in his success.
Over the years, Tesfaye has hinted at his interest in other mediums, often incorporating noirish tropes and frequent references to film in his music. This interest has culminated in his upcoming HBO series, “The Idol“, which he co-created with filmmaker Sam Levinson. In the series, Tesfaye plays a Los Angeles nightlife showman who mentors a young pop singer, a role that seems to mirror his own journey in the music industry.
The Weeknd’s transition to television has not been without controversy. Some critics have expressed skepticism about the show, citing concerns about its portrayal of women and its potential to glorify toxic behavior. However, Tesfaye has defended the show, arguing that it reflects the darker aspects of the music industry and Hollywood.
Despite the controversy, there is no denying The Weeknd‘s impact on pop culture. His music has become a mainstay in the mainstream, influencing other artists and shaping the sound of pop music. His move into television is a testament to his ambition and his desire to continue pushing boundaries.
In the words of Tesfaye himself, “I’ve always had to bet on myself. Even before I was The Weeknd, just in life. As soon as I got out of my mother’s womb, it’s been, ‘Bet on yourself. It’s not gonna be easy, you know?’ And I’m fine with that”.
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