The Weeknd showcased his artistic prowess during an unforgettable appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, just hours before the release of his highly anticipated album, Hurry Up Tomorrow. With a performance of “Open Hearts” that felt more like a cinematic event than a traditional live show, The Weeknd—whose real name is Abel Tesfaye—captivated viewers with a striking blend of music and visual storytelling.
The performance commenced in stark black and white, with The Weeknd cloaked in a shadowy robe, his glowing eyes providing an ethereal touch that drew audiences into a surreal experience reminiscent of David Lynch’s cinematic style. As the song unfolded, the stage transformed into a mesmerizing animated, stop-motion dreamscape, with jarring transitions and uncanny imagery. This intriguing visual narrative hinted at the darker themes that underpin his new album.
Hurry Up Tomorrow, released under XO/Republic Records, completes a trilogy that includes his previous works, After Hours (2020) and Dawn FM (2022). The album has been described as deeply introspective, featuring high-profile collaborations with artists like Playboi Carti, whose track “Timeless” debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, and Anitta. Notably, Lana Del Rey makes an uncredited appearance on “The Abyss,” further igniting discussions among fans.
The album’s release had initially been scheduled for January 24, but The Weeknd delayed it to donate $1 million to LA wildfire relief efforts, which included canceling a planned concert. In addition, proceeds from the track “Take Me Back to LA” are earmarked for the LA Regional Food Bank, exemplifying The Weeknd’s commitment to giving back to the community.
As he transitions to his feature film debut, also titled Hurry Up Tomorrow, The Weeknd’s commitment to storytelling through music and visuals is becoming increasingly ambitious. The film, directed by Trey Edward Shults and starring Jenna Ortega and Barry Keoghan, is expected to explore similar imaginative realms as demonstrated in his live performance and album.
In conjunction with the album’s release, The Weeknd has launched a series of immersive experiences designed for fans. These include the Hurry Up Tomorrow Pop-Up Experience in New York City, an interactive exhibition created in collaboration with Spotify that allows fans to step into The Weeknd’s creative world from January 31 to February 2. Furthermore, Hot Topic will feature an expansive merchandise collection tied to Hurry Up Tomorrow, making the release even more special.
With these artistic ventures, The Weeknd emphasizes that his journey is not just about music alone; it’s about forging deeper connections and creating memorable experiences for his audience. As he possibly approaches a new chapter, fans can remain hopeful that his innovative spirit will continue to shine, providing endless creative possibilities ahead.