The Weeknd’s sixth studio album, “Hurry Up Tomorrow,” was released in January and soon led to the debut of a film sharing the same title. The film features the singer, born Abel Tesfaye, in a surreal thriller where he grapples with the aftermath of an onstage incident from 2022 that left him feeling both embarrassed and voiceless. This moment, stemming from significant personal stress, loomed over the artist but didn’t hinder his performance during the latest leg of the After Hours Til Dawn Tour, which took place at Chicago’s Soldier Field on May 30 and 31.
The concerts kicked off with multi-instrumentalist and regular collaborator Mike Dean, followed by rapper Playboi Carti, who energized the crowd with tracks like “Type Shit” and “LIKE WEEZY.” The atmosphere heightened when Carti welcomed special guest Travis Scott to the stage, where they delivered electrifying performances of hits like “goosebumps,” “CRUSH,” and “FE!N.”
The Weeknd made a dramatic entrance against a backdrop featuring a dystopian cityscape and a gold robot statue created by Japanese artist Hajime Sorayama. Clad in a striking black hooded robe and a shiny mask with illuminated eyes, he commenced his set with “The Abyss” from his latest album. Over the course of the night, he performed nearly 40 songs, showcasing his extensive catalog.
Among the standout moments was “The Hills,” which illustrated the fiery passion The Weeknd brings to his performances. He engaged with fans during “Out Of Time,” receiving heartfelt interactions that resonated through the audience. Iconic tracks such as “Can’t Feel My Face,” “I Feel It Coming,” and “Die For You” prompted passionate sing-alongs, while older classics from his 2011 mixtape “House of Balloons” demonstrated his growth and maturity as an artist.
While The Weeknd kept his spoken words minimal, he expressed gratitude toward his Chicago fans for their unwavering support over the past 15 years, demonstrating his deep connection with his audience. His powerful vocals and captivating presence turned any worries about his previous performance setbacks into mere memories, ultimately delivering an unforgettable experience for his fans.
This concert not only marked another significant chapter in The Weeknd’s career but also highlighted his resilience as an artist, showcasing his ability to rise above personal challenges and continue captivating audiences worldwide.