The Weeknd Makes Surprise Comeback at 2025 Grammys After 4-Year Boycott

The Recording Academy and The Weeknd have made amends.
The 34-year-old R&B singer, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, stunned fans by performing unexpectedly at the 2025 Grammy Awards. Against a dark backdrop lit by lights, lasers, and a group of dancers, his show included some of his greatest hits. He performed a combination of songs from his recently released album ‘Hurry Up Tomorrow’, which came out on 31st January: ‘Cry For Me’ and ‘Timeless’.
Citing the covert committees that oversee the nomination process, The Weeknd declared in 2021 that he was “done” with the Grammys. Additionally, he disclosed that he would no longer permit his label to submit his work for review. Following his total removal from the 2021 nominations, this decision was made. The Weeknd called the Grammy Awards “corrupt” and demanded greater openness after the snub.
Image Courtesy: Getty Images
Before The Weeknd’s performance, the Recording Academy’s CEO, Harvey Mason Jr., recognized the controversy. Recalling how The Weeknd’s remarks had made headlines, he said that although criticism was difficult, it also presented a chance for improvement. Mason underlined that the Academy had paid attention to criticism, acted, and worked to increase the diversity of its voting members. He thinks the Academy is moving in the right way, even though there is still more to be done.
Mason emphasized music’s ability to bring people together and heal, which the business desperately needs right now.
–Farheen Ali