The Weeknd, one of the world’s biggest music stars, made a triumphant and unexpected return to the Grammy stage on February 2, 2025. The surprise performance left fans and viewers in awe as the Toronto-born artist delivered an electrifying set alongside rapper Playboi Carti at the 67th Annual Grammy Awards, held at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles.
This remarkable moment marked the end of The Weeknd’s public boycott of the prestigious awards show, which he had maintained since 2021 after his critically acclaimed album After Hours received no nominations. His return sent shockwaves through the music industry and signaled a new chapter in his relationship with the Recording Academy.
A Show-Stopping Performance
The night took an exciting turn when Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, introduced The Weeknd to the stage after an extended tease that had audiences on the edge of their seats. As the lights dimmed and smoke filled the arena, a hooded figure in a trench coat rose above the stage—it was The Weeknd, ready to reclaim his throne.
He kicked off the performance with a fiery rendition of Cry for Me, a standout track from his latest album Hurry Up Tomorrow. The song, produced by Metro Boomin, captivated the audience with its intense beats and emotional lyrics. The stage design featured flailing dancers clad in full bodysuits, creating a visually stunning spectacle that perfectly complemented the artist’s magnetic presence.
Just when the audience thought the performance couldn’t get any more thrilling, laser beams illuminated the stage, signaling the arrival of Playboi Carti. The rapper joined The Weeknd for a high-energy rendition of their Billboard Hot 100 top-three hit Timeless. Together, they brought an infectious energy that had the entire arena on its feet.
A Journey to Change
The Weeknd’s return to the Grammys was more than just a performance; it was a symbol of reconciliation and progress. Back in 2021, the artist, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, had publicly criticized the Recording Academy after being snubbed despite the massive success of After Hours. At the time, he vowed to boycott the awards show, calling out what he perceived as a lack of transparency and fairness in the nomination process.
His decision to return was influenced by significant changes made by the Recording Academy under the leadership of Harvey Mason Jr. In his introduction, Mason Jr. acknowledged The Weeknd’s frustrations and emphasized the Academy’s commitment to listening, learning, and evolving.
“Criticism is OK. I heard him, I felt his conviction,” Mason Jr. said. “What we all want is an organization dedicated to the well-being of all music makers.”
To that end, the Academy has made strides to address issues of diversity and inclusion. Over the past few years, they have added more than 3,000 women voting members and increased the representation of people of color to nearly 40 percent. Mason Jr. expressed confidence that these changes were steps in the right direction.
“I firmly believe we’re on the right path,” he said. “What better way to bring us together than this next artist.” With those words, he welcomed The Weeknd back into the Grammy fold, marking a significant moment in the history of the awards show.
The Road to Reconciliation
The Weeknd’s relationship with the Grammys has been tumultuous, to say the least. His 2021 snub sparked widespread outrage among fans and industry insiders alike, with many questioning the credibility of the awards process. Despite his absence from subsequent shows, The Weeknd’s influence and popularity only continued to grow.
His albums and singles consistently topped charts, and he became a global phenomenon known for his genre-defying music, innovative visuals, and captivating live performances. While the Grammys may have overlooked him in the past, his impact on the music industry was undeniable.
The decision to return to the Grammy stage was not made lightly. It was a testament to the progress the Recording Academy has made and the power of dialogue and change. By acknowledging past mistakes and taking concrete steps to improve, the Academy created an environment where artists like The Weeknd felt valued and respected.
A Night to Remember
The Weeknd’s performance at the 2025 Grammys will undoubtedly go down as one of the most memorable moments in the show’s history. His powerful delivery of Cry for Me and Timeless showcased his unmatched talent and cemented his status as one of the greatest performers of his generation.
For fans, it was a long-awaited moment of vindication and celebration. Social media buzzed with reactions, with many praising The Weeknd for his artistry and resilience. Playboi Carti’s dynamic presence added an extra layer of excitement, making the performance a true highlight of the night.
A Symbol of Progress
The Weeknd’s return to the Grammys was more than just a personal victory; it was a symbol of progress for the music industry as a whole. His willingness to take a stand and advocate for change set an example for other artists and highlighted the importance of accountability and inclusivity.
As the Recording Academy continues to evolve, moments like this serve as reminders of the power of music to bring people together and drive meaningful change. The Weeknd’s journey from boycott to comeback is a testament to the transformative power of dialogue, empathy, and action.
Looking Ahead
With his return to the Grammy stage, The Weeknd has once again proven that he is a force to be reckoned with. As he gears up for his upcoming tour with Playboi Carti, fans can look forward to more groundbreaking performances and unforgettable music.
The 2025 Grammy Awards may have marked the end of The Weeknd’s boycott, but it also signaled the beginning of a new era—one where artists and institutions can come together to create a more inclusive and equitable music industry. For The Weeknd, this is just the beginning of another exciting chapter in his illustrious career.