As the devastating California wildfires continue to wreak havoc, major music stars are stepping up to support impacted communities. The Weeknd, also known as Abel Tesfaye, announced today that he is postponing the release of his highly anticipated sixth studio album, Hurry Up Tomorrow. Originally slated to drop on January 24th, the album will now arrive one week later on the 31st.
In a heartfelt Instagram post, the R&B sensation explained, “This city has always been a profound source of inspiration for me, and my thoughts are with everyone impacted during this difficult time. Out of respect and concern for the people of LA county, I have decided to push back the album release.” Tesfaye emphasized that his focus now “remains on supporting the recovery of these communities and aiding its incredible people as they rebuild.”
Trilogy Conclusion Delayed, Rose Bowl Show Canceled
Hurry Up Tomorrow marks the final chapter in the Weeknd’s album trilogy, following the massive success of After Hours and Dawn FM. The project boasts an all-star lineup of featured artists and producers including Playboi Carti, Anitta, Max Martin, and Pharrell Williams. Fans have been eagerly awaiting this conclusion to the musical saga.
However, Tesfaye recognizes there are more pressing matters at hand. Along with the album delay, he has canceled his sold-out January 25th concert at the Rose Bowl stadium in LA. Ticket holders will receive full refunds as the musician redirects his efforts towards wildfire relief.
Beyoncé Also Postpones Announcement While Grammys Proceed
Queen Bey is following suit, delaying a major announcement that was planned for January 14th. In her own statement, Beyoncé said “I continue to pray for healing and rebuilding for the families suffering from trauma and loss.” She called on fans to join her BeyGood foundation in supporting fire victims after personally donating $2.5 million to relief efforts.
Meanwhile, the Grammy Awards will move forward as scheduled on February 2nd at LA’s Crypto.com Arena. Recording Academy CEO Harvey Mason Jr. confirmed the show will go on, but “with a renewed sense of purpose – raising additional funds to support wildfire relief efforts and honoring the bravery of first responders.”
As the Weeknd, I’ve said everything I can say. I’ll still make music, maybe as Abel, maybe as the Weeknd. But I still want to kill the Weeknd. And I will. Eventually.
– The Weeknd to W Magazine, 2023
Music Industry Unites to Help LA Rebuild
With flames still raging and winds picking up again, the road to recovery for LA county will be long and difficult. But the music community is banding together to provide much-needed support:
- Universal Music Group is canceling all Grammy week events and redirecting resources to wildfire relief
- The Weeknd’s XO Humanitarian Fund previously donated $4.5 million to hunger relief in areas like Gaza
- Corporations and artists across genres are using their platforms to rally fans and raise additional aid funds
While Hurry Up Tomorrow and other musical milestones may have to wait, stars like the Weeknd and Beyoncé recognize that helping communities in crisis takes priority. Through charitable action and using their voices to mobilize millions of followers, the industry’s top talents are determined to help LA rise from the ashes and rebuild even stronger.
