With releases from artist such as Janelle Monae, Solange Knowles and Frank Ocean, it is safe to say that r&b has taken the "hipster" route. Blending genres to create a different sound to support the almost poetic in nature lyrics, today's r&b artist are a far cry from the sounds we have come to expect driven by artists such as Mary J Blige. R.Kelly and even Beyonce. (All of which have developed their styles from the r&b of earlier generations).
More recently, The Weeknd has captured this unique sound. Born Abel Tesfaye, this presumably 20 year old Toronto based Canadian singer/ songwriter has made quite a name for himself within the past few weeks with the release of his "House of Balloons" mixtape.
When it comes to The Weeknd, you've either heard one of two things: he's the most refreshing thing to happen to r&b or you've heard nothing about him at all. Prior to the mixtape release, the only music heard from him were youtube videos here and there. But ever since receiving huge support from fellow Canadian artist, Drake (who has been tweeting The Weeknd's lyrics as well as links), a huge fan based developed.
His distinct sound derives from multiple genres of music, electronic synths with hip-hop references. His voice is very similar to that of Trey Songz, but with a Beach House flair. In the mixtape, he does reference drug use, a lot, and "not your everyday 'I like to drink and smoke so lets party type of records' but those 'I like to rail superstar type lines records'". There is a bit of mystery entrapped in his music that leaves the listener unsure of what's factual and what's not while still unable to deny his pure talent.
He often refers to himself as a one man band, but there is a bit of confusion around if that is in fact true. He has said that Doc McKinney and Illangelo did assist in the making of the mixtape, but is very adamant in letting fans and listeners know that The Weeknd consist of only him, Tesfaye.
Stepping on the scene to form a name for himself in what is now being referred to has "hipster" r&b while staying clear of "the weeknd vs. frank ocean" debates, one thing is for sure, with a 8.5 rating from tastemaker Pitchfork and support from the blogging community, this will definitely not be the last of him.
Download The Weeknd's "House Of Balloons" Mixtape:
-Ricki Ryan
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