‘It’s a little holiday gift’: Inside the Weeknd’s free Santa Monica show for his biggest fans
As I delve into these heartwarming stories of The Weeknd’s fans, I can’t help but feel a surge of admiration for their unwavering devotion to the artist they love. Each fan has their own unique journey, from high school crushes and ex-boyfriends introducing them to his music, to TikTok discoveries that led them across state lines.
In the modern era of digital music streaming, being part of Spotify’s prestigious Billions Club – a playlist showcasing tracks that have been streamed over a billion times – is a significant achievement for any artist. Notable members of this exclusive list include Mariah Carey (“All I Want for Christmas Is You”), Rihanna (“Needed Me”), Fleetwood Mac (“Dreams”), Kendrick Lamar (“All the Stars” featuring SZA), Billie Eilish (“Ocean Eyes”), but it is The Weeknd who holds the record, with a total of 24 songs reaching over one billion streams on Spotify.
In celebration of this significant achievement, the Toronto pop artist collaborated with Spotify to arrange an exclusive, by-invitation-only concert for approximately 2,000 of his most devoted fans – his top 10% listeners on the platform – at the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica on Tuesday evening.
The Weeknd expressed gratitude to long-time fans during his performance, saying, “This is a small token of appreciation for those who’ve been with me since the beginning.” He hinted at some exciting updates for 2025, mentioning new music, tours, movies, and more, promising to make a big impact. His upcoming album, “Hurry Up Tomorrow,” the third part of his “After Hours” / “Dawn FM” series, will be accompanied by a psychological thriller film featuring the singer Abel Tesfaye, along with Jenna Ortega and Barry Keoghan.
Music
On January 24th, the pop-soul artist is set to launch his latest album titled ‘Hurry Up Tomorrow’. Following this, he plans to celebrate the album’s debut with a concert at the Rose Bowl on the 25th.
Joined by his long-term partner Mike Dean on keys and Patrick Greenaway on guitar, The Weeknd took to the stage to perform 20 out of the 24 tracks that earned him a spot on the Billions Club playlist. Among these were popular hits like “Blinding Lights” (Spotify’s most streamed song), “The Hills,” “Can’t Feel My Face,” and “After Hours.” To keep the crowd pumped, he also added three extra songs to the setlist, which included fan favorites such as “São Paulo,” “Timeless,” and “Wicked Games.” Every word was sung along by the enthusiastic audience.
He mentioned that “Wicked Games” didn’t reach a billion views, but he still felt compelled to make it. In his opinion, at least one track from the album “House of Balloons” was essential.
Enthusiasts began queuing as early as 4 a.m., some even camping out, for the eagerly awaited show. A few individuals had journeyed from Newark, N.J., hoping to gain entry despite not possessing tickets to the event. Regrettably, these Jersey fans failed to secure entry due to the lack of tickets. The extraordinary evening offered food trucks such as L.A.’s famous Kogi Korean BBQ, an open bar (for those aged 21 and above), and merchandise from The Weeknd – all complimentary for attendees.
For a worldwide sensation such as The Weeknd, who frequently fills arenas and stadiums across the globe, the occasion offered fans an intimate experience with his music. Interestingly, it may have been the first time since his initial rise to fame that he performed for fewer than 2,000 people. “It reminds me of the ‘Kiss Land’ tour,” he remarked. “Perhaps after the stadium tour, we’ll return to smaller venues. I enjoy this setting.
Ashley Graver, in charge of artist collaborations and overseeing pop, dance, and indie music at Spotify, revealed that The Weeknd and his crew played an active role in every aspect of organizing the event, from designing merchandise to setting up the stage and sound systems.
She commented that this significant achievement truly highlights the global influence of The Weeknd. His triumph is a reflection of his artistic talent and unrelenting ambition to explore new creative realms. At present, ‘Blinding Lights’ stands as Spotify’s most-streamed song, an impressive feat four years after its release, demonstrating his enduring appeal and the dedication of his fanbase.
Prior to the start of the show, we spoke with participants about their devotion towards the subject matter and the significance they attach to being included in this prestigious gathering.
Cole Dizon and Elijah Shen Muralles
Age: Dizon: 20
Shen Muralles: 21
Neighborhood: Dizon: Lancaster
Shen Muralles: South Gate
Have you been a fan of the Weeknd for about two years now? A friend of mine introduced me to some of his popular tunes such as “Die For You” and “Blinding Lights.” Although I was aware of his fame, once I began enjoying his music, I realized he’s quite talented. As I listened to more of his songs on Spotify, I understood why he’s so well-liked. The trend in his music is captivating, which made me listen to him even more.
Shen Muralles: I would hear him here and there and he was always one of the big celebrities, but I didn’t really get deep into it until maybe like a year or two ago. My friend was just blasting his music all the time and I was like, “You know what, I’m going to hear this artist out.” After a few songs, I realized, “Oh my gosh. He’s one of the best sounding artists I’ve ever heard. I should’ve hopped onto the bandwagon sooner.”
What’s your preferred Weeknd track? Here’s mine: “I Feel It Coming.” I wasn’t a fan at the time it came out, but after revisiting it, I realized that it’s a real gem. [Firstly], it brought back memories. [Secondly], I admit I had underestimated its quality; it’s simply amazing.
Shen Muralles: “House of Balloons.” I’m a big fan of the first half. The second half is still really good. However, I think the first half, it’s just the beat, the lyrics, it really just gets me in the mood. Also, “Stargirl Interlude.” I’m a bit of a Lana Del Rey fan. Her voice just hard carries that song.
What’s the experience like attending this exclusive event? It’s absolutely unreal! When I received the invitation from Spotify, I couldn’t help doubting its authenticity… Upon arrival and seeing the queue, I was astounded, thinking “Wow, this is really happening!” We were on edge in line, fearing we might not get in… I’m scheduled to see him in a few weeks at his tour, but this isn’t just an unexpected delight; it’s a heartfelt gesture to the fans.
Shen Muralles: Typically, I don’t splurge on concert tickets, but getting to attend something like this through Spotify feels incredibly unexpected and amazing to me. I’m really thankful to be here because it feels like an extraordinary chance that doesn’t come along often… This is a truly special Christmas present for me.
America Maldonado, Maya Garcia and Kessai Suksanguan
Age:Maldonado: 21 Garcia: 21
Suksanguan: 19
Neighborhood: Maldonado: Downtown L.A. Garcia: Bellflower
Suksanguan: Long Beach
How long have you been a fan of The Weeknd? Maldonado: I’ve been a fan since I was 13, back when I used to listen to his mixtapes.
Garcia: Probably since middle school.
Suksanguan: Around middle school. I would hear him a lot on the radio.
What’s the Weeknd song that resonates most with you?
As a devoted fan, let me express that “Earned It” truly resonates with me. Its simplicity is captivating, and it showcases his exceptional vocal talent, which never fails to impress me.
I’m quite fond of ‘After Hours,’ the entire album by Suksanguan, as well as the creative era it represents for him.
What’s it like being at this elite concert? It’s simply fantastic! Regrettably, I’ve only witnessed him live on stage twice. Despite having followed him for ages, experiencing the freedom and comfort of attending this complimentary gathering is truly remarkable.
Garcia: I’m honestly so glad that he’s doing this show in L.A. I just love being here in L.A.
Suksanguan: It feels incredibly heartwarming that the event was complimentary and exclusive, making us feel truly valued and unique. Plus, its proximity to us adds a great deal of convenience.
Hamza Akmal, Adeeb Ali and Ameer Ali
Age: Ameer: 25Adeeb: 28
Akmal: 29
Neighborhood: Ameer: Whittier Adeeb: West Covina
Akmal: Culver City
Have you been a fan of The Weeknd for quite some time now? Well, it was his collaborations with Drake that got me hooked, especially the songs which were incredibly unique; I hadn’t heard anything like them before. As for you, when did you become a fan? It seems it was around 2011, during your high school years, after a few friends introduced you to his music and since then, you’ve been listening to him.
What’s your favorite song by the Weeknd? Ameer: I’m a big Michael Jackson fan. I love how the Weeknd did “Dirty Diana” [with his song] “D.D.” Adeeb: “Out of Time.” It’s just so pretty. He sampled some Japanese city pop and it sounded really nice.
Akmal: Probably “The Hills.” It’s just too catchy for me. I just love the beat of it and everything.
How does it strike you to attend this exclusive event?
Shenita and Kenyah Moore
Age: Kenyah: 18
Shenita: 48
Neighborhood: Kenyah: Santa Monica
Shenita: Santa Monica
Have you been a fan of The Weeknd for a long time?
What’s your favorite song by the Weeknd?
Kenyah: “In the Night.” I like the story that it tells.
As a movie enthusiast, I can’t help but feel privileged to be here at this exclusive screening. The anticipation is palpable, knowing that we’re witnessing the fruit of his labor – a milestone achieved by accumulating billions of streams across multiple songs. It’s an extraordinary experience!
Grace Chandler, Jessie Sheridan and Isabella Elsesser
Age: Chandler: 20 Sheridan: 20
Elsesser: 19
Neighborhood: Chandler: Long Beach Sheridan: San Luis Obispo
Elsesser: Long Beach
Have you been a fan of The Weeknd since “The Hills” was released, which I believe was around the time I was in the fifth grade? That’s when I first remember hearing it everywhere, and I found myself playing it non-stop with my mom and sister. It all started with the beat, really.
From the third grade onwards, my sister introduced me to music, although I can’t remember which album it was. Ever since then, I have been singing his songs. He has been a significant part of my life, and he remains my musical idol.
Elsesser mentioned that he learned about the song from “The Hills,” specifically its Echos Remix. A female artist performs it in a house-dubstep style which resonated with him since he’s fond of dubstep music. His reaction was enthusiastic, exclaiming “Yes! Yes! I love this!
As a fan, I’ve got to say, among all the Weeknd’s songs, “Stargirl Interlude” and “Save Your Tears” really strike a chord with me. But when “The Morning” comes on, it feels like I’m living the lyrics – “I’m the girl, I’m the money, I’m the motive.” And let’s not forget “São Paulo” featuring Anitta. It’s pure fire!
How does it feel to attend this elite event?
Zachary Cutting
Age: 37
Neighborhood: Belmont, Calif.
When did you become a fan of The Weeknd? I used to work as security at the Fonda Theatre, but he wasn’t famous back then. One day, I heard him perform, and he sang “Dirty Diana”. That song caught my attention, so I started following his career, and I’ve been a fan ever since.
By any chance, which track from The Weeknd do you cherish most? For me, it’s ‘Is There Somebody Else?’ and I often find myself pondering that question when conversing with others, like, ‘Wonder if there’s someone else they might be thinking about?’ [laughs]
What’s the experience like for you at this private concert, given that I’ve only caught him performing once before, and I’m quite thrilled about it?
Carmen Flores and Marco De La Cruz
Age: Flores: 25
De La Cruz: 26
Neighborhood: Maywood
Have you been a fan of The Weeknd for around how long? I believe it was during my middle school years, as my sister introduced me to his music.
De La Cruz: Around 2015-2016, probably during the “Trilogy” era.
What’s the Weeknd song that you most enjoy?
De La Cruz: “After Hours.” Just the whole production on that song and his vocals.
What’s your experience like being here at this exclusive event?
Flores: It means a lot to me, but I’ll be seeing him again next month, and I also caught him with Mike Dean on March 1st at The Wiltern when he came out with Travis Scott. That was absolutely incredible!
David Reyes
Age: 19
Neighborhood: Riverside
When did your appreciation for The Weeknd begin? That’s when my sister introduced me to him, specifically with “Starboy,” and I’ve been listening to it ever since.
What’s your favorite song by the Weeknd?
“Die For You” for sure. It’s just a classic. 10/10.
What’s the special vibe of attending this exclusive event with Abel and Spotify? It’s quite extraordinary to witness such thoughtful gestures from artists towards their supporters.
Jonathan Serna and Catherine Carrasco
Age: Carrasco: 25
Serna: 26
Neighborhood:Carrasco: Santa Ana
Serna: Santa Ana
How long have you been a devoted follower of The Weeknd?
What’s the Weeknd song you enjoy the most?
What’s your experience like at this exclusive event? Carrasco: I’m absolutely thrilled. I’ve caught a glimpse of him a couple of times before, but this time it’s a complimentary show.
Jorge Martinez
Age: 20
Location: Our residence is in Newark, New Jersey. I stumbled upon a couple of TikTok videos about two days ago regarding Spotify’s event. Unfortunately, we use Apple Music and thus didn’t receive an invite. However, I had hoped that Abel might drop by and sign our vinyl while wearing her “After Hours” hoodie. We made this trip especially for the SoFi show in November, celebrating its three-year anniversary. After returning once before, we traveled a considerable distance to be here again.
Have I been a fan of The Weeknd for long? Absolutely! Ever since “After Hours” dropped, I’ve been hooked. I found it fantastic. Attending his latest concert was like living a dream. My next dream? Hopefully getting to meet him in person someday!
As a dedicated fan, I must confess that my personal favorite track from the Weeknd is “After Hours.” There’s just something about the gradual build-up to the beat drop that really speaks to me, and the 808s in it are simply fantastic!
Why did you travel all the way to L.A., without tickets, for the opportunity to witness the show? Well, getting inside the venue or even meeting the artist would mean a great deal to us. We’re considering going to the concert at the Rose Bowl. We just have to give it a shot!
Regrettably, Jorge’s girlfriend and sister weren’t able to attend the show as they didn’t possess tickets.
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2024-12-19 22:02