The Weeknd has stepped up with a generous $1 million donation to help aid in Los Angeles’ wildfire recovery efforts, after recent events led to the cancellation of his concert at the Rose Bowl. In partnership with World Food Program USA and his XO Humanitarian Fund, the donation will benefit the LAFD Foundation, GoFundMe’s Wildfire Relief Fund, and the LA Regional Food Bank.
Los Angeles has long been an inspiration for the artist, especially seen in his 2020 album After Hours, which included the track “Escape From LA.” However, wildfires this month led to a delay in his upcoming album Hurry Up Tomorrow and the subsequent concert planned for January 25. Initially set to coincide with the album’s release, the concert was canceled in light of the devastation caused by the fires.
In a statement, The Weeknd shared, “This city has always been a profound source of inspiration for me, and my thoughts are with everyone impacted during this difficult time.” The Hurry Up Tomorrow album release has been rescheduled to January 31.
The decision to delay the album, which features the single “Dancing in the Flames,” reflects The Weeknd’s commitment to supporting fire recovery efforts. “My focus remains on supporting the recovery of these communities and aiding its incredible people as they rebuild,” he added.
This may also be The Weeknd’s final album under that name, with the artist revealing in an interview with Variety that he feels he’s mastered the persona. “No one’s gonna do the Weeknd better than me, and I’m not gonna do it better than what it is right now,” he explained. “Everything needs to feel like a challenge.”
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