The Weeknd Snubbed Again: Grammys Miss the Mark in 2025

The 2025 Grammy nominations have sparked outrage among fans, with many expressing disbelief over the exclusion of The Weeknd, the stage name of Canadian artist Abel Tesfaye. Despite a decade of chart-topping success and critical acclaim, his latest album, Hurry Up Tomorrow, received no nominations, reigniting debates about the Recording Academy’s recognition of contemporary talent.

The Weeknd has been a prominent figure in global music since his breakthrough album, Beauty Behind the Madness, released in 2015. The artist is known for an impressive career marked by over 86.9 billion streams and a unique blend of pop and R&B. Yet, his relationship with the Grammys has been tumultuous. In 2020, he publicly criticized the Academy after his acclaimed album, After Hours, received no nominations, leading him to boycott future submissions. This year’s omission feels like a continuation of that pattern, leaving many disillusioned.

In previous years, the Academy’s decisions have often left fans questioning their criteria. After receiving nominations but losing major categories for Beauty Behind the Madness, and later for Starboy, fans sensed a disconnect between the artist’s cultural impact and the recognition he received. Last year, The Weeknd made a surprise return to the Grammys stage, performing “Cry for Me” from his latest album, which led many to believe that reconciliation was possible.

Despite the optimism following his performance, the recent nominations dashed those hopes. “Cry for Me” not being nominated for “Best Pop Solo Performance” has left fans incredulous. The track showcases The Weeknd’s signature sound with lush production and haunting vocals, dominating streaming platforms and receiving critical praise. This snub highlights a troubling trend of overlooking The Weeknd’s artistic evolution, which has consistently pushed the boundaries of R&B.

The artist has been praised for his ability to reinvent his sound across albums, from the melancholic tones of Trilogy to the futuristic vibe of Starboy. His 2013 album, Kiss Land, remains a cult favorite, often overlooked at its release, yet celebrated for its innovation. This constant evolution poses a challenge for the Academy, as it struggles to reward an artist who defies traditional metrics of success.

The Weeknd’s influence extends beyond music; he has shaped cultural narratives and inspired a new generation of artists. His music is not just popular; it has become a defining element of contemporary R&B. The disconnect between the Academy’s nominations and the broader cultural landscape raises questions about their criteria for “excellence.”

As mentioned in an interview, Hurry Up Tomorrow represents a watershed moment in Tesfaye’s career. He described the album as a culmination of his artistic journey, marking the end of his time as “The Weeknd.” This milestone adds to the sting of the latest snub, suggesting that the Academy’s decisions may be more than mere oversight; they reflect a deeper struggle to adapt to a changing music landscape.

The ongoing exclusion of The Weeknd from the Grammy nominations suggests a personal rift rather than a reflection of his artistic merit. His willingness to challenge industry norms may have created a barrier between him and the Academy. Despite this, his music continues to resonate globally, with sold-out tours and an ever-expanding fan base.

Ultimately, The Weeknd’s absence from this year’s nominations illustrates a larger issue within the Grammy Awards. The Academy’s failure to recognize influential artists like Tesfaye indicates a reluctance to evolve alongside the music industry. As The Weeknd continues to redefine the soundscape of R&B, his sidelining by an institution that should celebrate musical excellence underscores a fundamental disconnect that may not easily be resolved.