The Weeknd in Sydney: Live review

Abel Tesfaye, better known as The Weeknd, is an enigma.

At the Accor Stadium in Sydney, fans sang along to almost every song from the Canadian artist’s work without knowing much about the man behind the music. His lyrics offer only a tantalizing glimpse into his life, and he remains one of pop culture’s most elusive figures.

Fresh from a collaboration with Travis Scott at Allianz Stadium, The Weeknd’s set seamlessly bridges the gap between a vibrant music festival and a transcendent sermon.

After a dazzling line-up of opening acts – including Australian DJ Anna Lunoe, Toronto R&B sensation Chxrry22 and multi-instrumentalist Mike Dean – the anticipation in the air was electric. This was the moment fans had been waiting for, especially since The Weeknd’s shows were postponed in December 2023 due to “logistical constraints.”

As images of an Edwardian door flickered across the oversized screen, the stage transformed into a stunning cathedral with soaring spiers. The cheers of tens of thousands in this sold-out show signaled our readiness to enter the artist’s church.

With a booming drumbeat, he exited the third level of his sanctuary and launched into “The Crowd,” a new track from his highly anticipated album Hurry up tomorrow. The audience was immediately drawn into his world. Clad in clerical robes, The Weeknd sang with earnestness, his red-clad followers mesmerized by his every word.

“Sydney, it’s been far too long,” he declared, looking down at his loyal followers. As he delved into “Wake Me Up,” another cut from his upcoming album, he realized the evening was full of surprises.

@nicwkelly

The Weeknd called Sydney Night 1 his favorite crowd yet – and then played us a brand new song #hurryuptomorrow #theweeknd #sydney

♬ Original sound – Nic Kelly

The setlist flowed effortlessly as he segued into hits like “Can’t Feel My Face” and “The Hills.” Each song ignited bursts of fire on the stage, as if taking us on a journey from hell to heaven. “It’s all a lot,” he remarked, “but we’re just getting started, Sydney.”

In addition to his originals, The Weeknd delivered stunning covers including Kanye West’s “Hurricane,” Future’s “Low Life” and Metro Boomin’s “Creepin’.” He gave each cover his signature style, revised the lyrics and added personal touches.

As he ended with “Too Late,” the lights dimmed for a moment before he surprised the audience with an extended set. “I want to give you something exclusive,” he shouted as “Open Hearts” echoed through the stadium, driven by a rousing EDM beat from Oscar Holter and Max Martin. The evening culminated in a breathtaking performance of “Moth to a Flame,” complete with fireworks lighting up the sky.

With every note, the power of The Weeknd’s vocals was undeniable – he rivals the likes of Michael Jackson and possesses one of the most magnetic voices of his generation. On his Australian tour he proved he was at his best, preaching to a choir of adoring fans.