How The Weeknd Taught Himself to Sing: A Journey to Vocal Mastery

The Weeknd, whose real name is Abel Tesfaye, is a testament to the power of self-taught musicians. Despite not having the benefit of a formal vocal coach early in his career, The Weeknd honed his skills through relentless practice and a deep dive into the music that inspired him.

The Self-Taught Voice

The Weeknd has never shied away from discussing his journey to becoming the singer he is today. He has openly talked about his deep interest in studying the vocal styles of various artists during his formative years. His unique ability to blend genres and his distinctive voice have made him one of the most recognized and successful artists in contemporary music.

Learning from Influences

According to The Weeknd, his vocal development was driven by a love for various styles of music, particularly RB and hip-hop. He absorbed the techniques and styles of these artists, often emulating their sounds in his own practice sessions. This hands-on approach to learning helped him develop his signature vocal range and style.

The Role of Technology

While not strictly a traditional vocal coach, The Weeknd has also benefited from modern technology. Apps like Voixtek have made it easier for him to practice and improve his skills. These tools allow him to experiment with different sounds and refine his performance, even when he is on the go.

The Use of Ethiopic Music

One of the lesser-known aspects of The Weeknd's vocal training is his exposure to Ethiopian music. This unique style has influenced his vocal techniques and contributed to the distinctive sound that we hear in his music today. Listening to Ethiopian artists helped him develop a vocal flexibility and range that is evident in his songwriting and performance.

The Church Background

Another potential influence on The Weeknd's singing is his religious background. Growing up, he was deeply religious, part of a church community where singing might have been a regular and important aspect of worship. This could have provided him with a structured environment to practice and refine his vocal skills.

Promotional Work with Vocal Coaches

While The Weeknd may have honed his skills through self-study, there is evidence that he has worked with vocal coaches over time. During his tour, particularly with the Kissland tour, The Weeknd was seen in promotional videos alongside a vocal coach. This suggests that even as his profile grew, he continued to seek out professional guidance to further refine his skills.

Skill and Talent

The Weeknd's vocal talent is undeniable. His ability to blend different musical genres, from RB and soul to his signature alternative sound, is a testament to his natural talent and extensive practice. He wrote many of his songs himself, often reflecting on his experiences with homelessness and drug addiction, which gave his music a raw and emotional depth.

Conclusion

The Weeknd's journey to vocal mastery is one of determination, innovation, and the power of self-directed learning. While he may have received some professional coaching as his career progressed, much of his unique voice and skill can be attributed to the early days of self-study and relentless practice. His story serves as an inspiration to aspiring musicians everywhere, showing that with dedication and a passion for music, greatness is attainable.