Why Did The Weeknd Grow His Hair Like That? A Deep Dive into His Iconic Look
For a significant portion of his meteoric rise to global superstardom, Abel Tesfaye, better known as The Weeknd, sported a truly distinctive hairstyle: a voluminous, often gravity-defying mass of dark, curly hair. It became as much a part of his brand as his husky falsetto and dark, R&B-infused sound. But why the specific style? What was the reasoning behind that unforgettable mane?
While there isn't one single, definitive "aha!" moment The Weeknd himself has pinpointed as the sole inspiration, the evolution of his hairstyle is deeply intertwined with his artistic persona, his cultural influences, and his journey as an artist. Let's break down the likely factors contributing to that iconic look.
Early Days and Artistic Identity
When Tesfaye first emerged from Toronto's underground music scene with his 2011 mixtape, House of Balloons, his aesthetic was intentionally enigmatic. He remained largely out of the public eye, letting his music speak for itself. The voluminous, slightly unkempt, curly hair was a stark contrast to the more polished, often buzzed or neatly styled looks of many of his contemporaries at the time.
This "anti-image" approach to his early career was a deliberate choice. It fostered an air of mystery and allowed listeners to focus on the raw, often dark and introspective themes in his music. The hair, in this context, became a visual representation of his untamed talent and his outsider status in the music industry. It was a look that said, "I'm here to make music, not to conform to conventional pop star norms."
Cultural Influences and Nostalgia
It's also undeniable that Tesfaye's hair drew inspiration from a rich cultural tapestry. Many fans and critics have pointed to the influence of 1980s and 1990s R&B and hip-hop artists. Think of the iconic looks of artists like:
- Bobby Brown: His larger-than-life curls in the late 80s and early 90s were a signature.
- Kid 'n Play: While more of a high-top fade, their voluminous styles represented a bold, expressive approach to hair.
- Other R&B crooners: Many artists from that era embraced natural texture and volume, showcasing a more relaxed yet still stylish presentation.
The Weeknd often cites influences from this era, and his hair can be seen as a modern homage to that golden age of R&B. It evoked a sense of nostalgia for a time when artists expressed themselves through unique and memorable visual styles, a stark contrast to the often homogenized looks seen in mainstream music today.
The "Starboy" Era and Evolution
As The Weeknd's fame grew, so did the visibility of his hair. The release of his album Starboy in 2016 saw him embracing an even more amplified version of his signature style. This era was characterized by a more confident and flamboyant persona, and his hair became a focal point of his visual identity.
During this period, the hair was often styled in a more deliberate way, sometimes appearing even more voluminous and perfectly sculpted. It was less about the raw, unkempt mystery of his early days and more about a bold, iconic statement. It was a declaration of his arrival as a global superstar, and the hair was his crown.
A Symbol of Artistic Growth
Ultimately, The Weeknd's hair, in its various iterations, has been a powerful visual metaphor for his artistic evolution. From the mysterious newcomer to the confident, chart-topping global phenomenon, his hairstyle has mirrored his journey. It was a way to stand out, to connect with his roots, and to express a unique artistic vision.
While he has since experimented with different looks, including shorter styles and even a shaved head for the *After Hours* era, the memory of his iconic voluminous curls remains etched in the minds of millions. It was more than just hair; it was a statement, a symbol, and an undeniable part of The Weeknd's legacy.
FAQ: The Weeknd's Hair
Why was The Weeknd's hair so big?
The Weeknd's iconic voluminous hair was a combination of his natural curl pattern, strategic styling, and a deliberate artistic choice. It was likely amplified through various styling techniques to create the dramatic, gravity-defying look that became synonymous with his early career and evolved throughout his "Starboy" era.
How did The Weeknd style his hair like that?
While specific techniques remain his personal secret, it's widely believed that The Weeknd used products to enhance his natural curl definition and volume. This could have included curl-enhancing creams, mousses, and potentially blow-drying techniques to achieve maximum loft and shape. The sheer volume suggests a dedication to maintaining and styling his natural texture.
Was The Weeknd's hair a wig?
For the most part, especially during his earlier years and the "Starboy" era, the voluminous hair was considered his natural hair, albeit styled and possibly enhanced. He has, however, experimented with different looks and lengths over the years, and it's possible he may have used extensions or wigs for certain specific looks or performances, as many artists do.
What does The Weeknd's hair represent?
The Weeknd's hair initially represented his enigmatic persona and his departure from typical pop star aesthetics. It evoked a sense of raw talent and artistic authenticity. Later, it evolved to symbolize his confidence, his global superstardom, and a nod to the influential R&B artists of the 1980s and 1990s. It became a powerful visual identifier for his music and brand.
