The Weeknd Surpasses Michael Jackson as Highest-Grossing Tour by a Black Artist. In a monumental achievement, Canadian pop star The Weeknd has shattered records and cemented his place in history as the highest-grossing tour by a black artist.
His “After Hours Till Dawn Stadium Tour” has surpassed the legendary Michael Jackson’s iconic “Bad Tour” from 1987, which previously held the record with a gross of $311 million after adjusting for inflation.
The Weeknd’s tour, in support of his chart-topping albums “After Hours” and “Dawn FM,” has already raked in a staggering $350 million in revenue.
The After Hours Till Dawn tour has been a global sensation since its launch in the summer of 2022. The Toronto R&B star has been captivating audiences across the European leg, delivering electrifying performances in Germany, France, Spain, and other countries. The tour is set to conclude in Mexico this October, leaving an indelible mark on music history.
While the Weeknd’s accomplishment is certainly remarkable, it’s important to note that the landscape of ticket prices has changed since the 1980s. Back then, fans had a clear idea of the cost, such as the £17.50 ticket for Michael Jackson’s Bad Tour at Wembley Stadium, which would amount to around £60 in today’s value.
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Nowadays, ticket prices are driven by demand, with higher demand leading to higher costs. The average ticket price for the Weeknd’s London dates reached £240, highlighting the evolving dynamics of concert profitability.
To truly evaluate this achievement, it is crucial to consider both the revenue figures and the number of attendees. While the Weeknd’s tour is still ongoing, it has already garnered over a million attendees. In comparison, Michael Jackson’s Bad Tour saw a staggering 4.5 million attendees. These figures demonstrate the significant difference in ticket margins between the two tours.
While the Weeknd may now hold the title on paper and in the history books, the numerical calculations and exponentiality suggest that Michael Jackson technically still holds the touring record. However, as a devoted Michael Jackson fan, the Weeknd acknowledges the late King of Pop’s influence on his music.
In a powerful gesture, he performed Jackson’s beloved track “Dirty Diana” during his concert in Belgium, paying tribute to the legendary artist and expressing his eternal admiration.
In addition to this remarkable achievement, the Weeknd’s talent continues to shine on various platforms. His HBO concert special, “Live at Sofi Stadium,” has garnered two Emmy Award nominations for its exceptional lighting design/direction and technical direction/camerawork. This recognition further solidifies the Weeknd’s status as a multi-talented and groundbreaking artist.
As we witness the Weeknd’s unparalleled success, it’s evident that his artistry and influence extend beyond records and accolades. With the most monthly listeners on Spotify, reaching an astounding 106 million, and his hit single “Blinding Lights” amassing over 3.8 billion streams, the Weeknd’s commercial impact on the music industry is undeniable.
In an era where boundaries are pushed, achievements are celebrated, and history is made, the Weeknd’s ascent to the highest-grossing tour by a black artist is a testament to his extraordinary talent and global appeal. With his captivating performances, chart-topping hits, and unwavering dedication to his craft, the Weeknd continues to redefine the music landscape and inspire generations to come.