Fueled By Overwhelming Fan Support, THE WEEKND Untraditionally Ascends To The Top

NEW YORK, Sept. 20, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- THE WEEKND's critically-acclaimed sophomore album Kiss Land [XO/Republic Records] has debuted at #1 on numerous Billboard charts, including, the Top R&B/ Hip-Hop Albums, Top R&B Albums and Top Digital Albums charts. This marks another milestone in the alternative R&B maverick's already illustrious career.  

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THE WEEKND's fantastic first week sales surpass the impressive debut of his first platinum-selling offering, 2012's Trilogy, which bowed at #4 upon its release. Moreover, Kiss Land quickly managed to rise to the top within an extremely competitive marketplace, by securing and holding the #1 position on iTunes Overall Top Albums Chart throughout the week.

In response to the news, Abel Tesfaye—better known as THE WEEKND—stated the following, "I couldn't have done it without my hardcore fans. Independent music will live forever."

Trumpeting a new paradigm, THE WEEKND personally engaged his fans online, welcoming them into the world of Kiss Land via seductive visuals and direct communication. Last week saw the artist perform live on television for the very first time, giving a sold out crowd at Jimmy Kimmel Live! an unforgettable evening. After performing "Pretty" and three other favorites, he stepped off the stage to sign autographs for almost three hours.

In addition to praise from his fans, Kiss Land has received critical-acclaim from tastemakers, and press alike. Upon its release, The New York Times exclaimed, "...Abel Tesfaye, is one of the most striking stylists in R&B: lewd and vicious in content, tender and desperate in tone." While NPR states, "With Kiss Land, Tesfaye has created a compelling case for the artistic relevance of current pop music. Kiss Land is his manifesto against seeking fame and living your dreams... poignant..."

Right now, you can catch THE WEEKND live on "The Fall" tour. He's already sold out numerous theatres across the country with his most memorable stage show yet.

Kiss Land is at the top and THE WEEKND is the ruler of this realm.

ABOUT REPUBLIC RECORDS
A division of Universal Music Group, the world's leading music company, Republic is home to an all-star roster of multi-platinum, award-winning legends and superstar artists such as Amy Winehouse, Ariana Grande, Black Sabbath, Colbie Caillat, Enrique Iglesias, Florence + the Machine, Godsmack, Gotye, Kelly Rowland, Owl City, Of Monsters & Men among many others.  

It is comprised of innovative imprints and digital business ventures including Brushfire (Jack Johnson, G. Love), Cash Money (Lil Wayne, Drake, Nicki Minaj), Lava Records (Jessie J, Lorde), Loma Vista (Soundgarden, Damian Marley), Monkeywrench (Pearl Jam), NBC's The Voice (Cassadee Pope, Danielle Bradbery), Republic Nashville (The Band Perry, Florida Georgia Line, The Eli Young Band), XO (The Weeknd), among others.  

FOR MORE INFO ON THE WEEKND, PLEASE CONTACT:
Myisha Brooks
Republic Records
212-331-2404 / [email protected]

SOURCE Republic Records