The Weeknd is set to release his mixtape trilogy through official channels for the first time.
The resurgence of the mixtape as format de jour has helped new artists sideline the traditional music industry. The Weeknd, for example, became one of 2011’s most praised newcomers without ever troubling the charts – because he simply didn’t release any albums officially.
Now Abel Tefaye is set to gather his mixtape trilogy into an official release. ‘House of Balloons’, ‘Thursday’ and ‘Echoes of Silence’ are set to be released later this year, as part of a “strategic partnership” between The Weeknd, XO and Universal Music Group.
A statement: (via Pitchfork)
“The joint venture between Republic Records and the Canada-based XO sees The Weeknd’s vision preserved and magnified on a much larger scale. The XO initiative has grown from a small collective– with roots based in the metropolitan streets of Toronto– to a marquee business partner, and it will only evolve further within this structure”.
It’s been a positive period for The Weeknd. Former collaborator Jeremy Rose – who produces under the name Zodiac – had intended to bring legal action against the R&B wunderkind earlier this year.
Pitchfork reports that the issue has now been resolved. Another statement: “Fueled by a common vision they had about RnB and music in general, Jeremy and Abel worked closely for a short time about two years ago. Miscommunication between both artists is currently in the final stages of being worked out by their respective management teams.”
