The Weeknd – Credit: Axelle/Bauer-Griffin/FilmMagic

Los Angeles has played a character in the Weeknd’s music for years, particularly on the ominous and commanding After Hours. The 2020 record — which featured the fan-favorite “Escape From LA” — marked the first in the album trilogy that was originally scheduled to conclude on Jan. 24 with Hurry Up Tomorrow before the singer delayed the release in acknowledgement of the wildfires that have ravaged L.A. this month. The Weeknd has since donated $1 million to relief funds in the city.

In partnership with World Food Program USA and The Weeknd’s XO Humanitarian Fund, the donation will support the LAFD Foundation, GoFundMe’s Wildfire Relief Fund, and LA Regional Food Bank in providing relief for those impacted and displaced by the fires as well as the firefighters working to battle them.

“This city has always been a profound source of inspiration for me,” the Weeknd shared last week. “And my thoughts are with everyone impacted during this difficult time.”

In addition to moving the Hurry Up Tomorrow release date to Jan. 31, the Weeknd cancelled his album release concert scheduled for Jan. 25 at Pasadena’s Rose Bowl. “This decision reflects his commitment to prioritizing the well-being of those affected by these tragic events,” a release reads. It would have been in generally poor taste considering the album’s lead single is titled “Dancing in the Flames.”

“My focus remains on supporting the recovery of these communities and aiding its incredible people as they rebuild,” the Weeknd shared.

The musician recently revealed that Hurry Up Tomorrow will likely be his final album under the moniker of the Weeknd. “Everything needs to feel like a challenge. And for me right now, the Weeknd, whatever that is, it’s been mastered,” he told Variety. “No one’s gonna do the Weeknd better than me, and I’m not gonna do it better than what it is right now. I think I’ve overcome every challenge as this persona.”