The Weeknd has taken a lot of inspiration from the current state of the world in writing his next album.
The 30-year-old singer - whose real name is Abel Tesfaye - admitted the follow-up record to this year's “After Hours” is likely to be more political than his previous albums because he's got so much to say about the world following the coronavirus pandemic, the divisive state of US politics, and the Black Lives Matter protests that took place around the globe this year.
He told Tmrw magazine: “I have been more inspired and creative during the pandemic than I might normally be.
"The pandemic, the Black Lives Matter movement and the tensions of the US election have mostly created a sense of gratitude for what I have and closeness with the people near me.”
The “Blinding Lights” hitmaker recently branded the Grammy Awards "corrupt" after he was snubbed for any nominations for the critically-acclaimed 'After Hours' and revealed he'd been planning to perform at the ceremony until he was overlooked.
In a series of tweets, he wrote: "The Grammys remain corrupt. You owe me, my fans and the industry transparency...
"Collaboratively planning a performance for weeks to not being invited? In my opinion zero nominations = you’re not invited! (sic)"
Following The Weeknd's initial comments, Grammy bosses insisted they were "surprised" he wasn't up for a gong, and blamed the lack of nods on there being "fewer" to hand out "than the number of deserving artists".
Recording Academy Chair Harvey Mason Jr. said: "We understand that The Weeknd is disappointed at not being nominated. I was surprised and can empathise with what he’s feeling.
"His music this year was excellent, and his contributions to the music community and broader world are worthy of everyone’s admiration. Unfortunately, every year, there are fewer nominations than the number of deserving artists.
"All Grammy nominees are recognised by the voting body for their excellence, and we congratulate them all."