The Weeknd Explains Meaning Behind His Face Bandages

The Weeknd has revealed the meaning behind those face and head bandages he wore to the 2020 American Music Awards. The singer, who has sported a full range of injuries including a bloody nose, cut lip and black eye throughout his After Hours era, told Variety that the aesthetic is a comment on celebrity culture.

"The significance of the entire head bandage is reflecting on the absurd culture of Hollywood celebrity and people manipulating themselves for superficial reasons to please and be validated," The Weeknd explained. "It’s all a progression and we watch The Character’s storyline hit heightened levels of danger and absurdity as his tale goes on," the artist added, referencing his persona in the music videos for After Hours tracks Blinding Lights, In Your Eyes, Too Late and Save Your Tears. "I suppose you could take that being attractive isn’t important to me but a compelling narrative is," he concluded.

Just yesterday, The Weeknd announced his 2022 After Hours world tour, a global outing that will likely see the singer continue to embody his bloodied alter-ego. He's also gearing up to release a greatest hits album, The Highlights, and perform at the Super Bowl on Sunday.

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