The Weeknd is making history with four consecutive shows at the Stade de France in July 2026. As part of the extended "After Hours Til Dawn" tour, the Canadian superstar will perform on July 8, 10, 11, and 12. Before he takes the stage, fans will be treated to a special opening act: Playboi Carti.

Who is Playboi Carti?

Playboi Carti, born Jordan Terrell Carter, is an American rapper from Atlanta, Georgia. He first gained attention with his 2017 self-titled mixtape, which included hits like "Magnolia" and "wokeuplikethis". These tracks helped him break into the Billboard Hot 100. His debut studio album, "Die Lit" (2018), featured collaborations with Travis Scott, Lil Uzi Vert, Gunna, Nicki Minaj, and Young Thug. The album was a critical and commercial success, cementing his place in the hip-hop scene.

In 2020, Playboi Carti released "Whole Lotta Red", his second studio album, which debuted at number one on the Billboard 200. The album included features from Kanye West, Kid Cudi, and Future. His third album, "MUSIC", arrived in 2025, showcasing his versatility as an artist. In addition to his solo work, Playboi Carti collaborated with The Weeknd on the track "Timeless", making him a natural choice for the opening slot.

The After Hours Til Dawn Tour

The Weeknd's "After Hours Til Dawn" tour began in 2022 and has since become one of the most successful tours of the decade. Known for his theatrical performances, The Weeknd delivers a visually stunning show featuring hits like "Starboy", "Save Your Tears", "Blinding Lights", and "Call Out My Name". The Stade de France concerts are part of an extended European leg, with stops in major cities including London, Berlin, and Amsterdam.

For these Paris shows, the Stade de France will transform into a massive arena, accommodating tens of thousands of fans each night. The tour's production is renowned for its elaborate stage design, pyrotechnics, and immersive visuals. Playboi Carti's high-energy set will serve as the perfect warm-up for The Weeknd's headlining performance.

Why Playboi Carti?

The collaboration between The Weeknd and Playboi Carti is not new. The two artists worked together on "Timeless", a song that blends their distinct styles. Playboi Carti's raw, energetic delivery contrasts with The Weeknd's smooth R&B vocals, creating a dynamic concert experience. As a rapper with over 31 billion streams worldwide, Playboi Carti brings a massive fanbase and a reputation for explosive live shows.

His sets are known for crowd interaction, mosh pits, and a high-octane atmosphere. For fans attending the Stade de France concerts, Playboi Carti’s opening set is an opportunity to see a rising star before he becomes even bigger. His performances often include hits from his entire discography, from "Magnolia" to newer tracks from "MUSIC".

Background on The Weeknd

Abel Tesfaye, known professionally as The Weeknd, has been a dominant force in music since the early 2010s. His dark R&B sound, influenced by Michael Jackson and Prince, earned him a dedicated following. With albums like "Beauty Behind the Madness", "Starboy", and "After Hours", he has won multiple Grammy Awards and holds numerous streaming records. The "After Hours Til Dawn" tour is his most ambitious yet, featuring elaborate visuals and a setlist that spans his entire career.

The Weeknd's 2023 shows at the Stade de France were a massive success, selling out quickly. The 2026 concerts were added due to overwhelming demand, with tickets selling out within hours. The decision to bring Playboi Carti as the opening act for all four dates was met with excitement from fans.

What to Expect

The concerts will take place at the Stade de France, located in Saint-Denis, just north of Paris. Gates are expected to open early evening, with Playboi Carti's set beginning around 7:00 PM. The Weeknd will likely start around 9:00 PM. The venue offers excellent public transport connections via RER B and D lines, as well as metro line 13.

Fans are encouraged to arrive early to secure good spots, especially in the general admission areas. The Stade de France has a capacity of over 80,000 for concerts, and these four shows are expected to attract a diverse audience from across Europe. Security measures will be in place, and attendees should follow venue guidelines regarding bags and prohibited items.

Career Highlights: Playboi Carti

Playboi Carti's journey from Atlanta to global stardom is remarkable. He began recording in 2011 and gained traction with his 2015 single "Broke Boi". His unique vocal delivery, often characterized by ad-libs and rhythmic flows, set him apart. By 2017, his mixtape had made him a household name in hip-hop.

His album "Die Lit" (2018) was praised for its production and energy. Tracks like "Shoota" and "Love Hurts" featuring Travis Scott became anthems. "Whole Lotta Red" (2020) was a more experimental project, featuring electronic and punk influences. It debuted at number one and solidified his status as an innovator.

Playboi Carti's live performances are legendary for their intensity. He has headlined festivals like Rolling Loud and Coachella, often causing crowd chaos. His fashion sense, often featuring avant-garde designs, has made him a style icon. With over 31 billion streams, he is one of the most streamed artists globally.

The Weeknd's Impact

The Weeknd's influence on modern music cannot be overstated. He popularized a darker, more melancholic form of R&B that has inspired countless artists. His Super Bowl LV halftime show in 2021 was watched by over 100 million people. His album "After Hours" (2020) produced the global hit "Blinding Lights", which spent a record 90 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100.

His collaboration with Playboi Carti on "Timeless" bridged the gap between R&B and trap music, showing his versatility. The Stade de France concerts are a testament to his enduring popularity and ability to sell out major venues worldwide.

For fans planning to attend, this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to see two of music's biggest acts on the same stage. The energy is expected to be electric, with Playboi Carti warming up the crowd before The Weeknd delivers a career-spanning set. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to their music, these concerts promise an unforgettable experience.

Stay tuned for more details about setlists, timings, and special surprises that may be in store for the Paris audience. The combination of The Weeknd's polished production and Playboi Carti's raw energy makes this one of the most anticipated events of the summer.

Source:Sortiraparis News