"House of Balloons" is the debut mixtape by Canadian artist The Weeknd, released in March 2011. The project features a blend of R&B, pop, and electronic music, showcasing The Weeknd's unique vocal style and production skills. It includes notable tracks like "Wicked Games" and "The Knowing," which helped establish his presence in the music industry. The mixtape is known for its dark themes, exploring topics such as love, heartbreak, and substance use. Its innovative sound and aesthetic contributed to the rise of alternative R&B, influencing many artists and shaping the genre's direction in the following years.