On his 69th birthday, just two days before his death, David Bowie released his final album. Though it is quite short, with only seven songs at 41 minutes long, its impact is large. “Blackstar” is easily one of Bowie’s more experimental albums, and also one of his best. This album greeted fans three years after his last album, “The Next Day,” which marked his surprise return from a ten-year hiatus at the time of its release.
The album starts off with the title song, “Blackstar.” At nearly ten minutes long, its structure resembles Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody,” while staying true to his quintessential style. “Starman” meets the New Testament with lines like, “On the day of execution, on the day of execution / only women kneel and smile,” and “How many times does an angel fall?” This epic, with smooth, airy transitions between its major sections, is tinged with glimmers of optimism and sullen honesty.
Next rolls in “‘Tis a Pity She Was a Whore” with its catchy, upbeat guitar riffs and high-energy saxophone solos. Bowie’s raspy, comforting voice could make the vulgar lyrics sound uplifting, but the words are too explicit. It’s cacophonous yet cohesive — a true testament to his genius.
Another highlight of the album is “Lazarus” — a cryptic, angelic and solemn goodbye to his fans. The song is framed similar to a confession with lines like, “I’ve got scars that can’t be seen / I’ve got drama, can’t be stolen,” though the song does not end so solemnly. A passionate saxophone solo rounds out the end and ignites new life into the song, revitalizing it and keeping the listener engaged for the entire six minutes.
The last song, “I Can’t Give Everything Away,” is arguably the best song on the album. Here, Bowie wants to make clear he can’t give everything to his fans, but he seems to have put his all into this song. More mellow than previous tracks, it still leaves the album with a positive vibe. These lively saxophone solos and jazz influences integrated into his music exemplify how easily Bowie stays true to his own style, while still adapting to current trends — a trait that helps his music stand the test of time.
“Blackstar” is rich with personality and truly solidifies Bowie’s place as a global icon. It is the perfect note for the artist to end on.
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