Blackstar

Blackstar, or Black Star, is a name used by several unrelated works and groups across music and media. It has no single, universal meaning beyond its evocative imagery, and its significance depends on the context in which it appears.

One of the best-known uses of the term is David Bowie’s 2016 studio album, Blackstar. Released on January 8, 2016, it was Bowie's final full-length release and received widespread critical acclaim for its experimental blend of art rock and jazz influences. The record engages themes of mortality, legacy, and transformation, and the opening title track “Blackstar” is a central element of the album’s reception and interpretation.

Another prominent use is the American hip hop duo Black Star, formed in the late 1990s by Mos Def (Yasiin Bey) and Talib Kweli. Their 1998 collaboration, Mos Def & Talib Kweli Are Black Star, is regarded as a landmark release in underground and conscious hip hop, noted for its lyrical craft and the artists’ distinctive perspectives.

Beyond these high-profile instances, the name Blackstar has been adopted by various other artists, brands, and fictional works. The recurring appeal lies in its dramatic, space-inflected connotations, making it a versatile and evocative choice in different cultural domains.