A rock icon, an actor, a singer-song-writer, a visionary, an artist, a mime and so much more: David Bowie was the ultimate chameleon. There's no argument that the world lost a legend with his recent passing. Bowie’s constant reinvention and creative outlook made him a true innovator, offering pieces of artistic inspiration and enjoyment to a broad range of audiences. His unique style and exploration of new artistic and musical depths allowed him to significantly influence and impact popular music as we know it. His death was felt not only by family and friends, but by music-lovers and fellow musicians as well.
Bowie was a dynamic man with many layers that accompanied his name. He was not only David Bowie, but he was also the many alter-egos or characters he created and portrayed, giving the world a taste of his intricate personality. Although many people are aware of Bowie’s greatest hits and popular pieces, he left the world with one last mark. The release of his last album, “Black Star,” came just days before his death. Aligned with Bowie’s diverse style, the album features styles of art rock, experimental rock and jazz music. Although Bowie’s talent within the album is hard to doubt, the album took on a bit of a darker tone. Bowie wrote the album aware of his looming death, which opened up a new set of depths not previously explored. An interview with fellow UW-Madison freshman Petar Cirjakovic explores this album more in depth and what he took away from it.
In comparison to previous Bowie albums, what makes “Black Star” stand out, especially in relation to Bowie’s artistic image?
The album is a lot more explorative in terms of the actual music than his music has been in recent years. It is less pop music and takes on a more explorative sound. In terms of his image, I don’t think the overall album makes his image as a musician and an artist very different.
What message, if any, do you think Bowie was trying to convey by creating an album that was heavily influenced by his sickness and approaching death?
I am not sure if there was a message necessarily. I think it was more of a farewell than anything else. The lyrical themes and the fact that he knew it would be his last album gave it the feeling of a farewell. It was like his way of saying goodbye to everyone, a final gift to his fans.
If you had to match “Black Star” with one of Bowie’s alter egos or characters which one would you choose? Why?
It is hard to really put it to a character, but if you had to it would be the Thin White Duke. The Thin White Duke is his character from station to station. This character is polished and more subdued, which kind of fits the "Black Star" thing. It is another stylistic venture for him though, so you can’t equate it to much else that he has done.
Did the album reinforce or differ from the picture of Bowie you previously held?
The album doesn’t change my image of him, really. I am just very impressed that he did the album. Writing and recording an album when you’re really sick can’t be easy.
Do you think the overall sound of the album was reflective of Bowie’s true spirit or was it more reflective of his personal life?
The album seems to be more reflective of his personal life at the time. Some songs are quite dark, but, again, it comes down to the lyrics. The musical style certainly conveys a dark tone, but the lyrics are the real reflection. They really speak to the themes of the album as a whole. With that being said, I think his spirit did show. The album is still unmistakably Bowie.
What were your favorite and least favorite aspects of the album?
I think "Lazarus" is the best part of the album. Just speaking to the music, it is fantastic. The lyrics are the best part of the song, especially in their context. Although it is not a big deal, my least favorite part of the album is the weird language he sings in half of "Girl Loves Me." I still really like the song though.
“Black Star” was Bowie’s final mark on the world and for that it will hold a special spot in musical history as his art continues to live on.
