Shining Bright: Exploring The Weeknd’s Transformation in Starboy

 The Album

Starboy, which was released in 2016, signaled a turning point in The Weeknd's career as he adopted a new, genre-bending style and an edgier, more energetic sound. His concern with celebrity, extravagance, and reinvention is evident in Starboy's journeys into synth-pop, electro-funk, and alternative R&B after his darker R&B-driven Beauty Behind the Madness. Abel announces his status as a superstar with lyrics like "I'm tryna put you in the worst mood" on the album's title track, "Starboy," which features Daft Punk. The words of the song hint to the existential issues that come with fame, money, and luxury while examining the weight they carry.

"Starboy" Album Cover

Features

The 18 tracks on the album include notable collaborations that give The Weeknd's music a fresh new dimension. Other notable contributions include Kendrick Lamar on "Sidewalks," a song that blends hip-hop and R&B to talk about Abel's climb from modest beginnings. Daft Punk, who also contributed to the popular song "I Feel It Coming". Lana Del Rey, meanwhile, contributes a surreal, haunting touch to "Stargirl Interlude", which goes well with The Weeknd's reflective lyrics. When Future enters on "All I Know," his trap influence beautifully complements Abel's melancholic lyrics, adding a new depth to the record that broadens its themes and sound.

"Stargirl" Fan Art

Lyrics

Starboy delves deeply into topics of self-reflection, identity, and popularity in his lyrics. Songs like "Die for You" examine The Weeknd's battle with love and vulnerability, while "Reminder" showcases him embracing his place in pop culture and responding to his critics. The album is a contemplative but danceable album that brilliantly strikes a balance between style and content, with its quiet lyrics set against a lively backdrop.

"Starboy" Music Video

Awards

Starboy won a Grammy for Best Urban Contemporary Album and was widely praised. The Weeknd's influence became even stronger when the title single took up the 2017 MTV Video Music Award for Best Video. 

Songs that deserve a listen: The whole album is 10/10. No skippeable songs.