After a ten year musical break, David Bowie fans rejoiced when he resurfaced with his unexpected 24h studio album, The Next Day on Mar. 13. The iconic musician released his second single, titled “The Stars (Are out Tonight)” which earned him a nomination for a Grammy Award for “Best Rock Performance” and reached number 102 on the UK BBC charts. The six minute song begins with a steady drum beat and echoing electric guitar strumming, and picks up the pace as it introduces new instruments and Bowie’s distinct and odd vocals-the English singer’s trademark. Bowie’s voice is nostalgic, and is successful in bringing elements from the 70s as well as a hint of modern music. The funky tune addresses the public’s fascination of fame and celebrities “They burn you with their radiant smiles/Trap you with their beautiful eyes/ They’re broke and shamed or drunk or scared/But I hope they live forever” and exposes the darkness that lay beneath the glitz and glam. A topic frankly overdone by musicians, Bowie fails to produce thought provoking lyrics in this particular song, but does satisfy the listener musically. Despite Bowie’s reappearance into the Hollywood scene, the icon has made it clear that this album will not be accompanied with a tour. But, who knows? The revolutionary Ziggy Stardust alter ego is full of surprises.
The Stars Are Out Tonight
Gabriela Sanchez, Arts and Entertainment Editor
January 22, 2014
Tags:
About the Contributor
Gabriela Sanchez, Arts and Entertainment Editor
Writer Gabby Sanchez enters The Downey Legend staff with high hopes and a career oriented state of mind. She has been chosen to take on the position as Arts & Entertainment Editor, a position not so easily conquered. Using her skills as a writer she hopes to attract more readers to the arts Downey High School has to offer. Sanchez decided to join the online publication in order to gain insight in journalism. “I wanted to see if this was something I could be able to do as a career,” Sanchez said. For this aspiring journalist, her work has only just begun.
The editor had never seen her future predicted this way; moving from Peru at the age of three limited her English, proving difficult for her to adjust to the new language. “During elementary, I was bad at English, but its something I later improved in,” Sanchez said. She not only improved in a foreign language, but she also grew to like the challenge she accustomed to. After overcoming this difficulty proved to be a great strength in Sanchez, using it to her advantage when confronted by deadlines as well as schoolwork.
But beyond the classroom is where she enjoys her teen years with friends, listening to music, and enjoying the foods and movies other countries have to offer. “I love Italian food,” the cuisine enthusiast said. “I also like to watch movies in my spare time, especially foreign films.” With having The Downey Legend set as a foundation for her future, Sanchez’ main incentive is to travel the world and live on her own. Although unsure of what college to pursue her journalism career, she knows a UC will suit her in her plan to write for Time Magazine.