Released: 2016 • Features: Lana Del Rey
Ayo, kick back and peep the scene as we dive into “Stargirl Interlude” by two colossal figures in contemporary music: The seductive siren, Lana Del Rey, and the nocturnal crooner, The Weeknd. This joint is a short but potent blend of sensuality and raw emotion, with a touch of celestial imagery that adds extra flavor to the mix.
The lyrics open with a cinematic vision — Lana Del Rey’s nails scratching kitchen countertops, her back arched and herself in a state of ecstasy. This isn’t a scene straight outta some Hollywood melodrama, but an intimate, vulnerable moment Lana experiences with her mysterious “Starboy”. But, hold up fam, who’s this Starboy dude anyway?
Starboy is actually another term for The Weeknd, a persona he adopted for his 2016 album of the same name. In this interlude, Starboy represents the object of Lana’s affection. But from her lyrics “And I shouldn’t cry, but I love it”, it’s clear that this relationship ain’t all sunshine and rainbows. Lana is captivated, but also overwhelmed and possibly hurt, by the intensity of her emotions.
The phrase “My back arched like a cat” paints a picture of Lana’s seductive and provocative character. It’s also significant to note that cats in ancient Egypt were considered sacred and entities of power. Are we seeing a power play here? Is Lana the cat, a powerful entity enraptured by the dark allure of Starboy?
When Lana repeats the line “And I shouldn’t cry, but I love it, starboy,” we see her caught in a cycle of painful pleasure. These confessions reveal a relationship that walks the fine line between lust and love, pleasure and pain. Her feelings for Starboy are so intense, they bring her to tears, but the emotional rush — she loves it.
Then The Weekend takes over with the line, “I just wanna see you shine ’cause I know you are a stargirl.” The Weeknd takes on the role of a lover who recognizes the light within Lana, acknowledging her shine and her worth. The Starboy and Stargirl, two celestial beings burning bright in the universe of their love, yet seemingly fraught with tension and turmoil.
Notably, the repetition of the line “I just wanna see you shine ’cause I know you are a Stargirl” is not just a meaningless hook but acts as an affirmation of Lana’s brilliance, her ‘shine’, her unique identity. The Weeknd isn’t trying to dim her star, but encourages her radiance, showcasing a multifaceted relationship dynamic.
“Stargirl Interlude” though short, is packed with passion, vulnerability, and a kind of star-crossed longing that resonates with listeners. It’s a space where Lana’s sultry, vintage Hollywood aesthetics clash and meld with The Weeknd’s futuristic, nocturnal vibes to craft a unique piece of artistry.
Without a doubt, both Lana Del Rey and The Weeknd have left an indelible mark on the modern music scene, and “Stargirl Interlude” is a testament to their unmistakable chemistry and shared knack for laying bare human emotions. This song isn’t just about a captivating love story, but it also speaks to the highs and lows, ecstasy and agony, that make love such a complex, yet relatable human experience.
So there it is, the word from the block on “Stargirl Interlude.” Next time you’re vibing to this track, remember the depths it plumbs beneath its glossy surface. After all, hip-hop and its adjacent genres ain’t just about the beat, but the stories and emotions that pulsate within each bar, line, and hook.
