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“All The Stars” is a critically acclaimed and globally successful song by American rapper Kendrick Lamar and American singer SZA. Released on January 4, 2018, the track served as the lead single from Black Panther: The Album, the soundtrack for Marvel’s blockbuster film Black Panther.
The official music video for “All The Stars” premiered on Kendrick Lamar’s YouTube channel on February 6, 2018. Directed by Dave Meyers and the Little Homies, the video features striking visuals inspired by Afrocentrism and Afrofuturism, with imagery that reflects the themes of the song and the cultural motifs of the film.
Background and Release
“All The Stars” was written by Kendrick Lamar, SZA, and several collaborators, and produced by Sounwave and Al Shux. The song blends hip-hop, R&B, and pop elements, featuring Kendrick’s introspective verses alongside SZA’s soaring, melodic chorus. It acts as a powerful musical introduction to the world of Black Panther, embodying themes of ambition, identity, and aspiration.
The track was selected to close the end credits of the film, helping bridge the cinematic experience with its emotional score. The release further cemented both artists’ reputations, showcasing Kendrick’s lyricism and SZA’s vocal strength on a global stage.
Meaning and Themes
Lyrically, “All The Stars” explores ideas about dreams, destiny, and the pursuit of success. SZA’s chorus delivers a hopeful message about reaching for what feels distant yet compelling, while Kendrick’s verses reflect personal struggle, resilience, and self-reflection. The song’s emotional depth and universal themes have helped it resonate with listeners across cultures.
Music Video and Visual Style
The music video incorporates visually rich elements, including cosmic imagery, symbolic costumes, and cultural references tied to the aesthetic of Black Panther. Scenes of SZA surrounded by stars and Lamar navigating symbolic landscapes visually parallel the song’s themes of aspiration and self-discovery.
This visual imagery complements the track’s sonic landscape, offering fans a captivating experience that blends music and cinematic storytelling.
Chart Performance and Impact
“All The Stars” was a major commercial success. In the United States, the single peaked at number 7 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of Kendrick’s highest-charting tracks and one of SZA’s early major hits. The song also reached the top ten in numerous international markets and topped charts in countries such as Malaysia, Mexico, Singapore, and Slovakia.
Beyond the charts, the song received widespread acclaim and was nominated for major awards, including Golden Globe and Oscar nominations for Best Original Song, as well as Grammy nominations — underscoring its artistic and cultural impact.
Legacy and Cultural Influence
“All The Stars” remains one of the most memorable collaborations in recent years, not only for its role in elevating the Black Panther soundtrack but also for how it showcased the synergy between Kendrick Lamar’s rap perspective and SZA’s soulful delivery. The track continues to be celebrated on playlists, social platforms, and in performances worldwide, inspiring fans with its emotional resonance and artistic flair.
Conclusion
With its powerful message, cinematic music video, and major chart success, “All The Stars” stands as one of the standout songs of the late 2010s. It highlights Kendrick Lamar and SZA’s strengths as artists and remains a defining moment in both of their careers — a symbol of creativity that bridges music and film in a culturally meaningful way.
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