Starboy

About this song

"Starboy" is the title track and lead single from The Weeknd's third studio album, released on November 25th, 2016. It features production from the French electronic duo Daft Punk, marking the first collaboration between the two acts and Daft Punk's first single since "Give Life Back To Music" in early 2014. The pair had spent time together in the studio a month before release, and the session was fruitful enough that the track was chosen as the album's lead single. On the day of release, Abel posted an Instagram picture with the caption "r.i.p @abelxo," which marked a turn in his character and sound.

What it's about

The song reflects The Weeknd's rise to mega-stardom and his mixed feelings about fame, with its story tracing his journey from a mysterious Canadian act to a Billboard mainstay, though it came with negative consequences.

Fun facts

• Samples “Phoenix by A$AP Rocky”.
• Sampled in 23 other songs, like “Closerboy by David0Mario”.
• Covered 20 times, including “Ten Second Songs - Starboy | 20 Style Cover by Anthony Vincent”.
• Written by Guy-Manuel de Homem-Christo, Thomas Bangalter, DaHeala, The Weeknd, Doc McKinney and Cirkut.
• Produced by Daft Punk.