10 Music Artists Who Released Their Best Album Last
9. Blackstar - David Bowie
Arriving just two days after David Bowie tragically died, Blackstar is an album that was made during the artist's final months. It's a release that reminds fans of his unrelenting charisma, and the showmanship that was on display for the majority of the second half of the 20th century.
Though it features a couple of re-recorded songs from two years prior, 'Tis a Pity She's a Whore, and Sue (Or in a Season of Crime), the shining jewel from the 41-minute masterpiece is the second single, Lazarus, which was written to be the artist's swan song. The self-awareness on display, as well as smooth saxophone, and desperate vocals make it a suitable final outing for an artist of his incredible stature.
A parting gift to fans, Blackstar is an utterly devastating album, but the emotional weight is evenly balanced by its simply stunning quality. Perhaps more than The Rise and Fall of Ziggy Stardust, or Hunky Dory, Blackstar is required listening to understand the artist --and the man-- that was David Bowie.
Over half a decade of music, and Bowie released his finest piece last. There is simply no better way to say goodbye.