Stardust is a French house music band that was active in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The band consisted of producers Thomas Bangalter, Alan Braxe, and vocalist Benjamin Diamond. Their music is known for its infectious grooves, retro-futuristic sound, and eclectic mix of musical genres.
The band’s biggest hit is “Music Sounds Better With You”, released in 1998. The song features a sample from Chaka Khan’s “Fate” and is widely regarded as one of the greatest dance tracks of all time. It reached the top of the charts in several countries and has been covered and remixed by numerous artists.
Stardust’s music is often associated with the French house and disco revival movements of the late 1990s and early 2000s, which saw a resurgence of interest in classic disco and funk music. Their sound influenced a generation of electronic musicians and continues to be celebrated and admired by fans around the world.
Despite only releasing one official single and a handful of remixes, Stardust’s legacy continues to be felt in the world of dance music. The band remains a seminal figure in the history of French house music and their music continues to inspire and connect with audiences of all ages.
1. 2nd Hand Love
“2nd Hand Love” is a soulful R&B song by Stardust, released in 1978. The song features a smooth and sensual groove, sultry vocals, and funky instrumentation that create a sense of seduction and desire. The lyrics reflect on the pain and pleasure of being caught up in a secondhand love affair, expressing a sense of longing and heartache that comes with loving someone who may not reciprocate those feelings. The song has become a beloved classic of R&B music, showcasing Stardust’s ability to infuse their music with passion, soul, and emotion. “2nd Hand Love” remains a timeless and resonant ode to the complexities of love and relationships.
2. Heartbreaker
“Heartbreaker” is a song by Stardust, released in 1998 as the B-side to their hit single “Music Sounds Better With You”. The song features a funky, disco-infused groove, with catchy guitar riffs and a driving beat. The lyrics, sung by Benjamin Diamond, tell the story of a heartbreaker who leaves a trail of broken hearts wherever she goes. “Heartbreaker” is a standout track in the Stardust discography, showcasing the band’s ability to craft infectious, danceable music that captures the spirit of classic disco and funk. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to Stardust’s enduring influence on the world of dance music.
3. Runaway
Stardust Runaway is a captivating and atmospheric song that combines elements of electronic, pop and indie music. With haunting vocals and dreamy instrumentation, the song takes the listener on a journey through space and time. The lyrics tell the story of a runaway who is searching for their place in the world, and the sense of longing and uncertainty is conveyed through the music. The production is polished and sophisticated, with intricate layers of synths, guitar and percussion building to a powerful climax. Overall, Stardust Runaway is a mesmerizing and thought-provoking track that will leave a lasting impression on the listener.
4. Bullet to My Heart
Stardust’s Bullet to My Heart is an intense and emotional rock ballad that tells the story of a love gone wrong. The song features powerful vocals that are filled with raw emotion, backed by an electric guitar riff that builds to a soaring chorus. The lyrics are honest and relatable, expressing the pain and betrayal of a broken heart. The production is polished and dynamic, with a driving rhythm section that adds to the intensity of the track. Overall, Bullet to My Heart is a powerful and passionate song that will resonate with anyone who has experienced heartbreak.
5. Live Fast, Go High
“Live Fast, Go High” is an energetic and upbeat disco-funk song by Stardust, released in 1979. The song features a pulsating bassline, funky guitar riffs, and soaring vocals that create a sense of excitement and urgency. The lyrics reflect on the thrill of living life to the fullest and chasing one’s dreams, expressing a sense of rebellion and daring that comes with taking risks and seizing the moment. The song has become a beloved classic of disco music, showcasing Stardust’s ability to create infectious and dynamic dance tracks that get people moving. “Live Fast, Go High” remains a fun and exhilarating anthem of living life with passion and purpose.
6. Shine
“Shine” is a song by Stardust, released in 1998 as a B-side to their hit single “Music Sounds Better With You”. The song features a funky, upbeat groove, with catchy guitar riffs and a driving bassline. The lyrics, sung by Benjamin Diamond, encourage the listener to let go of their worries and embrace the joy of life. “Shine” is a standout track in the Stardust discography, showcasing the band’s ability to craft infectious, danceable music that lifts the spirits and inspires positivity. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to Stardust’s enduring influence on the world of dance music.
7. Blue Jeans Eyes
Stardust’s Blue Jeans Eyes is a wistful and nostalgic ballad that combines elements of indie and folk music. The song features delicate acoustic guitar strumming, ethereal harmonies and a heartfelt vocal performance that captures the longing and bittersweet emotions of the lyrics. The story is one of love lost and the yearning to recapture a past happiness, with the imagery of blue jeans eyes conveying a sense of familiarity and comfort. The production is understated and intimate, allowing the emotion of the song to shine through. Overall, Blue Jeans Eyes is a beautiful and heartfelt track that will resonate with anyone who has experienced the ache of lost love.
8. Music Sounds Better With You
“Music Sounds Better With You” is a classic dance track by Stardust, released in 1998. The song features a sample from the Chaka Khan song “Fate,” layered over a funky house beat, synthesizers, and vocoder vocals that create a sense of nostalgia and euphoria. The lyrics reflect on the power of music to bring people together and lift their spirits, expressing a sense of joy and unity that comes with dancing and enjoying music with others. The song has become a beloved classic of electronic music, showcasing Stardust’s ability to create infectious and uplifting dance tracks that transcend time and genre. “Music Sounds Better With You” remains a timeless and joyous anthem of the power of music to connect and uplift us.
9. Shout it Out!
“Shout it Out!” is a song by Stardust, released in 1998 as a B-side to their hit single “Music Sounds Better With You”. The song features a funky, disco-infused groove, with catchy guitar riffs and a driving beat. The lyrics, sung by Benjamin Diamond, encourage the listener to let loose and shout out their feelings. “Shout it Out!” is a standout track in the Stardust discography, showcasing the band’s ability to create danceable music with uplifting, empowering lyrics. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to Stardust’s enduring influence on the world of dance music.
10. Book of Love
“Book of Love” is a song by Stardust, released in 1998 as a B-side to their hit single “Music Sounds Better With You”. The song features a slower, more laid-back groove than some of the band’s other tracks, with gentle acoustic guitar and dreamy, ethereal vocals. The lyrics, sung by Benjamin Diamond, speak to the power of love and the role it plays in shaping our lives. “Book of Love” is a standout track in the Stardust discography, showcasing the band’s versatility and ability to create evocative, emotionally resonant music. The song remains a fan favorite and a testament to Stardust’s enduring influence on the world of dance music.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
