Black Star is treating fans to something special. The acclaimed duo is releasing a physical edition of their 2022 album, No Fear Of Time. But it’s not just about the music. A portion of the proceeds will aid global relief efforts in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sudan, Haiti, and Gaza.
In an unexpected twist, this project comes as the album was originally launched exclusively on Luminary, a podcast platform. This nine-track creation was recorded in unconventional places like hotels and dressing rooms over a span of four years.
Talented producer Madlib helmed the entire album, with Black Thought making a singular guest appearance. Fans can look forward to getting their hands on this unique piece in various formats including vinyl, CD, and cassette.
Moreover, Black Star has partnered with Save The Children to ensure that the sale proceeds contribute to meaningful global aid. This collaboration highlights the duo’s commitment to social responsibility.
There’s a limited edition deluxe double-LP for collectors, offering both the main tracklist and its instrumentals. Plus, autographed copies and themed merchandise are available for eager fans to purchase.
Interestingly, the album’s path to the market was not smooth. Originally pulled off Luminary after a year, to the frustration of some subscribers, it has now made its way to Bandcamp, giving more people access to the tunes.
Some listeners vented on Instagram, feeling discontented at having to pay twice. Kweli responded assertively, stating their agreement with Luminary was temporary and fans had extra time to enjoy it at no cost.
A user queried about its removal, to which Kweli explained, ‘Because Luminary don’t own it. We do.’ This underscores Black Star’s ownership and the transient publishing deal they had.
Replacing negative vibes with a strong-willed attitude, Kweli addressed critics saying, ‘I don’t make music for you. I make music for my own mental health.’ He firmly stood his ground, emphasizing the personal nature of his art.
Black Star’s latest move is not just about the music—it’s about making a difference. By choosing to release No Fear Of Time physically, and by aligning with global causes, they’ve given fans a chance to support something larger while enjoying their album.
