Stardom cover

Released 8 years ago this October

Stardom

Vũ Cát Tường · 2018

38 min · 10 tracks · blues

A vibrant fusion of contemporary R&B and V-pop, layered with lush melodies and introspective lyrics that resonate deeply.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Stardom — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of ambition and self-discovery, combining catchy hooks with reflective lyrics about personal aspirations.
  • →
    Leader — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its infectious energy and motivational message, encouraging listeners to embrace their individuality.
  • →
    If — In 'If', Vũ Cát Tường explores vulnerability through evocative storytelling and rich vocal arrangements, making it a standout moment of emotional depth.
  • →
    Gucci in Town — This track combines playful lyrics with a catchy beat, reflecting on modern consumer culture while maintaining a light-hearted vibe that contrasts with heavier themes present elsewhere.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album blends contemporary R&B and V-pop effectively, showcasing solid songwriting and production.

What we noticed

  • The album opens with a strong mid-tempo track, 'Leader', and maintains a similar pace through the first half before introducing more varied tempos in the latter tracks.
  • Several tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that create a rich texture, particularly in 'Be a Fool' and 'This Love'.
  • The use of electronic elements is prominent throughout, with synths and beats driving the rhythm while maintaining melodic focus.
  • The final track, 'The Party Song', serves as an upbeat conclusion, contrasting with the introspective nature of earlier songs.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady, consistent energy levels
  • short, engaging listening sessions
  • dynamic emotional journeys
  • contemplative and reflective moments

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'Stardom' was released in October 2018, Vũ Cát Tường had already established herself as a rising star in the Vietnamese music scene. This album followed her successful debut EP 'V' and marked her transition into a more polished sound, showcasing her growth as both a vocalist and songwriter.
Stylistic neighbors
Nguyễn Hưng· Thảo Trang· Bích Phương

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

  • If

    The narrative shifts from hopeful possibilities to poignant reflections on love lost, marking a turning point in the song.

    The change in tone showcases lyrical complexity, as it seamlessly intertwines optimism with heartbreak, illustrating the duality of relationships.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Leader 3:09
  • 2 Stardom 3:34
  • 3 Be a Fool 3:55
  • 4 Nobody 5:25
  • 5 One Second 3:56
  • 6 San Francisco 3:47
  • 7 If 4:14
  • 8 Gucci in Town 4:17
  • 9 This Love 3:23
  • 10 The Party Song 3:05

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata