Northern Star (1999) – Melanie C

My favourite Spice Girl is back after a short break. Known as Mel C (Sporty Spice) in the Spice Girls, she records as Melanie C as a solo artist. The last song I featured here, Never Be the Same Again, also from her debut album, continues to receive steady daily views on my blog. Today’s song is the title track from that same album. I have always had a soft spot for Melanie C (born 12 January 1974), who was born just three days before yours truly. Coincidentally, she will be playing in my home city of Sydney on the 28th of this month.

Not only do I find her appearance super appealing (I always liked the short-hair, athletic look), but she also has a voice that carries a quiet vulnerability. At the same time, she can shift into a stronger, more determined tone. Her music is quite varied too. The album Northern Star blends pop with rock, electronica, trance, trip hop, R&B, and dance-rock. Take Never Be the Same Again, which leans towards smooth R&B and Hip Hop, and then compare it with Northern Star, which is more of a soft, atmospheric ballad.

I like the thoughtful and emotional mood Melanie C creates in Northern Star. The song feels almost cinematic, with gentle harmonies layered over calm electronic sounds. Her voice sounds honest and reflective, carrying a sense of searching and hope. The music video, filmed in England, matches the theme of guidance and self-discovery. It shows her walking through different landscapes – rocky coastlines, train tracks, icy open spaces, and city scenes – reflecting the personal journey described in the song.

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The following was abridged from the Wikipedia article below:

The title track from her debut solo album and was released as the album’s second single on 22 November 1999. It was written by Melanie C and Rick Nowels. The song received positive reception from music critics. The single charted at No. 4 on the UK Singles Chart, becoming her third top-five single. 

[Verse 1]
They tried to catch a falling star
Thinking that she had gone too far
She did but kept it hidden well
Until she cracked and then she fell

[Verse 2]
If all the history is true
She’s gonna end up just like you
You made it to the other side
But tell me who will be my guide

[Pre Chorus]
They build you up so they can tear you down
Trust the ocean you’ll never drown
Who is next?
Who’s gonna steal your crown?
You’ll see

[Chorus]
I have learnt my lesson well
The truth is out there
I can tell
Don’t look back
And don’t give in to their lies and goodbyes
Northern Star

[Verse 3]
Fulfil the longing in your heart
Then we will never be apart
And if they dare to question you
Just tell them that our love is true

[Pre Chorus]
They buy your dreams
So they can sell your soul
Is it any wonder we’ve lost control?
Feelings come, feelings go

[Chorus]
I have learnt my lesson well
The truth is out there
I can tell
Don’t look back
And don’t succumb to their lies and goodbyes

[Bridge]
Live your life without regret
Don’t be someone who they forget
When you’re lost reach out for me
And you’ll see she’s not far
Northern Star
Northern Star

[Chorus]
I have learnt my lesson well
The truth is out there
I can tell
Don’t look back
And don’t succumb to their lies and goodbyes

[Outro]
Live your life without regret
Don’t be someone who they forget
When you’re lost reach out for me
And you’ll see she’s not far
Northern Star
Northern Star
Northern Star

References:
1. Northern Star (song) – Wikipedia
2. Northern Star (Melanie C album) – Wikipedia