Exclusive Premiere: Knoxville artist Henry J. Star shares ‘Petrichor’

Knoxville-born artist Henry J. Star, the creative alias of singer-songwriter Devin Badgett, has released his new single ‘Petrichor.’ The track arrives ahead of his debut album The Soft Apocalypse, due October 17 via Acrophase Records.
‘Petrichor’ is a heavy, unflinching meditation on the exhausting calculus of existing in the world as a Black individual. Opening with the stark question, “What if I die today?”, the track captures the weight of daily decisions and the very real consequences that come with them. Built from sparse yet impactful production, the single underscores Star’s ability to weave vulnerability and power into one striking narrative.
Badgett explains:
“In memory of Ahmaud Arbery. A story about running while Black & the paradox of choice. This song was written in an attempt to underline how grandiose seemingly simple decisions can be for certain folks.”
‘Petrichor’ is out September 5 via Acrophase Records, with The Soft Apocalypse arriving October 17.
Connect with Henry J. Star:
We’re an independent, ad-free music publication, and we rely on the support of readers like you to keep things running. If you enjoy what we do, consider buying us a beer—every contribution helps us stay focused on bringing you quality music news without the clutter.