Edwin Starr was more than just a singer—he was a voice of power, passion, and purpose. Known for his explosive energy and commanding vocals, Starr left an indelible mark on the world of soul and Motown. From delivering socially conscious anthems that echoed the struggles of a generation to crafting irresistible grooves that lit up dancefloors, his music continues to resonate decades after its release. Starr’s ability to blend raw emotion with electrifying rhythms made him one of the most dynamic performers of his time.
With a career spanning from the 1960s to the late 1970s, Edwin Starr gave us unforgettable classics that captured the essence of love, determination, and resistance. His songs weren’t just hits—they were moments in history, soundtracks to both personal triumphs and global movements. Whether it was the fiery protest cry of “War” or the determined march of “Twenty-Five Miles,” Starr’s music had a way of moving both hearts and feet.
In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the top 10 most popular Edwin Starr songs of all time, celebrating the timeless talent of a true soul legend. Get ready to dive into the powerful grooves, unforgettable hooks, and unparalleled energy of Edwin Starr’s greatest hits!
1. War (1970)
Released in 1970 during the height of the Vietnam War, Edwin Starr’s “War” became a powerful and defiant protest anthem that captured the anger and disillusionment of the era. The song opens with a searing question—“War! What is it good for? Absolutely nothing!”—delivered with intense conviction by Starr, whose volcanic vocal performance conveys the fury and frustration felt by so many. The track’s hard-hitting rhythm, brass-heavy instrumentation, and relentless energy make it a rallying cry against violence and conflict. Reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, “War” cemented Starr’s place as a prominent voice in the fight for social change. More than just a song, it became a symbol of the anti-war movement, reminding the world of the devastating consequences of war.
2. Twenty-Five Miles (1969)
Released in 1969, “Twenty-Five Miles” is an energetic and upbeat Motown classic that showcases Edwin Starr’s electrifying charisma. The song tells the story of a man determined to walk twenty-five miles to see his love, no matter the distance. Starr’s dynamic vocals, combined with a driving beat and a lively horn section, create an infectious sense of urgency and longing. The relentless tempo mirrors the protagonist’s determination, making the song an anthem of resilience. “Twenty-Five Miles” became one of Starr’s first major hits, peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, and helped establish him as a rising star in the soul music scene.
3. Stop the War Now (1971)
Following the success of “War,” Edwin Starr released “Stop the War Now” in 1971, furthering his reputation as a socially conscious artist. The song builds on the same anti-war sentiments, urging listeners to take a stand against the destruction caused by conflict. With gospel-inspired backing vocals, strong percussion, and Starr’s commanding delivery, the song radiates both urgency and hope. While it didn’t reach the same commercial heights as its predecessor, “Stop the War Now” reinforced Starr’s commitment to using music as a platform for change during a turbulent time in American history.
4. Agent Double-O-Soul (1965)
Before becoming a Motown legend, Edwin Starr released “Agent Double-O-Soul” in 1965, a fun and funky tune inspired by the spy craze of the 1960s. The song is filled with swagger, wit, and a sense of adventure as Starr adopts the persona of a smooth, secret-agent character. The upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a playful and irresistible track, showcasing Starr’s knack for storytelling and his vibrant stage presence. This early hit earned Starr recognition as a rising star in the soul music world, setting the stage for his later success.
5. Contact (1978)
In 1978, Edwin Starr embraced the disco era with “Contact,” a pulsating track that became a favorite on the dancefloor. With a driving bassline, shimmering strings, and an infectious rhythm, the song is a celebration of connection and energy. Starr’s soulful vocals add a depth that elevates the track beyond just a disco anthem, giving it a sense of meaning and emotion. “Contact” became a significant hit in the UK, reaching No. 6 on the charts, and proved Starr’s ability to evolve with the changing music landscape while retaining his unique sound. Decades later, it remains a track that still inspires people to dance.
6. Time (1979)
“Time,” released in 1979, is a reflection of Edwin Starr’s ability to bring soul to any genre, even during the disco era. With its lush production, including strings and a propulsive beat, the track explores the fleeting nature of time, encouraging listeners to embrace the present moment. Starr’s commanding vocals add depth to the song, giving it a reflective quality while still being danceable. “Time” showcases Starr’s versatility as an artist, seamlessly blending disco’s glitzy sound with meaningful messages, and remains a testament to his musical adaptability.
7. Back Street (1975)
In 1975, Edwin Starr released “Back Street,” a soulful and introspective track that demonstrates his emotional depth as an artist. The song touches on themes of hardship and survival, with Starr’s powerful voice delivering each line as a heartfelt confession. The haunting melody and rich instrumentation draw listeners into the narrative, making it one of Starr’s more personal and vulnerable songs. Although it wasn’t as commercially successful as some of his other hits, “Back Street” remains a standout in his discography, showcasing his ability to balance grit with soul.
8. Headline News (1966)
“Headline News,” released in 1966, is a shining example of Edwin Starr’s storytelling abilities. The song tells a gripping tale of betrayal and heartbreak, set against the backdrop of a driving Motown groove. Starr’s passionate delivery brings the drama to life, while the tight instrumentation keeps the track upbeat and engaging. “Headline News” perfectly blends a powerful narrative with an infectious rhythm, making it a favorite among fans of Starr’s early work and a testament to his skill as both a singer and a storyteller.
9. Happy Radio (1979)
Released in 1979, “Happy Radio” is a joyful celebration of the power of music to lift the spirit. With its funky bassline, lively horns, and Starr’s exuberant vocals, the song became a disco anthem that encouraged listeners to dance and revel in the joy of music. The lyrics express gratitude for the happiness that music brings, making it the perfect soundtrack for any celebration. “Happy Radio” became a hit in the UK, reaching No. 9 on the charts, and showcased Starr’s enduring charm and ability to connect with audiences through his energetic performances.
10. I Have Faith in You (1965)
“I Have Faith in You,” one of Edwin Starr’s earliest releases from 1965, is a tender soul ballad that highlights his ability to convey deep emotion. The song’s gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics are brought to life by Starr’s rich, resonant voice, as he sings about trust and devotion. The track resonates with anyone who has placed their faith in a loved one, making it a timeless expression of hope and loyalty. This early gem laid the groundwork for Starr’s future success, showcasing the raw talent that would propel him to stardom.
Samuel Moore 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.
