Edwin Starr was more than just a soul singer—he was a voice that defined a generation. With fiery passion, socially conscious lyrics, and a powerful stage presence, Starr’s music transcended the boundaries of Motown and became anthems for change, love, and resistance. Whether he was belting out protest songs against war or getting people on their feet with funky, danceable hits, Starr’s unmistakable voice left a lasting imprint on the world of music. From the hard-hitting rhythms of his most iconic tracks to the soulful ballads that showcased his emotional range, Starr’s catalog is a treasure trove of unforgettable songs.
In this list, we celebrate the Top 10 Most Popular Edwin Starr Songs of All Time—a collection of tracks that not only dominated the charts but also captured the hearts and minds of listeners across the globe. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to his music, these songs highlight the best of Starr’s incredible career, showcasing his ability to tackle everything from love and heartbreak to war and peace with unmatched intensity. Get ready to dive into the timeless sounds of one of soul music’s greatest legends!
1. War (1970)
“War” is undeniably Edwin Starr’s most iconic song, a fiery protest anthem that captured the spirit of a turbulent time. Released in 1970, during the height of the Vietnam War, the song became a voice for millions who were fed up with the conflict. Starr’s powerful, no-nonsense vocals, combined with the song’s famous chorus—“War, what is it good for? Absolutely nothing!”—turned the track into an instant classic. Its pounding beat, sharp brass, and raw, emotional delivery gave the song an undeniable sense of urgency. More than just a hit on the charts, “War” became a cultural touchstone and a rallying cry for peace. It went beyond music, becoming a protest anthem that defined an entire era. Starr’s gravelly voice and the track’s bold message left an indelible mark on history, cementing his place as a socially conscious artist.
2. Twenty-Five Miles (1969)
Before “War” shot him to superstardom, Edwin Starr made waves with “Twenty-Five Miles,” a driving soul anthem that oozes energy and determination. Released in 1969, the song tells the story of a man on an unstoppable journey to reunite with his love, trekking 25 miles on foot. The relentless rhythm perfectly matches the urgency of the lyrics, while Starr’s passionate, gritty vocal delivery makes you feel every step of the way. With its infectious horn sections, pounding beat, and narrative storytelling, “Twenty-Five Miles” is a quintessential ’60s soul track. The song’s blend of dynamic performance and irresistible groove made it a hit on both the pop and R&B charts, further proving Starr’s ability to craft songs that stick in listeners’ minds. Even decades later, “Twenty-Five Miles” remains a fan favorite, showcasing Starr’s flair for combining heart-pounding energy with soulful melodies.
3. Stop the War Now (1971)
Following the explosive success of “War,” Edwin Starr continued to voice his passion for peace with “Stop the War Now,” released in 1971. This track keeps the same sense of urgency, calling for an end to the ongoing Vietnam conflict. While it didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as “War,” it still resonated with many listeners who were growing weary of violence and conflict. Starr’s signature powerful voice cuts through the bold brass and rhythmic groove, delivering a message that the world was tired of war. With “Stop the War Now,” Starr proved that his commitment to peace and social change wasn’t just a one-hit wonder, but a genuine part of his artistic identity. The song further solidified Starr’s status as a musician who wasn’t afraid to use his platform to speak out on important issues of the day.
4. Time (1970)
Released in 1970, “Time” reveals a softer, more reflective side of Edwin Starr. In contrast to the explosive energy of “War,” this track slows things down, offering a contemplative groove filled with soulful introspection. Starr’s rich, emotional voice weaves through the song’s lush arrangement of strings and smooth rhythms, as he reflects on the fleeting nature of time and the importance of living in the moment. It’s a track that resonates on a deeply personal level, with its smooth melody and heartfelt lyrics creating a timeless quality. Though it didn’t climb the charts in the same way as some of his bigger hits, “Time” remains a favorite among fans who appreciate Starr’s versatility. It showcases his ability to tap into more introspective themes, offering a soulful and poignant reminder to cherish every moment.
5. Funky Music Sho Nuff Turns Me On (1971)
In 1971, Edwin Starr showed off his playful, groove-driven side with the release of “Funky Music Sho Nuff Turns Me On.” This track sees Starr diving headfirst into the world of funk, and the result is pure, infectious energy. The tight rhythm section, punchy brass, and irresistible bassline create a funky, feel-good vibe that invites you to dance from the first beat. Starr’s voice exudes joy and excitement as he delivers the lyrics with a carefree, celebratory tone. It’s a fun, upbeat track that stands out as one of Starr’s more lighthearted hits, proving that he wasn’t just a serious protest singer. “Funky Music Sho Nuff Turns Me On” became a hit on dance floors across the country, further highlighting Starr’s ability to blend social consciousness with pure, unbridled musical fun.
6. Agent Double-O-Soul (1965)
Before he became the voice of protest anthems, Edwin Starr made his mark with “Agent Double-O-Soul” in 1965. This fun, catchy song played off the James Bond craze of the time, with Starr casting himself as a secret agent whose mission was to spread soul music. The track is lighthearted and infectious, with a swinging rhythm and playful lyrics that showcased Starr’s charisma. It was his breakthrough hit, introducing the world to his powerful voice and energetic stage presence. “Agent Double-O-Soul” stands out as an early example of Starr’s ability to craft memorable, genre-blending songs, mixing elements of pop, Motown, and funk to create a sound all his own. This song’s catchy groove and fun-loving vibe made it an instant favorite and set the stage for the incredible career that would follow.
7. Back Street (1973)
Released in 1973, “Back Street” is a gritty, soul-stirring track that showcases Edwin Starr’s ability to delve into the darker sides of life. The song carries an emotional weight as Starr sings about hardship and the struggle to survive. His voice, filled with experience and grit, is backed by bluesy instrumentation that gives the song a raw, authentic edge. While “Back Street” wasn’t a major commercial hit, it demonstrated Starr’s versatility and his willingness to tackle difficult subjects with depth and sincerity. The track’s somber tone and powerful delivery offer a stark contrast to some of his more upbeat hits, but its emotional intensity makes it just as compelling. “Back Street” is a soulful reminder that Starr was much more than a protest singer—he was a storyteller capable of capturing the complexities of life.
8. Headline News (1966)
“Headline News,” released in 1966, is an early indication of Edwin Starr’s socially-conscious leanings. Long before he became famous for his protest anthems, Starr was already addressing significant issues of the day through his music. The song touches on various major events in the headlines, from civil rights struggles to global conflicts, all wrapped up in Starr’s powerful, urgent vocals. Musically, “Headline News” has the classic ’60s soul feel, with a strong rhythm and prominent brass, but its weighty lyrics give it an edge that sets it apart from other love songs of the era. It’s a track that showcases Starr’s early engagement with political and social issues, proving that his talent went far beyond his smooth vocal style.
9. I Have Faith in You (1974)
In 1974, Edwin Starr released “I Have Faith in You,” a beautiful, heartfelt ballad that highlights his softer side. The song features gentle melodies and lush orchestration, with strings and piano accompanying Starr’s warm, sincere vocals. The lyrics speak to themes of trust, commitment, and love, offering a tender look at relationships. While it may not have the same political edge as some of his more famous tracks, “I Have Faith in You” proves that Starr could handle love songs with the same level of passion and emotion. His performance is filled with warmth and sincerity, and the smooth, soulful arrangement adds to the song’s overall charm. It’s a testament to Starr’s versatility, showing that he could deliver both powerful protest anthems and romantic ballads with equal skill.
10. H.A.P.P.Y. Radio (1979)
By the time 1979 rolled around, disco was dominating the airwaves, and Edwin Starr proved he could still command the spotlight with “H.A.P.P.Y. Radio.” This upbeat, feel-good track is all about spreading positivity and joy. With its infectious beat, funky bassline, and catchy chorus, “H.A.P.P.Y. Radio” was a hit on dance floors and quickly became a favorite in clubs. Starr’s commanding voice remains front and center, but instead of rallying against injustice, here he’s focused on creating a fun, celebratory vibe. The song is a departure from his earlier, more serious work, but it shows Starr’s ability to adapt to the times while still staying true to his signature sound. “H.A.P.P.Y. Radio” closed out the disco decade on a high note, proving that Starr could remain relevant and beloved across musical eras.