Edwin Starr was more than just a soulful voice; he was a force of nature, a musical powerhouse whose songs have transcended decades and genres. From hard-hitting protest anthems to infectious dance floor grooves, Starr’s music has left an indelible mark on soul, funk, and Motown. Best known for his explosive hit “War”, Starr’s career was filled with dynamic tracks that tackled everything from social justice to the pure joy of dancing. His powerful, gritty voice and commanding presence made him a standout in the Motown family, and his songs continue to resonate with audiences around the world. Whether you’re a longtime fan or just discovering his genius, this list of the top 10 most popular Edwin Starr songs will take you on a journey through his greatest hits—songs that not only defined his career but also became timeless anthems of their own. So, crank up the volume, feel the groove, and dive into the unforgettable sound of Edwin Starr!
1. War (1970)
Released in 1970, Edwin Starr’s “War” remains one of the most powerful and iconic protest songs in music history. Originally written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong for The Temptations, Starr’s version elevated the intensity, transforming it into a rallying cry for those opposing the Vietnam War. The song’s fierce, unforgettable chorus—“War, huh, yeah! What is it good for? Absolutely nothing!”—became an anthem of resistance, heard at anti-war demonstrations and civil rights protests across the globe. Starr’s gritty, impassioned vocals brought a sense of urgency and emotional depth that struck a chord with listeners everywhere. The track soared to #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing Starr’s place in musical and cultural history. Decades later, “War” remains a powerful reminder of the emotional toll of conflict and continues to resonate as a timeless statement against violence and injustice.
2. Twenty-Five Miles (1968)
“Twenty-Five Miles,” released in 1968, was a major hit for Edwin Starr, blending a dynamic rhythm with a story of determination and love. The song captures the tale of a man eager to reunite with his lover, despite the daunting journey ahead. Its infectious beat and energetic brass arrangements perfectly mirror the intensity of Starr’s soulful, relentless performance. The song’s momentum feels like a race to the finish line, with every step forward bringing him closer to his destination. Starr’s vocals, full of emotion and urgency, carry the listener through the 25-mile trek, creating an exhilarating experience. The catchy chorus, “Twenty-five miles from home, girl,” quickly became a dance floor favorite, highlighting Starr’s ability to fuse storytelling with irresistible Motown grooves. The track hit #6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a testament to Starr’s musical prowess.
3. Stop the War Now (1970)
In 1970, following the massive success of “War,” Edwin Starr returned with another call for peace in “Stop the War Now.” This track builds on the anti-war message, urging immediate action to end the violence. While the song’s upbeat, funky rhythm contrasts with the somber tone of “War,” its message is just as compelling. Starr’s impassioned plea, “Stop the war now, we can’t afford to lose anymore,” resonates with urgency, and his commanding vocal delivery drives the message home. The song’s lively brass section and energetic drums create a powerful backdrop for Starr’s performance. Though not as universally recognized as “War,” “Stop the War Now” was another important contribution to the socially conscious music of the era, demonstrating Starr’s continued commitment to using his music as a platform for peace.
4. Agent Double-O-Soul (1965)
Edwin Starr’s 1965 hit “Agent Double-O-Soul” introduced a playful and charismatic side of the artist. With its clever nod to the James Bond franchise, the track features Starr as a secret agent with a license to groove. This upbeat and cheeky number showcases Starr’s dynamic performance and flair for showmanship. The infectious melody, combined with a driving Motown beat, makes it impossible not to move to the rhythm. Starr’s charismatic delivery and the song’s fun, lighthearted nature helped it reach #21 on the Billboard Hot 100, establishing him as a rising star in the soul scene. “Agent Double-O-Soul” was one of the early tracks that revealed Starr’s ability to mix storytelling with pure entertainment, setting the stage for the legendary career that followed.
5. Eye to Eye (1979)
By the time “Eye to Eye” hit the airwaves in 1979, Edwin Starr had fully embraced the disco craze. With its infectious beat, sleek production, and pulsating bassline, “Eye to Eye” is a celebration of connection and movement on the dance floor. Starr’s smooth and commanding vocals glide effortlessly over the upbeat rhythms, inviting listeners to lose themselves in the groove. The song captures the essence of the disco era, offering an escape through music and dance. While it marked a departure from the socially conscious themes of his earlier work, “Eye to Eye” showcased Starr’s versatility and ability to adapt to the ever-evolving music landscape. The track became a club favorite and helped solidify Starr’s place in the late ’70s music scene.
6. Time (1979)
Also released in 1979, “Time” finds Edwin Starr delving deeper into the disco sound while offering a more reflective theme. The song focuses on the idea of time slipping away and the importance of living in the moment. With its infectious beat, lush orchestration, and Starr’s soulful delivery, “Time” quickly became a hit in the UK, proving Starr’s enduring appeal. His vocals are both powerful and smooth, blending seamlessly with the disco rhythms that defined the late ’70s. The song’s theme of seizing the day resonated with listeners, making it popular not just in the UK, but also on international dance floors. “Time” stands as a testament to Starr’s ability to captivate audiences across different musical styles and eras.
7. Headline News (1966)
“Headline News,” released in 1966, is one of Edwin Starr’s early forays into socially conscious music. The song shines a spotlight on the struggles of ordinary people, telling their stories against a classic Motown backdrop. Starr’s impassioned vocals and the track’s driving rhythm made for a powerful combination, even if the song didn’t achieve the commercial success of his later hits. Nevertheless, “Headline News” established Starr as a singer unafraid to tackle difficult topics in his music. The track’s message of empathy and awareness was ahead of its time, marking Starr as a voice for social change long before “War” solidified his reputation as such.
8. Funky Music Sho Nuff Turns Me On (1971)
“Funky Music Sho Nuff Turns Me On” is a funk powerhouse from 1971 that showcases Edwin Starr’s raw energy and musical prowess. With its hard-hitting bassline, blasting horns, and gritty vocals, the song is an ode to the transformative power of music. Starr infuses the track with an electric performance, making it clear that music is a force that drives and moves him—and everyone else on the dance floor. The relentless groove and funky instrumentation made it an instant favorite among DJs and funk lovers, while Starr’s commanding presence elevated it to a standout track in his catalog. “Funky Music Sho Nuff Turns Me On” solidified Starr’s reputation as a master of both soul and funk, and it remains a defining song of the era.
9. H.A.P.P.Y. Radio (1979)
Released in 1979, “H.A.P.P.Y. Radio” is a feel-good anthem that perfectly captured the joy and energy of the disco era. With its bouncy rhythm and uplifting message, the song invites listeners to celebrate life and embrace happiness. The track was a major hit in the UK, where it climbed to #9 on the Singles Chart. Starr’s smooth, joyful vocals glide over the infectious groove, and the chorus, spelling out “H.A.P.P.Y.,” became an instant sing-along. The upbeat nature and positivity of the song made it a staple in clubs and on retro playlists. Its light-hearted, celebratory vibe continues to make it a favorite for fans of classic disco.
10. Back Street (1976)
Released in 1976, “Back Street” offered a more introspective side of Edwin Starr. Departing from the political and social themes of his more famous hits, this soulful track focuses on life’s challenges and the winding paths people must navigate. With its laid-back groove, lush strings, and smooth vocals, “Back Street” evokes a sense of longing and reflection. While it didn’t reach the commercial heights of his other songs, it allowed Starr to showcase a more vulnerable side of his artistry. The song’s emotional depth and mellow sound made it a standout track, demonstrating Starr’s versatility and ability to tap into the full range of human experience.