When it comes to powerhouse vocals, electrifying energy, and soul that hits you right in the chest, Edwin Starr was a force of nature. Best known for his explosive protest anthem “War,” Starr didn’t just sing — he roared with passion, purpose, and undeniable groove. With a voice that could shake the walls and lyrics that spoke to the struggles and triumphs of everyday people, Edwin Starr carved out a legacy as one of soul music’s most dynamic and unforgettable voices.
Backed by the legendary Motown sound, Starr delivered track after track of high-octane funk, fiery soul, and heartfelt ballads that got people dancing — and thinking. His music was bold, raw, and deeply rhythmic, blending powerful messages with irresistible hooks that made you want to move and march at the same time.
In this article, we’re counting down the Top 10 Most Popular Edwin Starr Songs of All Time — the hits that lit up the charts, shook the dance floors, and left a lasting mark on music history. So get ready to turn up the volume, feel the funk, and dive into the sound of a soul warrior who made every note count. 🎤🔥✊
1. “Stop the War Now” (1970)
Building on the massive success of “War,” Starr followed up with “Stop the War Now,” another powerful call for peace. While slightly less aggressive than its predecessor, the song still delivers a potent message, urging an end to violence and conflict. The gospel-like intensity, combined with a call-and-response vocal structure, gives the track a deeply moving, almost spiritual feel. Starr’s heartfelt performance amplifies the urgency of the lyrics, making it impossible to ignore. Released during a time of intense political unrest, “Stop the War Now” resonated strongly with audiences who had grown weary of war. It may not have reached the same chart-topping heights as “War,” but it remains a significant piece of Starr’s legacy. The song’s emotional depth and passionate plea for peace ensure its place among the most impactful protest songs of its era.
2. “Eye to Eye Contact” (1978)
As disco fever took over the music scene in the late ’70s, Edwin Starr proved he could evolve with the times. “Eye to Eye Contact” is a funky, groove-heavy track that perfectly captures the energy of the disco era. With a pulsating bassline, shimmering synthesizers, and Starr’s smooth yet commanding vocal delivery, the song became a club favorite. Unlike some of his earlier politically charged hits, “Eye to Eye Contact” is all about the thrill of the dance floor. The track’s hypnotic beat, sultry lyrics, and infectious rhythm made it a standout in Starr’s late-’70s catalog. It showcased his versatility as an artist, proving he could dominate the dance scene just as effectively as he had the protest movement. The song remains a classic example of Starr’s ability to stay relevant in an ever-changing musical landscape.
3. “Time” (1974)
A deep and introspective track, “Time” explores the fleeting nature of life and the importance of making every moment count. With its rich orchestral arrangement, groove-heavy rhythm, and thought-provoking lyrics, the song balances melancholy with an uplifting sense of urgency. Starr’s commanding voice delivers a powerful message, urging listeners to appreciate the present before it slips away. The combination of sophisticated production and heartfelt performance makes “Time” one of his most underrated gems. While it may not have achieved the same commercial success as some of his earlier hits, the song remains a fan favorite for its depth and emotional weight. Its reflective lyrics and soulful delivery make it a standout in Starr’s catalog, proving his ability to tackle profound themes with both passion and finesse.
4. “War” (1970)
Few songs capture the raw energy of protest quite like “War.” Originally recorded by The Temptations, Edwin Starr’s version turned it into one of the most iconic anti-war anthems of all time. Released at the height of the Vietnam War, the song became a rallying cry for those demanding peace. With its unforgettable chorus—”War! What is it good for? Absolutely nothing!”—and Starr’s fiery, impassioned delivery, the track resonated deeply with a generation weary of conflict. The pounding beat, bold brass section, and Starr’s almost furious vocal intensity made the song impossible to ignore. It shot to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, cementing Starr’s place in music history as a voice for the people. Even decades later, “War” remains an enduring symbol of resistance and remains one of the most powerful protest songs ever recorded.
5. “Twenty-Five Miles” (1969)
If ever there was a song that makes you want to get up and move, “Twenty-Five Miles” is it. This electrifying soul classic captures the excitement and anticipation of a man determined to reunite with his love. With a relentless, driving bassline, infectious handclaps, and an urgent tempo, the song perfectly conveys a sense of motion. Starr’s gritty, powerhouse vocals add a layer of urgency and excitement, making it one of the most dynamic Motown hits of the late ’60s. The track’s energy is so contagious that it has remained a fan favorite for decades, earning comparisons to some of the era’s biggest hits. It became a Top 10 success, proving Starr’s ability to blend high-energy soul with compelling storytelling. The song’s pulsing rhythm and triumphant spirit make it one of Starr’s most memorable recordings.
6. “I Have Faith in You” (1966)
This soulful ballad showcases Starr’s ability to deliver raw emotion with his powerful voice. “I Have Faith in You” is a heartfelt song about unwavering love and trust, featuring lush orchestration and a soaring melody. The gospel-tinged backing vocals and rich instrumentation elevate the track, making it a beautiful example of classic Motown soul. While not as commercially successful as some of his later hits, it remains a hidden gem in his early catalog. The sincerity in Starr’s voice makes this song a standout moment in his career, proving that he could shine just as brightly in tender, romantic ballads as he did in high-energy anthems.
7. “H.A.P.P.Y. Radio” (1979)
A feel-good anthem with a funky disco twist, “H.A.P.P.Y. Radio” is all about spreading joy and positivity. The song’s infectious groove, catchy chorus, and uplifting lyrics made it a favorite on dance floors across the world. Starr’s energetic delivery, combined with a bouncy bassline and bright instrumentation, turned it into a standout hit of the late disco era. Encouraging listeners to tune into happiness—both literally and metaphorically—the song became an instant party favorite. “H.A.P.P.Y. Radio” remains one of Starr’s most upbeat and danceable tracks.
8. “Funky Music Sho Nuff Turns Me On” (1971)
A full-throttle funk explosion, “Funky Music Sho Nuff Turns Me On” is a celebration of the power of music. With a deep, groovy bassline, sharp horn stabs, and Starr’s commanding vocals, the song is a high-energy tribute to the joy of funk and soul. The track’s infectious rhythm makes it impossible to sit still, demanding movement from the listener. It’s a testament to Starr’s ability to balance socially conscious messages with pure, danceable fun, making it a must-hear in his catalog.
9. “Agent Double-O-Soul” (1965)
Before he became known for protest anthems, Edwin Starr made his mark with “Agent Double-O-Soul,” a playful, high-energy track infused with Motown’s signature sound. Inspired by the secret agent craze of the ’60s, the song features clever, spy-themed lyrics and an infectious brass section that makes it impossible not to dance along. Starr’s charismatic delivery and undeniable stage presence turned it into an instant classic, helping to establish him as a force in the soul music scene. The song’s playful energy, combined with its catchy melody and danceable rhythm, made it a standout hit. “Agent Double-O-Soul” set the stage for Starr’s future success, proving that he had both the vocal power and the personality to captivate audiences.
10. “Contact” (1978)
A disco-era smash, “Contact” is a high-energy track that blends funk, dance, and soul into an irresistible groove. With its driving beat, layered percussion, and soaring vocals, the song became a favorite in clubs during the late ’70s. Unlike his earlier politically charged songs, “Contact” is all about movement and rhythm, capturing the excitement of the disco era. It became one of Starr’s biggest hits of the period, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile artist. The track’s infectious energy and dance-floor appeal made it a defining moment in his career.
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.
