When it comes to soul music with power, passion, and purpose, Edwin Starr stands in a league of his own. Best known for his thunderous protest anthem “War,” Starr’s voice was a weapon of rhythm and resistance—a bold force that shook dance floors and challenged societal norms. But his legacy runs far deeper than a single hit. From gritty funk grooves to heart-pounding Northern Soul classics and late-70s disco dazzlers, Edwin Starr carved out a career that was as dynamic as it was unforgettable. His songs didn’t just entertain—they moved people, both physically and emotionally. With a voice that could roar like a lion or soothe like a whisper, Starr brought intensity and authenticity to every track he touched. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering his electrifying catalog, this list is your ultimate guide to the music that defined an era. So turn up the volume and get ready to groove, protest, and feel every beat—these are the Top 10 Most Popular Edwin Starr Songs of All Time, each one a timeless slice of soul history.
1. War (1970)
Edwin Starr’s “War” isn’t just one of the most iconic protest songs of the 20th century—it’s a thunderous, soul-powered battle cry that punched straight through the political and cultural noise of 1970. Released during the peak of the Vietnam War, this explosive anthem turned frustration into fire, with Starr’s electrifying vocals driving home its blunt message: “War! Huh! Yeah! What is it good for? Absolutely nothing!” Originally recorded by The Temptations, the song was deemed too controversial for them to release as a single, so Motown handed it to Starr—and he didn’t just run with it, he detonated it. Backed by pounding drums, blaring horns, and an urgent rhythm, Starr delivers each line with righteous fury. It became a No. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and an instant rallying cry for the anti-war movement. “War” wasn’t subtle, and that’s precisely why it worked. It embodied the raw, unfiltered rage of a generation disillusioned by conflict and desperate for change. More than five decades later, its message remains alarmingly relevant. Few songs have captured the spirit of protest as powerfully as this one, cementing its place in history not just as a hit record, but as a cultural landmark.
2. Twenty-Five Miles (1969)
Edwin Starr’s “Twenty-Five Miles” is a soulful, high-octane sprint straight into the heart of classic Motown. Released in 1969, this track is all about motion—relentless, determined, joyfully desperate motion—as Starr counts down the miles separating him from the woman he loves. It’s his first major solo hit, landing at No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, and it’s not hard to hear why. The song is driven by a pounding beat that mimics the rhythm of feet on the pavement, while a buoyant horn section and handclaps push the energy even higher. Starr’s voice is full of grit and urgency, capturing the sense that he would walk barefoot and bleeding if it meant reuniting with his lover. It’s a love song, yes, but also a testament to emotional endurance—an anthem for anyone who’s ever felt love was worth the struggle. Blending the driving force of James Brown-style funk with Motown’s melodic precision, “Twenty-Five Miles” is irresistibly danceable and undeniably heartfelt. Even today, it remains a crowd favorite and a perfect showcase of Starr’s unique ability to combine sweat, soul, and storytelling in one exhilarating package.
3. Agent Double-O-Soul (1965)
Before Edwin Starr became synonymous with gritty protest anthems, he burst onto the scene with a wink and a groove in “Agent Double-O-Soul,” his debut solo single from 1965. This playful track fused the cool allure of spy movies with Starr’s powerful vocal charisma, presenting him as a soul-slinging secret agent on a mission to make you dance. With nods to James Bond’s suave mystique, Starr leaned into the gimmick—but it was his authentic energy and serious pipes that made the song pop. Horns punch through the mix like bursts of brass gunfire, while the driving rhythm and catchy chorus made it a dancefloor favorite. “Double-O-Soul” wasn’t just a novelty; it showcased Starr’s early ability to balance fun with flair. The single charted modestly in the U.S., but its impact resonated strongly in the UK, helping to lay the groundwork for the Northern Soul movement. More than just a clever concept, it marked the beginning of a career that would span genres, decades, and continents. It remains a time capsule of 1960s swagger, a reminder that before Starr was a protest icon, he was already a master of charm and rhythm.
4. Stop the War Now (1971)
Following the chart-topping thunder of “War,” Edwin Starr returned with a more soulful and reflective plea in 1971’s “Stop the War Now.” Where its predecessor was direct and explosive, this follow-up takes a more spiritual approach—layering gospel influences with Starr’s trademark emotional intensity. The song opens with a slow, steady build, anchored by a swelling choir that gives it the feel of a Sunday morning sermon turned protest. Starr’s voice moves from gentle urgency to impassioned cries, imploring listeners to come together in the name of peace and humanity. “Stop the War Now” doesn’t rely on shock value; instead, it aims to heal and unify. The song didn’t achieve the same level of commercial success as “War,” but its sincerity and emotional depth have made it a beloved deep cut among fans. It reinforces Starr’s commitment to social consciousness, proving that he wasn’t just chasing a hit—he was using his platform to speak truth. In a world still marred by conflict, its message is as resonant today as it was in 1971, offering a more compassionate but equally urgent call to end the cycle of violence.
5. Time (1970)
Tucked away on Edwin Starr’s War & Peace album, “Time” stands as one of his most poignant and overlooked songs. Released in 1970, this track isn’t a protest anthem or dancefloor banger—it’s a soulful reflection on the passage of time and the emotional weight it carries. With a steady groove, layered instrumentation, and a restrained but affecting vocal, Starr explores themes of change, healing, and introspection. “Time” doesn’t shout; it whispers truths we all feel but struggle to articulate. His voice carries the ache of missed chances and the hope of new beginnings, creating a mood that’s both somber and strangely comforting. The arrangement is elegant—lush strings, soft backing vocals, and a laid-back rhythm section give the track a timeless quality. Unlike his more famous singles, “Time” isn’t made for mass rallies or spinning DJs—it’s meant for quiet moments of self-reflection. This is Edwin Starr at his most mature and thoughtful, offering listeners a glimpse into his philosophical side. It’s a song that grows richer with age, rewarding those who dig deeper into his catalog with one of his most emotionally resonant performances.
6. H.A.P.P.Y. Radio (1979)
By the late 1970s, Edwin Starr had shifted gears from gritty soul and protest anthems into the glittering world of disco—and he did it with style. “H.A.P.P.Y. Radio,” released in 1979, is a feel-good groove machine built to lift spirits and move feet. A hit in the UK, where Starr had become something of a soul icon, the song radiates positivity from the very first beat. With its infectious bassline, sparkling synths, and Starr’s exuberant vocals, “H.A.P.P.Y. Radio” plays like a love letter to music itself. Starr casts himself as a musical DJ, spinning tunes not just to entertain, but to heal and bring joy. It’s a far cry from the fiery political edge of “War,” but it proves his versatility—he could preach peace, and he could party. The track is light, funky, and unpretentious, anchored by a chorus that’s tailor-made for sing-alongs. More than just a disco diversion, “H.A.P.P.Y. Radio” showed that Starr could evolve with the times without losing his charm or vocal power. It’s an underrated gem that reminds us how music—at its best—can be both an escape and a celebration of life.
7. My Weakness Is You (1966)
Edwin Starr’s “My Weakness Is You,” released in 1966, is a tender slice of mid-60s soul that finds him swapping raw energy for heartfelt vulnerability. A far cry from the explosive tone of his later hits, this track showcases Starr’s softer side as he confesses that love, not war, is his greatest challenge. His voice, rich and warm, carries a sense of genuine longing as he sings about being emotionally undone by a woman’s love. The instrumentation is classic Motown elegance—lilting horns, lush strings, and smooth backing vocals create a warm, romantic atmosphere. Though it wasn’t a major hit on U.S. charts, the song found a second life across the Atlantic, becoming a cherished favorite in the UK’s Northern Soul scene. Dancers and collectors alike were drawn to its perfect blend of melody and sincerity. “My Weakness Is You” stands as a beautiful reminder that Starr was more than just a protest singer or a disco hitmaker. He was a fully-rounded soul artist who could deliver both grit and grace—sometimes within the same verse. This track captures that emotional balance, and it remains one of his most underrated yet rewarding songs.
8. Contact (1978)
“Contact,” released in 1978, marked Edwin Starr’s dazzling dive into disco—and what a landing it was. The song exploded on the U.S. Dance chart, hitting No. 1 and becoming one of his biggest late-career hits. Brimming with futuristic flair, “Contact” sounds like a transmission straight from the galaxy’s funkiest planet. Its thumping beat, layered synths, and laser-like effects create a soundscape that’s both retro and forward-thinking. Starr’s voice slices through the spacey production with authority, turning a sci-fi metaphor about romantic attraction into a pulsing dancefloor anthem. The lyrics playfully explore “cosmic communication” and chemistry, cleverly using the idea of outer space to express emotional and physical connection. This wasn’t just a gimmick—Starr truly owned the shift to disco, bringing his soulful presence to a genre that often favored gloss over grit. With “Contact,” he found a sweet spot between innovation and groove, managing to stay true to himself while embracing a whole new era. It’s a shining example of how an artist can reinvent without losing their soul—and one of the most enduring disco cuts of the late ’70s.
9. I Have Faith in You (1966)
“I Have Faith in You,” released in 1966, is one of Edwin Starr’s lesser-known tracks, but it’s a shining example of his emotional range and vocal precision. The song is a soulful testament to love and loyalty, featuring Starr at his most sincere. Over a soft, swaying rhythm and gentle orchestration, he sings of unwavering belief in a partner—offering reassurance and tenderness rather than drama or bravado. There’s a quiet intensity in his delivery, a warmth that suggests real lived experience behind the lyrics. The production leans into the Motown formula—subtle string arrangements, smooth harmonies, and a clean groove—but Starr elevates it with his heartfelt vocal performance. Though it didn’t chart significantly in the U.S., “I Have Faith in You” became a cult favorite among Northern Soul enthusiasts, who recognized its danceable rhythm and emotional authenticity. In a catalog often filled with powerful declarations and fiery anthems, this song stands out for its gentleness. It reminds us that Starr didn’t always need to shout to be heard—sometimes, a whisper of love carries just as much power. It’s a hidden gem worth rediscovering for fans of vintage soul.
10. (Eye-to-Eye) Contact (1979)
Released in 1979 as a follow-up to his disco smash “Contact,” Edwin Starr’s “(Eye-to-Eye) Contact” brought the energy right back to the dancefloor—this time with a more personal twist. Where “Contact” was space-age and metaphorical, this sequel of sorts focuses on the spark between two people locking eyes across a crowded room. Driven by a sleek groove, bright synths, and a pulsing beat, the song captures the electric chemistry of an instant connection. Starr’s vocals are as commanding as ever, effortlessly riding the rhythm while delivering a smooth, flirtatious performance. It’s disco through and through, but never shallow—Starr imbues it with his unmistakable soul and charisma. Although it didn’t match the chart-topping success of its predecessor, “(Eye-to-Eye) Contact” reinforced Starr’s ability to thrive in the late-70s club scene. It’s a track that proves he wasn’t content to rest on his earlier triumphs. Instead, he embraced the evolving soundscape of popular music and made it his own. Packed with charm and rhythm, “(Eye-to-Eye) Contact” is a testament to Starr’s enduring presence and ability to keep audiences dancing—whether in protest, romance, or celebration.
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.
