Updated 27th March 2005

This page is dedicated to the memory of Edwin Starr and if you wish to add your own comments and memories of the great man, including your favourite songs, please send me an e-mail and we will add your tribute to this page.

STOP PRESS - Edwin Starr DVD now available - click here for details.

Stop Press Trivia - Edwin Starr's all time favourite song was 'I Have Faith In You' - click the below link to hear him say why;

http://www.goldmusic.contactbox.co.uk/edwinlink8.html

Just been listening to the interview with Edwin and the memories are enough to bring a few tears to the eyes. In the early 70s people like Edwin were like gods to us impressionable teenagers but in all honesty I prefer the second time around memories. From the late 80s onward concerts of Motown artists and in particular Edwin became a way of life again. From Scotland to Bognor and Skegness to Blackpool I would take my family and would talk with such people as Marv Johnson, Mary Wells, Johnny Bristol, Martha Reeves, Contours, Temps, Four Tops, Jimmy Ruffin, Edwin Starr, it was fantastic. I have been speaking to people that actually shaped my life,  things that I could not live without and I really don't think most of us from the early 70s fully appreciated the Northern Soul scene although we did really enjoy ourselves. Saturdays meant football, Highland Room and Wigan Casino and Sunday you were just knackered playing whatever record you picked up along the way. You didn't know were you would sleep at times or how you would get to a Soul event but life was great and it always worked out. It is only when you look back you see what a privilege it was to be involved in the early years of this underground movement. We were there at the start!
From Dave Godin's 'label' of Northern Soul virtually every country in the world now is aware of what Northern Soul is and top of the tree is Edwin Starr beating tough competion from artists such as Major Lance who also helped shape the Northern Soul scene. Bringing it up to date the best concerts with Edwin was when there about 1000 people there or less, places like Colne Village Hall, Ian Boasman's Bistro French and The Charter Theatre, Preston. He would always mingle afterwards and enjoy your company just as much as you enjoyed his, would stop for any photo and always have that big warm smile. This is why I prefer it second time round, they have now become friends. You only used to know the artists from a distance now it is up close and personal. Edwin in particular always appreciated his fan base and the scooter lads kept that going at the various rallies he would perform at.
One great memory from the Charter Theatre 2002 which incidentally was for St Catherine's Hospice [he was always there for any worthy cause] was that he asked the audience what he should sing and all his brilliant Northern tracks were coming out 24 Hours to Find My Baby [my favourite], I Have Faith in You, If my Heart Could Tell a Story etc. I even asked for Angel because it was the only track I could think of that he had not sung that night, he responded by saying "Are we having to go through all the B sides." After the concert he came out of his dressing room and I must of been about 20 feet away and in the words of Contact we just saw each other across the room. No words were said, he just came over and gave me a big hug, that for me personified Edwin, not high and aloof like some jumped up stars but a true friend who cares for his public and shows just how much they mean to him. We saw him at Skegness two weeks before his death, how I wish I should of made the effort to speak to him but even my wife commented he didn't seem that well that night a bit out of breath.
Their is a big hole in my life that can never be filled and two and a half years on I still miss this man so much and, in the many concerts I have been to, not one did he fail to have the audience on their feet dancing away. For me Edwin THE Starr top performer of all time and friend to all.

Miss you mate,

Steve Peak

There could not have been a sadder loss than brother Edwin Starr on the 2nd April 2003. Messages of condolence on his web site spoke volumes about the high esteem in which he was held throughout the music world, but especially within northern soul and Motown circles where his music will live on forever.

For those of you who had the pleasure of meeting him will remember just what a friendly and unselfish person he was, who always took time out to speak with his many fans and nothing ever seemed to be too much trouble. I was first introduced to Edwin personally in October 1994 after requesting that he join me in a radio studio where at that time I was presenting a soul and Motown show, and not only did he accept my offer to be part of that show, we actually ended up doing the whole three hour programme as an Edwin Starr ‘special’ – for which he didn’t charge me a single penny.

In addition to that, he made three personalised jingles for me and I am extremely proud to own the master tapes to that show that featured all of his work at Motown and Ric Tic, which now takes pride of place on my personal Motown web site.

We will all remember in our own special way the times that we saw him perform live around the UK. From the days of the Twisted Wheel where he was a regular visitor, to the California Ballroom in Dunstable, The Golden Torch at Tunstall, Wigan Casino, and countless other venues where he performed regularly. Whilst James Brown has commanded the tag of being the hardest working man in show business, I would argue that Edwin could easily have qualified for that accolade too.

We will all miss Edwin and life on the soul scene will never quite be the same anymore although his legacy of music will continue for many years to come. Life seems to have a cruel habit of taking people from this earth without warning, and I know that everyone reading this tribute will have their own special memories of this great man. At the young age of 61 this was a cruel blow to deliver and sadly he has now been added to a long list of soul greats that have now departed from this earth and I am sure he will join the likes of Marvin, Tammi, Laurence, Shorty, Jackie Wilson, Curtis Mayfield, and Major Lance but to name a few in that great place in the sky where I am sure he will keep them entertained.

It is ironic that his 1970 epic recording ‘War’ had a more powerful message than any other anti-war song of our generation and is one that will be in our hearts during this difficult time throughout the conflict in the middle east. I had recently reviewed on this web site two of Edwin’s CD releases via Universal Music where they had coupled four of his classic albums over two releases. Sadly he will never know just how many copies were sold.

Edwin Starr was a unique artist the likes of which we will never see again, his boundless energy on stage, his powerful vocal delivery, and electrifying stage presence is an inspiration to all of today’s new breed of ‘soul’ acts.

God bless Edwin – may you rest in peace. We will NEVER forget you.

Alan Taylor
Web Author/DJ/Radio presenter

I have seen Edwin perform live three or four times - the first was in a Brighton nightclub over thirty years ago, then more recently in Worthing with the motown tours.  My abiding memory of him is when he duetted with Mary Wilson (who I thought was an equally awsome female version).  He was so overcome by the music that he had tears in his eyes.  I turned to my friend and said "He's a real soul man."  Out of dozens of performers (including James Brown) I can honestly say that Edwin was just about my favourite for all the obvious reasons - his amazing voice, presence, lovely smiling face, and the fact that he always delivered his awsome music.  You knew that you would never  be disappointed in any way.  My son and girlfriend saw Edwin live at Surrey University three or four years ago and were blown away!  They are less than half my age, so I think that speaks volumes for the man.  I shed tears when I heard the shocking news and my heart goes out to his family and close friends.  However, he will always be truly loved and remembered by people all over the world.  Thanks so much Edwin for everything you gave of yourself.  Love Sue Heeley XXXXX

I was a young reporter on a local newspaper who had never even heard of Blues and Soul Magazine. However, I was a Soul fan and, when I heard that Edwin Starr was appearing at a club, 'The Place' in Stoke-on-Trent, I persuaded the pop correspondent
on the paper to let me go to review the show.  What I remember now from around 35 years ago is Edwin telling us 'I'm going
to make the wallpaper peel from the walls' and the fact that his show blew my mind. Also, that he was the perfect gentleman when I interviewed him afterwards. Ten years or so later, by now working for Blues and Soul magazine, I went to see him again. As I walked into his dressing room his face broke into that great smile he had, he shook my hand and asked how I'd been since we first met, he remembered me! I've seen Edwin many times since, he's always had that smile, always seemed genuinely happy to see me and always put on a show that left one breathless.  One of the greatest vocal performers of our age and one of the nicest people you could ever hope to meet. I have lost a good friend.

Frank Elson

Though I did not know Edwin Starr, I feel like I did. Edwin's music --or rather the presence of his personality through his music-- was like that.  Hours before his death I left the following message on his website. I was, as it turned out, the last message that he would receive. Though many artists have made classic records, timeless records are rare indeed. Yet War is exactly that --not just for it's anti-war message, but for the horrified voice of the masses of people that Edwin became as he recorded it. That he could find this in himself as he sang says more about Edwin, and one would hope for the human condition if others could follow his soul to find this in themselves, than any words ever could. "Good God, y'all" says everything.

For all of us who say the 1960's, and who are seeing it all over again in 2003, we thank you Edwin. Your voice was the voice of humanity. And what a gift that was!
 

                                                                    Bruce McKellar
                                                                    Corona, California

Having served in the RAF for many years, I had great pleasure in inviting Edwin to appear/play at several summer balls at RAF Abingdon just outside Oxford in the late 80’s.  His act was what I can only describe as electrifying.  Such professionalism, such grace and appearance.  A voice that will never be forgotten for many years to come.

God rest his sole

Colin Evans

When I was about seven years old I was introduced to soul music by my uncle. He had a pile of  singles and I was given the job of playing them to him whilst he got ready to go out. They included a few  Motown and Stax records and my favourite  - a tune on Polydor called S.O.S by Edwin Starr. Each record got their turn but somehow S.O.S seemed to get more plays than the others!!!! This began a lifelong love affair with soul music and in particular Edwin Starr. Soon albums like Soul Master and War and Peace became treasured possessions - played until  they were almost worn out. The only thing that could surpass listening to one of Edwin's records was seeing him perform live - WOW!!  I was lucky enough to see Edwin Starr perform many times, from the early 70's to most recently in September 20002 in Preston. Each time he was brilliant!!! - I doubt that any other artist could generate that level of excitement over such a long period of time. I got the chance to meet and talk with him on a number of occassions - he always made time for his fans.I can only thank him for the enjoyment that his music has given me - he was a true soul legend and his memory will live on thru his music. All I need to hear are the opening bars of S.O.S and I'm that seven year old girl falling in love with the man and his music all over again.

Jill Allsworth
Blackpool

I first met Edwin A number of years ago when he was playing in the music marquee at StHelens show. I will never forget the words "If only I could write another top ten hit like the others, but it's so hard to do" Edwin's words before eating his burger. Just an ordinary man with a big talent. I went on to meet him a few times after that, and also with my sister becoming a big fan. She nicknamed him LEGEND! (so he was) Last year I was at the Jools Holland outdoor concert in Sherwood Pines Forest Nottingham, when to great surprise Edwin stepped out to do a couple of numbers WOW!!!

As I have said on his web site tribute page "S.O.S on the H.A.P.P.Y RADIO with 25 MILES TO GO before CONTACT for WAR"
just my personal favourites REST IN PEACE AGENT OO SOUL.
Lisa Turner (Denby UK)

Hi Alan

Yes Very sad news about Edwin...I interviewed him on Capital Gold last year
and was only giging with him just before Xmas...Just a great man very
genuine...My fav song was Contact and still play it now at night clubs and on
Capital...

Dean (Capitol Gold)

What i remember most about Edwin was he was always smiling and nothing was to much trouble he would always have time for you and his performances were always first class( HE COULD NEVER BETTER HIMSELF HE ALWAYS GIVE 100% ) He was a superstar but without all the fuss and if you ever meet him you will never forget it.He was the  ( MASTER ) R.I.P. Edwin

Mike from Oldham

Many thanks for the address to send edwins flowers that is very much
appreiciated.

Fay L Jones
Oldham

Very sad at the loss of Edwin Star. As a DJ at the California Ballroom in Dunstable I worked with him a few times. He was one of the nicest men in show bizz.......

Paul Gray ( California Ballroom )

I was lucky enough to see Edwin quite a few times over the last ten years - never a dud performance.  No more eye to eye contact, but forever in our hearts and souls.

Julie (and Lesley, Irene, Trish Jenny, Sue and Joan)

Thanks for the chance to record my thoughts on one of the nicest guys in the music world. In the early seventies I met most of the Motown greats and I can say that Edwin stood out amongst them. I met him several times over the years and he was always cheerful, always had time to stop and chat. My fondest memory is of the first time we met. It was at the California Ballroom in Dunstable on the 24th December 1972. I was backstage helping out and when he came out of the dressing room I asked him for an autograph.

Neither of us had anything to write on so he rushed off to the gents and came back with a sheet of Jeyes toilet paper and signed that. I still have it pasted into an autograph book. I bet no one else has one that says...

Love. Edwin* Starr
JEYES

A lovely man with a fantastic voice. I'll miss him. My favourite track is
Time, if only he had more....

Gill.

I started getting into soul music in the early 70's when there was big drive in the uk youth scene for motown and northern soul - as a southern boy going north in the army I suddenly realised what I have been missing - Edwin was one of the best around at the time.   I never lost my soul roots and when a revival of the California Ballroom in Dunstable was started the opening act was Edwin - it was as if time had stood still - what a performer - what an entertainer - what a nice guy - he made you feel he was there to see you and was happy to be there.

So long Edwin - we will not forget.

John & Julie

I AM NOT ABLE TO ATTEND, BUT I SEND THANKS TO YOU FOR INFORMING THOSE OF US
WHO ARE HEAVY IN HEART AT THIS TIME.
LOVE AND GOD BLESS
MARTHA REEVES

I had been following Edwin around the country for the last 10 years, and never been disappointed in his performances.  I do hope they will rerelease 'WAR'. it would be a fitting tribute. No more eye to eye contact, but forever in our hearts and souls.
Julie (and Lesley, Irene, Jenny, Sue, Trish, Joan)

Edwin  Starr was a huge Motown star
His memory and his music live on.

From Debra McGuirk

I Had followed Edwin for many years when I was younger on scooter rallies all over Enland,  what an entertainer!! later on I became a singer myself and had my dream come true when I supported him and his band with my band in a hotel in Kent, England.
I got to sit and chat with him and his band for a few hours and I must say, he was everything I had hoped he was, very gental very chatty and polite, he told me to use his hotel room to change in (and carried my stuff for me!) he said he was looking for a couple of girl singers to tour with him, if it had only been a few years ealier, still we all have our own paths!
I was totally gutted when I heard that he had died, he was a fantastic entertainer and got better and better over the years, I will miss his precence here on this earth, but his music will stay with me forever.

Salli Huett (Essex England)

Abby, Bracknell

T Temple. United Kingdom.

Raymond Walls

Edwin has been an integral part of The Nottingham Soul Scene as far back as I can remember.
From first hearing his records in a small soul club 'The Santa Fe' in 1968, to his fantastic concerts in and
around Nottingham. Eventually Edwin settled the UK midlands, later moving very close to me. He lived
there for many years unbeknown to me till his sad passing. Edwin was for me the finest soul singer,
even above Otis & James Brown.His was a sad passing, He is irreplaceable. RIP Edwin.

Mick Twomey.

The planned DVD of Edwin Live is now available.  The DVD, titled "25 Miles From Home", features two performances of Edwin and the Team, including his very last live performance -  at Stuttgart in Germany. More details of the DVD can be found at Edwin's website www.edwinstarr.info. The price is £10.99 (inc post and packaging) if purchased from the site. It is also available from Amazon http://www.amazon.co.uk/exec/obidos/ASIN/B0002MGZC8/qid%3D1095582699/026-475
9615-6868436 and some high street outlets but you may find Edwin's website price is marginally cheaper. The DVD is not due for official release until Sept 27th.

Thank you for your time.

Kindest regards

Lilian Kyle
Kyle Artiste Management

The second and last time I saw Edwin live was in January 1971 at The Twisted Wheel, I'm sure it was the last night. Both gone now, but not forgotten, lliving on forever every time you press the start button.

Charlie

Edwin Starr discography and UK CD reviews - click here
Edwin Starr talks to Alan Taylor about Motown & Ric-Tic - click here
Hell Up In Harlem - CD Review - click here
Essential collection CD Review - click here