Starr castigates the nature and effects of fighting a war and urges mankind to resolve its disagreements in a peaceful way.Įdwin Starr, who had become a Motown artist in 1968 after his former label, Ric-Tic, was purchased by Motown founder Berry Gordy, became “War’s” new vocalist….Edwin Starr version. Tone: Starr is exceptionally impassioned to have the government withdraw forces from Vietnam and, in the bigger context, for all war to come to an end. 1 hit on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1970, and is not only the most successful and well-known record of his career, but it is also one of the most popular protest songs ever recorded. But, concerned about its effect on the group’s middle American following, Tamla boss Berry Gordy decided it was too risky for the Temptations, so Whitfield brought War to Starr. Tamla Motown’s Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong had composed War with the Temptations in mind. What influenced Edwin Starr to write war? Even songs that weren’t directly about the war - like “Chain of Fools” - could take on new meaning in Vietnam. Songs that spoke directly to the war were proof that people were talking about this cataclysmic event, and a way to safely express the ambivalence that many in the field felt. Why was so much music written about the Vietnam War? Starr was famous for his Norman Whitfield-produced Motown singles of the 1970s, most notably the number-one hit “War”. What was Edwin Starr known for?Ĭharles Edwin Hatcher (Janu– April 2, 2003) known by his stage name Edwin Starr, was an American singer and songwriter. “War” was one of the first Motown songs to make a political statement.Īn anti-war anthem deemed a little too forthright for one of Motown’s biggest acts hit the top of the charts for one of its finest soul singers on August 29, 1970. This is a protest song about the Vietnam War, although it makes a broader statement of the need for harmony in our everyday lives.
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