 |
| Credit: blackpromoterscollective |
Remembering Wayne Lewis: Atlantic Starr Co-Founder and R&B Legend Dies at 68
Wayne Lewis, the soulful voice and creative force behind Atlantic Starr, has died at the age of 68. The band, which he co-founded and led to international acclaim, announced his passing on June 5, 2025. Though the cause of death has not been disclosed, the outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow musicians underscores the profound impact Lewis had on the world of R&B and pop music.
A Founding Force in R&B
Born on April 13, 1957, in White Plains, New York, Wayne Lewis grew up surrounded by music. In 1976, he joined forces with his brothers David and Jonathan Lewis to form Atlantic Starr, a group that would become synonymous with smooth love ballads and infectious grooves. The original lineup was a powerhouse of talent, featuring drummer Porter Carroll Jr., bassist Clifford Archer, percussionist-flutist Joseph Phillips, and lead vocalist Sharon Bryant, among others.
From the outset, Lewis was more than just a frontman. As a vocalist, keyboardist, and songwriter, he helped shape the band’s distinctive sound—a blend of lush harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and sophisticated arrangements. Alongside his brother David, Wayne co-wrote and produced many of Atlantic Starr’s biggest hits, making the group a staple on R&B and pop charts throughout the 1980s and early 1990s.
Chart-Topping Hits and Enduring Legacy
Atlantic Starr’s journey began with their self-titled debut album in 1978, which featured tracks like “Stand Up” and “With Your Love I Come Alive.” The band quickly found success on the R&B charts, but it was in the 1980s that they truly hit their stride. Songs such as “Circles,” “Secret Lovers,” and “Touch a Four Leaf Clover” became radio staples, while their 1987 single “Always” soared to No. 1 on both the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts.
The group’s ability to evolve with the times was evident in their 1992 hit “Masterpiece,” which reached No. 3 on both the pop and R&B charts. Over the years, Atlantic Starr released a string of successful albums, including Brilliance (1982), As the Band Turns (1985), and All in the Name of Love (1987). Their music, often centered on themes of love and relationships, resonated deeply with audiences and continues to be celebrated today.
A Band That Adapted and Endured
Atlantic Starr’s lineup changed over the decades, with notable members like Barbara Weathers and Koran Daniels joining the group. Despite these shifts, Wayne Lewis remained a constant presence, guiding the band through the highs and lows of the music industry. The group’s adaptability was further demonstrated by their appearances on television, including a memorable cameo on the soap opera Another World in 1992.
The band’s most recent album, Metamorphosis, was released in 2017, showing that their creative spark remained undimmed even after four decades in the business. At the time of his passing, Lewis was still performing with Atlantic Starr, alongside his brother Jonathan, Melessa Pierce, and Shammah Carter.
Tributes and Reflections
News of Wayne Lewis’s death prompted an outpouring of grief and remembrance on social media. Fans described him as the “voice of a generation” and praised his songwriting prowess, with one admirer noting, “Atlantic Starr was at its best with him as the leader. He will be deeply missed”. The band’s official statement asked for privacy for Lewis’s family and encouraged fans to keep them in their thoughts during this difficult time.
A Lasting Impact
Wayne Lewis’s legacy is etched in the timeless songs he created and the countless lives he touched through music. His work with Atlantic Starr helped define the sound of contemporary R&B, and his influence can be heard in the artists who followed. As tributes continue to pour in, one thing is clear: Wayne Lewis’s voice, vision, and artistry will continue to inspire for generations to come.
#WayneLewis
#AtlanticStarr
#RBLegend
No comments:
Post a Comment