War (Edwin Starr song)

“War” is a 1970 soul song performed by Edwin Starr, whose forceful refrain declares that war is good for absolutely nothing. It became a defining American protest song of the Vietnam era.

Connect

Norman Whitfield: Norman Whitfield was an American songwriter and producer who shaped Motown’s psychedelic soul sound. He co-wrote and produced “War,” giving its protest message a hard-driving soul arrangement.
Call and response (music): Call and response is a musical pattern in which one voice or part is answered by another. Starr’s lead lines are answered by backing voices, making the refrain feel collective.
Billboard Hot 100: The Billboard Hot 100 is a U.S. record chart ranking popular songs by commercial performance. Starr’s “War” reached number one on the chart in 1970.
“War” (The Temptations recording): The Temptations’ recording of “War” is the original 1970 version, released on Psychedelic Shack. Its restrained, psychedelic-soul treatment differs from Starr’s explosive single.
Barrett Strong: Barrett Strong was an American singer and songwriter closely associated with Motown Records. He co-wrote “War” with Norman Whitfield.
Soul music: Soul is a popular music genre combining gospel-derived vocals with rhythm and blues. Starr’s performance uses soul’s emphatic singing and rhythmic intensity.
Anti-war movement: The anti-war movement comprises organized opposition to particular wars or to war more broadly. The song supplied a memorable refrain for opposition to the Vietnam War.
War (album): War is Edwin Starr’s 1970 album, featuring his recording of the song “War.” The single appeared on the album that carried its title.
The Temptations: The Temptations are an American vocal group known for their Motown recordings. They first recorded “War” on the 1970 album Psychedelic Shack.
Funk: Funk is a rhythm-centered popular music style built around syncopated grooves and strong bass lines. The tight groove gives the protest lyric a propulsive, danceable force.