R&B Icon Wayne Lewis of Atlantic Starr Passes Away at 68
RIP WAYNE LEWIS: The Legendary R&B Heartthrob Behind Atlantic Starr's Timeless Classics
In a shocking and devastating blow to the music world, Wayne Lewis, the charismatic lead vocalist and co-founding member of the iconic R&B group Atlantic Starr, has left this mortal coil at the tender age of 68. The news of his passing sent shockwaves across social media, with fans and fellow musicians alike taking to their feeds to pay tribute to the soulful singer-songwriter.
According to a heartfelt Facebook post from the band on June 6th, Wayne Lewis passed away on June 5th, 2025. While the cause of death has not been revealed, his legacy as one of the most influential voices in R&B history will undoubtedly live on through his timeless classics.
Wayne's journey with Atlantic Starr began back in 1976 when he co-founded the group alongside his brothers David and Jonathan Lewis in White Plains, New York. Originally known as Newban, the trio would eventually change their name to Atlantic Starr before signing with A&M Records and releasing their self-titled debut album in 1978. Wayne's soulful vocals and deft keyboard skills were evident on early tracks like "Stand Up" and "Keep It Comin'," setting the stage for a decade of chart-topping success.
The '80s saw Atlantic Starr rise to dizzying heights, with Wayne at the helm as both lead vocalist and creative force behind some of their most iconic hits. The band's signature blend of smooth soul, R&B, and pop sent them soaring up the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts, with timeless classics like "Always," "Secret Lovers," "Circles," "Silver Shadow," and "Masterpiece" cementing their status as one of the most beloved acts of the era.
And what a hit it was – "Always" topped the Billboard Hot 100 in 1987, earning platinum status and becoming an instant wedding anthem for generations to come. Wayne's soulful delivery on the ballad continues to send shivers down spines to this day, its sentimental value only rivalled by his own heartbreak.
As news of Wayne's passing spread like wildfire across social media, fans took to sharing their own memories and tributes to the beloved singer-songwriter. "A great songwriter," wrote one fan. "Atlantic Star was better once he became leader. He will be missed." Another praised him as "a great songwriter" and "an icon of soulful love songs."
Yet another heartbroken fan shared a poignant post: "Omg I'm devastated. I was looking forward to seeing them perform this Sunday at Capital Jazz Festival. My condolences." It's clear that Wayne Lewis left an indelible mark on the music world, touching hearts with his timeless ballads and uplifting spirit.
As Atlantic Starr's musical influence endures, so too does their legacy as one of the most successful R&B acts of all time. With hits like "Secret Lovers" (which reached No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1985), "Touch a Four Leaf Clover," and "Am I Dreaming" solidifying their status as legends, it's clear that Wayne Lewis's impact will be felt for generations to come.
So here's to you, Wayne – a true icon of soulful love songs. Your music may have touched the hearts of millions, but your spirit lives on in every note we sing and every beat our hearts still beat to this day. Rest in peace, dear one.
Sources:
- TheScholarlyNote.com, June 6th, 2025
- Atlantic Starr's official Facebook page, June 6th, 2025
