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Key Points

Wayne Lewis, a pivotal founding member of the iconic R&B band Atlantic Starr, has died at 68, leaving behind a remarkable musical legacy. As a vocalist and primary songwriter, Lewis was instrumental in creating hits like 'Always' and 'Secret Lovers' that defined the R&B sound of the late 1970s and 1980s. The band, originally formed with his brothers in 1976, achieved significant success on the Billboard charts and became a staple of the era's music scene. His passing marks the end of an important chapter in contemporary R&B music history.

Key Points: Wayne Lewis Atlantic Starr Founder Dies at 68

  • Founding member of influential R&B group Atlantic Starr passed away
  • Wrote multiple chart-topping hits like 'Always' and 'Secret Lovers'
  • Band formed in 1976 with brothers David and Jonathan Lewis
  • Group scored multiple Billboard R&B chart successes
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'Atlantic Starr' founder, singer Wayne Lewis passes away at 68

R&B legend Wayne Lewis, founding member of Atlantic Starr and writer of hit songs 'Always' and 'Secret Lovers', passes away

"It's with great sadness we have to post the passing of Wayne Lewis - Atlantic Starr Band Facebook"

Washington DC, June 8

Wayne Lewis, a founding member of the R&B band 'Atlantic Starr' who sang vocals, and is known to pen hits like 'Always' and 'Secret Lovers', passed away, as informed by his band.

Washington DC [US], June 8 (ANI): Wayne Lewis, a founding member of the R&B band 'Atlantic Starr' who sang vocals, and is known to pen hits like 'Always' and 'Secret Lovers', passed away, as informed by his band.

The 'Atlantic Starr' band shared the news of Wayne Lewis' demise on their Facebook handle, asking for "respect for privacy" for the singer's family. The cause of the death was not revealed by the band.

"It's with great sadness we have to post the passing of Wayne Lewis on June 5, 2025 please keep the family in your prayers and respect there privacy #waynelewis #restinpeace #flyhigh Sunrise 4/13/1957 Sunset 6/5/2025 #restinpeaceWayne," wrote the 'Atlantic Starr' band on Facebook.

https://www.facebook.com/AtlanticStarrBand/posts/1286006390197658

According to Deadline, Atlantic Starr, a New York-based band, was founded in 1976 by Wayne Lewis and his two brothers -- David Lewis (vocalist and guitarist) and Jonathan Lewis (keyboardist and trombonist) -- as well as drummer Porter Carroll Jr., bassist Clifford Archer and percussionist-flautist Joseph Phillips.

Early members also included lead singer Sharon Bryant (later replaced by Barbara Weathers), trumpeter William Sudderth and saxophonist Damon Rentie (replaced afterward by Koran Daniels).

According to the outlet, throughout the late '70s and early '80s, Atlantic Starr scored several hits on the R&B charts, including 'Circles', which marked the group's first single to hit the Billboard Hot 100.

Later tracks, like 'Always,' peaked at No. 1 on the coveted chart, while 1992's 'Masterpiece' peaked at No. 3.

First signing to A&M, the group then moved over to Warner Bros. Records, having trimmed down to a quintet with the three Lewis brothers, Phillips and Weathers by 1987, reported Deadline.

Following the smash success of "Always," Weathers left to pursue a solo career and was replaced with a number of other female vocalists.

In 1992, the Atlantic Starr members appeared as themselves and performed on an episode of daytime soap Another World, reported Deadline.

Wayne Lewis and David Lewis are credited with writing most of the band's songs. The group's most recent album, Metamorphosis, was released in 2017.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
So sad to hear this news. "Always" was my wedding song back in 1998. Wayne Lewis's voice had such emotion that even today when I hear it, I get goosebumps. May his soul rest in peace. 🙏
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Priya M.
Atlantic Starr's music was the soundtrack of my college days in the 90s! "Secret Lovers" was our hostel anthem. 😄 Wayne Lewis's contribution to R&B was legendary. The world has lost a musical genius today.
A
Arjun S.
While I appreciate Atlantic Starr's music, I wish Indian media would give equal coverage to our own legendary musicians who pass away. Just last month we lost Ustad Rashid Khan but it barely made headlines.
S
Sunita P.
My husband proposed to me with "Always" playing in the background. Wayne Lewis's voice made that moment magical. Their music transcended borders and touched hearts across the world. Condolences to his family and band members.
V
Vikram J.
First time hearing about Atlantic Starr but just listened to "Always" - what a beautiful song! It's amazing how music can introduce you to artists even decades after their peak. RIP Wayne Lewis.
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Neha R.
Their music was played at every family gathering when I was growing up. My uncles would always request "Circles" at weddings. These songs bring back so many memories. The Lewis brothers created timeless classics.

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