As we celebrate Black Music Appreciation Month, we shine a spotlight on one of R&B’s most beloved and enduring groups, Atlantic Starr. Known for their silky smooth harmonies, emotive storytelling, and timeless love ballads, Atlantic Starr helped define the romantic soundscape of the 1980s and left an unforgettable mark on contemporary R&B.
Background
Brothers Wayne, David, and Jonathan Lewis, along with the unmistakable voice of Sharon Bryant and talented drummer Porter Carroll Jr., formed the core of Atlantic Starr’s original lineup. Together, they crafted a sound that was both fresh and soulful, skillfully blending heartfelt lyrics with lush instrumentation. Their music introduced a new level of emotional depth and elegance to R&B, helping to elevate Black music and bring it to the forefront during a golden era.
Wayne Lewis, one of the group’s founding members, was instrumental in shaping Atlantic Starr’s sound, not just as a keyboardist, but also as a songwriter, producer, and creative force behind many of their biggest hits.
The Hits
The Lewis brothers were central to Atlantic Starr’s signature sound, with Wayne and David leading much of the group’s songwriting. Their early success helped solidify the band as a rising force in R&B, delivering a string of timeless hits including “Am I Dreaming,” “Send For Me,” “When Love Calls,” and “Let’s Get Closer.”
Following the departure of Sharon and four other members, Atlantic Starr ushered in a new era by introducing Barbara Weathers as the new lead vocalist. In 1984, the band recorded a demo featuring three tracks produced by the Lewis brothers, including the soon-to-be classics “Secret Lovers” and “Silver Shadow.” This marked a fresh chapter for the group, blending their signature romantic sound with a modern edge that would soon resonate with an even broader audience
These tracks would later appear on the 1985 album As the Band Turns, which also included the heartfelt ballad “If Your Heart Isn’t In It.”
Atlantic Starr reached the pinnacle of success in 1987 with the release of their seventh studio album, All In The Name of Love. The album included “One Lover At A Time”, “Armed And Dangerous”, “Let The Sun In”, “Thankful” and the “All In The Name Of Love.” But it was the timeless love anthem “Always” that became their signature hit, topping #1 on the US Billboard Hot 100, #1 on the Billboard Hot Black Singles chart, #1 on the Adult Contemporary chart, and #1 on Canada’s RPM 100 chart.
Where are they now?
After continued success into the early ’90s — including the 1991 hit “Masterpiece” from their Love Crazy album — David Lewis departed from Atlantic Starr in 1994 to pursue his Christian faith. Together with his wife Marian, he co-founded Into the Light Ministries, a Christ-centered, non-denominational ministry focused on spiritual healing, empowerment, and outreach.
Meanwhile, Porter continued to make his mark in the music industry through session work. He is currently performing as a percussionist in Daryl Hall’s live band, showcasing his enduring talent on stage.
The group remained on tour under the leadership of Wayne and Jonathan, keeping the Atlantic Starr legacy alive and introducing their timeless sound to new generations of fans.
Tragically, the music world was shaken by the sudden passing of Wayne, announced just yesterday. As of now, a cause of death has not been revealed. His loss leaves a deep void in the world of R&B, but his legacy will continue to shine through the music he helped create.
Rest in peace, Wayne Lewis. May your music continue to inspire generations to come.
