OldiesButGoodies

Oldies Music

Edwin Starr – War

That's a Cover?: “War” (Edwin Starr / The Temptations) - Cover Me

Introduction:

Released in 1970, Edwin Starr’s “War” is not merely a song; it’s a potent anthem against the senseless violence that plagues humanity. More than just a protest song, it transcends the specific socio-political climate of its time to become a timeless reflection on the human condition. Starr’s raw, impassioned vocals, coupled with the driving funk-infused beat, deliver a message of profound urgency and despair.

The song opens with a stark, almost biblical declaration: “War! Huh, yeah! What is it good for? Absolutely nothing!” This refrain, repeated throughout, becomes a mantra, a rallying cry against the absurdity of armed conflict. Starr’s voice, filled with both anger and anguish, embodies the collective grief and frustration of those who have witnessed the devastating consequences of war firsthand.

The lyrics delve into the multifaceted horrors of war, painting vivid pictures of its destructive impact: “Good soldiers fighting fighting, losing fighting, dying, I see blood flowin’, I hear babies cryin’.” The song poignantly highlights the human cost of war, emphasizing the suffering of both combatants and civilians. It exposes the hypocrisy of those who profit from the bloodshed, those who “make money from this pain they inflict upon us.”

“War” transcends the confines of political discourse, exploring the universal themes of human suffering, injustice, and the yearning for peace. It speaks to the inherent absurdity of violence, questioning the very foundations of a society that condones such destructive behavior. The song’s enduring power lies in its ability to resonate with listeners across generations and cultures, reminding us of the devastating consequences of conflict and the urgent need for peace and understanding.

Starr’s delivery is masterful, imbuing the song with a raw, visceral energy that is both captivating and unsettling. His voice, powerful yet vulnerable, conveys the emotional weight of the lyrics, making the listener feel the pain and despair that permeates the song. The backing track, driven by a pulsating bass line and a driving beat, provides the perfect sonic backdrop for Starr’s impassioned vocals, creating a powerful and unforgettable listening experience.

“War” is not just a song; it’s a testament to the power of music to inspire social change. It serves as a poignant reminder of the devastating consequences of conflict and the urgent need for peace and understanding.

Video:

https://youtu.be/01-2pNCZiNk?si=EQ1uz0ZEHnfZmQzi

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“RAIN HAD BROUGHT WIMBLEDON TO A STANDSTILL IN 1996 — BUT WHEN CLIFF RICHARD STOOD UP AND BEGAN SINGING, AN ORDINARY TENNIS DELAY TURNED INTO ONE OF THE MOST UNFORGETTABLE MOMENTS IN THE TOURNAMENT’S HISTORY…” On a rainy day at Wimbledon in 1996, thousands of tennis fans found themselves waiting for play to resume. The famous grass courts were wet, the matches were interrupted, and the crowd had little to do but wait. Then something extraordinary happened. Among the spectators was one of Britain’s most recognizable entertainers: Cliff Richard. Rather than simply watching the rain, Cliff began singing. There was no planned concert, no elaborate stage, and no orchestra waiting to accompany him. Yet the moment quickly turned into an impromptu musical performance. As Cliff entertained the crowd, several tennis stars, including Martina Navratilova, joined the occasion. The spectators who had arrived expecting world-class tennis suddenly found themselves enjoying an unexpected show. Songs associated with Cliff’s long career echoed around Centre Court, bringing laughter, applause, and a welcome distraction from the disappointing weather. What made the moment so memorable was its spontaneity. Cliff had spent decades performing in theaters, concert halls, and stadiums. But this time, one of his most famous appearances happened because a tennis match couldn’t continue. For a few unforgettable minutes, Wimbledon stopped being about tennis — and became a Cliff Richard concert instead.

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“CLIFF RICHARD AND OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN SHARED DECADES OF MUSIC, LAUGHTER, AND FRIENDSHIP — BUT IN AUGUST 2022, CLIFF HAD TO SAY GOODBYE TO A WOMAN WHO HAD BEEN PART OF HIS LIFE FOR MORE THAN HALF A CENTURY…” Long before Olivia Newton-John became an international superstar through Grease and her remarkable recording career, she and Cliff Richard had already formed a musical connection. Their friendship grew during the early 1970s, when Olivia appeared on Cliff’s television show and the two performers began sharing music with audiences. In 1971, they recorded “Don’t Move Away,” one of their early collaborations. Over the following decades, their careers took different paths, but their friendship endured. They reunited for performances, shared memorable musical moments, and remained connected through an industry that was constantly changing. Then, on August 8, 2022, Olivia Newton-John died at the age of 73 following a long experience with breast cancer. For Cliff, it meant losing a friend whose presence had been woven into his musical life for decades. Their old performances suddenly carried a different emotional weight. The smiles, familiar melodies, and effortless warmth between them became reminders of a friendship that could no longer continue in person. Some musical partnerships are remembered for the records they produce. Others are remembered because the affection between two people seems to survive long after the final note. For Cliff Richard and Olivia Newton-John, their story was always about more than music.