War
Edwin Starr
Struggling with War? Become a better singer in 30 days with these videos!
War, huh, yeah What is it good for Absolutely nothing War, huh, yeah What is it good for Absolutely nothing Say it again, why'all War, huh, good god What is it good for Absolutely nothing, listen to me Oh, war, I despise 'Cause it means destruction of innocent lives War means tears to thousands of mothers eyes When their sons go to fight And lose their lives I said, war, huh good god, why'all What is it good for Absolutely nothing say it again War, whoa, lord What is it good for Absolutely nothing, listen to me (War) it ain't nothing but a heart-breaker (War) friend only to the undertaker Oh, war it's an enemy to all mankind The point of war blows my mind War has caused unrest Within the younger generation Induction then destruction Who wants to die, ah, war-huh, good god why'all What is it good for Absolutely nothing Say it, say it, say it War, huh What is it good for Absolutely nothing listen to me (War) it ain't nothing but a heart breaker (War) it's got one friend that's the undertaker Oh, war, has shattered many a young mans dreams Made him disabled, bitter and mean Life is much to short and precious To spend fighting wars these days War can't give life It can only take it away Oh, war, huh good god why'all What is it good for Absolutely nothing say it again (War) whoa, lord What is it good for Absolutely nothing listen to me (War) it ain't nothing but a heart breaker (War) friend only to the undertaker Peace, love and understanding Tell me, is there no place for them today They say we must fight to keep our freedom But lord knows there's got to be a better way Oh, war, huh good god why'all What is it good for you tell me Say it, say it, say it, say it (War) huh good god why'all What is it good for Stand up and shout it nothing
Struggling with War? Become a better singer in 30 days with these videos!
Written by: Norman Whitfield, Barrett Strong
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
15 facts about this song
Song Origin"War" is a song produced by the Motown label, originally written by Barrett Strong and Norman Whitfield for The Temptations.
|
Initial ReleaseThe first version of "War" was recorded by The Temptations in 1970 as part of their "Psychedelic Shack" album.
|
Second VersionEdwin Starr later recorded the song in that same year, and it became one of his most successful singles.
|
Original LyricsThe song's lyrics, penned by Strong and Whitfield, speak directly about the Vietnam war – protesting against it and highlighting its senselessness.
|
Chart PositionEdwin Starr's version hit number one on the US Billboard Hot 100 in the summer of 1970, providing a soundtrack to the anti-Vietnam war sentiment of the era.
|
Sociopolitical Impact"War" is widely noted for its overt sociopolitical commentary, something that was not common for Motown records. It's one of the few songs from the Motown catalog known for political activism.
|
Edwin Starr's VersionStarr's rendition of "War" was more intense than the original Temptations' version. The emotional performance made the song a standout during protests and demonstrations against the Vietnam war.
|
Grammy NominationThe song was nominated for Best R&B Vocal Performance, Male at the 13th Annual Grammy Awards in 1971.
|
Notable CoversBruce Springsteen has often covered "War" during his live performances, which further helped popularize the song.
|
Song Legacy"War" is widely recognized as one of the most powerful protest songs ever recorded, and remains relevant in popular culture today.
|
InfluenceThis song has been sampled by various artists throughout the years, including Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Bone Thugs-n-Harmony and The Fall Out Bo
|
Addressing ControversyThe controversial subject matter of "War" made some Motown executives reluctant to release it as a single initially.
|
Impact on Starr's Career"War" was a turning point in Edwin Starr's career, as it moved his repertoire away from romantic ballads towards more politically-charged material.
|
Enduring AppealEven half a century after its initial release, "War" continues to be played on radio and used in movies, testifying to its enduring appeal and timeless message.
|
Legacy of WritersThe writing team of Barrett Strong and Norman Whitfield produced many other iconic songs for the Motown label, but "War" remains one of their most incendiary and enduring contributions.
|
Citation
Use the citation below to add these lyrics to your bibliography:
Style:MLAChicagoAPA
"War Lyrics." Lyrics.com. STANDS4 LLC, 2024. Web. 26 Sep. 2024. <https://www.lyrics.com/lyric/27230232/Edwin+Starr/War>.
Discuss the War Lyrics with the community:
Report Comment
We're doing our best to make sure our content is useful, accurate and safe.
If by any chance you spot an inappropriate comment while navigating through our website please use this form to let us know, and we'll take care of it shortly.
Attachment
You need to be logged in to favorite.
Log In