After being a pivotal force in the group’s success in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Wayne Lewis, founding member of the R B group Atlantic Starr, has died aged 68.
Wayne Lewis, founding member of the R and B group Atlantic Starr, has died aged 68.
The American singer and keyboardist was a pivotal force behind the group’s success in the late 1980s and early 1990s, which included chart-topping hits such as Always, Secret Lovers and Masterpiece, and died on Thursday (05.06.25), though news of his passing only came to light on Saturday (07.06.25.)
His cause of death has not been disclosed.
The news was announced on the band’s official Facebook page, with a post saying: “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 their privacy.”
Tributes from fans flooded the page, describing Wayne as a “legend” and the “voice of a generation”.
One wrote: “RIP BROTHER… The voice of a generation!!!! My condolences to the family.”
Another commented: “Rest in Peace! Talented and Gorgeous.” Further tributes included: “RIP thanks for the music,” and “Thank you for the legacy condolences to the family and friends.”
Wayne, who co-founded Atlantic Starr in New York, remained a core member of the group throughout decades of changes in its line-up.
Alongside his brother Jonathan Lewis, also a founding member, Wayne helped shape the band’s smooth blend of R and B, soul and pop.
The group released their debut album in 1978 but found mainstream success nearly a decade later.
Their 1987 single Always reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and R B charts, securing the band’s place in music history.
Their 1992 track Masterpiece also became a major hit, peaking at number three on both the US Pop and R and B charts.
In recent years, Wayne had continued touring the US with Jonathan, their nephew Shammah Carter, and vocalist Melessa Pierce under the name Atlantic Starr Band.
Wayne’s death comes just three months after the passing of another 1980s R ands B star, Stedman Pearson, frontman of British band Five Star.
Stedman, who died aged 60 in March 2025, was known for his family group’s slick performances and success with tracks such as Rain or Shine.
He was described by family as an “amazing son, brother and uncle” and “a gentleman to the very end”.
Atlantic Starr founding member Wayne Lewis dead aged 68
