Wayne Lewis, a founding member and longtime singer for the iconic R&B group Atlantic Starr, died at 68. The band shared the news online in a deeply moving post on Friday, June 6, after his death on Thursday, June 5, 2025.
"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." The band wrote on Facebook.
Wayne Lewis may have been a public music figure, but privately, he was known to be very secretive. Lewis never publicly acknowledged any spouse.
There are no confirmed reports of him having been married, and he remained relatively silent about his family and romantic relationships. Therefore, based on the available reports, Lewis was single until his death.
Tributes poured in on social media as longtime fans embraced his legacy and personality:
"Sad news. I remember Always and Secret Lovers stayed on rotation on the radio when I was little kid. May he R.I.P." One fan wrote.
"Oh noooo! Rest in Peace and thank you for the music." Wrote a X user.
"Oh my god another legendary guy from a legendary band passed away. My condolences to his family and friends and the fans of Atlantic Starr." Another wrote.
"His voice is amazing on Send For Me. May he Rest in Peace." said an internet user.
More about Wayne Lewis's career and legacy
Born in 1957 in White Plains, New York, Wayne Lewis played a crucial role in the sound and success of Atlantic Starr. Together with his brothers David and Jonathan Lewis, Wayne formed the band in the mid-1970s (WBSS Media). After releasing some material as Newban, which included the track "Why Did You Desert Me?", they added female vocalists. They changed their name to Atlantic Starr before signing a recording contract with A&M Records and releasing their first self-titled debut album in 1978.
Atlantic Starr rose to prominence in the 1980s with hits like "Always" and "Secret Lovers." Their most significant commercial successes were romantic ballads. Wayne Lewis, the keyboardist and vocalist, gained considerable fame. He remained a constant presence in the band through various lineup changes over the decades.
The band has continued to be active over the years and was scheduled to perform at the Capital Jazz Festival in Maryland this June, making his passing even more heartbreaking for the fans.
Love movies? Try our Box Office Game and Movie Grid Game to test your film knowledge and have some fun!