Artist/Group Of The Month August 2024

Starpoint, a dynamic American R&B and funk band, was a force in the music industry from the late 1970s through the 1980s. Known for their infectious grooves, soulful melodies, and high-energy performances, Starpoint left an indelible mark on the world of funk and R&B. This essay delves into the band’s origins, musical style, key albums and hits, and their lasting impact on the music scene.

Origins and Formation

Starpoint was formed in 1978 in Annapolis, Maryland. The group initially consisted of siblings Ernesto, Orlando, Gregory, and George Phillips, along with their childhood friend Kayode Adeyemo and vocalist Renée Diggs. The Phillips brothers had been playing music together since childhood, influenced by their musically inclined family. Their passion for music led them to team up with Adeyemo and Diggs, who brought her powerful and distinctive voice to the group.

The band’s name, Starpoint, reflects their ambition to reach the pinnacle of musical success. They began performing in local venues and quickly gained a reputation for their electrifying live shows. Their early performances caught the attention of music producers, leading to their first record deal with Chocolate City/Casablanca Records.

Musical Style and Influences

Starpoint’s music is a rich tapestry of R&B, funk, and dance elements, characterized by smooth vocal harmonies, tight rhythms, and sophisticated arrangements. Their sound evolved over the years, incorporating contemporary production techniques and drawing on a wide range of influences.

In the early 1980s, their music was heavily rooted in the funk traditions of the 1970s, with an emphasis on groovy basslines and rhythmic guitar work. However, as the decade progressed, they began to incorporate more electronic elements into their sound, reflecting the influence of the burgeoning synth-pop and new wave movements. This fusion of styles gave their music a modern edge and helped them stay relevant in a rapidly changing musical landscape.

One of the defining features of Starpoint’s music is the powerful and emotive vocals of Renee Diggs. Her voice, with its rich tone and impressive range, brought a sense of passion and urgency to their songs. Combined with the band’s tight musicianship and innovative production, her vocals helped elevate Starpoint’s music to new heights.

Key Albums and Hits

Starpoint released a series of albums throughout their career, each showcasing their evolving sound and musical prowess. Some of their most notable albums include:

“Keep on It” (1980)

Starpoint’s debut album, “Keep on It,” set the stage for their future success. It featured the hit single “I Just Wanna Dance with You,” which became a favorite on the dance floors and helped establish their presence in the music industry. The album combined elements of funk and disco, showcasing their ability to create infectious grooves.

“Wanting You” (1981)

The band’s second album, “Wanting You,” continued to build on their early success. The title track and “Get Your Body Up” were standout songs.

Starpoint, a vibrant and influential R&B and funk band from Maryland, emerged in the late 1970s and became a significant presence in the 1980s music scene. Known for their catchy melodies, dynamic performances, and sophisticated production, Starpoint captivated audiences with their unique blend of R&B, funk, and dance music. This essay delves into the history, musical style, key albums, and legacy of Starpoint, highlighting their contributions to the world of R&B and funk.

Formation and Early Years

Starpoint was formed by a group of talented siblings and friends in Annapolis, Maryland. The group originally consisted of the Phillips brothers—Ernest (keyboards), George (guitar), and Orlando (bass)—along with their friends Kayode “Kenny” Adeyemo (drums), Gregory “Greg” Phillips (percussion), and later Renee Diggs (lead vocals). The Phillips brothers had been playing music together since their childhood, honing their skills and developing a strong musical chemistry that would become the foundation of Starpoint.

In their early years, Starpoint began performing locally, building a reputation for their energetic live shows and tight musicianship. Their early sound was heavily influenced by the funk and soul music of the 1970s, characterized by groovy basslines, rhythmic guitar riffs, and rich vocal harmonies. These elements would remain central to their music as they evolved over the years.

Breakthrough and Commercial Success

Starpoint’s first major breakthrough came in 1980 when they signed with Chocolate City Records, a subsidiary of Casablanca Records. That year, they released their debut album, “Starpoint,” which showcased their talent for creating infectious dance tracks and soulful ballads. Although the album did not achieve significant commercial success, it laid the groundwork for their future endeavors.

The band continued to release albums throughout the early 1980s, gradually building a loyal fan base. Their persistence paid off in 1983 with the release of “All Night Long,” their fifth studio album. The album featured the hit single “Don’t Be So Serious,” which became a Top 20 hit on the R&B charts and significantly increased their visibility in the music industry.

Key Albums and Songs

Starpoint released a series of successful albums throughout the 1980s, each showcasing their growth and evolution as a band. Some of their most notable albums include:

1. “Hot to the Touch” (1982): This album marked a turning point for the band, featuring a more polished sound and a greater emphasis on dance-oriented tracks. The lead single, “Break Out,” became a fan favorite and exemplified their ability to create catchy, danceable music.
2. “All Night Long” (1983): As mentioned earlier, this album featured the hit single “Don’t Be So Serious” and helped establish Starpoint as a significant presence in the R&B scene. The album’s title track also became a popular dance anthem, showcasing the band’s knack for creating infectious grooves.
3. “It’s All Yours” (1984): This album featured some of the band’s most enduring hits, including “It’s All Yours” and “Am I Still the One.” These tracks highlighted their ability to blend soulful melodies with modern production techniques, creating a sound that was both timeless and contemporary.
4. “Restless” (1985): This album is perhaps Starpoint’s most successful and critically acclaimed work. It included the hit single “Object of My Desire,” which became a Top 10 hit on the R&B charts and crossed over to the pop charts. The song’s catchy hook and infectious rhythm made it a dance floor favorite and cemented Starpoint’s reputation as a premier R&B act.
5. “Sensational” (1987): Continuing their streak of successful albums, “Sensational” featured hits like “He Wants My Body” and “D.Y.B.O. (Don’t Ya Be Obscene).” The album showcased the band’s continued evolution, incorporating more electronic elements and exploring new musical directions.

Live Performances and Touring

Starpoint was renowned for their electrifying live performances. Their concerts were characterized by high energy, tight musicianship, and dynamic stage presence. Renee Diggs, in particular, was known for her captivating performances, engaging the audience with her powerful vocals and charismatic stage presence.

The band toured extensively throughout the 1980s, performing at venues across the United States and internationally. Their live shows helped build a dedicated fan base and further solidified their reputation as one of the premier live acts in the R&B and funk genres.

Challenges and Resilience

Despite their success, Starpoint faced numerous challenges throughout their career. The music industry was rapidly changing in the 1980s, with new genres and styles emerging and competition increasing. Additionally, the band members had to navigate the complexities of the music business, including contract negotiations and industry politics.

One of the most significant challenges came in the form of personal health issues. Renee Diggs was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in the late 1980s, which impacted her ability to perform and tour. Despite this, she remained a vital part of the band and continued to contribute to their music.

Legacy and Influence

Starpoint’s legacy is marked by their innovative blend of R&B, funk, and dance music, as well as their ability to adapt and evolve in a rapidly changing musical landscape. Their music has influenced a wide range of artists, from contemporary R&B and pop acts to funk and dance musicians.

“Object of My Desire,” in particular, remains a beloved classic, frequently featured in compilations of 1980s hits and covered by various artists. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal and the band’s ability to create music that resonates across generations.

Conclusion

Starpoint’s journey from local Maryland musicians to international R&B and funk stars is a testament to their talent, resilience, and dedication. Over the course of their career, they created a body of work that continues to inspire and entertain, blending soulful melodies, infectious rhythms, and sophisticated production.

Their influence can be seen in the music of countless contemporary artists, and their songs remain a staple of 1980s R&B and funk playlists. While they may not have achieved the same level of commercial success as some of their peers, Starpoint’s contributions to the music world are undeniable. They are remembered not only for their hit songs and dynamic performances but also for their ability to innovate and push the boundaries of their genre. In the annals of R&B and funk history, Starpoint stands out as a group that brought passion, creativity, and soul to everything they did.

 

Individual Post-Starpoint Careers

In 1990, Renée Diggs recorded a solo album titled Oasis that was released in Europe. Several of the tracks on this album were co-written by Diggs and Starpoint guitarist Ernesto Phillips. She created the Renée Diggs Foundation for Multiple Sclerosis, to help bring attention to the disease. She died on March 18, 2005, due to a heart condition, at the age of 50. Oasis was released in the U.S. after her death.

In 2000, Ernesto Phillips began working with singer-songwriter Terry Cole (Sly Boots) and signed him to his label, Longevity Records. The pair would collaborate on many tracks from 2000–2001. He died on March 25, 2004, as the result of a stroke. The Ernesto Phillips Scholarship for Talented Youth was established in his memory and as a tribute to his efforts in helping younger children to realize their ambitions of becoming musicians.

Other band members became involved with songwriting and session work for R&B artists. In 1988, Adeyemo was credited with co-writing Milli Vanilli’s hit “Girl You Know It’s True”. Milli Vanilli’s accompanying American album, titled after the hit single, also featured a song composed by Ernesto Phillips, entitled “More Than You’ll Ever Know”.

From 2001 to 2006, Greg Phillips toured with Najee and Angela Bofill simultaneously.

In 2011, the band regrouped with the four remaining members George Phillips, Orlando Phillips, Ky Adeyemo, and Greg Phillips, performing a one-off live show in Lyon, France.

George Phillips died on February 3, 2021, from sepsis. His family established the George McKenzie Phillips, Jr. Fund for Mental Health and Drug Abuse Rehabilitation in his memory, reflecting his dedication and contributions to these fields as a counselor in his post-Starpoint career.

Band members

• Renée Diggs: Lead vocals (July 23, 1954 – March 18, 2005)
• Ernesto McKenzie Phillips: Guitars, lead vocals (July 13, 1953 – March 25, 2004)
• Orlando Phillips: Bass guitar, keyboard bass, vocals, saxophone
• George Phillips, Jr.: Lead vocals, keyboards (died Feb 3, 2021)
• Greg Phillips: Drums, vocals, percussion
• Kayode Adeyemo: 2nd bass guitar, occasional keyboards during live performances

 

You can listen to Starpoint’s music on both Seductive Vibes Radio and Seductively Silky Radio