Stedman Pearson, a key member of the influential 1980s band Five Star, has passed away at age 60. Known for their unique blend of pop-rock and emotive lyrics, Five Star left an indelible mark on the music landscape of the 1980s. As fans mourn his loss, a closer look at the band’s journey and their impact on music and culture seems fitting.
Legacy of Five Star
Originating from Romford, Essex, in 1983, Five Star was a British RnB group consisting of siblings Stedman, Delroy, Lorraine, Denise, and Doris Pearson. Six of their singles broke into the Top 10, with “Rain or Shine” reaching No. 2 and becoming an anthem of the era. Their achievements were multifaceted, with their second album “Silk & Steel” reaching number one in the UK.
We are very saddened to say on this day – our beloved son /brother STEDMAN PEARSON JR
Has passed. He was a gentleman to the very end – in every way and an amazing son/brother & uncle. May the memories and love he gave to us and the world be our greatest comfort! He will be… pic.twitter.com/dtDnzFevdx— Ms Deniece Pearson Official (@DeniecePearson) March 13, 2025
The group was celebrated for their musical abilities and innovative performance style, characterized by synchronized dance routines and matching costumes. Stedman played a vital role as the costume designer, ensuring the group maintained a glamorous image that set them apart.
Historic Achievements and Challenges
Five Star’s success was highlighted by their Brit Award for Best Group in 1987, making them the first black group to receive this honor. Their family dynamics and their father’s management efforts earned them comparisons to the Jacksons. However, the family band faced financial difficulties, leading to bankruptcy and forcing them out of their luxurious mansion in Sunningdale, Essex.
RIP Stedman Pearson.
Five Star's Luxury Of Life was the first album I ever listened too and I loved everything 80s about this family, the music, the costumes, the dance routines
Sincere condolences to his brother and sisters pic.twitter.com/dNEPkiCoxb
— Chris Goldsmith (@TheTennisTalker) March 13, 2025
“His heartbroken family were ‘very saddened’ to announce his death on Thursday and paid tribute to the ‘amazing son, brother and uncle’, who they described as a ‘gentleman to the very end’.” – Stedman Pearson’s family.
Despite the hardships, Five Star released four top-20 albums and an impressive fifteen top-40 singles between 1985 and 1988. Their disbandment in 1995 marked the end of a significant chapter, but their music continues to resonate.
Stedman Pearson’s Life Beyond Music
Even after Five Star’s dissolution, Stedman stayed in the limelight through various endeavors. He reunited with sisters Denise and Lorraine as a trio and pursued careers in the entertainment and service industries, including a stint in reality TV and running a limousine service.
His family’s tribute encapsulates the personal loss and enduring legacy of the man behind so many memorable hits: “‘May the memories and love he gave to us and the world be our greatest comfort! He will be deeply missed,’ they added.” As heartfelt tributes pour in from fans and fellow musicians, Stedman Pearson’s impact on music and culture remains undeniable.
Sources:
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14493893/singer-Stedman-Pearson-dies-60.html
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14493893/singer-Stedman-Pearson-dies-60.html