R.I.P. Stedman Pearson of the 80s family group Five Star

(March 13, 2025) He and his sibling were musical royalty around the world in the 1980s, getting teens moving and grooving to their family music. Today we mourn the passing of Stedman Pearson of the group Five Star, who has died at age 60 after a battle with diabetes and kidney disease.

The Pearson family posted the following on social media: “He was a gentleman to the very end – in every way and an amazing son/brother and uncle. May the memories and love he gave to us and the world be our greatest comfort. He will be deeply missed.”

As a key member of the popular UK-based group Five Star (with siblings his siblings Denise, Doris, Lorraine, and Delroy), Stedman Pearson helped define 80s pop/soul with dazzling choreography, futuristic fashion, and, most importantly, a string of infectious hits that ruled both the UK and US charts.

Often referred to as Britain’s answer to The Jacksons, Five Star’s breakthrough came in 1985 with Luxury of Life, a debut album that delivered the Top 10 UK smash “System Addict” and a series of danceable, hook-laden singles. Their sophomore release, the multi-platinum Silk & Steel (1986), solidified Five Star’s status with hits like “Can’t Wait Another Minute,” “Find the Time,” and the chart-topping “Rain or Shine.” Their polished production and slick choreography made them a staple on music television, earning comparisons to the greats of the era.

Through the late ‘80s, Five Star continued their success with albums like Between the Lines (1987) and Rock the World (1988), featuring cuts like “Whenever You’re Ready” and “Another Weekend.” But as musical tastes shifted in the early ‘90s, the group’s popularity waned, and they eventually parted ways with their label.

Five Star came and went over the early 2000s, with Stedman, Lorriane and Denise teaming up for tours and occasional performances. He also pursued solo ventures and television appearances, but for most of us Stedman Pearson will be best remembered as part of a wonderful act that continued the long music tradition of talented family groups.