By Doug D. Sims | Liquid Lounge Radio
In an era when glittering synthesizers and shoulder-pad swagger defined the soundscape of urban radio, a band from Crownsville, Maryland quietly broke through the noise with raw talent, tight grooves, and a whole lot of heart. That band was Starpoint — a name that might not immediately ring out like Prince or Cameo, but one that undoubtedly left its mark on the DNA of ’80s R&B and funk.
Born of Family, Fueled by Funk
The story of Starpoint is one rooted in family — literally. Brothers George, Ernesto, Lloyd, and Orlando Phillips spent their youth immersed in music, jamming together in their basement before they had a record deal, a fanbase, or even a formal name. Originally called Licyndiana (a nod to various family names), their tight musicianship and infectious energy were evident from day one.
Their early lineup was missing just one key ingredient: a voice that could soar above the synths and slap bass. That voice came in the form of Renée Diggs, whose entry into the band transformed them into a complete force. With Diggs at the mic, Starpoint was ready for the spotlight.
The Climb
Signing with Chocolate City Records in 1980, Starpoint dropped their self-titled debut and began their slow but steady climb. While those early albums (Keep On It, All Night Long, and It’s So Delicious) didn’t immediately dominate the charts, they were packed with grooves that lit up dance floors and turned heads among DJs and R&B purists.
The big moment came in 1985. With their album Restless, Starpoint struck gold. The single “Object of My Desire” exploded on the R&B and pop charts, turning them into overnight sensations. With Renée’s electrifying vocals riding a wave of synth-funk perfection, the track became a crossover hit, peaking in the Top 10 of Billboard’s R&B chart and breaking the Hot 100 — no small feat for a band from the DMV that had spent years grinding in obscurity.
Other standout tracks like “What You Been Missin’” and “Till the End of Time” confirmed what fans already knew: Starpoint had arrived.
Shadows Behind the Spotlight
But success came with struggle. At the height of their fame, Renée Diggs was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis — a devastating blow that she kept largely private. Still, she chose to continue performing, defying the odds and becoming a beacon of strength for fans and fellow artists alike.
As the ’80s faded and R&B trends shifted, Starpoint’s momentum slowed. Albums like Sensational (1987) and Hot to the Touch (1988) showcased a band still capable of delivering the goods, but the tides of radio and industry focus were turning toward hip-hop and new jack swing. Their final album, Have You Got What It Takes (1990), marked the end of the road for the group.
Tragically, both Renée Diggs and guitarist Ernesto Phillips would pass away in the 2000s, leaving behind a legacy that deserves far more attention than it often receives.
Why Starpoint Still Matters
Starpoint may not be a household name today, but for those in the know, they’re essential listening. Their blend of funk, soul, and pop was ahead of its time, influencing countless artists who came after. “Object of My Desire” remains a staple in retro sets and R&B playlists, proof that good music never expires.
At Liquid Lounge Radio, we champion artists who helped shape the soundtrack of our lives — especially those whose contributions haven’t always gotten the recognition they deserve. Starpoint is one of those groups. Their story isn’t just about chart positions — it’s about perseverance, passion, and the power of music to bring people together.
So the next time you’re digging through the crates or queuing up a playlist, give Starpoint their due. From basement jams to Billboard fame, they truly were — and still are — the object of our desire.