Maurice Starr

Maurice Starr (born Larry Johnson on November 19, 1953 in Florida) is a Boston-based music producer, songwriter, and manager most known for introducing the Boston boy bands New Edition and New Kids on the Block to the masses. In the early 1980s, Starr, along with his brothers Soni and Michael Jonzun formed the electro-funk group Jonzun Crew and created the hits “Space is the Place,” “Pack Jam (Look Out for the OVC),” and “Space Cowboy.” After releasing two solo albums—Flaming Starr in 1980 and Spacey Lady in 1983—Starr decided to focus more on his songwriting and production for other acts.

He discovered New Edition at a talent show in 1982 and went on to co-write and co-produce their debut album Candy Girl the following year with his brother Michael Jonzun for Starr’s Streetwise Records. The title track was a #1 R&B hit while “Popcorn Love” and “Is This the End” were also hit singles released from the album. After a financial disagreement, New Edition decided to part ways with Starr. In response, Starr formed New Kids on the Block in 1984 to essentially be a white version of New Edition. NKOTB went on to sell millions of albums thanks to Starr productions on Hangin' Tough and Step by Step. Starr has continued to work in the music industry.