War (1970) by Edwin Starr

Life is much too short and precious
To spend fighting wars each day
War can’t give life
It can only take it away

War
What is it good for?
Absolutely nothing

War, I despise
‘Cause it means destruction of innocent lives
War means tears to thousands of mother’s eyes
When their sons go off to fight
And lose their lives

It ain’t nothing but a heart-breaker
Friend only to the undertaker

Oh, war it’s an enemy to all mankind
The thought of war blows my mind
War has caused unrest
Within the younger generation
Induction then destruction
Who wants to die?

Oh, war, has shattered many a young man’s dreams
Made him disabled, bitter and mean
Life is much too short and precious
To spend fighting wars each day
War can’t give life
It can only take it away

Peace, love and understanding, tell me
Is there no place for them today?
They say we must fight to keep our freedom
But Lord knows there’s got to be a better way

Songwriters: Barrett Strong / Norman Whitfield