'Diana" by Starr Witness
Diana
With over 300,000 views and counting, our most streamed video remains a crowd favourite.
The Song's Backstory
Australian Songwriter Andrew Starr (from Starr Witness) Honors Princess Diana’s Memory with Emotional Song and London Tribute*
In a moving tribute to the late Princess Diana, Australian songwriter Andrew Starr took solace in music and penned a heartfelt song titled “Diana” literally within hours of her untimely and sudden passing on Sunday, 31 August 1997. The song’s poignant and subdued tone captured the essence of a requiem, reflecting not only Andrew’s personal grief but also the collective sorrow felt by the world.
Stricken by the news of Princess Diana’s tragic demise in the Pont d’Alma tunnel in Paris, Andrew retreated to his studio that afternoon and evening, where he picked up his guitar and began exploring some chords. As he played a melody over and over, a pattern emerged, and the song slowly took shape. In around six hours, Andrew’s emotional outpouring resulted in the creation of “Diana” – a touching homage to an iconic woman, daughter, sister, and mother.
The Production
The song’s essence and depth compelled Andrew to refine it further, and within four days, a demo was cut – an impressive feat considering that it was completed before Diana’s funeral on 6 September 1997. Recognizing the significance of his creation, Andrew decided to personally bring the song to the heart of the United Kingdom in 2022, where he aimed to highlight Princess Diana’s lasting impact on the world.
Andrew embarked on a mission to keep Princess Diana’s memory alive. He ventured to London, where he organized a poignant “Diana Day” in honor of the beloved princess. The day’s events included performances at the “Diana Cafe” in Notting Hill, a touching free lunchtime concert at the Swiss Church in Covent Garden, and an emotionally charged outdoor acoustic performance outside Kensington Palace – the residence where Diana once lived – all in all a fitting series of events to commemorate and celebrate Princess Diana.
The song “Diana” and its accompanying video, struck a chord with the public, resonating deeply with Princess Diana’s followers and fans worldwide. The video, which was uploaded on YouTube, quickly went viral, garnering over 300,000 views and counting.
In a compelling testament to the power of music as a medium for emotional expression and tribute, Andrew’s heartfelt song has left an enduring legacy, keeping Princess Diana’s memory and spirit alive in the hearts of those who loved and admired her.
Diana Day Concert
"The Lead-Up"
“DIANA Day Concert” at Swiss Church Covent Garden
"Diana Day" Concert
Introduction & Performance of “Diana” Swiss Church
