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Introduction
Hey there! If you’re a fan of Motown R&B/soul music, chances are you’ve heard of Bobby DeBarge. Born on March 5, 1956, in Detroit, Michigan, Bobby was an American musician best known as the lead singer of the vocal group Switch. His falsetto vocals were legendary, and he played a huge role in shaping the sound of his siblings’ band, DeBarge. Sadly, his life was cut short when he passed away on August 16, 1995, in Grand Rapids, Michigan, at the age of 39. Let’s dive into the fascinating life and career of this musical icon.
| Name | Bobby DeBarge |
|---|---|
| Occupation | Musician |
| Date of Birth | March 5, 1956 |
| Birth Place | Detroit, MI |
| Country | United States |
| Date of Death | August 16, 1995 |
| Place of Death | Grand Rapids, MI |
| Net Worth | $1 million |
| Source of Income | Music |
| Height | 6’0" (183 cm) |
| Weight | 175 lbs (79 kg) |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Parents | Etterlene DeBarge, Robert DeBarge Sr. |
| Siblings | Bunny DeBarge, El DeBarge, Tommy DeBarge, etc. |
| Spouse | Teri DeBarge (m. 1990–1995) |
| Children | 2 |
| Education | Not publicly known |
Early Life and Family
Bobby DeBarge was born Robert Louis DeBarge Jr. into a large and musically inclined family. His parents, Etterlene and Robert Louis DeBarge Sr., raised him alongside his nine siblings in Detroit. Growing up in a bustling city known for its rich musical history, Bobby was naturally drawn to music from a young age.
Family Dynamics
The DeBarge family was tight-knit, but they faced their share of challenges. Bobby’s father was a military man, which meant the family moved around a lot. Despite the instability, music remained a constant in their lives. Bobby and his siblings would often sing together, honing their skills and dreaming of making it big one day.
The Rise of Switch
In the late 1970s, Bobby co-founded the group Switch with Gregory Williams. The band quickly gained attention for their unique blend of R&B and soul, coupled with Bobby’s incredible falsetto. Their self-titled debut album, released in 1978, was a hit, featuring popular tracks like "There’ll Never Be" and "I Call Your Name."
Success and Struggles
Switch enjoyed considerable success in the late ’70s and early ’80s, but the road to fame was not without its bumps. The pressures of the music industry took a toll on Bobby, leading to struggles with substance abuse. Despite these challenges, he continued to make music and inspire those around him.
Mentoring and Joining DeBarge
Bobby’s influence extended beyond Switch. He played a pivotal role in mentoring his younger siblings’ band, DeBarge. As a co-producer, he helped them craft their sound and achieve success in the early ’80s. When members El and Bunny DeBarge left the group, Bobby stepped in to fill the void, performing with DeBarge from 1987 to 1989.
Memorable Hits
DeBarge produced several memorable hits during Bobby’s tenure, including "Rhythm of the Night" and "All This Love." His contributions helped solidify the band’s place in R&B history and left a lasting impact on fans and fellow musicians alike.
Personal Life
In 1990, Bobby married Teri DeBarge, and the couple had two children together. Despite his personal struggles, Bobby cherished his family and worked hard to provide for them.
Legal Troubles and Imprisonment
Unfortunately, Bobby’s battle with substance abuse led to legal troubles. In the early ’90s, he was convicted of drug trafficking and sentenced to prison. This period was a dark chapter in his life, but it also served as a time of reflection and growth.
Final Years and Legacy
During his time in prison, Bobby was diagnosed with HIV. His health declined rapidly, and he was released early due to his condition. Despite his illness, Bobby continued to make music and connect with his fans until his untimely death on August 16, 1995.
Lasting Impact
Bobby DeBarge’s legacy lives on through his music and the artists he inspired. His falsetto vocals and passionate performances left an indelible mark on the R&B genre. Fans and fellow musicians alike remember him as a talented artist who overcame immense obstacles to share his gift with the world.
Net Worth
At the time of his passing, Bobby DeBarge’s net worth was estimated to be around $1 million. While not as high as some of his contemporaries, this figure reflects his success in the music industry and the lasting impact of his work.
Sources of Income
Bobby’s primary source of income was his music career, including album sales, performances, and royalties from his work with Switch and DeBarge. Despite his personal struggles, he managed to build a legacy that continues to generate income for his family.
Wrap-Up
Bobby DeBarge’s life was a rollercoaster of highs and lows, marked by incredible talent, personal struggles, and a lasting impact on the world of R&B music. His falsetto vocals and contributions to Switch and DeBarge have left an indelible mark on the genre, inspiring future generations of musicians. Though his life was tragically cut short, Bobby’s legacy lives on through his music and the memories he created with his family and fans.
