Did you ever wonder what it truly takes to reach the pinnacle of success, only to have it all crumble before your eyes? The poignant story of Bobby DeBarge is a stark reminder that talent alone isn't enough to shield one from the harsh realities of life. It's a narrative woven with musical brilliance, familial complexities, and a relentless battle against personal demons. Bobby DeBarge, born Robert DeBarge, Jr., on March 5, 1956, in Detroit, Michigan, was more than just a singer; he was a musical prodigy. As the eldest brother of the famed DeBarge family, his journey is a testament to both the heights of stardom and the depths of personal struggle. He was the first of his musically gifted family to achieve fame, initially captivating audiences as the lead singer of the band Switch in the 1970s. Switch wasn't just another band; it was a phenomenon, blending R&B, soul, funk, and pop into a unique sound that resonated with a generation. His signature falsetto, a rare gift, became the hallmark of hits like "There'll Never Be" and "I Call Your Name," catapulting the group to the top of the charts. Yet, behind the dazzling performances and chart-topping success lay a turbulent life marked by childhood trauma and a relentless battle with addiction.
Category
Information
Full Name
Robert "Bobby" DeBarge, Jr.
Birth Date
March 5, 1956
Birth Place
Detroit, Michigan, USA
Death Date
August 16, 1995
Death Place
Grand Rapids, Michigan, USA
Cause of Death
Complications from AIDS; longstanding drug use (as per obituary)
Occupation
Singer, Musician, Songwriter, Producer, Actor
Genres
R&B, Soul, Funk, Pop
Associated Acts
Switch, DeBarge, Hot Ice
Spouse
Teri DeBarge
Children
Bobby DeBarge III
Siblings
El DeBarge, Tommy DeBarge, Bunny DeBarge, James DeBarge, Randy DeBarge, Mark DeBarge
Notable Songs
"There'll Never Be" (with Switch), "I Call Your Name" (with Switch), "I Want to Be Closer," "Love Over and Over," "My Friend in the Sky"
Filmography
Shaft (2019), Punky Brewster (1984), American Bandstand (1952)
Additional Information
Lead singer of Switch and member of DeBarge; known for his falsetto vocals; struggled with drug addiction; subject of the TV One biopic "The Bobby DeBarge Story" and the documentary "DeBarge."
External Links
Find a Grave
Bobby Debarge bio The life and death of the iconic musician
