Bobby DeBarge Age , Height , Career , Net Worth , Family , Bio
Who is Bobby DeBarge?
Bobby DeBarge was an American singer and musician who became famous as the lead singer of the R&B group Switch. He was known for his amazing falsetto voice, which gave his songs a unique and emotional sound.
Bobby also mentored his younger siblings, helping them form their successful band called DeBarge. Although Bobby was incredibly talented, his life was full of ups and downs. Despite his challenges, his music greatly impacted the world of R&B.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Bobby DeBarge |
| Birthdate | March 5, 1956 |
| Age at Death | 39 (Passed away on August 16, 1995) |
| Profession | Singer, Musician, Songwriter |
| Famous Songs | “There’ll Never Be”, “I Call Your Name”, “Love Over and Over Again” |
| Groups | Switch, Mentor to DeBarge |
| Family | One of 10 siblings, including El, Bunny, James, Mark, and Randy DeBarge |
| Parents | Robert DeBarge Sr. and Etterlene Abney DeBarge |
| Children | 2 (Names undisclosed) |
| Ethnicity | African-American and French descent |
| Legacy | Lead singer of Switch; mentor to DeBarge; falsetto voice remains iconic in R&B |
| Notable Work | Switch’s “There’ll Never Be”, mentoring DeBarge for hits like “All This Love” |
| Hobbies | Music, songwriting, playing instruments like the keyboard |
| Biopic | The Bobby DeBarge Story (2019) |
Early Life and Education
Bobby DeBarge was born in Detroit, Michigan, on March 5, 1956. He grew up in a large family with ten siblings who loved music. Bobby showed a unique talent for singing and playing instruments, especially the keyboard, from a young age.
The DeBarge family moved to Grand Rapids, Michigan, where Bobby and his siblings continued to develop their love for music. While little information is available about Bobby’s school life, Bobby’s real education came from the music he created and performed.
Bobby DeBarge Age, Weight, Height, and Appearance
Bobby D was a slim and stylish man with a charismatic stage presence. He stood around 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) tall and had a tall and lean frame. His curly hair and bright smile made him a favourite among fans. Sadly, Bobby passed away on August 16, 1995, at the young age of 39 due to complications from AIDS.
Parents and Siblings
Bobby’s parents were Robert DeBarge Sr. and Etterlene Abney DeBarge. His father was strict and struggled with personal issues, which created challenges for the family. However, their mother, Etterlene, encouraged her children to pursue their musical dreams.
Bobby was one of ten siblings, including:
- El DeBarge
- Bunny DeBarge
- James DeBarge
- Mark DeBarge
- Randy DeBarge
Together, the siblings formed the famous family group DeBarge, with Bobby mentoring them early in their careers.
Nationality
Bobby DeBarge was American, born and raised in the United States.
Career Journey
Bobby’s career began in the 1970s when he joined the R&B group Switch. The group signed with Motown Records in 1978, and their debut album included the hit song “There’ll Never Be”, which became a big success. Bobby’s unique falsetto voice made Switch one of the most popular R&B groups.
In addition to singing, Bobby was a talented songwriter and producer. After his time with Switch, he focused on helping his siblings form the group DeBarge, which became famous for hits like “Rhythm of the Night” and “All This Love”. Bobby also worked behind the scenes, mentoring and co-producing many of their songs.
Awards and Notable Works
While Bobby did not receive individual awards, his music with Switch and DeBarge remains iconic in the R&B genre. Some of his most famous songs include:
- “There’ll Never Be”
- “I Call Your Name”
- “Love Over and Over Again”
His work as a mentor to his siblings also contributed to the success of songs like “Rhythm of the Night” and “All This Love”.
Bobby DeBarge Net Worth
Bobby DeBarge’s exact net worth has yet to be widely known. While he achieved success during his time with Switch and DeBarge, financial difficulties and personal struggles impacted his wealth.
Presence on Social Media
Bobby lived before social media, so he did not have accounts like Instagram or Twitter. However, fans who share his songs and remember his contributions to R&B celebrate his music and legacy online.
Family and Children
Bobby DeBarge had two children but kept much of his personal life private. His focus was often on his music and his role as a mentor to his siblings.
Bobby DeBarge Ethnicity and Religion
Bobby DeBarge was of African-American and French descent, giving him a diverse cultural background. The DeBarge family was raised in a Christian household, and their faith influenced their lives and music.
Filmography
Bobby DeBarge was not an actor, but his life was depicted in the 2019 TV biopic The Bobby DeBarge Story. The movie explores his life, career, and personal struggles, giving fans a deeper understanding of who he was.
Legacy
Bobby DeBarge’s legacy lies in his incredible voice and contributions to R&B music. As the lead singer of Switch, he helped create timeless hits that are still loved today. His mentorship of the group DeBarge also shaped the careers of his siblings, who went on to achieve great success. Despite his struggles with addiction and health, Bobby’s talent and passion for music continue to inspire artists and fans around the world.
Hobbies
Bobby loved music more than anything else. He enjoyed singing, writing songs, and playing instruments like the keyboard. Music was not just his career—it was his life.
Interesting Facts
- Falsetto Master: Bobby’s falsetto voice was one of the best in R&B and made his songs unforgettable.
- Mentor to DeBarge: B DeBarge played a significant role in helping his siblings start their music careers.
- Switch’s Success: The group Switch’s song “There’ll Never Be” sold over one million copies.
- Life Story on Screen: Bobby’s life was made into a movie called The B DeBarge Story.
- Personal Struggles: Bobby faced challenges with substance abuse, which affected his career and health.
FAQs
- Who was Bobby DeBarge?
Bobby DeBarge was a singer and musician known for his work with the R&B group Switch and his role as a mentor to the family group DeBarge.
- What is Bobby DeBarge’s most famous song?
His most famous song is “There’ll Never Be” with Switch.
- Did Bobby DeBarge have children?
Yes, Bobby had two children but kept his family life private.
- What happened to Bobby DeBarge?
Bobby passed away on August 16, 1995, at the age of 39 due to complications from AIDS.
- Is there a movie about Bobby DeBarge?
His life story was made into a TV biopic called The Bobby DeBarge Story.
Conclusion
Bobby DeBarge was a talented singer whose voice and music touched the hearts of many. As the lead singer of Switch and a mentor to his siblings in DeBarge, he left an unforgettable mark on R&B music.
Though his life was filled with challenges, Bobby’s passion for music and contributions to the industry continue to inspire. His story reminds us of the power of talent, family, and perseverance.
