Bobby DeBarge was a well-known American singer and musician, best known for his time with the legendary family group, Switch, and later for his solo career. His life was filled with both professional success and personal struggles, including his battles with addiction and troubled relationships. One of the more tragic chapters in his life involves the passing of his wife, Teri DeBarge. In this article, we’ll explore the details of Bobby DeBarge’s life, his marriage to Teri, and the impact of her death on him and his family.
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Who Was Bobby DeBarge?
Bobby DeBarge was born on March 5, 1956, in Detroit, Michigan. He was a prominent figure in the R&B and soul music scenes, best known for his membership in Switch, a popular Motown group in the late 1970s and early 1980s. The group was known for their hits like “There’ll Never Be”, “I Call Your Name”, and “I Want You”.
DeBarge’s smooth falsetto voice and musical talents earned him recognition as one of the premier R&B artists of his time. His contributions to the genre left a lasting legacy, and even after his time with Switch, he continued to work on solo projects. However, much of his life was overshadowed by personal struggles, including his addiction to drugs, which affected both his career and his relationships.
Bobby DeBarge’s Marriage to Teri DeBarge
Bobby DeBarge’s personal life was often filled with turbulence. One of the significant relationships in his life was his marriage to Teri DeBarge, whom he married in the late 1970s. Together, they had a family and spent several years together, but the couple’s relationship was far from perfect. While Bobby’s success in the music world grew, his personal life continued to face numerous challenges.
During their time together, Bobby struggled with drug addiction, a battle that would eventually take a toll on his marriage. Despite the difficulties, Bobby and Teri remained a prominent couple in the spotlight for a time. Teri supported her husband through various struggles, including his addiction and battles within the music industry. However, their relationship eventually faced the strain of his deteriorating health and personal issues, leading to their separation.
The Tragic Death of Teri DeBarge
Teri DeBarge passed away in 1991, a loss that deeply affected Bobby and those who knew her. The exact cause of her death remains unclear in some reports, but it is widely believed that she passed away due to complications related to drug use and her battles with addiction. Her death marked the end of an era for Bobby, and it further fueled his own downward spiral.
The passing of Teri left Bobby grieving for a significant portion of his life. Although his career was still active, the emotional toll of losing his wife was difficult to bear. It compounded the struggles Bobby had faced throughout his career, particularly his battles with addiction and the emotional toll it took on him.
The Impact of Teri’s Death on Bobby DeBarge
After the death of Teri, Bobby’s life continued to be marked by personal struggles. His addiction worsened, and he eventually became involved in legal troubles. In the years that followed, Bobby’s health declined further, and in 1995, he tragically passed away at the age of 39 from complications related to his drug addiction. His premature death left a lasting impact on his family, friends, and the music community.
Bobby DeBarge’s story is one of both triumph and tragedy. While his musical career flourished, his personal life was marred by addiction, troubled relationships, and the heart-wrenching loss of his wife, Teri. Despite these challenges, Bobby’s contributions to the music world have continued to be celebrated, and his legacy as an influential figure in R&B and soul music endures.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How did Bobby DeBarge’s wife, Teri, die?
Teri DeBarge passed away in 1991, and it is believed that her death was related to complications from drug addiction. While specific details regarding her cause of death are not widely confirmed, it is widely acknowledged that addiction played a role.
2. What impact did Teri’s death have on Bobby DeBarge?
Teri’s death had a significant emotional impact on Bobby, contributing to his struggles with grief, depression, and worsening addiction. This loss marked a difficult chapter in his life and continued to affect him until his own death in 1995.
3. How old was Bobby DeBarge when he died?
Bobby DeBarge died at the age of 39 on August 16, 1995, due to complications related to his long-standing battles with drug addiction.
4. Was Bobby DeBarge part of a famous music group?
Yes, Bobby DeBarge was a member of the popular R&B group Switch, which was known for its smooth sounds and hits in the 1970s and 1980s. He was the lead vocalist of the group and became known for his powerful falsetto voice.
5. Did Bobby DeBarge have any children with Teri DeBarge?
Yes, Bobby and Teri DeBarge had several children together. The DeBarge family, as a whole, is known for its contributions to the music industry, with multiple members, including Bobby, having achieved recognition in the R&B and soul music scene.
6. What is Bobby DeBarge’s legacy in music?
Bobby DeBarge’s contributions to R&B and soul music are highly regarded. As a member of Switch, he helped to shape the sound of the late 70s and 80s. His work with the group and his own solo career has left a lasting legacy in the world of R&B.
Conclusion
Bobby DeBarge’s story is one of both brilliance and tragedy. As a member of the iconic group Switch, his voice was instrumental in creating timeless music that continues to resonate with audiences today. However, his personal life, particularly his marriage to Teri DeBarge and the grief from her untimely death, cast a shadow over his career. Despite his struggles, Bobby’s contributions to music remain unforgettable, and his legacy continues to influence R&B artists to this day.
The loss of Teri DeBarge was a significant event in Bobby’s life, and it highlights the emotional toll that addiction and personal challenges can take. Both Bobby and Teri’s lives were cut short, but their music and memories continue to live on in the hearts of fans around the world.