James DeBarge

James DeBarge

James DeBarge was born on August 22nd, 1963

Birth Date: August 14, 1963
Place of Birth: Detroit, Michigan
Profession: R&B singer
Nationality: American
Genre: R&B music
Family: DeBarge family
Full Name: James Curtis DeBarge
Zodiac Sign: Leo

A legendary R&B/soul singer and songwriter, known for his smooth, soulful voice and hit songs like "I Like It" and "All This Love" with his family group DeBarge.

Written by: Isabel Sanchez Isabel Sanchez

James DeBarge: The Soulful Voice of the DeBarge Family

James DeBarge, born on August 21, 1963, is an American R&B/soul singer, songwriter, and musician, best known for being a member of the legendary vocal group DeBarge, which dominated the mid-1980s music scene with hits like "All This Love," "Love Me in a Special Way," "Rhythm of the Night," and "Who's Holding Donna Now."

A Family Legacy

As the seventh child of Robert DeBarge Sr. and Etterlene Abney DeBarge, James was born and raised on the East Side of Detroit, Michigan, where his family nurtured his musical talents from an early age. Alongside his siblings, he formed DeBarge, which would later become one of the most iconic and influential R&B groups of the 1980s.

Rise to Fame

In the mid-1980s, DeBarge's smooth, soulful voice and signature falsetto catapulted the group to stardom. Their self-titled debut album, DeBarge, released in 1981, was followed by the hit album In a Special Way, which included the chart-topping singles "All This Love" and "Love Me in a Special Way."

Career Highlights and Collaborations

Personal Life and Controversies

In 1984, DeBarge married pop sensation Janet Jackson, but the marriage was annulled in 1985 due to his struggles with addiction to painkillers and sleeping pills.

In 2016, DeBarge sparked controversy by claiming on the reality show Growing Up Hip Hop that he and Jackson have a secret daughter, a claim that Jackson has consistently denied.

Legacy and Impact

As a member of DeBarge, James has left an indelible mark on the music industry, inspiring generations of R&B and soul artists. His distinctive voice and songwriting skills have contributed to the group's enduring legacy, ensuring their music remains timeless and beloved.

With a career spanning over three decades, James DeBarge continues to captivate audiences with his soulful performances, cementing his place as an R&B legend.

Timeline
1963
Born in Detroit
James DeBarge was born on August 2, 1963, in Detroit, Michigan.
1979
Formed DeBarge
DeBarge co-founded the R&B/funk band DeBarge with his siblings, Mark, Randy, and Bunny.
1982
Released DeBarge
DeBarge released their self-titled debut album, which spawned the hit single Time Will Reveal.
1985
Released Rhythm of the Night
DeBarge released the album Rhythm of the Night, featuring the hit single Rhythm of the Night.
1990
Soloprojects and Collaborations
DeBarge pursued solo projects and collaborated with other artists, including his sister Bunny on the album In Harmony.
James DeBarge

James DeBarge Quiz

What genre of music is James DeBarge primarily associated with?

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FAQ
What is James DeBarges role in DeBarge?
James DeBarge is a singer, songwriter, and keyboardist for the legendary R&B group DeBarge, known for hits like Rhythm of the Night and Time Will Reveal.
What is James DeBarges musical style?
James DeBarges musical style is a unique blend of R&B, soul, and funk, characterized by his smooth vocals and catchy songwriting.
What are some of James DeBarges solo projects?
James DeBarge has released several solo projects, including the album Back on Track, which features his signature soulful vocals and songwriting style.
How has James DeBarge influenced R&B music?
James DeBarge has had a significant influence on R&B music, helping to shape the sound of DeBarge and inspire a generation of musicians with his innovative songwriting and production techniques.
What is James DeBarges approach to songwriting?
James DeBarges approach to songwriting is highly collaborative and intuitive, often drawing on his own experiences and emotions to craft relatable and authentic lyrics.

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