Eldra Patrick DeBarge was born in 1961 as El DeBarge to become an American R&B singer and songwriter who gained fame through his silky falsetto and heartfelt ballads. The DeBarge family produced him as their lead vocalist before he started his successful solo music career in the 1980s. His smooth, emotive voice and sophisticated production helped define the era’s R&B sound.

His self-titled debut solo album, released in 1986, featured hits like “Who’s Johnny” and “Love Always,” showcasing his knack for blending pop sensibility with soulful grooves.