Tommy DeBarge, Founder Of R&B Group Switch, Dead At 64
By Regina Park
October 22, 2021
Tommy DeBarge, member of the R&B funk band Switch and famed DeBarge family has died at the age of 64.
The singer's daughter, Marina DeBarge, confirmed to TMZ that he battled kidney and liver failure over the years and contracted Covid-19 earlier this year, but that he'd recovered from the virus and never complained about the pain.
His condition got worse within the last few weeks, a family member told the outlet. His daughter saying he fought until the end. He passed away in the hospital on Thursday (October 21).
DeBarge rose to stardom in the mid-1970s as a founding member of the Motown group Switch along with his brother Bobby DeBarge.
Tommy was a vocalist and bass guitarist in Switch who went on to produce hit songs like "There'll Never Be," "I Call Your Name" and "Love Over & Over Again" and influence other bands including legendary DeBarge –– a group comprised of their siblings.
DeBarge's sister, Bunny DeBarge paid tribute to her brother in a Facebook post, sharing a photo of him playing the guitar.
"Tommy has gained his wings," she wrote.
News of Tommy's passing also prompted tributes on Twitter.
I just learned the sad news of brilliant bassist Tommy DeBarge. I share my deepest condolences w/DeBarge family & w/Tommy’s Switch family. My appreciation of him really drove the start of my #switchrabbithole this year. May he rest peacefully. I only wish I could have met him.🙏🏾 pic.twitter.com/v4GZG4vc9X
— DJ Soul Sister (@djsoulsister) October 22, 2021
Tommy DeBarge could wear out a bass! I last saw him when filming Unsung's Switch episode in 2017. He made it to the set but his body was too fatigued after dialysis. Sending love and light to the DeBarge family. If able, please read his memoir. Powerful story about forgiveness. pic.twitter.com/hx14UUPw1U
— Dr. Margena A. Christian (@DrMargenaXan) October 22, 2021
Rest In Perfect Peace Tommy DeBarge; a member of the band Switch, and a member of the DeBarge family. Tommy now joins his brother Bobby in the heavenly band.
— Kiande K. Jakada (@Kiandesworld72) October 21, 2021
Tommy DeBarge ❤💔❤
September 6, 1957 - October 21, 2021 #TommyDeBarge pic.twitter.com/sPM7IT0Utv
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