Bobby Caldwell (1951-2023) was an American singer and songwriter celebrated for his versatile vocals spanning R&B, soul, jazz, and adult contemporary genres. His signature song, "What You Won't Do for Love," from his debut album became a hit in 1978. While releasing several albums in R&B and smooth jazz, Caldwell later transitioned to singing standards from the Great American Songbook. He also wrote songs for other artists, most notably co-writing "The Next Time I Fall". His work has been sampled by numerous hip hop and R&B artists.
On August 15, 1951, Robert Hunter Caldwell, known as Bobby Caldwell, was born. He later became an American singer and songwriter known for his work in R&B, soul, and jazz.
By 1977, Caldwell had spent six years in Los Angeles playing in different bar bands and trying to get a record deal.
In 1978, Caldwell released his hit single "What You Won't Do for Love" from his double platinum debut album Bobby Caldwell. This song became his signature song.
In 1978, Caldwell signed with TK Records in Miami. After recording songs for his first album, he wrote "What You Won't Do for Love" in two days, which became a hit song. Executives at the label wanted to conceal that Caldwell was white, so they kept his face off the album cover.
In 1982, Caldwell released his album Carry On, for which he played all the instruments and served as the producer, arranger, and mixer.
In 1983, Caldwell released the album August Moon only in Japan. It was later released in the United States in the 1990s.
In 1984, Caldwell recorded the song "Never Give Up" for the film Night of the Comet.
In 1988, Caldwell had a minor role in the film Salsa.
In 1996, Caldwell released Blue Condition, where he transitioned from R&B to recording big band arrangements of songs from the Great American Songbook.
In 1998, Caldwell remade his hit song "What You Won't Do for Love".
From October 1999 to January 2000, Caldwell portrayed Frank Sinatra in the Las Vegas musical The Rat Pack Is Back.
In 1999, Caldwell released Come Rain or Come Shine, continuing his focus on singing standards.
From October 1999 to January 2000, Caldwell portrayed Frank Sinatra in the Las Vegas musical The Rat Pack Is Back.
In 2000, the track "Open Your Eyes" from Cat in the Hat was sampled by J Dilla on Common's "The Light".
In 2001, Caldwell's version of a big band standard appeared in the film Simone.
In 2002, Caldwell's version of a big band standard appeared in the film Lake Boat.
In 2006, Elliott Yamin covered "What You Won't Do for Love" during the fifth season of American Idol.
In 2010, Caldwell released The Consummate Bobby Caldwell, continuing to sing standards from the Great American Songbook.
In 2014, Caldwell released After Dark, continuing to sing standards.
In 2015, Caldwell collaborated with Jack Splash on the album Cool Uncle.
In 2017, Caldwell's health began to decline after he suffered severe side effects from fluoroquinolone.
In 2019, Lil Nas X was sued for $25 million for using the song "Carry On" without permission.
On March 14, 2023, Bobby Caldwell passed away at the age of 71 at his home in Great Meadows, New Jersey. His health had declined after suffering severe side effects from fluoroquinolone in 2017.
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