El DeBarge is the architect of a specific kind of sonic luxury. His music is defined by a voice that seems to defy gravity, moving from a rich tenor to a crystalline falsetto with an ease that feels almost supernatural. It is the sound of high-end 1980s production meeting deep-seated gospel and jazz sensibilities, resulting in tracks that are as technically impressive as they are emotionally resonant.
What truly distinguishes El is his phrasing and the 'caramel' texture of his runs. Unlike many of his contemporaries who used falsetto for power, El used it for intimacy. His keyboard work provides a sophisticated harmonic backbone, often incorporating jazz chords into pop structures, creating a lush, multi-layered experience that rewards close listening while remaining perfectly accessible.
Start with the self-titled 1986 solo debut to hear him step into the spotlight with 'Who's Johnny,' then move to 'In a Special Way' with the family group to hear the foundational ballads like 'Time Will Reveal.' It is music for people who appreciate the craft of a perfect vocal performance and the warmth of a well-mixed groove.
Eldra "El" Patrick DeBarge (born June 4, 1961) is an American singer, songwriter and musician. He was the focal point and primary lead singer of the family group DeBarge. Popular songs led by El DeBarge include "Time Will Reveal", "Who's Holding Donna Now", "Stay with Me", "All This Love", and "Rhythm of the Night". As a solo artist, he is best known for his unique high tenor register, strong falsetto and hits like "Who's Johnny" and "Love Always". He has also collaborated with artists such as Dionne Warwick, Al Green, Lalah Hathaway, Tone Loc, Babyface, Faith Evans, Quincy Jones, Fourplay, and DJ Quik. DeBarge is a five-time Grammy Award nominee. Eldra remains the only member of the DeBarges to have Grammy nominations both outside of the group and in the family. In 2023, Rolling Stone included Eldra on its list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time. It described his voice as "lean and elastic, zooming into falsetto with apparent breath-taking ease. The ribbons of notes he lets loose during the finish of the group's 'All This Love' are like caramel; nearly three decades later, he sang the solo 'Second Chance' with such lithe grace that when his voice broke a little at the end, it took the listener with it."
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