Bobby’s wife Mary confirmed the news on Wednesday, saying the singer died in her arms at their New Jersey home after his health had deteriorated.
Singer Bobby Caldwell performs at The Midnight Mission’s 11th Annual Golden Hearts Awards in Beverly Hills, California in 2011. Caldwell died on 14 March 2023. Picture: Alberto E. Rodriguez / AFP
JOHANNESBURG – American singer and songwriter Bobby Caldwell, best known for his hit songs What You Won’t Do for Love and Open Your Eyes, has died at the age of 71.
According to a statement posted on his verified Twitter account by his wife Mary on Wednesday, Caldwell passed away in her arms on Tuesday at their home in New Jersey.
Bobby passed away here at home. I held him tight in my arms as he left us. I am forever heartbroken. Thanks to all of you for your many prayers over the years. He had been “FLOXED,” it took his health over the last 6 years and 2 months. Rest with God, my Love. -Mary Caldwell
‘ Bobby Caldwell (@bobbycaldwell) March 15, 2023
He had been dealing with painful bouts of neuropathy and a ruptured tendon in his ankle for the past six years which made it difficult for him to walk.
His classic 1978 record What You Won’t Do for Love was sampled by many artists over the years, including rapper Tupac Shakur, and most recently R&B and soul singer Snoh Aalegra.
Caldwell, full name Robert Hunter, was also known as the blue-eyed soul brother, referring to R&B and soul music performed by white artists. Fans were often surprised to discover he was white, with his smooth crooning taking over the airwaves in the late 70s.
He grew up in Miami, and had his first break as a rhythm guitarist for Little Richard. What You Won’t Do for Love reached Billboard magazine’s Hot 100.
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