In Memoriam : Tommy DeBarge of R&B group Switch dies at 64

Tommy DeBarge, best known as a member of the R&B group Switch, has died. He was 64.

Statement on Tommy DeBarge’s death

DeBarge’s sister Etterline “Bunny” DeBarge shared the news on Facebook on Thursday, sharing a video featuring a still image of her brother playing guitar.

“Tommy has gained his wings,” she shared. The singer also shared the post on her professional Facebook page.

Cause of Death

According to family, DeBarge suffered from liver and kidney failure over the years and recently declined in health. TMZ reports, he was hospitalized a couple of weeks ago and died in a hospital on Thursday (Oct. 21).

Career

DeBarge rose to fame in Switch in the mid to late ’70s — the group recorded hits like “There’ll Never Be,” “I Call Your Name” and “Love Over & Over Again.”

Tommy and his brother, Bobby, were founding members of the group, which had a huge influence on future bands in the genre, including DeBarge – the group composed of their siblings.

Bobby and Tommy left Switch to mentor their younger brothers and sister in DeBarge.

Rest in peace.