El DeBarge (born Eldra Patrick DeBarge on June 4, 1961) is an American singer, songwriter, musician, and producer whose expressive high tenor and distinctive falsetto made him one of the defining voices of 1980s R&B. He first became widely known as the lead singer and principal creative force of the family group DeBarge, before establishing a solo career built around romantic soul, polished contemporary R&B, and quiet-storm balladry.
Raised in Grand Rapids, Michigan, DeBarge performed with several of his siblings before the family group secured a recording contract with Motown. The group initially recorded as the DeBarges and released its debut album, The DeBarges, in 1981. Their early work showed the influence of Motown's vocal-group tradition, but the band's identity sharpened on All This Love (1982). Led by songs such as "I Like It," "All This Love," and "Time Will Reveal," the album established DeBarge as a major R&B act and showcased El's gentle but highly controlled lead vocals.
The group's success continued with In a Special Way (1983), which included "Love Me in a Special Way." DeBarge's performances were marked by carefully layered harmonies, sophisticated arrangements, and El's ability to move from a smooth lower register into an unusually clear falsetto. The album earned the group a Grammy nomination and helped secure a prominent place for DeBarge within the adult-oriented side of 1980s Black pop.
DeBarge reached its commercial peak with Rhythm of the Night (1985). The title track, written by Diane Warren and produced by a team that included David Foster, became the group's best-known recording. Its bright, dance-oriented sound differed from the family's earlier ballads while retaining El's vocal personality. The song was also featured in the film The Last Dragon, broadening the group's audience beyond the R&B market. Other successful singles from the album included "Who's Holding Donna Now?" and "You Wear It Well."
El DeBarge left the group during the period surrounding its commercial peak and began recording as a solo artist. His self-titled debut album appeared in 1986 and produced his signature solo hit, "Who's Johnny," a song associated with the film Short Circuit. He followed it with Gemini (1989), In the Storm (1992), and Heart, Mind & Soul (1994). Although these albums did not match the impact of his work with DeBarge, they allowed him to explore a more personal and polished style while maintaining his emphasis on melody and vocal phrasing.
After an extended absence from recording, DeBarge returned with Second Chance in 2010. The album presented his comeback as both a musical renewal and a reflection on difficult years away from the spotlight. Its title song earned Grammy nominations for Best R&B Song and Best Male R&B Vocal Performance, while the album was nominated for Best R&B Album. In total, DeBarge has received five Grammy nominations without a win.
Beyond his own albums, he has contributed vocals and songwriting to recordings by artists including Quincy Jones, Fourplay, Faith Evans, and others. His work remains influential for its combination of melodic craftsmanship, family harmonies, and a refined vocal style that connects classic soul with contemporary R&B.