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How did Tommy DeBarge die? Condolences for R&B icon, Switch bassist flood Internet

Tommy DeBarge's health recently worsened and he was hospitalized a couple weeks ago

'Switch' member Tommy DeBarge has died aged 64, after grappling with liver and kidney failure over the years. His health, however, recently worsened and he was hospitalized a couple of weeks ago. Earlier this year, DeBarge also battled Covid-19. He died in the hospital on Thursday, October 21.

DeBarge's sister Etterline "Bunny" DeBarge shared the news of his death on Facebook, writing, "Tommy has gained his wings." "Rest peacefully in Heaven, Dearest Thomas DeBarge," she wrote in another post.

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Who was Tommy DeBarge?

DeBarge was a member of the R&B/Funk music band Switch. Along with his brother Bobby DeBarge, Tommy gained musical success on Motown Records with Switch in the 1970s. The band’s single, 'There'll Never Be', went on to become an R&B top 10 hit. Switch even inspired various other music groups that came after it, such as Mint Condition and Tony! Toni! Toné! In fact, their younger siblings too created their group known as 'DeBarge'.

What is social media saying?

Tributes and condolences poured in on social media after the news of DeBarge's death surfaced. "Rest In Perfect Peace Tommy DeBarge; a member of the band Switch, and a member of the DeBarge family. Tommy now joins his brother Bobby in the heavenly band," one user wrote, while another wrote, "Sending my condolences to @ElDeBarge and the DeBarge family. Tommy DeBarge thank you for all the great music you helped make over the years and showing the world how to pluck that bass. #RIPTommyDeBarge #Switch #DeBarge."

"I just learned the sad news of brilliant bassist Tommy DeBarge. I share my deepest condolences w/DeBarge family & w/Tommy’s Switch family. My appreciation of him really drove the start of my #switchrabbithole this year. May he rest peacefully. I only wish I could have met him," another user wrote.

"Tommy DeBarge could wear out a bass! I last saw him when filming Unsung's Switch episode in 2017. He made it to the set but his body was too fatigued after dialysis. Sending love and light to the DeBarge family. If able, please read his memoir. Powerful story about forgiveness," one user wrote. Another user wrote, "Tommy DeBarge has has died at 64. Tommy had suffered from liver and kidney failure over the years, but recently took a turn for the worse. We're told he was hospitalized a couple weeks ago, and died in the hospital Thursday", while another wrote, "Another iconic figure from my past gone. They all are going away so fast. Rest well and easy in paradise Tommy."