Robert Palmer
Robert Allen Palmer (19 January 1949 – 26 September 2003) was an English singer and songwriter renowned for his powerful and soulful voice, as well as his sartorial elegance. He was born in Batley, West Riding of Yorkshire, England, and spent part of his early childhood in Malta, where his father worked in British naval intelligence. Palmer's musical journey began in his teens when he joined his first band, the Mandrakes, at the age of 15. He later joined the Alan Bown Set and then the jazz-rock fusion band Dada, which led to the formation of Vinegar Joe with Elkie Brooks and Pete Gage.
Palmer's solo career took off in the 1980s, marked by his exploration of various musical styles, including soul, funk, jazz, rock, pop, reggae, and blues. He achieved significant success with hits like "Addicted to Love," which became emblematic of the 1980s' glamour and excesses. His collaboration with the supergroup The Power Station further cemented his status in the music industry. Palmer's work earned him numerous accolades, including two Grammy Awards for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance and an MTV Video Music Award.
Despite his professional success, Palmer faced personal and professional challenges throughout his career. He was married to Susan Eileen Thatcher from 1971 until their divorce in 1993. Palmer passed away at the age of 54 from a heart attack in a Paris hotel in September 2003, shortly after giving an interview for a documentary titled "My Kinda People." His legacy endures through his influential music and distinctive style.