El DeBarge: Tiny Desk (Home) Concert

NPR Music's Tiny Desk series will celebrate Black History Month with Tiny Desk (home) concerts featuring legends in the world of R&B, jazz, gospel, and hip hop. Each artist in this legacy lineup has helped to define Black music as we know it and will be performing a Tiny Desk concert for the first time.
Bobby Carter | February 4, 2022
Around this time last year, singer-songwriter and R&B royalty El DeBarge took to Instagram to take some requests and play a few hits. "I'd never done anything like that before, and the nerves were showing," he told me. That 23-minute live performance ignited a comeback of sorts, and the greats of today, many of whom he's influenced, wanted to be near him. That video reminded us of his greatness, and stars like Alicia Keys, Fat Joe, and Questlove helped make 2021 a busy year for the torchbearer of the DeBarge moniker. For his Tiny Desk (home) concert, he didn't want to veer far away from what he did on IG, and I quickly concurred. He got together with guitarist, Bennett Walker to play this intimate set of DeBarge classics.
In terms of sheer talent alone, the DeBarge family was arguably on par with the Jacksons at one point. That talent propelled them to the stars in the 1970s and '80s, cranking out hit records and cookout classics. Switch, featuring siblings Bobby and Tommy DeBarge, came first. A couple of years later, the group DeBarge arrived, consisting of siblings James, Bunny, Mark, Randy, and El. Their five albums and El's solo work were a massive part of Motown's success and helped sustain the label in the '80s.
Despite the well-documented odds he's faced over the years, this set feels like a triumph. His voice has aged with grace, and that signature falsetto we've all attempted while singing these songs is perfection here. From his cozy home studio, the Michigan native breezes through a few of his R&B standards, including "All This Love," "Time Will Reveal," "Love Me In A Special Way," and in honor of Black History Month, he reworks "A Dream" as a dedication to the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
SET LIST
All This Love
Time Will Reveal
A Dream (Dedication to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.)
Love Me In A Special Way
MUSICIANS
El DeBarge: vocals, keys
Bennett Walker: guitar
CREDITS
Video: Stephen Clay and Declan Osborne
Audio: Bennett Walker
TINY DESK TEAM
Producer: Bobby Carter
Video Producer: Joshua Bryant
Audio Mastering: Josh Rogosin
Tiny Production Team: Bob Boilen, Kara Frame, Maia Stern, Sofie Hernandez-Simeonidis, Ashley Pointer
Executive Producer: Keith Jenkins
Senior VP, Programming: Anya Grundmann
#eldebarge #nprmusic #tinydesk #bhmxnprmusic

[@nprmusic]

Hey Tiny Desk Fans, Check out NPR’s Black Stories, Black Truths - a collection of podcasts hosted by journalists who speak truth to power. Our voices are as varied, nuanced, and dynamic as the Black experience. And stories should never be about us without us. Listen now: www.npr.org/podcasts/510372/black-stories-black-truths

[@uaintseememaaan8901]

I know! How is this even possible??!!!!

[@tjerald3778]

Thanks so much for the pin! I love you NPR!!

[@The1972watcher]

More, we need more of this, esp in the times we are in now! El has the ability to take his voice to a place like no other. My only personal wish was he did Switch’s I Call Your Name and They’ll Never Be, icing on the cake!!!

[@staciewatson9487]

Yes he does it is amazing

[@trishastrickland2902]

Whoever said they would pay 100.00 In a small venue without alll that screaming………..ME TOOO !!!!!!!!!!!💋💋💋💋💋

[@trebo12]

Please note: El wrote 'Time Will Reveal' when he was 15yrs old! And 'All This Love' and 'Love Me In A Special Way' when he was not much older. Musical Genius. Give him his FLOWERS.

[@erinhefferin859]

Thanks for that info. Yes, he is a genius!

[@LLCoolCooper]

Awesome! I agree he is a genius! Thank you for sharing that information with us!

[@mamaluvs2dance]

an orchard of orchids is not enough flowers. the song writing is so rich, all you need is a keyboard and a guitar, just gifted!!

[@BreeBrog]

Not that this matter to what you were saying but believe it or not he is still married to his wife, the same woman he was married to all those years ago when those songs was written

[@trebo12]

@@BreeBrog Or not. El has been married and divorced at least three times, and has more than a FEW baby mommas. So that's kind of hard to believe, Love...

[@recognize7]

Is anyone else gonna say anything about how this man sounds EXACTLY like he did when he made these songs? Masterful!!

[@blaakcoffee]

Facts!!!!

[@keichin9009]

I agree, his voice is like stevie wonders, sounds exactly the same since they were teenagers ❤

[@genesis4824]

Ikr 🎯💯

[@LSands-wo8qw]

i was just about to say this 🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾

[@latariusross4593]

That is true talent!!! Raw and without filters. 🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾

[@honeyb9189]

He survived family trauma, substance abuse, and still has gift!! Thank you for the music El ❤ & Tiny Desk for featuring!!

[@trineasesanders8743]

Amen

[@PiecesOfJenus]

💯💥💥💥

[@tommywoh]

Organic with no autotune....the natural way music should be.

[@cartoonist1975]

🔨 Nailed that one !

[@heal_to_evolve]

I agree 100 percent.

[@PiecesOfJenus]

Absolutely!

[@maxmix6406]

I wanted to say the same thing :-)

[@bobbiegrant6337]

How is his voice still so clean? Good Lord he is blessed. 60 years old and been through the ringer. El Debarge is clearly blessed.

[@dellacamps1985]

El will be El- talented from first exposure. It’s amazing, simply amazing ❤

[@feliciawilliams5720]

Truly 👏🏾🧡🎶

[@aperezdeal]

I’m glad. I remember a performance years ago right when he got out of prison and his voice was shot. So happy to hear him recovered and well again.

[@themastermind4967]

Amazing voice, so smooth and soothing, even on the high notes, he looks younger than 60.

[@jt.8144]

LOL.. guaranteeed TODAY'S GENERATION think this is fake.. or A.I driven.. or WHATEVER.. Buncha Pathetic LOST KIDS nowadays.. Blame their "internet" since birth exposure.. to dumbness.

[@adrenna1973]

After everything he's gone through the universe kept his voice. He's a walking testimony. This is what is real music sounds like.

[@patricedixon2634]

Indeed!

[@krob9583]

Indeed!

[@naturalbeauty637]

🙌Praise God🙌

[@taneshaholloway7794]

THIS!!! ‼️‼️🥰🥰

[@MJamesIII]

Amen! Not only his voice, but his piano skills. This man has spent years at a time not being able to play the piano. As a musician myself, if I go one week without playing, there would be so much rust. This guy is truly blessed and gifted.

[@BarneyRq1d]

DeBarge family is underrated af.

[@courtneylee7694]

Big facts

[@juanitaapplebaumheyumheyum]

underrated by who? i hate when people make that comment. you’d have to be delusional or uneducated but there is no underrating them at all. lets stop making those comments to make it seem like we are up on something that no one else is up on. Listen to his voice and tell me you believe that.

[@billclemons5593]

IMMENSELY UNDERRATED

[@sandygrungerson1177]

AGREED ARGUABLY SOOOOO TOTALLY OVERRATED

[@YaRememberTHISQuestionmark]

@@juanitaapplebaumheyumheyum IMMENSELY UNDERRATE. They are as big as all the other legends of the genre. They deserve vastly more recognition.

[@TASconfidential]

He needs to do a tour like this: 1.) No other acts 2.) Small, intimate venues 3.) give him piano and his band and a mic. Call it something like “A Night of Pure Talent with El Debarge”. It would be fantastic. This is what pure talent looks like.

[@greaterishe7197]

Yes!!!

[@bluepeopledoNotexistBlacksDo]

That’s what Prince did right before he passed

[@trishastrickland2902]

Love me now…..so beautiful

[@norineledger30]

I'd be there

[@norineledger30]

Come on to Cleveland We Love You

[@dcalso]

He is in his 60s and still has the cleanest falsetto! Bravo El!!

[@stevewoodson4635]

Tell you something right yes

[@towagwahchristian8452]

Facts💯

[@JJJJJVVVVVLLLLL]

NO ONE can sing like this guy

[@cb4664]

FACTS! YOU BETTA SING EL!

[@ldsbalancedlifestyle1951]

OKAY. A singer!!!!

[@Msgilt]

El has one of the best falsettos I’ve ever heard. For him to sound exactly as he did 40 years ago after all he’s been through is amazing.

[@dash_r_media]

Not a falsetto. Just crazy range, especially for his age.

[@sexycarolina3035]

He MURDERED Tiny Desk all by himself. No backup singers and no band only help was on the guitar!!!!

[@whozgod2005]

You are 100% correct 👍

[@KieranRenee]

Destroyed it!! ⭐️⭐️

[@TrueFudge]

I was saying the same thing. Gifted/talent..

[@andreac9918]

This man's voice hasn't changed since the 80's. Still as pure as crystal.

[@williamrobinson8859]

It's crazy because most artists now cannot sound this good over 30+years and bro still got it.

[@mrjohnson20123]

Facts G

[@ssmythe61]

And he has 90% of his hair too!!!

[@MS-yz6nj]

I love love El.. and 🙏 for him that God completely heal him of all the trauma he's endured.

[@MS-yz6nj]

Yes he sounds exactly the same or even better...such a gifted Singer..

[@willieaseholloway9045]

He's blessed

[@cor8129]

Words fail me...El, at 60, can STILL sing, as if he was 15 years old, in the original KEY. I am soooooo blown away. Tears are really running down my face. He is NOT using machines to enhance his voice, this is REAL.

[@reggiedillard7731]

🙏🏾❤️

[@PastorBurnett]

Me too! Just a GIFT on display!

[@sweetertheberry660]

I have no words, just WOW!!

[@catteadams]

YEah. Same key. WOW indeed. I've certainly changed many of mine at 68.

[@sonjahenney1283]

I got goosebumps! Beautiful ❤

[@Copasyetic]

I don't really think this man understands how much he impacted this generation that grew up listened to these songs. He has true talent . I hope he reads this. No words to describe my appreciation.

[@douglassmith9698]

If you are watching this because you love good ol singing and music, then I know you are a great person in life.

[@vw1649]

That's me 😃

[@jasongonzalez2856]

Not really ......but here for one of the 🐐s next to mj and prince=el D

[@noracharles9366]

Back at you ❤

[@majida70]

👍🏾❤️

[@taraMimi717]

Right here ❤❤

[@MsSugarDyme]

This man is stilling singing songs from almost 40 years ago in the original key with resounding clarity. Eldra is amazing!!!

[@kaytaylor1766]

Sounds so amazing 🥰

[@dottydiamond9756]

More like almost 50 years ago; he's from the 70s I was there and we were all young including them they started as a Teen group, and HE wrote that stuff!

[@Robertuapb]

I love to hear an artist sing the song like how it’s played on the radio. El is the truth with doing just that. Same voice, same style, seem like he doesn’t get old

[@siristarburst9]

Right. He hasn't evolved since. & Ask yourselves WHY he hasn't got millions of views OR DOLLARS.. It takes way more than singing 40yo songs to rank among the greatest ... MJ evolved, Stevie Wonder evolved, etc. Also, his behavior and actions are QUESTIONABLE. Ironic because MJ was a good & charitable man, yet was persecuted & accused of abusing kids. el debarge abused his son's female friends, abandoned all of his kids, abused countless women, even strangers yet you all worship him like he's God just bc he can sing?! You overlook crimes against children and women JUST bc he sings well. America is a whole brand of evil

[@deborahpatterson7692]

He sure is in the same key and you can see it in his face- he loves his music.

[@seannimmons9924]

With age most people's voice changes a little. But El Debarge is different, he sounds exactly how he did when he was younger. He is an exceptionally good singer, and I'm glad he's getting his flowers now before it's too late. With what he's gone through he is truly blessed beyond measure. Good for him.

[@tracy7275]

He sounds good but those people who have had major voice changes had a lot more miles on their vocals - Mariah for example has sung prob 1000x more - sometimes it’s about miles not just age . I will say that Aretha and Gladys are examples of women with a lot of miles and hours on those vocal cords and it didn’t show as much on them

[@jez_who]

Close your eyes and it's so close to the recording

[@t-god2439]

Question 🙋‍♀️ since 2010 what artist has emerged that you would say has a once in a generation or lifetime voice like this guy or Luther, Micheal, prince ect.?

[@Fudgeey]

@@t-god2439 Jazmine Sullivan. If Sam Smith fully crossed over to r&b, I'd include him.

[@TheZakiya]

@@t-god2439 Bruno Mars. Exceptional voice.

[@ttbrooke]

Pure VOCALS! To be able hit the same note you did at 15 years old at 61 years old is nothing short of amazing!

[@maryhall954]

My husband passed away 2 years ago and when I came across this video today I was swept back to my youth when we first fell in love and were listening to this music - I felt him here with me today so thank you- like they say “ gone, but love ❤ is not forgotten “ . Beautiful job El - you’re a blessing to us all .

[@MsElainefreitas]

One of the best falsettos of all time, his voice is still perfect, I love it 🥰

[@ericjones6280]

Can't hold a candle to his brother Bobby tho

[@cristinskadell338]

best falsetto yes yes

[@cristinskadell338]

❤❤❤❤

[@chantidarlingofficial8988]

His mix is crazy

[@latishareed488]

Yessss

[@Peaceful_Vegan_Warrior]

Best Tiny desk performance. No backup singers or band needed and he played the keyboard the whole time. Talented for real. Still has his angelic voice.

[@ahmilly2061]

And he did some back up vocals and Ad-libs ..I love and appreciate his music

[@micheal6901]

Saving $

[@gedias1]

It might have been nice to have his siblings as backup, though.

[@tlbryant4077]

@@micheal6901And it’s nothing wrong with that.

[@MotivationGeek189]

A legend is always a legend

[@celesteddunham1706]

God has been merciful to El. He spared his life and allowed him to continue to sing effortlessly. El’s Gift is without repentance.

[@thewickednetwork7667]

This is Raw Talent that only happens once in a lifetime for some of US. He is the One ☝️. The playing of those keys 🎹 especially for all My Love. He’s preaching. 🔥

[@TerryCarter]

El Debarge doesn't get his props as one of the most brilliant songwriters! He needs to be placed in that master class with Stevie, Prince, Lionel Richie, MJ, etc... This mans music is TIMELESS

[@Noemyskillz]

Facts

[@lynndavist]

I agree. His music is timeless. Give him the honor and respect that he deserves. He's ranked 1

[@kaleahcollins4567]

His brothers Bobby and Tommy too

[@lexgraham2118]

UNFORTUNATELY HE COULDN'T STAY SOBER OR OUT OF TROUBLE LONG ENOUGH TO GET THOSE WELL DESERVED FLOWERS. ALONG WITH JAMES BROWN AND PARLIMENT, DEBARGE IS SOME OF THE MOST SAMPLED MUSIC IN HIP HOP. ANOTHER TESTAMENT TO HOW TIMELESS AND UNDERRATED THEY WERE.

[@thebellespiritlove9155]

Most true.

[@ContrarianExpatriate]

Remember that this is not studio-enhanced singing. It is LIVE and he sounds that great.

[@tabposey]

Absolutely 💯🔥🔥🔥just perfect. Not many real artists like this is left. And today not many can sing at this level at all. Live or recording. We need to honor his man now, and not when it’s to late. He has been through so much in his live. I just love the strength he has shown through it all.

[@SoitIS4203]

Amazing

[@briengakaplan-b1550]

Not only live but playing his own song along with his own singing. Very few mainstream artists like this out right now.

[@dianeross4522]

@@tabposey There are beautiful voices out here but they don't want any parts of Hollyweird. Thank God.

[@recognize7]

Exactly

[@joeygott1]

I"m BLOWN AWAY by his voice at his age. He sounds as good as he did 30+ years ago. What a treat this way. SO UNDERRATED

[@ktmaestro]

Bruh, playing all of those progressions, not missing a chord, keeping perfect time, singing angelically with the same quality of yesteryear. YOU'RE A BAD MAN!!!

[@jamiAkos]

He's playing some pretty COMPLEX chords and melodies WHILE singing his face off!!!! Just. give him all the awards already!! Give this man his flowes! 😩😩😍😍😍❤❤💐💐🌷🌷🌷🌹🌹🌹

[@RTDavis0503]

I struggle playing those chords without singing it's amazing

[@lloydmorris6545]

Musicians know it's not easy ❤️

[@TheJoaniejoancansew]

He's been playing this song for over 30 years.

[@RJNumber45]

🎯💯

[@eprince1388]

@@TheJoaniejoancansew Not only playing, but also wrote and composed.

[@DamonCahlil]

This man’s voice is still in perfect condition. I don’t think y’all understand the tears that came hearing El. Much love to the Debarge family 🙏🏾💜

[@jacquelinecharles6957]

Oh I understand. Tears in my eyes too and prayers of thanksgiving for how God brought him through. 🙏🏾❤

[@leeleemee]

@@jacquelinecharles6957 Yes Ma’am. ☺️

[@LenaUSmith]

I know right!! Love El Debarge!!

[@tiffanymcpherson5554]

Me, too!

[@plwhite40]

I understand. His voice is perfect! Hasn’t aged at all. Just like Charlie Wilson.

[@jkel4395]

Timeless Voice. Still listening in 2024.

[@tammycirilo5170]

Aw man,I just found this 2024! El you are still an inspiration to my soul with your strength and courage to keep singing and using your God given talent. Your struggles don't define who you truly are to God! Luv you siempre!

[@auntiehelenrizpah]

He sings with his eyes closed. He feels every lyric. That's depth, that's compassion, that's passion. I wish that I could stand right beside him. What a beautiful creature.

[@imbees2]

That's how everybody from the 60's to the 90s sang, eyes closed, voice supreme

[@nesayoung3672]

He is really very underrated & I can't emphasize that enough.

[@christinerichardson673]

I ll fight you for him lol

[@Cynthia-fx4we]

​@@christinerichardson673 You made me laugh so hard. I had a vision of two women fighting for him, and the concert coming to an end. You know it would be a good and bad moment for him at the same time.

[@alphaomega1351]

It's because he's blind. 😶

[@twittertwice]

The voice and that hairline still killing! Deep applause DeBarge for surviving life’s travails and maintaining excellent musicianship 👏🏾❤️😊 You are a cherished piece of our Black Musical history!

[@candylove49]

@@ichi5974 That’s the line that took me 😂😂

[@hs-qk9qf]

you took me all the way out with that comment!!!😂😆

[@jamesbronz]

AMEN!

[@jamesbronz]

@@ichi5974 While at the same time....some have no hairline at all. 😭😭😭

[@qbanks3514]

His musicianship in all categories is perfect...his lyrics, music, his direction and directing, his piano playing, his voice, his one man concerts, he has no hype people helping, his honesty, his professional gifted self, his suave singing, his falsetto, his regular voice..just his presence...EVERYTHING is perfection with his fine self...I've been wanting to sing with him since forever. I've been with him since I was 12, im 54 and stayed with him throughout his life time.

[@sasfiremaiden840]

His voice is beautiful, clear and crisp...this is REAL music!!🤎

[@drahaman]

Why am I just seeing this one? El is a timeless and incredible talent. We are yet to experience another talent like this.

[@user-vx8eo6wp9f]

We do have a lot of talent in today, but they aren't and cannot be compared to our OG's of the industries they don't get the respect they deserve

[@reginapaylor8589]

I only found out there was a Tiny Desk today .

[@ANTPHRESSH89]

El Debarge Deserves More Credit. He Is On Michael Jackson And Prince Level

[@kennettabradford6566]

I always said that. He's Definitely on their level 💯💯💯💯

[@natashawall8131]

I agree. I totally agree.

[@JoeKabayan]

💯💯💯

[@MindRegulatorMusic]

Sure is. ❤

[@tomekaminorpharmdrph.9908]

💯💯💯💯. I hope they don’t wait too late. The family is so talented and they deserve to have a tribute at someone’s award show. He has serenade them all. I love Eldra!!!!

[@stephaniecalhoun8246]

This man is 60 years old still looking and sounding like a youngster! His looks and his talent are Blessed!

[@theinfamouspokeinrichmondc3543]

SIXTY???? WOW!!!!

[@jternesto1981]

He has great hair for a 60year old.

[@chocolatemint9225]

Watching in 2024❤ this man’s musicianship is unmatched ✅

[@peterdarker1]

Why doesn't this have a million likes??!

[@kevinbass7677]

Criminally underrated , he, along with his older brother Bobby, might have the PUREST ( and strongest), falsetto voice in the history of soul music

[@mikesainte9482]

Don't forget about bunny

[@wellnessislife999]

Yes!

[@aaronpogue2987]

Bobby, El, and Philip Bailey.

[@davidcoleman9317]

@@aaronpogue2987 Let's not forget another great talent that is overlooked Howard Hewett.

[@monicaalexander3812]

PRince

[@s.m.7109]

*Mr. El DeBarge, if you were never exactly sure if you have people you've touched with your musicianship, lyrics, and voice - PLEASE know that I'm at least that one person that has been affected deeply by you.* I THANK YOU So Emphatically for your life, your experiences, your strength, and your gift. Thank you for blessing us by performing on this particular platform, which allowed you the environment to give all of yourself. *I honor and appreciate you* *{Please accept these flowers while you're here.* 💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐💐🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻🌻⚘️⚘️⚘️⚘️⚘️⚘️⚘️⚘️⚘️⚘️⚘️⚘️⚘️⚘️⚘️🌷🌷🌷🌷🌷🌷🌷🌷🌷🌷🌷🌷🌷🌷🌷 ......now please excuse me while I re-watch/re-listen to this set 'bout a thousand more times.....

[@brightemerald3924]

This comment so touching. I think you spoke for many, myself included.🙂

[@kennethcooperjr.9127]

I'm getting Married June 25th, and this will be Our FIRST DANCE SONG, in 1984 I was a Senior in High School, This Was Our Class Song, So I can definitely Relate!!!🎉🎊🎉🎊🎉

[@meewannabe2525]

TEACH!!! HE IS SO DREAMY!!!!🤭🥲

[@trebo12]

Thank you for echoing my sentiments, EXACTLY!

[@s.m.7109]

@@meewannabe2525 - Indeed, sweetheart! Melodic, hypnotic, soul-capturing dreamy-ness!

[@Jbubou]

This brother still has it. Amazing vocals! A gift from God. I'm glad for him.

[@imbees2]

60 years old, El DeBarge. Come on now. Looking good, singing exceptionally. Don't nobody play the El Debarge essence other than El!!!

[@satisfiedcustomer]

Better than 99% of the singers out today! And he's in his 60s!

[@griffinjenn85]

OMG! So true!!!

[@mirianespinolaj9036]

He is the best 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼

[@christianhenry4173]

Not even a comparison. Weekend is not even worth half an hour of real music.

[@TheCut2009]

Though all the personal issues God has still blessed this man with the voice that sounds just like the record each time you hear him sing. I never saw him live and I need to make that happen at 45 years old this year.

[@adoredbyd]

Exactly

[@enchantedangel7]

Sounding like he hasn't missed a beat at all. I'd know that voice anywhere! As sweet and melodic as ever. Thank you for this. 🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 Took me back to my years growing up. 💜💜💜

[@johnfravel1570]

Reminds me of InnerVisions..w/ Clarence Brown playing keys next to Stevie Wonder.

[@RobertSlover]

truly terrible synth timbre/color on the keys.....

[@SR77736]

Yes he sounds amazing

[@yanydos1346]

@@johnfravel1570 qqa

[@CW043]

ALWAYS... #

[@marylavalais8647]

Thank you, TINY DESK!!! This man sounds exactly as he did when Debarge first came out.

[@damianzieminski5471]

the voice hasnt changed in 30+ years !! amazing

[@miguelmckenzie248]

El hasn’t missed a step. This brother sounds amazing. And, for the record, “All This Love” is one of the greatest ballads, ever 💯

[@roblack3510]

I shed my allotment of annual man tears 😭 after watching this a few times. To watch this man and his siblings from the start, to see his trials and challenges with life and now to see El still singing with the same peaks that he had from the start is just amazing . This is nothing but God demonstrating through El that even when life appears to be too much to handle his support is still there. 🙏🏽

[@TDTips4Life]

You are absolutely right! This performance is larger then this beautiful music. It's a testimony. SN- The "allotment of annual man tears" just made me laugh too hard🤣.

[@mirianespinolaj9036]

True 😭😭😭

[@tiyaht2158]

😂🤣😂 Your allotment of annual man tears. That was awesome. 😁 But I understand and totally agree!

[@michaelsaglembeni3821]

Well stated my man!! You can hear the emotion in his voice..those years of heartache speaks volumes…

[@starfoxx5862]

There is nothing wrong with man tears.

[@pmfg875]

1 minute into the broadcast I knew he was a virtuoso. Lord help me! Flawless perfect pitch falsetto and tenor singing! Never in front of the beat!

[@theartistphiljc7682]

Considering all the struggles he had with addiction, to hear him sound just as good as when he did 3O years ago is beyond amazing. And live to playing the keys??? And he wrote & produced it too! WOW!

[@PistachiosPurses]

That's right. We have clearly seen what drugs have done to some.of our favorite artists' voices. This is a blessing from THE MOST HIGH. Keep on sanging, brotha!

[@lovechildtre4961]

We give El his flowers 💐 now. We’ve always loved the DeBarge family. They suffered tremendously under their father. They were traumatized. He was a monster! Our community has always loved that family. And his voice♥️🔥🔥🔥still beautiful!

[@niccolabowens-harris7049]

⚘🌷💐🌼🌻🌺🏵🍀

[@janetmunnings162]

Right here listening to El's fine tuned voice in the Bahamas. Prayers up for him and his family for good health and success.

[@thea-official-musicandvide84]

Love El and The Debarge family!!!! Always and Forever

[@erehistruth2356]

Amen.

[@MisterB2eternity]

Can you imagine if their father, Bob Sr., treated them and their mother, Mama D, very good? I think had they would've had a longer and successful career and Bobby and Tommy probably would've still been here physically.

[@brandiwelch3563]

Can't nobody tell me NOTHING about El Debarge!!! Seen him at a Festival in the Park in Leimart Park, CA for MLK Day. It was a full set and his band lost power early on. El's keyboard was the only active instrument. His show went on, without missing a beat! He didn't gripe about the power loss, he just kept it going pretty much like this video. We were all so amazed. He sang every hit, hit every note and I will forever respect that about him. Keep up the good work El!!!!

[@kayrup3712]

I wish I could have been there

[@phillipalvaranga4348]

El Debarge is great

[@PapiGrande1]

Mane what! Not a thang dog

[@jessicathompson5362]

That's because he is talented and a genius. The show MUST go on! ❤❤❤❤

[@Ch0senJuan]

@@jessicathompson5362uh oh… You just told him something about Debarge.

[@danahoward759]

I adore this man, his spirit, his humble manner and angelic vocals...ALWAYS BEEN A FAN

[@8amook760]

When he first came out with all this love album as a little girl. I would listen to his song with, Jeffery Osborn, Angela Bowfill and New Edition

[@tiffanywaldon4875]

When he started hitting those same high notes on “Time Will Reveal”, I looked up in shock like Sister Mary Clarence! 😂 Dude can still handle it! 😃👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@Skooh2000]

This man is as much as a genuine genius as Stevie Wonder, Prince, Smokey Robinson and Michael Jackson. Truly in his own dimension musically.

[@dodileon]

Amen💯💯💯💯💯💯💯👌

[@barbsmckinney785]

Facts !!

[@khalidnamar8723]

Certainly a matter of opinion. And way over the top.

[@TruthB7Told]

100%

[@dyanaprinze6wondawoman]

Supreme musician and songwriter with classics to back it up! He’s been sampled SO many times it’s hard to keep up 🙏🏾👑🎹🎼 Truly gifted and blessed🙏🏾🎶🎶

[@dearrab.walters]

It’s the breath control , placement , timeless chords , the connection to the music ugh This is so perfect 😩✨

[@IJoy78]

@ Dearra B. Walters, I don't think they make them like this living legend anymore. We better live in this moment...

[@IJoy78]

@DeeDee I saw the documentary on unsung about him & his family. Their mom is truly a blessing!

[@born2cree886]

I was listening to the same thing. Where I thought he was going to give out of breath...he didn't. He seamlessly transitioned between lead and background. True talent. Both you and I know he is much older, but he sounds like he did back in the day.

[@CarlDoesMusic]

Say all that... 👏

[@andre7250]

One of the most talented musicians ever,, just fighting his demons!!🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@dknox90803]

I can’t enough of this version of All This Love

[@lauragwillim1055]

Same!! Brings on the tears!

[@pedrorosales4473]

playing live with no autotune. this is music. i'm not crying you're crying. what a blessing!!

[@tracybarnes1356]

I'm not crying either. Dusty in here

[@zstrawter]

We're both crying😭 love me some El❤

[@abeautifulmind8191]

Who's cutting onions? Please stop!! 😢

[@StillJess-wg6yb]

This comment right here!😭🙌🏽🎶🖤

[@taneshaholloway7794]

I thought it was just me! 😭😭🙌🏿🙌🏿🥰🥰🥰

[@user-is4cp9ot8s]

The fact that he sounds the same after all these years considering his trials and tribulations is amazing

[@adriennewalker3153]

God will do it!

[@lokey7854]

It’s called grace!

[@RobertWesleyBranch]

El Debarge’s voice is a national treasure. Salute to this powerful King!

[@butterflitosis]

The nostalgia running through me paired with how much I love each and every single one of the DeBarge siblings is making me wanna cry watching this😭 I needed this. Truly.

[@biggmo1974]

I’m 48 yrs old with 5 adult kids & 2 grandkids but listening to this takes me back to middle school in the 80s spending hours on the phone with my first crush while playing this music softly in the background. I miss those innocent, carefree times💯

[@MeK424]

Middle school talent show for me 😍

[@kagisotoka1333]

remember those days, before u called sugar plums u play the tape u recorded with all the hits and swoon on the phone for hrs......

[@rick1975100]

I’m 48 in one week! Where did the time go?

[@CBrown9758]

🤜🤛😌

[@Caroline.A.joseph]

I'm 55 this year.. Miss my teenage years and this music era.. Love you El.. Mwah!

[@BurtCocainee]

His voice still sounds the same! When he hit that high note on “Time Will Reveal” it made me begin to cry. His voice is still so very beautiful and I wish him all the best.

[@aLgProduction]

Check out El DeBarge on KZbin channel aLgProduction (Momma DeBarge surprises her son El DeBarge)

[@todosmiros8119]

GIRL YES!!!!!!! I was like GO OWN ELDRA!!! GO HEAD DUDE!!!!

[@mikenichols8598]

Talent can’t be denied!

[@Thikkness]

Yesss!! I had to swipe the little red line BACK to hear it again!! Lol made me almost throw my food 🤣

[@Paths2business8406]

I cried Lol🤦🏽‍♀️

[@mbk1511]

Standing here in 2023 still getting chills hearing this man’s hauntingly beautiful voice….

[@aleaseking3782]

MY GAWD THIS MAN I LOVE HIM THERE IS A GAWD HIM STILL HAVING HIS VOCALS AFTER ALL HIS PAST DRUG ABUSE 🔥💪🏾😍😱ELDRA IS A BEAST

[@Torimichelle21]

I’ve literally never clicked on a Tiny desk video so fast. I’m so glad my mom raised me on this. Only compliant is that it wasn’t long enough. 😩

[@kashmygold]

VERY THIS 🤌🏾

[@terencethomas2744]

Me too I saw this waking up & immediately played it.

[@Riosmoove122]

😂😂😂😂💯👽🖖🏾

[@365Records]

Me either

[@carmenchavez8996]

Same here!

[@bigsisandlittlesiscarter6746]

His brother Bobby encouraged him to sing in his falsetto. He never thought that he could in the beginning and his brother told him that he could and he does it really good.

[@NoseyNuNu]

That's crazy cuz he's the best at it 👏🏿🙌🏿🙌🏿🙌🏿❤️

[@stardust0813]

Yes. He's actually better than Bobby.

[@jctee7319]

​@@stardust0813you must not know what falsetto is then.

[@ms.mystique4388]

@@stardust0813Nah but, he’s up there with him tho. He’s even said himself that he can’t get Bobby on the falsetto. Go back & listen to Switch..Bobby was an absolute Beast

[@trishastrickland2902]

He said in a interview….his brothers teased him, and would call him. Kathy, cause his voice was so high

[@ssuncin]

Dude is ageless and so his voice .. what a gift

[@PiecesOfJenus]

WOW! I clicked "like" when I heard the very first note! He STILL sounds awesome! 🥰🤩

[@SanDiegoRT]

I'm glad El DeBarge has weathered the storms in his life to still be around to entertain us with his incredible talent.

[@thomaslloyd6554]

Amen to that, his family was extraordinarily talented to say the least!!!

[@therealrodney8561]

You stated the motto every human being should hold dearly "weathering the storms" and still being here to entertain, live and thrive!

[@SanDiegoRT]

@@therealrodney8561 I suppose.

[@AidelinaGarciaSollatina]

El Debarge is one of those voices that still intact his music timeless ❤️❤️❤️

[@leebishop7591]

True blessing

[@JayEfJai]

Has he received a Lifetime Achievement Award from anyone? If not, he deserves one.

[@findjoselyn]

Me singing off key: "Alllll thisssss loveeee is waiting for you." This is EVERYTHING!

[@trishastrickland2902]

Amen!

[@MrBubyV]

🎼 El DeBarge’s hits are on the essential playlist of my life. 💕

[@MrBubyV]

Technology 📲 has blessed us, to witness this live digitally recorded performance. 🎶

[@ms.mystique4388]

I have a whole Debarge & Switch (Bobby) playlist on my Apple Music

[@leftycobra]

we don't have singers anymore... we have celebrities... I can't even explain how peaceful I felt after starting listening: The best 15:50 of my day. THANK YOU SIR DeBarge, THANK YOU!

[@MarleneGreen]

YES! Just turned on my phone and the KZbin Gods served me this gift of El Debarge! Oh Joy!

[@syrinereese8722]

Amen 🙏🏾

[@zenful1231]

I couldn't have said it better

[@j.b.ga.k.aj.bostongreen4288]

That Part 💯

[@SupremeJudge]

Facts

[@johniebaltimore]

This had me in tears. Knowing all that Mr. El DeBarge has gone through and he rising like the Phoenix from it all. He still can hit them notes 🙌🏿 Timeless voice, timeless melodies.

[@mongoloid1369]

What happened??

[@msandrews87]

@@mongoloid1369 He's been on drugs for a long time. I'm not sure if he's clean now or not. He's truly blessed to still be here and with his voice.

[@danadane9794]

@@mongoloid1369 drugs and a horrible childhood. His dad was very abusive to him, his siblings, and his mother

[@ambitiousjamie1563]

Still My most Favorite Tiny Desk Performance ❤ his voice is so soothing and healing 😊

[@janellefreeman2150]

I could listen to him sing and play all day and night ❤

[@user-xd6gr1yb6d]

My god, he can still hit the notes. He can STILL hit them. This is amazing.

[@dmclives]

Right!!!!

[@noble604]

And still flipping back and forth from falsetto to chest voice to falsetto to chest voice .... and still not cracking. Beautiful

[@MarvinParksAmericanJazzSinger]

you don't hit notes, you sing them.

[@goddesslowen791]

His voice is like gold! Sounds exactly like the records, no autotune just pure vocals. Love El

[@roniciamattox1890]

Wrapped in BLACK SILK!!

[@willieaytch]

His voice is timeless, sounds exactly and even richer than 40 years ago

[@Spiritualchick82]

His voice has truly been sealed by God. VERY well-preserved!!

[@Mobilitydnb]

After all the lows this man has been through to still be able hit those insanely high notes in Time will reveal with such playful ease is just bizarre. So great to hear this!

[@carlos64030]

WOW-WOW-WOW!!! Even though this video is nearly two years old, I am SOOOOO glad it popped up on my 'Recommended' watch list! I've been a huge fan of El's since I was a child in the early 80s and I STILL play my DeBarge albums on a regular basis. I am totally, TOTALLY blown away that his voice is still so strong, beautiful and still sounds the same after all these years! Out of all the fantastic Tiny Desk concerts I've seen over the past few years, I gotta rank this one as my absolute favorite! BRAVO!!!

[@tlwalker8751]

Watching this, I think of artists who were contemporaries of El Debarge: Michael Jackson, and Prince…they all shifted our ears and hearts when it came to music…El Debarge’s voice is incredibly beautiful and transcends ethnicities and cultures…legendary…this NPR broadcast is a gift🎁✨✨✨

[@rosedemure5072]

It’s a shame that the greats like himself have to be gone to be appreciated. We still have him and need to hold him up and appreciate him for the timeless and gifted artist he is now today. Much love El❤️

[@sharonnisgarden6574]

I just love him. He’s my favorite. Give him his flowers💐💐💐

[@jcole4119]

El is an awesome performer. I greatly appreciate the artistry that he brought and is bringing still to us. Flowers 🌹 🌺🌺🌺🌹

[@tabposey]

That’s exactly what I just said . It’s a must. He will forever b one of the greatest artists of our times. It really needs to b done so he can see the love people still have for him. He has been through so much throughout his life, and have come through it all. I’m sure it will do his heart good to b able to c just how much love is out here for him. I have loved him since I was a little girl. I’m 45 now and still he drive me crazy. Love love love El

[@janathurmond9390]

❤️💜so right. Love you El.

[@shadowdragongunter1618]

Well spoken rose!! So underrated

[@juansaenz7497]

Takes me back to that first junior high dance in 1987 lol. He sounds exactly like the record. My god this is talent. Why can't music sound this good now? Can't get any more honest and real than this. Amazing. Thank you El DeBarge for all the music and memories. Thank you NPR for creating this platform. What a gift. This made my week.

[@jasoncollier2672]

After all he’s been through, that God-given talent is STILL shining through‼️🙏🏾❤️🙌🏽

[@arnetrahughes2277]

Well, DANG! He sang his part, Bunny's part, James part, played the piano and hit every note from the 80's. My hat's off to you, Sir! Thank you for the concert.

[@teddyrubskin54]

The first note, made me look at my phone like... "Is that the studio version or him?" Too good. TOO GOOD!!!!

[@tl0470]

Yeah man I did the same. Nothing has changed in his vocals

[@naturaloutlaw5399]

Right ✨💯

[@samthousand]

Yessir, and playing keys

[@queenteireigns6212]

Right shocked

[@tracyreadytv]

STILL GOT IT!!! HE'S STILL GOT IT M

[@kaydub7079]

I literally just stood up and gave that man a standing ovation! Salute to you El DeBarge and the entire DeBarge family!

[@2380wiz]

Thank you. Jan 2024 and El DeBarge placed me in a cocoon of LOVE!

[@d3dd440]

July 2024

[@freelyme333]

Lord have mercy. El hitting those gorgeous notes on Time Will Reveal got me all in my feels. God bless and keep him!

[@ThisIsJ.Nicole]

I know right?! Daggone soul left my body. Shoo.

[@illuminickiblanco]

Yes my soul was snatched I got goosebumps! This man doesn't get the credit he deserves

[@mushmouth610]

Same. My childhood crush......😍😍😍

[@brenettem4958]

Time was also my song

[@drivergurl]

And hitting them while he's sitting down!

[@roberta2602]

This dude does not get enough credit. He's up there with MJ and Prince IMO

[@danaehernandez6794]

For sure!

[@sarahscott3148]

I totally agree he sounds amazing and needs the credit

[@LovelyTrueRed]

I agree 100%.

[@spliff5243]

His catalog is no where near MJ & prince

[@PrinceofPeace2000]

@@spliff5243 I bet Prince & MJ got and loved his albums

[@MOIKILL]

After all these years this man sounds just like he did years ago and I'm so happy for him and his amazing voice... please continue to bless us with your gift... God bless you...

[@McQueenPress]

Angelic and smooth as cake frosting. We've lost so many, so glad El beat the odds to be a soul survivor. Nothing but good wishes for him.

[@Nysasq]

I'm absolutely floored that this man's voice is stuck in the 80's. Sooo amazing! No autotune! Right off the Debarge album live and direct

[@MOVE2023]

It’s almost emotional how good this is!!!!

[@SeenaRookard]

He lS AMAZING

[@quinnmurph2750]

It's like witnessing a miracle. I've never heard any artist who sounded exactly like their records, let alone 3 decades later!

[@StephanieMohorn]

Shout out to Tiny Desk for recognizing his STAGGERING TALENT.

[@resilience7810]

‼️‼️‼️

[@carltonbanks2865]

Whatttt!

[@cynthiagivens1433]

Wow!! Yes it is Staggering

[@CrystalAnnBrands]

Me and my Brother used to sing Time will Reveal while walking to elementary school. Great memories😊