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Bobby Taylor

1939 - 2017

BORN

1939

DIED

2017

Bobby Taylor Obituary

Bobby Taylor, the singer and producer who discovered The Jackson 5, has died, according to Rolling Stone magazine. He was 78, according to public records.

Taylor died Saturday morning, July 22, 2017, at a hospital in Hong Kong, where he’d been living for the last several years. He was undergoing treatment for leukemia. Family friend and producer Suzy Michelson confirmed his death to Rolling Stone.

“Bobby was a producer, creator, and mentor to all of the greats in the early Motown days,” Michelson said.

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Although the Jacksons and Motown credited Diana Ross with discovering The Jackson 5, Taylor was the person who found the band.

Taylor fronted the band Bobby Taylor & the Vancouvers. At a 1968 concert in Chicago, a family group called The Jackson 5 were their opening act. Impressed by the group, Taylor arranged for The Jackson 5 to audition for Berry Gordy and other executives at Motown. The group was signed to Motown, and Taylor would become their first producer.

In a 2011 interview for the documentary “Michael Jackson: The Life of an Icon,” Taylor talked about first seeing The Jackson 5. “I saw this little kid spinning and stuff and said, ‘Dang, send him upstairs. When he finishes, I want to talk to this kid.’”

He produced The Jackson 5’s early Motown songs including a version of Smokey Robinson’s “Who’s Lovin’ You.” Gordy felt the songs produced by Taylor were old-fashioned, and he would assign a new producer for the young group.

Taylor was born Feb. 18, 1939, in Washington, D.C., according to U.S. Census Bureau records. He sang in doo-wop groups in New York City. He moved out west and was in a band called Little Daddy and the Bachelors. One of the band members was Tommy Chong, who would go on to greater fame as a comedian and one-half of the duo Cheech and Chong.

The group’s members ended up changing the band’s name to Bobby Taylor and the Vancouvers. The band was signed to Motown in 1965 on the recommendation of Supremes members Mary Wilson and Florence Ballard. The band had a top-five R&B song, “Does Your Mama Know About Me,” in 1968.

“Bobby had a range that exceeded even Patti LaBelle,” Chong told Rolling Stone.

Taylor went on to have a solo career for Motown. He later moved to China and then to Hong Kong, performing in clubs there. His last-known recording was on a tribute song for the late, legendary rock guitarist Dick Wagner.
Published by Lawrence Journal-World on Jul. 23, 2017.

Memories and Condolences
for Bobby Taylor

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122 Entries

Salvador Martinez

April 22, 2024

I Remember Bobby's Singing, His Voice Would Reach So Many Heights One Would Think It Was Several Different Singers. The MOST HUMBLE PERSON I EVER Met.

May 23, 2020

Favorite singer growing up.

Morgan Akerson

June 10, 2018

Rest In Peace. May God keep rest your soul. Thank you for discovering The Jacksons and thank you for leaving a impact on out eyes with the good music you left us with.

Joe Chow

March 6, 2018

facebook.com

March 6, 2018

It's great when I'd hear your great tone of voice on radio once in awhile! A Icon to me for the great memories you've given me how it was then! Rest in peace! I still have my ears open to hear you sing from the past on radio I can't get enough of! Joe C Johnson.

Sandra Davis

January 29, 2018

"Does Your Mama Know About Me" is my favorite song of my life. I actually saw the movie, "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" when it came out and fell in love with that song. Of course I love other songs by him and the Vancouvers, but the words and melody were forever enticing. R.I.P. you did a great job.

Darlene Puccilli-Voight

January 28, 2018

Rip a fan,

Darlene Puccilli-Voight

January 28, 2018

Rip, a fan,

Tim Henderson

October 13, 2017

I was lucky to have known you. I was even luckier to have you inspire me with your voice and more so, to call you a friend. You will be missed. Fond memories forever. Rest in peace.

Laura McDiarmid

August 23, 2017

Bobby - thank you so much for all of your music and entertainment. It was fantastic to see you over the years and to meet you when you first got started as Bobby Taylor and the Vancouvers. I remember being in your hotel room with my friend Trena and enjoying a full day of fun and excitement and some good fried chicken and hearing the song "Does You Momma Know About Me" before it was released. That was indeed a treat. I will always remember you and it was great seeing you in Gastown at the Lamplighter. You were always been a driving force in the Vancouver music scene and such a part of our history. You will be missed. RIP Bobby Taylor - say hi to Trena and Ricky up in heaven for me. xoxoxox

Candus Churchill

August 22, 2017

Bobby thank you for your gifts of song, laughter and good food! Serious about his music. Would always have you laughing. And could cook up a great meal for a ton of people.
It was a pleasure singing with you from time to time.
But also thank you for always being there for our dear friend Penny, even through her most difficult last days. I know you're back together now enjoying the beautiful friendship you always shared.
No more illness and pain.
Rest now.
Condolences to all family and friends.

You were Taylor Made Soul

Haneefa Karrim

August 22, 2017

We were blessed to have you as part of our history growing into adults. You gave Vancouver a heads up on the talent that comes from our city. Thanks for that. Bobby always threw himself totally into the moment. Teaching you about adding 7up to the pound cake recipe. Having a special white christmas tree. Was nice to share some of those moments, like sitting at my grand piano writing songs for a rodeo project in Calgary...supporting my ability to be a lyricist. He kept his life full always inspiring others to excel...movin' on....ain't such a bad thing....enjoy your new dimension. He was "Taylor Made Soul"

Ange R.

August 14, 2017

ONE OF THE GREATEST OF ALL TIMES. NOTHING TODAY COMPARES TO THE ORIGINAL R & B SONGS.

John Wilson

August 12, 2017

My heart is truly broken. I just heard you have gone to Heaven. I will miss so very much the good times and talks we had here in Los Angeles and while you were in China and Hong Kong. Rest now..You did a good job my dear dear friend. I love and will see you on the other side. You little brother.

John "Sly" Wilson
Sly, Slick & Wicked

Lorraine Foster

August 11, 2017

Condolences to the family of a real legend..RIH Bobby Taylor

Richard Skelly

August 5, 2017

Who knew unique soul music could percolate out of Vancouver, Canada at a time when that city was otherwise bursting with psychedelic rock?

Bobby Taylor accomplished so much after moving north and aligning with righteous Canucks like Tommy Chong and Duris Maxwell. They wowed West Coasters with Little Daddy & The Bachelors which soon morphed into Bobby Taylor and The Vancouvers.

Thank you, sir, for your magnificent vocals and your eye for up-and-coming talent for Motown. Say hello in music heaven to your old Vancouver bandmate Robbie King. He's been waiting for you a spell, warming up his Hammond B3.

Godspeed, Mr Taylor.

Crystal Jenious

August 4, 2017

"There will never ever be another Bobby taylor!

"Indeed a musical "genius" "On behalf of all my family and my relative who i originally met his through 'Alvin John Waples" send our sincere condolences to all his family, especially you "Donielle Artese"

RODNEY WALKER

August 1, 2017

Loved some Bobby Taylor. I wish the Temptations had selected him to replace David Ruffin.

Mel B

July 31, 2017

A great talent gone home to the Heavenly Band. Malinda was my favorite. RIP Mr. Taylor. Thanks for discovering the The J5!

Blizard W.

July 30, 2017

To find true talent is a treasure that Bobby was able to find in the Jackson 5 to gives us that beautiful gift that our beloved Almighty God has bestowed to us to praise in tunes because he promises us a new world where no one will say: "I am sick". (Isa. 26:19) We will be together with him.

Dee Jenkins

July 29, 2017

It is hard to lose a loved ones. No words take away the pain. Reading and meditating on the scriptures and prayer gives us comfort. I love Mr Taylor's music. His music will live on.

Sincerely,
Mrs. D. jenkins

Cole Carey

July 29, 2017

So sorry for your loss it's hard we never think we lose someone we love but over time it gets better and we get stronger each day

Corletta Hardy

July 28, 2017

God send your holy spirit to comfort the family and friends and fans and the music industry Mr.Bobby will be miss thanks you god for giving him the talent of he introduce the world to icons.Take your rest Mr.Bobby your work is done on earth now you are in the best place where you can rest.

Valerie Simpson

July 28, 2017

I wish we had recognized more fully your gifts and greatness while you were here! I will always cherish the amazing vocal delivery you gave on our song "I Am Your Man" Heavenly Choir got a new lead...

July 28, 2017

Mr. Taylor touched the lives of many who knew him. May all take comfort in knowing that he is in God's memory and will not be forgotten. Sincere condolences.

July 28, 2017

I am so sorry for the loss of your dear loved one. I remember some of Bobby's songs and loved them. You have my condolences. Cherish the good memories of him and may the God of all comfort be with you during this sad time.(Romans 15:4)

Rosey Ra Martin

July 27, 2017

Thank you for sharing your timeless musical talents with me, circa 1960s. Rest now. Hear from you beyond the light on the other side of the mountain. Peace, Xo

Keith & Inga Smith

July 27, 2017

We met Bobby in 1980 thru his mother, who was our neighbor, and became good friends and he became our daughter's god father. RIP Bobby...you are missed. Love you

Zetty Walker

July 27, 2017

Rip

July 27, 2017

What a loss to the world, he was one of the greats and will be missed. May God give blessings of peace and comfort to the family and love ones during this most difficult time. Barb NC

July 27, 2017

Truly saddened to hear about Bobby Taylor's passing. His fine legacy will surely be remembered. I hope tp meet him in Paradise! (Luke23:43)

July 27, 2017

May the family find peace and comfort in knowing all sickness, all pain and death will one day be gone for this has been promised.

carolyn

July 26, 2017

The Family,

My sincere condolence for the loss of your loved one, Mr. Taylor. May the god of comfort continue to strengthen your family during this sad time.

HONG KONG LOVES YOU AND CHICAGO TOO

TONY WILSON

July 26, 2017

THANK YOU BOBBY FOR BEING YOU. GREAT TIMES AND CONVERSATIONS WEVE HAD ARE UNFORGEABLE AND PRICELESS RIP ON THE 1. FROM TONY WILSON YOUNG JAMES BROWN LOVE YOU

Louvain Demps

July 26, 2017

Singing with Bobby was wonderful.Being a friend had been so special. My deepest condolence to his family,fans, and friends. Our Motown brother, the Angels in Heaven greet you with a smile, while we that lost you shed tears. God says, you are not lost, you are found...safe and sound,in Jesus arms.

July 26, 2017

To the family and friends of Bobby Taylor .
I am so sorry for your loss, may you find peace and comfort from those who loved Bobby and love you. May the God of all comfort be with the entire family at this most difficult time.

Valenda Newell

July 25, 2017

Remembering all the great music one produced and the group's one had discovered, the most popular one being the JACKSON 5. Bobby had the most incredible voice...Thanks for sharing one's gift.....PRAYERS AND BLESSINGS

July 25, 2017

THANK you Mr Taylor. You are appreciated.

Catherine Rogers

July 25, 2017

I love his singing. R.I.P. Bobby Taylor.

Joe Lowery

July 25, 2017

May rest be your music , Song's be your peace .

Dorothy Cox

July 25, 2017

Rest In Peace !!

Stevie Wonder

July 25, 2017

I first met Bobby in 1964 .. I Really liked this Cat .. I remember 1970 at Times Square New Year's Eve performing with the Jackson 5 .. Bobby was there .. RIP my Brother , see you in Heaven

Derek Thornton

July 25, 2017

Rest, Mr. Taylor.

CURTISMAE BURTON

July 25, 2017

FROM THE BURTON-
JOHNSONS' OF HOUSTON TX.
TO THE FAMILY& FRIENDS OF BOBBY
TAYLOR. OUR SINCERE CONDOLENCES TO THE FAMILY YOU ARE IN OUR PRAYERS HE WAS AN AWESOME SINGER LOVED "MALINDA"WILL FOREVER BE IN OUR HEARTS & MEMORIES.SO SORRY TO HEAR OF HIS PASSING,
GOD KEEP YOU STRONG RIH MR. TAYLOR.

Alice Lockley

July 24, 2017

My Condolences to the Taylor Family...I was a teenager when "Does your Mama Know about me" came out but I remember it as if it were yesterday...always loved that song...thanks for the memories...R.I.P Mr Taylor!

Elizabeth Moran

July 24, 2017

There'll never be another like the incomparable Bobby Taylor. I'll never forget how you opened your arms to welcome me and my family when we moved to LA from Detroit. Rest in peace my friend.

Ronald Forstock

July 24, 2017

I still have my 45 of Does Your Mama Know About Me, great great song. RIP Bobby

John Arthur Lowe

July 24, 2017

Rest peacefully, dear soul. Had it not been for you and Gladys Knight, the Jackson 5 would have not scorched the pop charts and Michael would not had been the megastar he became.

Jackie Nunn

July 24, 2017

Rest in Peace Bobby. You will be missed. My deepest condolences to the family.

Lori(Granduaghter of the late "Bukka White") Morton

July 24, 2017

Most of the greats of the music industry are gone and never forgotten. Condolences to the family of a legend.

Herbert DAYE

July 24, 2017

Here is another unsung hero . his voice smooth like honey

Patricia Cain

July 24, 2017

My prayers go out to the family and mr. Taylor would be miss

Cynthia williams

July 24, 2017

RIP KING
God bless your soul So many nights my sister and I sang Does your mother know about me in the basement dreaming that one day we would make it to MOTOWN

Sabrina Simon

July 24, 2017

Bobby, thank you for all your amazing talent and music that has resonated through so many of our heart's and minds. There will never be another you, your legacy will live forever and last throughout the end of time.

Roy Bibbs

July 24, 2017

To the family and loved ones of Mr. Taylor, He was one of the last greats from the Golden days of music, May his legacy live on, Rest in heaven, Mr. Taylor and say hi to Michael.

Yvonne Stewart

July 24, 2017

My deepest condolences to the family of "Bobby Taylor" who was a "R&B" "Soul" Legend. His music will forever live in the hearts of many who love genuine classic "r&b" music.
Yvonne Stewart
Niece and Goddaughter of
Smokey & Claudette Robinson

JEAN powe

July 24, 2017

SO SORRY FOR YOUR LOST, CONDOLENCE TO HIS FAMILY/FRIENDS AND GOD BE WITH YOU ALL! MAY HE REST WITH THE ANGELS.

Corrie Wynns

July 24, 2017

A legend is gone, but his music shall live on-

RIP Bobby Taylor

Woody ARTHUR

July 24, 2017

Thank you Mr. Taylor for all your contribution to the industry. Your talent and hind site created many a great legacies. Although small in mention, you're are large in gift, presence and blessings. You'll be missed but not musically forgotten. Thank you again. Woody

May Jehovah remember you for the great music you brought to this world RIP!

July 24, 2017

Jackie Jackson

July 24, 2017

RIP Bobby,Lord I ask for peace ,rest,and comfort for the family. Blessings and Love to the family.

Jackie Jackson

July 24, 2017

RIP Bobby,Lord I ask for peace ,rest,and comfort for the family.

Marvin Davis

July 24, 2017

Bobby Taylor, your music is life and I thank you for it. I thank God for you! You will be missed. Rest in peace and thank you so very much for all you've given us. God Bless.

Byron Bordeaux

July 24, 2017

Rest in peace and thank you for the beautiful
Music

sharon anderson

July 24, 2017

pray love rest in piece. Sharon anderson houston.

sharon anderson

July 24, 2017

sorry to hear about bobby taylor passing. i dont know much about him family they are. in my prayers he will be missed by many

Darryl

July 24, 2017

Thank you Mr.Taylor for being able to recognize one of the musical giants of our time. Mr. Micheal Jackson. Sorry that Diana Ross was given credit for their discovery but I have never heard of or read about you complaining about it. Diana Ross was at that time a bigger name within Motown and it was as you were well aware of just business. Thank you for your music and Tommy Chong. DOES YOUR MOMMA KNOW ABOUT ME DOES SHE KNOW JUST WHO I AM. CLASSIC!!! TIMELESS!!!!

John Friedlund

July 24, 2017

Rest in peace Bobby

Lillian Edwards

July 24, 2017

My mama didn't know about you but I'll never forget your song...
Thank you for your music.

FELICIA Sims

July 24, 2017

I. WILL. KEEP. UR. MUSIC. FOREVER. N. MY. HEART

L. Smith

July 24, 2017

R.I.P. Mr. Taylor

July 24, 2017

We all hate to hear of the passing of Mr Taylor. May the Almighty God of comfort be with his family to give them what they need to go through this difficult time. May his voice and memories live on and on so that we all can draw comfort from it. God love you.

Anita Green

July 24, 2017

Rest in Heavenly Peace, Bobby!

Christian N.

July 24, 2017

He was a very talented man. He will long be remembered for his contribution to the music world. May his family, friends and fans be comforted by your fond memories. He will be missed by all.

Sherry Dejong

July 24, 2017

Thank you for sharing your musical gifts a true soul legend not forgotten R.I.P.

Bobby Rosser

July 24, 2017

Take care you have done well Mr Bobby Taylor R.I.P.

Gordon Johnson

July 24, 2017

Thanks for the music , thanks for the memories. Rest in Heaven.

LaVerne Washington

July 24, 2017

Such a talented guy. He will be missed! RIP Bobby Taylor. Condolences to his family!

Elizabeth

July 24, 2017

Thank you Mr. Taylor,for wonder talent and gift you gave us in your life time. May your memory carry on. Wish i could've known about you sooner. A fan of your legacy and Motown. God Bless your spirit and God Bless your family.

July 24, 2017

his contribution to soul music has not been fully realized yet. r.i.p bobby taylor!

John Junior

July 24, 2017

Hats off to an underrated legend in the music industry. Thank you for sharing your music.

July 24, 2017

Thank you for your talents and for letting us hear that wonderful voice of yours--your music and your voice will live forever in our hearts and our ears--rest easy my brother--Patricia "Sweet Pea" Washington--Radio Personality and host of MOTOWN MEMORIES WITH SWEET PEA

Krllie Saia

July 24, 2017

Rest In Peace, Bobby. We were so fortunate to have you as our guest in Freeport, Ca in 2003. The many endless stories you told were so fascinating. The many meals that you cooked, with so much love, are undupliicatable. Your talents were amazing. You will never be forgotten. Our prayers go out to all of your family and friends. We will see you again someday ❤

Anne May

July 24, 2017

R.I.P. Bobby we will miss you and remember you and your dedication to entertainment forever

Mary Battaglia

July 24, 2017

Thank you so much for everything and may you RIP.

DOC

July 24, 2017

Another great one from a great music generation gone Rest in peace and condolences to all who loved this man

Michael Khalfani

July 24, 2017

A TRUE TALENT...RIP BOBBY...

Paul Torrez

July 24, 2017

My condolences,Loved listening to Bobby and his music.

July 24, 2017

We send Condolences may almighty God bring comfort to your family during these times

July 24, 2017

My sincerest thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of Mr. Taylor's.

July 24, 2017

Dear Taylor family,

Please accept my deepest condolences in the loss of such a talented man. May the prayers of family and friends comfort you in this difficult time.

July 24, 2017

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Rosa Taylor

July 24, 2017

The few times we spoke was such a joy. I wish we would have spent more time together to really get to know each other. Now you are with our dad. Until we meet again. RIP my brother.

Mirchelle Collins

July 24, 2017

Rest In Peace
Was just just listening to your music over the weekend
Family sorry for your lost

July 24, 2017

My condolences to Mr. Taylor's family. He leaves behind many memories which were the musical fabric of so many lives. We look forward to the day when no one will say "I am sick" Isa.33:24
GA

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