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Today is the birthday of the late singer Barry White, a.k.a. “The Maestro.” The Galveston, Texas native is known for his hit songs “You’re the First, My Last, My Everything,” “Can’t Get Enough of Your Love Babe” & “Never Never Gonna Give You Up.” White, (who was born Barry Eugene Carter) grew up around gangs and poverty in South Central L.A.  He did time for theft as a kid. He heard the song “It’s Now or Never” by Elvis Presley while in jail and decided to change his course in life.

White didn’t start off as a recording artist. He was a behind-the-scenes music rep, signing artists to various music labels in the 1960’s. He signed a group named Love Unlimited, then produced and arranged their hit “Walking in the Rain (With the One I Love).” White would also marry a member of the group named Glodean James.

In 1973, White embarked upon his own solo career at the urging of businessman Larry Nunes. That year he recorded “I’ve Got So Much to Give” with the hit song “I’m Gonna Love You Just a Little More Baby.” The song hit #1 on the Billboard R&B charts as well as #3 on the Billboard Pop charts. White decided to build The Love Unlimited Orchestra, a 40-piece orchestral group that would serve as the background instrumental for his album, Love’s Theme.

In 1978, White teamed with CBS/Columbia Records to buld his own label, Unlimited Gold. Unfortunately, the label took a financial toll on White within10 years. He signed with A&M Records in 1987. It was with A&M that he developed the song “Sho’ You Right,” a phrase that would become his legacy among fans.

White’s career stagnated with his songs reaching the mid 20’s on the Billboard charts until he teamed with Quincy Jones in 1990. He sang a part on the song “Secret Garden” that reminded fans of his soulful and deep sultry sound.

Little Known Black History Fact: Barry White  was originally published on blackamericaweb.com

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