It has been reported that R&B legend El Debarge has had a relapse involving his addiction to drugs and has consequently entered into a drug rehabilitation center. All of the facts are not out about this situation but it has been confirmed that all of his future appearances has been canceled, including a tour that he was embarking on with Kem and Ledisi (which was to start in a couple of days).
This unfortunate event has temporarily halted Debarge's triumphant comeback. After a long absence from the music scene due to a drug addiction, El made a well received return in 2010. He and his camp did a great job of getting his name back out in the public with numerous television appearances, radio interviews, autograph signings and live shows. The centerpiece of his comeback was his new album "Second Chance" and the title track was used as the theme of his reappearance. Debarge did not hold back in interviews, as he candidly spoke of his addiction and what it has done to him and his family. He has been sincere and remorseful about his actions and genuinely seemed to be humbled about his "second chance" at life and his career. I was fortunate to see him at a promo stop the same day his new album was released. He thanked the crowd at the event for coming to see him and was very emotional as he reflected about the fact that he was unsure if he would ever have another album release. It was a very poignant moment. Little did we all know, at that moment, that El would be back in drug rehab just a little over two months later.
El Debarge has received a lot love during his comeback effort from fans, media and the industry. I have not heard or seen one bad thing said or written about him since he has been back on the scene. Most share the sentiment that they were happy to see him back and hear his awesome falsetto voice again. As I mentioned earlier, he has made frequent television, radio and in-person appearances. The "Second Chance" album garnered him two Grammy nominations as well (he didn't win either). I wonder if maybe it was a case of "too much, too soon". But I will end my speculation there because it really makes no sense for me to try to figure out what happened. The bottom line is unfortunately he has had a misstep and I hope that one day he can permanently defeat this demon. Life is hard, especially the life that famous artist lead. It would be great if in the future we could see not only these addictions stop in our communities, but also in that industry; where the demands and expectations are at times unrealistic, and the lifestyles at times are self destructive. I wish the best for Eldra Debarge; I truly hope he ultimately overcomes his drug problem. And if it is still in the cards for him to make it back to music, I'll be waiting with a bunch of others ready to pick up right where he left his comeback off.
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