Born in Batley, West Yorkshire, England on January 19, 1949, Palmer was the son of a British naval officer. He spent much of his childhood living in Malta, where he was first introduced to music through his father’s extensive record collection. In 1963, his family relocated to Scarborough, North Yorkshire, where Palmer became involved in the local music scene.
After leaving school, Palmer moved to London, where he worked as a session musician and eventually signed a record deal with Island Records. His debut album, “Sneakin’ Sally Through the Alley,” was released in 1974 and featured a mix of funk, soul, and rock influences.
Palmer’s breakthrough came with his 1985 album “Riptide,” which included the hit singles “Addicted to Love” and “Simply Irresistible.” The music videos for these songs featured Palmer and a group of women dressed in identical black dresses and high heels, which became known as the “Palmer Girls.” The videos were a huge success and helped launch Palmer into mainstream popularity.
Throughout his career, Palmer collaborated with a number of notable musicians, including members of Duran Duran, The Power Station, and Chic. He was also a member of the supergroup The Traveling Wilburys, alongside George Harrison, Tom Petty, Roy Orbison, and Jeff Lynne.
Palmer’s music was characterized by his smooth, soulful voice and his ability to fuse different genres together. He often incorporated elements of funk, reggae, and R&B into his songs, creating a unique sound that set him apart from other artists of his time.
Sadly, Palmer passed away on September 26, 2003, at the age of 54. Despite his untimely death, his music continues to be celebrated by fans around the world.
One of the reasons why Palmer’s music remains so popular is due to his ability to create timeless songs that still resonate with listeners today. Tracks like “Every Kinda People,” “I Didn’t Mean to Turn You On,” and “Johnny and Mary” showcase his versatility as a musician and his ability to evoke different emotions through his music.
In addition to his musical achievements, Palmer was also known for his stylish dress sense and his love of fashion. He often appeared in music videos and on stage wearing tailored suits, bold prints, and statement accessories, cementing his status as a style icon.
Overall, Robert Palmer was a talented musician whose contributions to the music industry continue to be celebrated today. His ability to blend different genres and create timeless songs is a testament to his creative vision and his enduring legacy.