El Debarge

El DeBarge

Singer El DeBarge, who became famous in the '80s family group DeBarge, is checking himself into rehab for substance abuse problems and canceling his comeback tour. Everything seemed to be looking up for the singer who has had ongoing struggles. He scored two Grammy nominations last weekend -- one for best male R&B vocal performance and one for best R&B song, both for "Second Chance."

Does this rehab detour mean DeBarge isn't coming back? Or is rehab the true beginning of his second chance?

Sorry, fans, but DeBarge's decision to cancel his tour -- even just days before it was to begin -- is the best idea I've heard yet from a musician with an addiction problem. Drug addiction cannot go untended. It can't be put on hold while you sing your heart out around the country. It continues to fester. And quite frankly, he could die if he doesn't seek help.

El DeBarge has struggled with both crack and heroin addiction in the past. He has been arrested on three occasions for drug possession and served almost two years in prison from 2008 to 2009. The struggle of addiction doesn't ever go away, but if he's still using, then he is smart to get treatment before putting himself out there on tour. Michael Jackson was actively planning a music tour when he overdosed at the hands of a private physician, his addiction issues seemingly going unchecked.

In the press release, DeBarge said:

I hate to disappoint my fans but it is necessary for me to take the time to work on me so that I may continue to share my music and my story with everyone.

Let's listen to his latest hit and send good thoughts his way:

Are you an El DeBarge fan? C'mon, did you ever get down to the beat of the "Rhythm of the Night"?

 

Image via SplashNews