In a recent post on social media, Chance the Rapper paid tribute to singer Bobby Caldwell. When paying his respects, Chance uploaded a screenshot of a message on Twitter, where Caldwell thanked him for sampling him on his record, texting, “Thanks for thinking of me. I’ll be honoured if you sample my song”.
The rapper mentioned being honoured that Caldwell responded, posting that, “This never happens. I’ve never received a message from an artist thanking me for sampling their record. I was so excited to meet you, I have not felt broken like this at a strangers passing in so long. You are a true legend and incredible person who I know I will see one day 🕊️ RIP THE GREAT BOBBY CALDWELL”.
Caldwell was an respected singer-songwriter most known for the song ‘What You Won’t Do For Love’, which has been covered by fellow R&B acts like Boyz II Men and jazz instrumentalist Roy Ayers. He also wrote for other artists, penning the song ‘Next Time I Fall in Love’ for Peter Cetera and Amy Grant.
Caldwell passed away on Tuesday after a long battle with illness. He had previously been diagnosed with neuropathy after a bad reaction to an antibiotic, which left him unable to speak in the years leading up to his death.
Caldwell’s widow also posted a tribute on his Twitter page, saying, “Bobby passed away here at home. I held him tight in my arms as he left us. I am forever heartbroken. Thanks to all of you for your many prayers over the years. He had been ‘FLOXED,’ it took his health over the last 6 years and 2 months. Rest with God, my Love”.
The sample on Chance’s song will not be released until his next project, which does not have a release date. Far Out recently posted a commemoration for Caldwell, going in-depth about his history as a songwriter and his work with Little Richard and being interpolated by Tupac Shakur on ‘Do It For Love’.