Foster Sylvers, a former child star who gained fame as the bassist for the chart-topping 1970s family band The Sylvers, has passed away at the age of 64.
His daughter, Erin, confirmed the news and shared a heartfelt tribute on social media. The Sylvers, often compared to The Jackson family, achieved significant chart success with hits such as 'Boogie Fever,' 'Hot Line,' and 'Fool's Paradise.'
On Facebook, Erin Sylvers posted a photo of her father, writing: 'Rest well, Daddy. I love you so much.' In a separate Instagram post, she added: 'My Daddy. You fought a good fight and ran your race the best you could. I'm happy you're no longer suffering. You're finally with God. Thank you for all the lessons and laughs. For teaching me how to rely on God and walk in faith. This is hard, but I will be okay. Your boys and I love you love you. Give Grand Nannie a hug and kiss for me. Rest well Daddio.'
The family group comprised 10 siblings, with nine performing at various times. Before forming The Sylvers, the four eldest members – Olympia, Leon, Charmaine, and James – recorded under the name The Little Angels.
Foster Sylvers also embarked on a solo career, releasing his self-titled debut album in June 1973 when he was just 10 years old. The record featured his first hit single, 'Misdemeanor,' penned by his brother Leon Sylvers III.
Tributes poured in for the late singer, including a particularly poignant message from actress Holly Robinson Peete, known for her roles in 21 Jump Street and Hangin' with Mr. Cooper. She recalled her teenage crush on Sylvers, writing: 'Foster Sylvers was my very first celebrity crush. And when I say crush, I mean CRUSHHHH.'
'When I was 13 years old, I got the assignment of a lifetime: interviewing Foster and his siblings from the Sylvers for a show called Kidsworld. They were performing at Magic Mountain in LA and I showed up with a camera crew ready to be a professional journalist. The problem? I was so hopelessly in love with Foster that I completely tanked the interview. I mean, that face was just so ridiculously cute. I couldn't focus, couldn't get my questions out, and spent most of the time just staring at him. I was so bad, I ended up getting fired from the assignment.'
'Years later, I had the chance to tell Foster that story, and we laughed about it together. He was gracious, kind, and every bit as charming as my 13-year-old self remembered him to be. Sending love and condolences to the entire Sylvers family. Thank you for the music, the memories, and for being part of the soundtrack of so many of our lives. Foster, you will live on forever in the heart of that starstruck puppy love sick 13-year-old girl. Rest peacefully.'
