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Foster Sylvers, the former child star and bassist of the renowned family band The Sylvers, has passed away at the age of 64. His brother, Leon Sylvers III, confirmed that Foster died in hospice care after a courageous battle with stage four pancreatic cancer.
Foster’s daughter, Erin, paid a heartfelt tribute on social media, sharing a photo of her father and writing, “Rest well, Daddy. I love you so much.”
Foster gained fame in the 1970s as part of The Sylvers, a group known for hits like “Boogie Fever,” “Fool’s Paradise,” and “Hot Line.” The family band, often compared to the Jackson family, released ten albums throughout the decade. Foster’s musical journey began early: he recorded his first solo album with his brother Leon in 1973 at just 10 years old and made appearances on popular shows such as American Bandstand and Soul Train.
He joined The Sylvers as co-lead vocalist alongside his brother Edmund for their chart-topping 1976 single “Boogie Fever.” Later, in the 1980s, Foster took the lead on the 1981 hit “Come Back Lover, Come Back” as the band adapted to the evolving music scene. The group disbanded in 1985, and Foster went on to form his own band, Hy-Tech, in 1989.
Tragically, Foster’s passing marks the second loss in the family to cancer; Edmund Sylvers died of lung cancer in 2004, while the youngest brother, Christopher, passed away in 1985 from hepatitis at just 18.
Fans and fellow musicians took to social media to express their condolences and celebrate Foster’s legacy. One admirer wrote, “RIP, you were a great talent, along with your siblings, you will never be forgotten.” Another recalled fondly watching Foster perform with his sisters Angela and Patricia on Soul Train, highlighting the enduring impact of his music.
Foster Sylvers’ contributions to music, especially as part of the beloved family group, have left an indelible mark on the R&B and soul genres. His legacy will continue through the timeless songs he helped create and the memories cherished by fans worldwide.