Jeffrey Osborne is renowned for possessing one of the most exceptional and uplifting voices in R&B music history since the early ’70s. Beginning his musical journey with the group L.T.D., Osborne has achieved significant success both as part of the band and as a solo artist. Born in Providence, Rhode Island, Jeffrey Osborne was immersed in music from a young age, coming from a large family of 12 siblings, some of whom also pursued music careers. His father, Clarence “Legs” Osborne, a talented trumpeter, performed with legendary artists like Lionel Hampton, Count Basie, and Duke Ellington. Osborne’s journey into music began at the age of 15 when he played drums for the O’Jays and later joined Love Men Ltd., which evolved into L.T.D. where Osborne transitioned from drums to center stage, marking the start of his enduring musical legacy.
L.T.D., with Jeffrey’s multi-instrumentalist brother Billy joining the ranks, found success with their third album, Love to the World, and the hit single “Love Ballad,” establishing Osborne as a star in the industry. His solo career took off in 1980 after delivering hits like “(Every Time I Turn Around) Back in Love Again” and “(Holding On) When Love Is Gone.” Signing with A&M, Osborne released a series of successful albums throughout the 1980s, earning multiple gold certifications and Grammy nominations. Despite a less frequent recording schedule in the following decades, Osborne continued to captivate audiences with soulful performances. His discography includes titles like Only Human, That’s for Sure, and Worth It All, showcasing his versatility and musical depth.
In addition to his solo work, Jeffrey Osborne explored collaborations with independent labels, releasing projects like Music Is Life and covers albums like From the Soul and A Time for Love. His 2018 release, Worth It All, on the Artistry label, featured a special collaboration with his son, Jeffrey Osborne, Jr., paying homage to the late George Duke. With a career spanning over four decades, Osborne’s impact on R&B music remains profound, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire generations of music lovers around the world.