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Robert Palmer Obituary
Palmer was on a two-day break in Paris following a television recording session in Britain, his manager Mick Carter said from the French capital.
In the 1980s, Palmer became a superstar with singles which also included "Simply Irresistible" – accompanied by slick videos featuring the smartly dressed Palmer with a back-up band of attractive women, all in black outfits and glossy makeup.
A side project, Power Station, formed in 1985 with John Taylor and Andy Taylor of '80s supergroup Duran Duran, scored three U.S. Top 10 hits, including "Communication" and "Get it On."
The son of a British naval officer, Palmer was a member of several British rock bands before he hit the big time as a solo artist.
He had lived in Switzerland for the past 16 years.
Known for his GQ sense of style, Palmer was named best dressed male artist by Rolling Stone in 1990.
The "Addicted to Love" video, with its miniskirted models strumming guitars as Palmer sang, became one of MTV's most-played clips, and sparked protests from some feminists.
"I'm not going to attach inappropriate significance to it because at the time it meant nothing. It's just happened to become an iconic look," Palmer once said of the video.
He had his first hit album and single, "Sneakin' Sally through the Alley," in 1974.
In his 20s, Palmer worked with a number of small-time bands including Dada, Vinegar Joe, and the Alan Bown Band, occasionally appearing in opening acts for big draw including The Who and Jimi Hendrix.
Palmer once confessed that he was not attracted to the excesses of rock 'n' roll stardom.
"I loved the music, but the excesses of rock 'n' roll never really appealed to me at all," he said. "I couldn't see the point of getting up in front of a lot of people when you weren't in control of your wits."
He was noted for dressing up and being somewhat restrained.
"I don't want to be heavy," he said in an interview with Rolling Stone magazine.
"I can't think of another attitude to have toward an audience than a hopeful and a positive one. And if that includes such unfashionable things as sentimentality, well, I can afford it."
Copyright © 2003 The Associated Press
180 Entries
Sophia
June 6, 2025
Still listening to your music Robert. After 30 years it sounds the same. Rest in peace and thank you for bringing your great talent to the world.
Jane Dowling
May 9, 2025
I loved (and still love ) you and your music so very much! I had the pleasure of seeing you in concert at the University of Hartford in the 70s... wish you were here.
John Pavich
April 26, 2025
A real legend in his time!!! We miss you Robert !!
Rebecca Musgrove
October 14, 2024
21 years still missing you. Thank you for all the wonderful music.
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Lisa
October 5, 2024
We all miss you!
Eileen Gamble
March 29, 2024
I love you bobby I miss you
Cynthia Duarte
March 14, 2024
I love you Robert Palmer!
Thérèse Humphrey
February 10, 2024
Sitting here on an ordinary Saturday..thinking how much of the song, "Every Kinda People" by Robert Palmer I absolutely love..playing all his songs on my Alexa loudly. I grew up with his music and absolutely loved him. He was taken far too early... "Each and every man's the same inside!" He is so missed. Condolences to the Palmer family. Hopefully he's entertaining all the angels up in heaven with his musical talents...xo
Connie Varney
January 5, 2024
I've been a fan since I was in diapers. Now my baby loves you and we listen to you all the time. Such a handsome and cool guy, I hope my two turn out like you.
Nathan Olejnik
December 4, 2023
Rest in rock & Roll heaven Robert, your music will live on forever.
Condolences to the Palmer family, Mary & his children
R.I.P
In Memory of Robert. SB
Summer Breeze
October 22, 2023
Miss you Robert. May you Rest In Peace. Condolence to the Palmer family for losing you so early in life while at your peak. SB
May You Rest In Peace Robert. WR
William Rogers
August 27, 2023
Silver Cloud
August 27, 2023
You’re missed greatly Robert. S.C.
Rhonda Leah O´Brien
May 7, 2023
You will always be remembered for your catchy tunes, sartorial suits, and sexy videos.
R.I.P. Robert Palmer xo
Donald
April 2, 2023
I was just a very young boy when Robert was on the videos in the eighties. Just wanna say My condolences to his family still to this day thanks for the memories.
For Mr Palmer. Continued condolences to the Palmer family and many friends who miss him still after so many yr´s gone by.
Bill Harren
January 22, 2023
Bonita Christensen
January 20, 2023
I gave Robert a rose onstage when he played at Hayward, Wisconsin. My ears were ringing bad because I was `Addicted to Love´ & sat too close to the speakers.
Addicted to love. In memory of Robert. Bill Harren
Bill Harren
September 26, 2022
March 31, 2022
Jeepers Ben so so many many” Have Gone By’ Robert Palmer’ Since U Left Us !!! I still listen to all”””” your” Music Songs’jus wow doesn’t seem 20 yrs comin up !!! Rip Robert I knw u are still making Beautiful Music as you did here On Earth
Bill Harren
March 29, 2022
Robert miss your music. Loved your song “ Addicted To Love.” It was the 1980’s and I listened to you often. I give my deep condolence to the Palmer family for their tragic loss so young in life. 54 yr’s of age. Bill Harren
Patrick Poisson
January 7, 2022
We've lost a light in the entertainment world, Sing to the heavens my friend,your music and soul will live on.
Dymphna Curtis
January 25, 2021
An absolute beautiful man , physically and artistically.So gifted, and modest to a fault. The world is such a better place because of you Robert. Your legacy will live on in my heart and so many all over the world. Think of you every day and listen to you and your super sexy and cool voice every day. You make my day. Love you for ever. Left this world far to soon.xxxxx. keep singing with the Angel's.xxxx.Dymphna from meath.Ireland.
Sherry Kreier
January 4, 2021
After all this time Robert Palmer Has been gone I still love that guy so much !!! His talent was jus wild the Diversity in his music was Really Something ya knw ! I loved watching him perform that man Affixiated me wow :( love you stil Robert Palmer you left this World WAy Too Soon’ for Sure!!! Keep playing &’ Listening To Your Music ! Stil Addicted To You
Linda Herron
November 8, 2020
Loved him and his music,still play his recordings,guess every woman love him,I did
Mike Vigil
August 15, 2020
You were on of the best god bless you my god take good care of you too
Mary Dewey
June 28, 2020
Hi Robert,
I've read a lot of condolences in this guest book after l wrote mine.
You have a lot of friends in Georgia who love you. Obviously there's a lot of thoughtful smart people who know about music in Georgia. I'm glad about that for you because to me you seemed a little bit of a loner. Friendship love music and beautiful souls don't pass away they cling to each other. God bless your beautiful soul.
Love,
Your friend Mary
Mary
June 27, 2020
Hi Robert,
I watched a video of you being interviewed in 1985. It was moving to see how brilliant you were in so many ways. l was brought back to what you spoke about that day when l watched James Brown & Friends Live 1987. I was able to appreciate your smile & imagine how happy & proud you must of felt being one of James Brown's friends performing live & on stage with him. I'm so glad you had that expierence.
God Bless your & all of your friends beautiful souls.
Mary
V Findley
May 26, 2020
Still love Robert Palmer today. May 2020
Stu Jones
February 24, 2020
Stylin man Stylin,,,,,,miss your stylin. Thank you
In remembrance of Robert Palmer on the Anniversary of his birthday January 19,1949.Fans sorely miss you.
Ginger Gunter
January 19, 2020
Robert Palmer was a greatly popular artist. And his family and friends miss him on the anniversary of his birthday. Happy birthday to you. You are remembered by fans who adored you
Harry Simpson
September 27, 2015
Thank you for sharing apart of your life with us.
Debra Thornton
June 27, 2012
You are still my all time favorite. We once met eye to eye but just for a moment, it was in the 70's you were entering a night club to perform, being such a fan I thought how can I get his attention amongest the crowd of fan's, the moment arrived and then it hit me I yelled out " Look at Me " which of course you did I believe that was a first for you, you gave a slight grin I'd like to think you thought that was clever. I'm now 58, bedridden due to arthritis, my private time includes listening to espically the early years of your music. My prayers and christian love to your family.
CheleW Wright
February 20, 2012
Rip
yvonne martin
February 12, 2012
i listened to the drive album today robert,when will the tears stop falling? still feel such a great sense of loss. to grow up listening to your music, learn how you developed this amazing eclectic style, and then you leave us? still want more, and you still had so much to give. always in my heart x x x
Michelle Stretar
May 2, 2011
He graced this world with music, the angels called up to sing in heaven. God be with him now.
April 1, 2010
For Robert...You song Addicted
To Love evokes many memories.
WEEP NOT FOR ME
Do not weep for me when I no longer dwell among the wonders of the earth; for my larger self is free, and my soul rejoices on the other side of pain...on the other side of darkness.
Do not weep for me, for I am a ray of sunshine that touches your skin, a tropical breeze upon your face, the hush of joy within your heart and the innocence of babes in mothers arms.
I am the hope in a darkened night. And, in your hour of need, I will be there to comfort you. I will share your tears, your joys, your fears, your disappointments and your triumphs.
Do not weep for me, for I am cradled
in the arms of God. I walk with the angels, and hear the music beyond the stars.
Do not weep for me, for I am within you;
I am peace, love, I am a soft wind that caresses the flowers. I am the calm that follows a raging storm. I am an autumns leaf that floats among the garden of God, and I am pure white snow that softly falls upon your hand.
Do not weep for me, for I shall never die, as long as you remember me...
with a smile and a sigh.
© Joe Fazio
~
[email protected] /Joe Fazio,
Beverly Hills, California
Mark Geuy
September 30, 2006
I was first introduced to Robert Palmer when MTV first came onto the scene...the video Looking For Clues is still one of my favorite videos along to being one of my favorite songs.
He went on to more fame and I was sadden when he was gone at such a young age (54).
At least we have his songs to always remember him from.
Rock on Robert, I hope you are having fun with all the other musicians in the sky.
Jaye Burns
May 31, 2006
I could not believe it when I heard the news...I was shocked...He was one of the few that had an outstanding personality and character. I truly loved him and his music and I loved his beliefs. Thank you Robert Palmer for you...Jaye Burns
Tonia
May 2, 2006
I apologized I did not sign Robert Palmer guestbook, even it is 2006. I wanted to let you know that I did knew he died while back. I am very sadden. I wanted to let him know that I love his music. I know in his heart that his music will lives on. I am very deeply sadden that happened. My deepest sympathy to Palmer's family. My favorite songs of Robert Palmer is 'Addicted to Love' and 'Simply Irresistible, but we know he is in a better place, and he watching down below for all his fans to continue to listen to his muic. God Bless, Robert
M F Cleveland
July 6, 2004
Simply Irresistible!
Deborah Kyle
June 9, 2004
I was shocked to find out that Robert Palmer had passed away. It seams that Rock N Roll Heaven truly has a hellva' band.
SHONDA DICKERSON
April 26, 2004
I WAS SO SHOCKED WHEN I HEARD THAT MR. PALMER PASSED. I LOVE HIS MUSIC. HE WILL BE MISSED VERY MUCH. MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYS GO OUT TO THE FAMILY.
Debbie Owens
April 6, 2004
Robert Palmer was one of my favorite singers in the 80's and he will be greatly missed. He will live on forever with in his music.
ARETHA POWERS
October 21, 2003
PLEASE EXCEPT MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY FOR YOUR LOSS. HE WILL BE IN OUR HEART'S FOREVER. HIS MUSIC LEFT ME WITH WONDERFUL MEMORIES. THANKS!
debbie argo
October 19, 2003
your music will be here forever . god bless and keep you safe
peggy waters
October 15, 2003
i loved his music, and he always had great videos!!
he will truly be missed...
Louise Jackson
October 8, 2003
Thank you for the wonderful years of beautiful music, know one will be able to take your place you had style and class. my mother is 81 and she also loved your music ADDICTED TO LOVE thank you may god be with your family in a time of need.
Holly Zell
October 8, 2003
I last saw Robert Palmer perform at the Bottle and Cork in Dewey Beach, Delaware. He put on one of the best shows I've ever seen. He was an extraordinary performer with a unique style. This world has lost a great talent. I look forward to meeting him in the great beyond.
Karmann Egan
October 1, 2003
I am 39 yrs old and grew up listening to his awesome music. What a shame to die so young. Rest in Peace. Robert Palmer and his music will never be forgotten...
Terence Allen
September 28, 2003
Robert:
Thanks so much for so many great memories, great music, and great songs. You had both style and substance, and I'll miss you very much. Love ya, man!
cindy lenox
September 28, 2003
THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ARE WITH THE FAMILY OF ROBERT. "ABSENT FROM THE BODY,PRESENT WITH THE LORD". ROCK ON!!
Bob and Darlene Dove
September 28, 2003
We wish to extend our deepest,
heartfelt sympathy to the "Palmer"
family and the many, many friends
who "Robert" leaves behind. His
music, and songs, shall remain in
our hearts forever. He will be
deeply missed, but his spirit will
live on. A truly 'Great' man he was
and still is, in heaven with wings.
An "Angel" will be still singing
and watching over ALL with whom he
loved, and, those who loved him so.
May it comfort you in knowing others
share in your sorrow, and, may God
comfort you and ease the pain you
are enduring during this sad time,
and always, with His everlasting
love. May "Robert" rest in eternal
peace. This we pray. Amen.
In Love and Prayer,
Darlene and Bob Dove
Yvonne Nicolanti
September 28, 2003
Mercy Mercy Me. I am so saddened by his sudden death. He was an amazing singer songwriter. He's in Rock-n-Heaven. He needs to be in the Rock Hall Of Fame.
Shawn Osterloh
September 28, 2003
I always admired your style, sharp dresser. A real stand out during those times. I grew up in the 80's listening to your music. You will be missed.
GAIL M. RUSSELL
September 28, 2003
I LOVED HIS MUSIC. A VERY HANDSOME AND CLASSY MAN. HE WILL BE MISSED.
Georgia Lewis
September 28, 2003
Robert Palmer is gone but his music remains with us, here. Such a tragic ending for a gifted man but a legacy has been left for those of us who loved the music he created. Georgia
Leslie Cronin
September 28, 2003
"Whether yellow, black or white, every man's the same inside." Godspeed, sweet man.
suzan ingui
September 28, 2003
In the late 1970's I heard a commercial for an album by Robert Palmer called 'Some People Get What They Want'. I liked the song bits in the promo and immediatly went out and bought the album - which is not like me. I knew nothing about him, his style or his songs. I have bought every album, and CD since then. Next to Van Morrison he is my next favorite. I am very saddened and shocked by his death. Rock on Robert and rest in peace.
Denese Grant
September 28, 2003
Robert,
You will be greatly missed. Growing up in the 80's and now your music is just as inspiring as then.Your talent Rocks! We will miss you.
Rock in Heaven!
Linda Goulden
September 28, 2003
I won't cry because you are gone, but I will cry because you are in a better place and I am still here. You will adorn heaven with your sweet voice and someday I will be close enough to you to touch you, as you have touched me here on earth with your songs. Raise your voice once again and may you have everlasting peace. May your family take comfort in knowing you are not really gone, you are just out of sight. You will forever be remembered as a man that is..... " Simply Irrestible "
Al Searcy
September 28, 2003
I want to extend my condolences to Mr.Palmer's family.He was and will be remembered as a great musician.
LINDA TRACY
September 27, 2003
SORRY ABOUT MR. PALMER'S PASSING. OH MY GOODNESS SO MANY PEOPLE WHO HAVE ENTERTAINED US ARE PASSING AWAY. IT SEEMS LATELY THAT IS ALL YOU HEAR ABOUT. THIS HAS BEEN A SAD YEAR FOR THE ENTERTAINMENT FIELD AND FOR THE FAMILIES AND FANS OF ALL WHO WE HAVE LOST THIS YEAR. REST IN PEACE MR. PALMER. GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS WHO YOU LEFT BEHIND.
Rick
September 27, 2003
Was very sorry to hear of your sudden death. Robert, we will rock forever.
josh bentley
September 27, 2003
i was shocked when i heard about roberts death.i am so sad and sorry about his death his music will live on hi spirt will never die rock on robert palmer
sincererly
josh bentley
joshua bentley
September 27, 2003
i am so sad about robert palmers death i am so sorry. he will be missed his music will live on. his spirt will live on. long live robert palmer.
josh bentley
Kristin Kulyniak
September 27, 2003
I grew up listening to Robert Palmer. I am so saddened by his passing. He will be missed.
Matthew Dus
September 27, 2003
I cant believe your gone.Rock on in heaven with the angels.Rest in peace
Nicholas Kulyniak
September 27, 2003
With deepest sympathy .What a great singer,You will be missed.
MARCELLA FELTUS
September 27, 2003
Some people say "I remember what I was doing or where I was when this or that song came out." Well, I have great, great memories of parties where I danced to Robert's music and had great times. Robert's music moved me. The songs are timeless and will forever be a part of my history. Robert Palmer, you will definitely be missed by me.
CB Scott
September 27, 2003
VERY IMPRESSED TO SEE MOST OF MR. PALMER'S WELL WISHERS ARE FROM ATLANTA. INDEED HIS STYLE AND PRESENTATION WILL BE TRULY MISSED.
MAY GOD BLESS ALL OF HIS FAMILY & FRIENDS. WHAT A GREAT LOSS!
SINCERELY,
CBSCOTT
Tom
September 27, 2003
My wife was 44 when she died of cancer last year Robert, sing her a song for me. And thanks for rocking our world.
Robert Stianche
September 27, 2003
It was sad news when the radio made the announcement about Robert. I was introduced to his music in the early 80's and was an avid listener. Robert's dress code and style made his presence even better. It's sad to note, a great singer and writer has left us. Robert, you will be missed by all.
Pam DeLay
September 27, 2003
My condolences to Robert Palmer's family and friends. What a terrible loss for them. The man and his music were "Simply Irrisistable".
Bobbie Mac
September 27, 2003
he will be miss. everyone take care of your health.
Carroll Logwood
September 27, 2003
Robert Palmer was pure class.I loved his music and his presentation.
Faith Longman
September 27, 2003
Good Bye old Friend,
The World will miss you.
My thoughts and Prayers are with his Family and Friends....
maureen doyle
September 27, 2003
Your song, "You Overwhelm Me" is still one of my favorites... wasn't sure what your later music was all about, but hey... we all grow... And all of us left behind are richer for your contribution... You will be missed.
Teresa Davies
September 27, 2003
I am still in shock over the death of John Ritter, now Robert Palmer. Both of these gentlemen were taken way too soon. Robert will live on in his music forever. I will miss him and his sexy, but classy, style. There is no one like him nor will there ever be anyone like him. God bless him and his family.
Denise
September 27, 2003
You are an insperational artist. May you rest in peace.
Jamile Quick
September 27, 2003
I was very sad to her that anither fall star had happen i was shock and deeply sadden when i found out it was the addicted to love singer robert palmer the music world will miss you dearly and your fans as well but we will keep you alive by playing your music though the years
love rest in peace
jamile
Julian Phelps
September 27, 2003
My condolence goes out to Robert's family. We pray for you and your loss. On the same hand we thank you Robert for the good music you left us. You and your songs will always be remembered as classy. You are in God's hands. Bless you.
James Graham
September 27, 2003
I've been honored by this man's music for over 30 years. I am deeply affected and I want to give my best to his family. His latest recording "Drive" if very good and its a shame he got back to his roots just before his death.
Danielle S.
September 27, 2003
I REALLY ENJOYED YOUR'E MUSIC.I GREW UP LISTING TO IT AND STILL DO NOW.YOU WILL BE SADLY MISSED.WHEN THAT BRIGHT STAR STARTS TO SHINE TONIGHT I'LL KNOW ITS YOU.
Deborah Cooper
September 26, 2003
You will be greatly missed. One of the best musicians. And his videos are fun to watch.
September 26, 2003
A class act gone....R.I.P.
You will not be forgotten.
Rene' Pellegrin
September 26, 2003
To the family and friends of Robert Palmer...May God comfort you in your time of sorrow.
Dan Auld-Proctor
September 26, 2003
A true artist. Loved all of his music. His music will live on forever.
Martine Mason
September 26, 2003
His style and sound will be missed. In peace may he be.
Ruth Ann Smith
September 26, 2003
He will be missed.
Jeff James
September 26, 2003
Robert ... when I was first exposed to your music ... it opened my eyes to a whole new sound ... your videos where the greatest also ... you will be missed ...
Mona Williams
September 26, 2003
The lights in heaven are on and Robert Palmer is home.May his family feel God's love and care and be comforted with many happy memories-God bless,Mona Williams
LINDA LIETCH
September 26, 2003
I AM VERY SADDEND TO HEAR THE NEWS OF YOUR DEATH. YOUR MUSIC WILL LIVE ON FOREVER FOR ME. MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY FOR YOUR FAMILY. AT THERE TIME OF SORROW. WE WILL ALWAYS LOVE YOU.
Chris Gilkey
September 26, 2003
I loved Robert Palmer: He was one
of the Best Singers of all Time.
I used to own one of his Tapes
Back in the Early 90's from the
Time I was 13 Until I was 16.
My favorite Songs of his were =
"Addicted to Love,Simply Irresistable, Some Like it Hot,
Bad Case of Loving you,Every Kinda
People and Johnny and Mary."
I saw this one Video of his in 86'
"Addicted to Love." That's when I
was 8 and I have it on Tape Today.
Whenever I'm going to Watch it,
I'll think of Robert and I'll Smile
and Cry.
Lisa Ballantyne
September 26, 2003
What can I say? So long to a truly talented individual. Robert, you will be missed. Godspeed.
R Schuller
September 26, 2003
Thanks for all the great music
darrell thompson
September 26, 2003
"A lost of the flesh is so overwhelming, but such a gain to the heavens". "May GOD bless him and his family, as Robert, goes HOME".
Ron Barnett
September 26, 2003
Robert you will be missed!You were in a class by yourself,I'll never for get you,and your great music.Addicted to Love was your best!! Your in God's hands now!!!
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