Cavin Yarbrough, Half of Iconic R&B Duo Yarbrough & Peoples, Dies at 72

R&B Icon Cavin Yarbrough Passes Away at 72

*The music world is mourning the loss of Cavin Yarbrough, one-half of the legendary R&B duo Yarbrough & Peoples. Cavin died on the morning of Thursday, June 19, 2025, at the age of 72 due to complications from heart disease.

His wife and longtime musical partner, Alisa Peoples, confirmed his passing. “He was the love of my life, my protector. Now he’s my guardian angel,” she said. Michele Elyzabeth, a longtime friend and representative of the duo, added, “Cavin was not only an extraordinary talent, but a kind man with a great heart.”

Yarbrough & Peoples Changed the Sound of R&B

Formed in the late 1970s in Dallas, Texas, Yarbrough & Peoples brought a fresh fusion of R&B, funk, and early electronic elements to the music scene. Their breakout hit, “Don’t Stop the Music,” topped the Billboard R&B chart in 1981 and became a gold-certified anthem that still fills dance floors today.

The duo was discovered by Charlie Wilson of The Gap Band and signed by Lonnie Simmons to Total Experience Records. Their debut album, *The Two of Us*, launched them into stardom and set the tone for 1980s R&B with its signature groove and catchy synth-heavy production.

More Than a Performer—A Pioneer and Mentor

Cavin wasn’t just a performer—he was a classically trained pianist, multi-instrumentalist, and producer whose musical skills elevated the group’s sound. He and Alisa followed up with hits like “Guilty,” “I Wouldn’t Lie,” and “Heartbeats,” becoming known for their smooth vocals and tight onstage chemistry.

Even after the peak of their career in the mid-80s, their influence never faded. Cavin’s work paved the way for a generation of funk, soul, and R&B artists, and his impact extended behind the scenes as a mentor and creative collaborator.

Cavin Yarbrough’s Legacy Lives On

With a catalog full of timeless tracks and a legacy of musical innovation, Cavin Yarbrough will be remembered as a true pioneer of the genre.

His contribution to the sound of the 1980s—particularly through the creative use of synthesizers and soulful arrangements—left a permanent mark on music history.

Fans around the world continue to celebrate Yarbrough & Peoples’ influence, and Cavin’s passing marks the end of an era for lovers of classic R&B and funk. His legacy, however, continues to inspire, uplift, and get people dancing.

Tributes and Final Words

Tributes from across the industry are pouring in for the late artist. Michele Elyzabeth said it best: “His legacy will live on in the music, in our memories, and in the hearts of everyone who knew him.”

Cavin Yarbrough leaves behind not only an indelible musical legacy, but also a life defined by love, partnership, and rhythm that refuses to stop. May he rest in peace.

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