Famed R&B singer Foster Sylvers dies at age 64

(May 31, 2026) For many women of a certain age, he was their first musical heartthrob. But Foster Sylvers was more than that, a talented singer and multi-instrumentalist who was part of the iconic family act The Sylvers. Today we mourn the passing of Foster Sylvers at age 64 following a long battle with prostate cancer. The Sylvers family has issued a statement (see below).

Born on February 25, 1962, Sylvers first came to the world’s attention with his hit debut album – when he was only 11 years old. Working with older brother and producer Leon Sylvers, Foster immediately hit the top 10 with “Misdemeanor,” and followed with a hit cover of the 50s classic “Hey Little Girl.”

After two solo albums, Foster joined his siblings in the expanding family group in time for the act’s greatest success, singing lead or co-lead on several songs during the period when The Sylvers regularly topped the charts with songs like “Boogie Fever” and “Hot Line.” (Click Here to read more about The Sylvers)

A particularly strong bassist, Foster Sylvers spent much of the 80s supporting other artists, performing with Dynasty, Evelyn “Champaign” King and others. He also reignited his solo career, issuing a couple of moderately successful albums.

Foster Sylvers ran into significant legal problems in the mid-90s and served time in prison. His career was quieter after that, though he occasionally spoke publicly about his career and growing up as a child star. His music, however, never went away, and his entire catalog has remained on “repeat” over all of these years.

Today we will mourn the passing of this talented man, even as a generation of soul music fans smile recalling the halcyon days of his career.

By Chris Rizik

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Official Statement from The Sylvers family:
The Passing of Foster Emerson Sylvers
(February 25, 1962 – May 30, 2026)
Our beloved brother Foster Emerson Sylvers has passed. There was a great reunion on the day our brother passed from death to life! We know that upon his arrival, Foster was met by our father, mother…our brothers Edmund, Chris and other family and friends! The God of all comfort has granted his request to go to his permanent residence in heaven!!!
It was three and a half years ago when Foster was first diagnosed with prostate cancer. He was told that he only had 6 months to live, however, he fought on and lived three and a half more years! He passed on Saturday evening, May 30th, 2026.
Born on February 25, 1962, the world knew Foster Sylvers as child star, a singer, songwriter, record producer and multi-instrumentalist. He was best known for being the youngest member of our family recording group The Sylvers. Foster along with his brothers and sisters Leon, Edmund, Ricky, James, Pat, Angie, Olympia and Charmaine shot to fame with the hits “Misdemeanour”, “Fool’s Paradise, “Boogie Fever,” and “Hot Line.” He was just 11 years old when “Misdemeanour” hit No.7 on the US Billboard R&B Charts.
When big brother Leon Sylvers went on to become in house producer and songwriter for Solar Records, Foster co-wrote songs for the hit recording groups Shalamar, The Whispers and Dynasty. After Leon’s departure from Solar, Foster continued to collaborate on music for Janet Jackson, Evelyn Champagne King, Shyne and Usher.
In life, Foster had his struggles but he became born again. He often called himself “Foster ‘one day at a time’ Sylvers”. Foster told all that he could about his experience with Christ, his Lord and Savior! He loved God and always talked about what the Lord brought him through, and how he changed his life!
After Foster’s diagnosis with prostate cancer, he also struggled with his decision to endure pain and suffering, wanting to be here for his daughters and grandchildren! Now he can watch over them from heaven, and we his family will celebrate his life and share all the precious memories we have of our dear brother Foster!
On behalf of The Sylvers
Pat and Leon Sylvers

Thanks to SoulTracker Tim for letting us know