Robbie Nevil | |
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Birth name | Robert S. Nevil |
Born | October 2, 1958 |
Origin | Los Angeles, California, United States |
Genres | Pop, R&B, funk, dance |
Occupation(s) | Singer, songwriter |
Instruments | Vocals, guitar, keyboards |
Years active | As performer: 1986–1996 As songwriter/producer: 1983–present |
Labels | Manhattan Records |
Website | Official website |
Robert S. "Robbie" Nevil (born October 2, 1958 in Los Angeles, California) is an American pop singer, songwriter, producer, and guitarist. He is perhaps best known for his Billboard Hot 100 hits, "C'est La Vie" (#2, 1986) and "Dominoes" (#14, 1987).
Nevil began playing guitar at age eleven and played in a series of cover bands. He began performing his original music and signed a publishing deal in 1983, writing songs for the Pointer Sisters, El DeBarge, Alison Moyet, and Earth, Wind & Fire.
In 1986, he obtained his first recording contract, signing with Manhattan Records, for whom he recorded his debut album with the producers Alex Sadkin and Phil Thornalley. His debut single "C'est la Vie" reached #2 on the Billboard Hot 100, propelling the album into the Top 40 on both the US pop and Billboard R&B chart. His second single "Dominoes" hit #14 on the Hot 100 and #22 on the Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart, while the third single "Wot's It To Ya" peaked at #10 on the Hot 100 and Dance Club/Play charts, and #69 on the R&B chart.