Robbie Pardlo (1978 – 2025)

Who he was: Born around 1978, Robbie Pardlo rose to fame as the lead singer of City High, an R&B/hip-hop trio formed in 1999 by Pardlo alongside Claudette Ortiz and Ryan Toby. Signed to Wyclef Jean’s label, the group achieved early 2000s success
Career highlights: City High achieved major acclaim with:
- “What Would You Do?” (2001): A powerful single produced by Wyclef Jean, which became a top‑10 Billboard Hot 100 hit and resonated deeply with listeners facing economic hardship.
- “Caramel” featuring Eve: A top‑20 follow‑up that earned the group a Grammy nomination in 2002 for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group.
- Their debut album, City High (May 2001), peaked at #34 on the Billboard 200.
After City High: The trio disbanded in 2003. Pardlo continued his musical journey by joining the R&B quartet First Take, collaborating with artists such as Whitney Houston and Lil’ Kim.

Passing and Remembrance

Date & place: Pardlo passed away on Thursday, July 17, 2025, in his hometown of Willingboro, New Jersey, surrounded by family and friends.
Age & cause: He was 46 years old. The cause of death has not yet been disclosed.
Family: Survivors include his wife Anika Pardlo and their two children, Lyric and Chord‑Andrew.
Tributes: His family is organizing upcoming memorial and tribute events, with details expected soon.

🎶 Legacy & Impact

Cultural resonance: “What Would You Do?” is still revered as an era-defining anthem, capturing the struggles of single parents and underserved communities. The song continues to be celebrated as a motivational and socially conscious track.
Grammy recognition: Although City High didn’t take home a Grammy, their 2002 nomination helped elevate the group’s visibility and cement Pardlo’s legacy as a significant voice in early 2000s R&B.
Continued influence: Post–City High, Pardlo’s work with First Take and his collaborations with major artists demonstrated his enduring talent and versatility as a performer.

In Memoriam

Robbie Pardlo leaves behind a legacy of heartfelt music that struck a chord with many. His soulful voice, combined with powerful storytelling, made him a memorable figure in the R&B landscape of the early 2000s.

As we honor his memory, details on tribute events will emerge in the coming days. In the meantime, fans can revisit City High’s impactful hits and reflect on Pardlo’s contributions to music.

My condolences to his family, friends, and fans. If you’d like to explore tribute coverage, fan reactions, or related music history, I can help with that.

Robbie Pardlo (1978 – 2025)