The music world has lost one of its quiet giants.
Robbie Pardlo, best known as the soulful voice from the early 2000s group City High, has sadly passed away at the age of 46.
His voice, once a beacon of hope and truth on the airwaves, is now a cherished memory for fans who grew up listening to his music.
Passing Surrounded by Loved Ones in New Jersey
Robbie died on Thursday, July 17, in Willingboro, New Jersey, surrounded by the people who meant the most to him—his family and close friends.
While the exact cause of death hasn’t yet been made public, the news was first reported by TMZ and quickly spread across the music community.
At the time of reporting, representatives for Robbie Pardlo have not responded to media inquiries, and further updates are expected from the family in the coming days.
A Family in Mourning and Plans for a Public Tribute
Robbie’s family is grieving deeply but intends to honor his legacy in a way that reflects the love and impact he had on so many.
They are currently organizing a memorial service and celebration of his life, with plans to share details with fans and the public once everything is finalized.
City High: The Trio That Touched Hearts
From 1999 to 2003, Robbie was part of City High, a three-member group alongside Claudette Ortiz and Ryan Toby
Though their time together was short, their impact was long-lasting.
The group’s raw, heartfelt lyrics and socially conscious messages set them apart in the R&B and hip-hop scenes of the early 2000s.
“What Would You Do?” — A Song That Still Resonates
The trio’s breakout single, What Would You Do?, dropped in 2001 and immediately turned heads.
Produced by Fugees legend Wyclef Jean, the song was more than just catchy—it was a message.
Speaking directly to the struggles of single parents and those living in poverty, it struck a chord with listeners around the world.
The single climbed the Billboard Hot 100 charts, breaking into the Top 10 and earning the group a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group at the 44th Annual Grammy Awards.
A Legacy Bigger Than the Charts
Though City High only released one album, the honesty and depth of their music made them unforgettable.
Robbie’s vocals were at the heart of it all—rich, emotional, and unfiltered.
His contribution to music wasn’t just measured by awards or chart positions, but by the lives he touched through stories that felt real.