Bobby Freeman, American singer, songwriter and record producer (b. 1940)

Robert Thomas Freeman, widely recognized by his professional stage name Bobby Freeman (June 13, 1940 – January 23, 2017), was a highly influential American musician, celebrated for his dynamic contributions as a singer, songwriter, and record producer. Hailing from the vibrant musical landscape of San Francisco, Freeman's versatile artistry spanned the diverse genres of rock, soul, and rhythm and blues (R&B), leaving an indelible mark on popular music history.

Freeman's enduring legacy is most prominently defined by his remarkable achievement of securing two distinct Top Ten hits on the prestigious Billboard Hot 100 chart. These chart-topping successes not only showcased his broad appeal but also cemented his status as a significant figure in American music during the late 1950s and mid-1960s.

His initial breakthrough came in 1958 with the release of the iconic rock and roll anthem, "Do You Want to Dance." This self-penned track, a testament to Freeman's burgeoning songwriting talent, was issued on Josie Records, an imprint of the larger Jubilee Records label. The song quickly resonated with audiences, propelling Bobby Freeman to a remarkable No. 5 position on the Billboard Hot 100, firmly establishing him as a national recording artist.

Six years later, in 1964, Freeman once again ascended to the Top Ten with his spirited and engaging R&B and soul track, "C'mon and Swim." This vibrant song, also a significant commercial success, reached the No. 5 spot on the Billboard Hot 100. "C'mon and Swim" was notably released through Autumn Records, a prominent San Francisco-based independent label. More importantly, the song represented a significant collaboration, co-written by Freeman himself and the legendary Sylvester Stewart, better known as Sly Stone. At that time, Sly Stone was actively involved with Autumn Records as a staff producer and A&R manager, a partnership that further underscores Bobby Freeman's deep roots and influence within the fertile San Francisco music scene.

Beyond his celebrated performances, Bobby Freeman's multifaceted career extended to his impactful work as a record producer. His comprehensive understanding of musical creation, from songwriting to performance and production, allowed him to shape sounds and develop artists, leaving a lasting imprint on the evolving soundscapes of rock, soul, and R&B.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bobby Freeman

What were Bobby Freeman's most famous songs?
Bobby Freeman is primarily known for his two Top Ten hits on the Billboard Hot 100: "Do You Want to Dance," which peaked at No. 5 in 1958, and "C'mon and Swim," which also reached No. 5 in 1964.
Who wrote "Do You Want to Dance"?
The classic rock and roll hit "Do You Want to Dance" was solely written by Bobby Freeman, showcasing his talent as a composer in addition to his performance skills.
Who co-wrote "C'mon and Swim" with Bobby Freeman?
"C'mon and Swim" was a significant collaborative effort between Bobby Freeman and the highly influential musician and producer Sly Stone (Sylvester Stewart), who later gained immense fame with Sly and the Family Stone. This collaboration highlights Freeman's strong connections within the San Francisco music community.
Which record labels released Bobby Freeman's major hits?
His seminal 1958 hit "Do You Want to Dance" was released on Josie Records, while his 1964 Top Ten track "C'mon and Swim" was issued by Autumn Records. Both labels played crucial roles in his commercial success.