Robert Gordy

Robert Louis Gordy (July 15, 1931 – October 21, 2022) was an American songwriter, music publishing executive, and recording artist under the stage name Bob Kayli. He released the minor hit song "Everyone Was There" in 1958. He was the brother of Motown founder Berry Gordy Jr. and uncle of Redfoo.

Early life Gordy was born in Detroit, Michigan, on July 15, 1931. He was the youngest of eight children of Berry "Pops" Gordy Sr. and Bertha Fuller. Gordy followed in the footsteps of his brother Berry and became a boxer. He later performed at local music venues like the Flame Show Bar, where he also managed the darkroom for his sister Gwen.

Career Gordy had a brief career as a recording artist and had a minor hit as Bob Kayli with the novelty song "Everyone Was There" (1958), co-written with his brother Berry and leased by him to the Carlton label. However, the song's popularity declined precipitously when the public found out that he was African American.

Gordy recorded a second single on Gordy's Anna label in 1959, "Never More", before working for a time in the postal service. As his older brother's Motown company expanded, Robert returned to work for it, initially as a recording engineer. He moved Jobete from a holder of copyrights into a highly profitable international publishing company. He continued to head Jobete until 1985. One of Gordy's nephews was singer/rapper Redfoo.

Gordy died on October 21, 2022, at his home in Marina del Rey, California. He was 91, and died of natural causes. "Minnie the Ugly Duckling" None The Contours

"The World Is Rated X" Ezra Bolton, Mel Bolton, Marilyn McLeod Marvin Gaye "You're What's Happening (in the World Today)" George Gordy, Allen Story Marvin Gaye

"Your Kiss of Fire" Harvey Fuqua The Supremes