Chubby Tavares, Voice of a Generation, Dies at 81
*Antone “Chubby” Tavares, the beloved lead singer of the legendary R&B group Tavares, died peacefully on November 29. He was 81 years old and had battled declining health for the past year.
Known for his silky vocals and infectious smile, Chubby was more than a frontman—he was the soul of Tavares. His family confirmed the news online, noting that despite his physical challenges, his spirit stayed strong.
Tavares Was a Family Affair—and a Hit Machine
Tavares wasn’t just a group—it was five Cape Verdean-American brothers from New Bedford, Massachusetts. They began performing in the late 1950s as “Chubby and the Turnpikes” before becoming Tavares in the early ’70s.
With Chubby leading the vocals, they delivered hit after hit. Their mix of soul, disco, and funk kept fans on dance floors and radios throughout the ‘70s and ‘80s.
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From ‘It Only Takes a Minute’ to Grammy Gold
The group’s catalog includes a string of classics. Standouts like “Heaven Must Be Missing an Angel,” “Don’t Take Away the Music,” and “It Only Takes a Minute” became anthems of their time.
In 1977, Tavares’ cover of the Bee Gees’ “More Than a Woman” was featured on the blockbuster “Saturday Night Fever” soundtrack. That earned them a Grammy in 1978—peak disco glory.
A Career Beyond the Charts
Between 1973 and 1983, Tavares dropped 10 hit albums and scored 12 Top 10 R&B singles, including three No. 1s. Even after the spotlight dimmed, they kept touring with other ’70s legends.
Chubby also carved out a solo path in the 2010s, working with producer Preston Glass on albums like *Jealousy* (2012) and *Can’t Knock Me Down* (2015). He stepped away from the stage in 2023 to focus on his health.
A Legacy Marked by Honors and Hometown Love
Chubby and his brothers were showered with accolades over the years. They entered the Cape Verdean Museum Hall of Fame in 2006 and the Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame in 2014.
In 2024, New Bedford renamed Griffin Court “Tavares Brothers Way” in their honor. Chubby attended with pride, cracking jokes and soaking up the love from the neighborhood that raised him.
A Brotherly Bond That Survived Fame and Time
Chubby’s passing comes after the loss of his brothers and bandmates Ralph “T” Tavares in 2021 and Arthur “Pooch” Tavares in 2024. He is survived by Feliciano “Butch” and Perry “Tiny” Tavares.
The brothers shared more than a last name—they shared a legacy. Together, they turned modest beginnings into global stardom, infusing their Cape Verdean roots into every note.
Fans, Friends, and Fellow Artists Mourn the Loss
Tributes flooded social media after news of Chubby Tavares’ death broke. New Bedford City Councilor Brian Gomes called it a “brokenhearted” loss for the city. Fans posted old performance clips, praising Chubby’s ageless voice.
SoulTracks, the first outlet to profile Tavares, shared warm memories of interviews and music that left a lasting mark. One fan summed it up perfectly: “Heaven is missing an angel now.”
More Than Music: Chubby’s True Impact
Chubby didn’t just sing hits—he inspired generations. He mentored young musicians, supported local talent, and brought joy to every room he entered. His kindness offstage matched the power of his voice onstage.
Even in his final years, he was a symbol of perseverance. His music lives on through streaming, YouTube, and the memories of millions. Chubby Tavares may be gone, but his harmony lives forever.
“Dad and his brothers touched many people and brought joy worldwide.” — Tavares family statement, Nov. 2025
“Heaven is missing an angel now.” — Fan tribute on X, Nov. 2025
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