AllMovie

Factsheet

• Given the middle name Ronzoni, after the brand of pasta, which was the only food his mother could digest while pregnant with him; this was later shortened to the nickname Ronnie.
• Started the vocal group Shades of Jade while in high school.
• Made his TV debut on Sesame Street., as part of the musical theater workshop ensemble Listen, My Brother.
• In 1972, penned the song "Everybody Rejoice (A Brand New Day)," which was used in the Broadway musical The Wiz three years later.
• Met David Bowie in 1974, and went on to sing backup for the rock icon, as well as open for him on tour.   
• In the mid-'70s, began providing backing vocals for albums by numerous pop icons, including Bette Midler, Barbra Streisand and Ringo Starr.
• Found success in the late '70s as a writer and singer of commercial tunes, performing jingles for soft drinks, fast-food restaurants and telephones. 
• Solo debut album, Never Too Much, was released in 1981. 
• Was involved in a fatal three-car accident in Los Angeles in 1986, when he lost control of the car he was driving.   
• Ranked number 54 on Rolling Stone's 2008 list of the 100 Greatest Singers of All Time.
• Struggled with his weight throughout his career, and suffered from diabetes and hypertension.
• Was a lover of fashion and always performed in a tuxedo.