Top Five Gerald LeVert Songs

Born in 1966, soul singer Gerald LeVert had music in his blood; he was the son of Eddie LeVert Sr., part of the legendary R&B group the O'Jays. No doubt influenced by his father, Gerald opted for a career of his own in the music biz. He formed the trio LeVert, which was rounded out by his brother Sean and their friend Marc Gordon.

A deal with Atlantic Records followed soon after, and LeVert went on to dominate Billboard's R&B charts, scoring five number one singles, seven Top 10 singles and four Top 20 singles. By 1991, Gerald had decided to fly solo, releasing his debut album, Private Line.

His next effort was Father and Son, recorded with his father Eddie. Gerald's career took a turn in a fresh new direction in 1997, when Gerald teamed up with R&B stars Johnny GIll and Keith Sweat to form the trio LSG. The singer continued to be prolific throughout the early 2000s, releasing albums such as Gerald's World, G Spot and Stroke of Genius.

On November 10, 2006, Gerald LeVert died in his sleep of an apparent heart attack. He and his father had just returned from a 10-day trip to South Africa, where they had reportedly met with Nelson Mandela. The singer is survived by his four children. He may have left this plane of existence, but Gerald's music lives on. Here are five of his best hits:

Song: "Casanova"
Album: The Big Throwdown
Recorded in 1987 when Gerald was part of the R&B trio LeVert, this song is a catchy hit that soared to number 1 on the R&B charts and number 5 on the pop charts. Upbeat and playful, this tune showcases Gerald at his most charming.

Song: "School Me"
Album:Private Line
This sexy track from his solo debut proved a big hit for Gerald LeVert. Its steamy teacher-student lyrics combined with Gerald's sultry vocal delivery helped the track become a Top 3 hit.

Song: "I'd Give Anything"
Album: Groove On
Pop superproducer David Foster lent his golden touch to this soaring ballad. His expertise paired with Gerald's spectacular baritone proved a match made in pop-soul heaven.

Song: "Pop, Pop, Pop, Pop (Goes My Mind)"
Album: Bloodline
This old-school ballad was a number 1 R&B hit for the trio LeVert in the fall of 1986. Its hook reportedly came to Gerald when he overheard his mother popping popcorn. He started saying, "pop, pop, pop," and decided to write a love song built on the phrase.

Song: "Baby, Hold On To Me"
Album: Father and Son
Gerald LeVert teamed with his father Eddie on this memorable ballad. The track was a number 1 R&B hit, and showcased the formidable talent of two greats at the top of their game.