Robert Ellis Silberstein is a notable American businessman and music executive, best known as the first husband of singer Diana Ross and father of actress Tracee Ellis Ross. A prominent music manager in the 1970s, he played a crucial role in launching Diana Ross’s solo career, transitioning her from The Supremes to a successful solo artist. His management portfolio included artists like Rufus, Meat Loaf, Ronnie Wood, Billy Preston, and Chaka Khan. Despite his 1977 divorce from Diana Ross, Silberstein remains respected in the music industry for his contributions. He also raised Rhonda Ross Kendrick, and his other daughters, Tracee and Chudney Ross, have found success in their careers.
Who Is Robert Ellis Silberstein?
Robert Ellis Silberstein is a notable American music manager and business magnate, widely recognized as the former husband of the legendary singer Diana Ross. During his influential career in the 1970s, he served as the musical director for Diana Ross and managed several other prominent artists.
Silberstein’s impressive client list featured a diverse array of talent, including the band Rufus with Chaka Khan, rock singer Michael Lee Aday (better known as Meat Loaf), English rock musician Ronnie Wood, R&B icon Billy Preston, and the rock band Status Quo. His expertise and strategic direction were crucial in shaping the successful careers of these artists, establishing him as a key figure in the music industry during that era.
Robert Ellis Silberstein Biography
The renowned American business magnate Robert Ellis Silberstein was born on January 5, 1946, in Elberon, New Jersey. He was raised in a wealthy family known for their successful Jewish clothing manufacturing business. Silberstein pursued higher education at West Virginia University, where he completed his studies before embarking on a brief career in teaching. However, his stint as a teacher was short-lived; he left the profession following a dispute with his boss.
Details about Silberstein’s early life and family remain private, as he has not publicly disclosed information about his parents, siblings, or childhood experiences. Despite this, his later achievements in the music industry have made him a prominent figure, known for his significant contributions to the careers of many celebrated artists.
Robert Ellis Silberstein’s Profile Summary
| Attribute | Details |
| Full Name | Robert Ellis Silberstein |
| Other Names | Bob Ellis |
| Date of Birth | January 5, 1946 |
| Age (in 2022) | 76 years |
| Birth Sign | Capricorn |
| Place of Birth | Elberon, Long Branch, New Jersey, United States |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | Jewish |
| Height | 5 feet, 8 inches |
| Eye Colour | Dark brown |
| Gender | Male |
| Sexual Orientation | Straight |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| Former Wife | Singer Diana Ross (from 1971 to 1977) |
| Children | Tracee Ellis Ross and Chudney Ross (biological), Rhonda Ross Kendrick (legal) |
| Education | West Virginia University |
| Profession | Music executive, entrepreneur |
| Net Worth | Approximately $50 million |
Robert Ellis Silberstein’s Age And Early Life
Robert Ellis Silberstein, the accomplished music executive, was born on January 5, 1946, in Elberon, New Jersey, making him 76 years old in 2022. He hails from a Jewish family that operated a successful garment manufacturing business, providing him with a wealthy upbringing. Silberstein pursued higher education at West Virginia University. His career trajectory shifted from education to music management after he left a teaching position following a disagreement with his boss. This move marked the beginning of his influential role in the music industry, where he managed several renowned artists and made a significant impact.
Robert Ellis Silberstein’s Ethnicity
Robert Ellis Silberstein, the renowned music manager, is of American nationality, having been born in Elberon, New Jersey. Despite his strong Jewish heritage, he also has Irish roots, contributing to his diverse background. His wide-ranging experiences in these different states have undoubtedly influenced his approach and success in the music industry.
Robert Ellis Silberstein’s Height
Robert Ellis Silberstein, the first husband of Diana Ross, stands at 5 feet 8 inches tall. He has dark brown eyes, and his hair has turned grey over the years, reflecting his distinguished age and experience.
Robert Ellis Silberstein’s Wife And Children
In January 1971, the music executive Robert Ellis Silberstein entered into marriage with the esteemed American singer and actress, Diana Ross. Their love story unfolded amidst the backdrop of Diana’s previous relationship with Motown CEO Berry Gordy. Notably, Diana was two months pregnant with her first daughter, Rhonda Suzanne Silberstein, at the time of her wedding to Robert. Despite the circumstances, Robert embraced Rhonda as his daughter, raising her with love and care. Rhonda later learned about her biological paternity at the age of 13 but maintained a close bond with Robert Ellis Silberstein.
Throughout their marriage, Robert and Diana welcomed two more children into their family. Their daughter Tracee Ellis Ross was born on October 29, 1972, followed by Chudney Lane Silberstein on November 4, 1975. Despite their eventual divorce in March 1977, Robert and Diana remained amicable for the sake of their children. Their commitment to co-parenting fostered a close relationship between Robert Ellis Silberstein and his children, who continue to cherish their bond with their father.
Is Robert Ellis Silberstein Married?
Today, Robert Ellis Silberstein is not married. However, he was previously married to the multi-talented singer, songwriter, record producer, and actress Diana Ross. Diana’s romantic history included a relationship with Berry Gordy, the head of Motown Records, before ultimately choosing Robert as her partner.
Robert, known as Bob Ellis, and Diana Ross, shared a connection not only romantically but also professionally within the music industry. Their courtship lasted a mere two months before they exchanged vows on January 20, 1971. Despite the initial excitement of their union, their marital bliss was short-lived, and the couple parted ways after six years, finalizing their divorce on March 9, 1977.
Following their separation, Robert Ellis Silberstein granted interviews, during which he expressed emotions that some perceived as desperate. Despite the challenges of their relationship, their marriage remains a notable chapter in both their personal lives and their respective careers.
How Many Baby Daddies Does Diana Ross Have?
The renowned musician and actress Diana Ross has been married twice and is the mother of five children by three different fathers. Her first daughter, Rhonda Suzanne, born in 1971, is the daughter of Motown CEO Berry Gordy, although she was raised by Diana’s first husband, Bob Ellis Silberstein, as his own. Following her marriage to Bob, Diana welcomed two more children into the world: actress Tracee Ellis in 1972 and producer Chudney Lane in 1975.
Later, Diana married the late Norwegian shipping magnate Arne Næss Jr. in 1985, and together they had two sons: Ross Arne in 1987 and Evan Olav in 1988. Despite the dissolution of her marriage to Arne in 2000, Diana Ross has not remarried, focusing instead on her career and family life.
Does Tracee Ross Have A Child?
As of now, the star of Black-ish, Tracee Ellis Ross, does not have any children. In various interviews, she has expressed her confidence in not succumbing to societal pressures regarding marriage and motherhood. While she harbors hopes of one day having a family of her own, Tracee remains focused on her personal and professional growth.
Robert Ellis Silberstein, her father, has consistently demonstrated his gentlemanly qualities. He prioritized being an active and supportive father to all his children during their formative years. Despite his divorce from Diana Ross, Robert has maintained a respectful and amicable relationship with the renowned singer, showing understanding and support for her decisions. This commitment to mutual respect and understanding has contributed to the enduring bond within their family.
Robert Ellis Silberstein’s Career
Following his graduation from West Virginia University, Robert Ellis Silberstein initially pursued a career in education, becoming a teacher at the same institution. However, his tenure as a teacher was short-lived due to conflicts with the school’s principal, leading to his resignation.
Subsequently, Silberstein transitioned into the music industry, a decision that proved to be highly successful for him. Throughout his career as a music manager, he represented a diverse array of musical stars, including his former wife Diana Ross, as well as Rufus, Chaka Khan, Meat Loaf, Billy Preston, and Ronnie Wood, among others. His keen business acumen and strategic management skills propelled these artists to new heights of success, establishing Silberstein as a prominent figure in the music business.
In addition to his achievements in the music industry, Silberstein also ventured into the real estate business, further diversifying his portfolio and solidifying his reputation as a savvy entrepreneur. His multifaceted career trajectory underscores his versatility and ability to excel in various domains of business.
Robert Ellis Silberstein’s Net Worth
Bob, as of 2022, boasts an estimated net worth of $50 million. Beyond his role in music management for renowned stars, he actively engages in real estate endeavors and various other ventures. This diversified approach to business has contributed to his financial success and solidified his position as a multifaceted entrepreneur. Whether navigating the complexities of the music industry or delving into real estate ventures, Bob demonstrates a keen understanding of market dynamics and a strategic mindset that consistently yields positive results. His ability to thrive in multiple sectors underscores his versatility and entrepreneurial acumen, making him a notable figure in both the entertainment and business worlds.
Interesting Facts About Robert Ellis Silberstein
- Prominent Music Manager: Robert Ellis Silberstein was highly sought-after in the 1970s for his adept management of renowned artists such as Rufus, Meat Loaf, Ronnie Wood, Billy Preston, and Chaka Khan.
- Educational Background: He attended West Virginia University and briefly worked as a teacher before transitioning into the music industry.
- Marital History: Silberstein is best known for his marriage to iconic singer Diana Ross in 1971, with whom he shares a significant marital history until their divorce in 1977.
- Family Ties: He is the father of actress Tracee Ellis Ross and Chudney Ross. Additionally, he is the legal father of Rhonda Ross Kendrick, who is biologically Berry Gordy’s daughter.
- Net Worth: As of 2022, Silberstein’s net worth is estimated to be around $50 million, primarily earned through his successful career in music management and real estate ventures.
- Cordial Relationship Post-Divorce: Despite their marital dissolution, Silberstein and Diana Ross maintained a respectful and amicable relationship for the well-being of their children.
- Respected Industry Figure: Silberstein played a pivotal role in guiding Diana Ross to establish her solo career, contributing significantly to her enduring success as one of the most accomplished artists in the industry.
- Jewish Heritage: Silberstein comes from a wealthy Jewish family renowned for their involvement in the garment manufacturing business, reflecting his rich cultural heritage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Who is Robert Ellis Silberstein?
Robert Ellis Silberstein is a prominent American music manager and businessman, renowned as the former husband of singer Diana Ross and father of actress Tracee Ellis Ross.
Q: What is Robert Ellis Silberstein’s background?
Born on January 5, 1946, in Elberon, New Jersey, he hails from a wealthy Jewish family associated with the garment manufacturing business. He pursued his education at West Virginia University and briefly worked as a teacher before venturing into music management.
Q: Who are Robert Ellis Silberstein’s children?
He shares two biological daughters, Tracee Ellis Ross and Chudney Ross, with Diana Ross. Additionally, he is the legal father of Rhonda Ross Kendrick.
Q: What is Robert Ellis Silberstein’s net worth?
As of 2022, his net worth is estimated to be around $50 million.
Q: What was Robert Ellis Silberstein’s role in Diana Ross’s career?
He played a significant role in managing Diana Ross’s career, facilitating her transition from being a member of The Supremes to a thriving solo artist.
Q: Is Robert Ellis Silberstein currently married?
No, he is not currently married. He was previously married to Diana Ross from 1971 to 1977.
Q: What other ventures is Robert Ellis Silberstein involved in?
Apart from music management, he is actively engaged in real estate and various other business ventures.
Conclusion
Robert Ellis Silberstein stands as a notable figure in the music realm, lauded for his impactful tenure as a music manager during the vibrant 1970s era. His imprint on the industry extends beyond his professional achievements, notably encompassing his pivotal role in shaping the career trajectory of his former spouse, Diana Ross. Renowned for his adept management of a cadre of distinguished artists, Silberstein’s prowess as a business magnate is widely acknowledged.
Despite the dissolution of his marriage to Diana Ross, Silberstein’s commitment to fostering positive familial relations remains unwavering. His continued involvement in various business ventures underscores his enduring relevance and adaptability within the dynamic entertainment landscape. Silberstein’s narrative serves as a testament to the confluence of professional triumphs and personal integrity, solidifying his standing as a revered personality in the realm of entertainment.
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