Born Robert James Ritchie, the Southern rock performer rose to fame after the release of his debut platinum-selling album, Devil Without a Cause, which marked a major turning point in his career. Before he became known as Robert James Ritchie, life looked quite different — he spent his early years helping out at his family’s orchard, picking apples and taking care of horses. To pass the time and escape the monotony, young Robert James Ritchie turned to music, particularly rap, and even taught himself how to breakdance, laying the foundation for his dynamic stage presence. Over the years, Robert James Ritchie’s personal life has drawn nearly as much attention as his music. He famously married actress Pamela Anderson on August 3, 2006, though their marriage ended just a few months later, with their divorce finalized on February 1, 2007. On a more lasting note, Robert James Ritchie shares a son, Robert James Ritchie Jr., with Kelly Russell, continuing the family name with the next generation. Through highs and lows, Robert James Ritchie has remained a distinctive figure in the world of rock music.
He was recognized as the top-selling solo artist of the 2000s according to Soundscan, and honestly, that’s no small feat. He really dominated the charts throughout that decade, consistently putting out hits that fans couldn’t get enough of. When you look at the numbers, it’s clear he stood out from the rest, and being named the top seller by Soundscan just confirms his massive impact. He wasn’t just popular—he was record-breaking. He set a benchmark that few could match, and his name became synonymous with success in the music industry during the 2000s. He truly defined an era.