Walter Bridgforth Jr. is known to many as the former husband of famous jazz singer Anita Baker, but his story goes far beyond this connection. He is a successful businessman, real estate developer, and community leader who made important contributions to Detroit’s economic growth. While his marriage to one of music’s greatest voices brought him public attention, Bridgforth built his own path through hard work and dedication.
Quick Bio Table
| Full Name | Walter Bridgforth Jr. |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | September 27, 1959 |
| Place of Birth | Detroit, Michigan, USA |
| Profession | Businessman, Real Estate Developer |
| Known For | President of WBBJ Rental Properties, Former spouse of Anita Baker |
| Marriage | Anita Baker (1988-2007) |
| Children | Walter Baker Bridgforth (born 1993), Edward Carlton Bridgforth (born 1994) |
| Notable Achievement | First African American to develop residential complex in Grosse Pointe Farms |
Early Life and Background
Walter Bridgforth Jr. was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, in 1959. He grew up in a family that valued music and faith. His father served as a pastor, while his mother taught piano lessons. This musical environment shaped his early years, though he would choose a different path in business and real estate. Growing up in Detroit taught him the importance of hard work and community service, values that would guide his professional life.
Professional Career
Bridgforth built an impressive career in business and real estate development. He worked as a marketing executive at IBM before becoming President of WBBJ Rental Properties in 1997. His company focused on real estate development and bringing investment opportunities to Detroit. His vision was to help restore the city’s economy by attracting national businesses.
Bringing IHOP to Detroit
One of Bridgforth’s proudest achievements was convincing International House of Pancakes to open a restaurant in Detroit. It took two years of hard work to make it happen, as many national restaurant chains had avoided urban areas. The Detroit IHOP brought in more than $2 million in its first year, far exceeding typical earnings. This success proved Detroit was a strong market and encouraged other businesses to invest in the city.
Real Estate Pioneer
Bridgforth made history by becoming the first African American to develop a residential complex in Grosse Pointe Farms, an exclusive Michigan area. The development, called Baker Lane Estates (named after his wife), was a four-lot lakefront subdivision that broke down racial barriers while improving Detroit.
Marriage to Anita Baker
Walter Bridgforth Jr. met Anita Baker at a Detroit nightclub during her Rapture tour. They married on December 24, 1988, and settled into a 15-room home in Grosse Pointe. During their marriage, Walter supported Anita’s music career while managing his own businesses. The couple faced challenges, including a heartbreaking miscarriage in 1989.
Their Two Sons
After consulting medical specialists for high-risk pregnancies, the couple welcomed Walter Baker Bridgforth in January 1993 and Edward Carlton Bridgforth in May 1994. Both sons inherited their mother’s musical talent. Walter was an active father who worked to provide a stable environment for his children despite being in the public eye.
The Bridgforth Foundation
Together with Anita, Walter started the Bridgforth Foundation, which committed to paying for the first two years of college or vocational school for 25 students from Barry Elementary School in Detroit. This charitable work showed their dedication to helping young people get better education opportunities.
Divorce and Legal Challenges
After nearly two decades together, the couple separated in 2005 and finalized their divorce in 2007. The divorce involved some legal difficulties over financial matters, including music royalties, which led to court proceedings in 2010. Both Walter and Anita moved forward, focusing on co-parenting their sons and their individual goals.
Life After Divorce
Since the divorce, Bridgforth has continued focusing on his business interests. He remains owner of WBBJ Properties of Michigan, working in real estate development and bringing businesses to Detroit. Walter enjoys golf and maintains a relatively private lifestyle while staying connected with his sons, both talented musicians.
Legacy and Impact
Walter Bridgforth Jr.’s story goes beyond being married to a famous singer. He believed in Detroit when others had given up. His work bringing IHOP to Detroit proved urban communities could support successful businesses. His real estate developments in Grosse Pointe Farms broke racial barriers.
Bridgforth showed that success comes from persistence and vision. He spent two years convincing IHOP to give Detroit a chance, and the restaurant became highly successful. Today, he continues his work in real estate and business, remaining a respected businessman in Detroit and devoted father.
Conclusion
Walter Bridgforth Jr. is a successful businessman who made significant contributions to Detroit’s economy. While his marriage to Anita Baker brought public attention, his real legacy lies in bringing businesses to Detroit, developing real estate as the first African American in exclusive Grosse Pointe Farms, and supporting education through the Bridgforth Foundation.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is Walter Bridgforth Jr.?
Walter Bridgforth Jr. is a Detroit-based businessman and real estate developer. He is the President of WBBJ Rental Properties and is known for being the first African American to develop a residential complex in Grosse Pointe Farms. He is also recognized as the former husband of legendary singer Anita Baker.
2. How long were Walter Bridgforth Jr. and Anita Baker married?
Walter Bridgforth Jr. and Anita Baker were married for nearly 20 years. They got married on December 24, 1988, separated in 2005, and finalized their divorce in 2007.
3. What is Walter Bridgforth Jr.’s biggest business achievement?
One of his biggest achievements was successfully convincing International House of Pancakes (IHOP) to open a restaurant in Detroit. The restaurant earned over $2 million in its first year and became one of the top-performing IHOP locations in the country, proving that Detroit was a strong market for family-style restaurants.
4. How many children does Walter Bridgforth Jr. have?
Walter Bridgforth Jr. has two sons with Anita Baker: Walter Baker Bridgforth (born January 1993) and Edward Carlton Bridgforth (born May 1994). Both sons are talented musicians.
5. What does Walter Bridgforth Jr. do now?
Walter Bridgforth Jr. continues to work in real estate as the owner of WBBJ Properties of Michigan. He focuses on business development and bringing national restaurant chains and other investments to Detroit. He also enjoys golf and maintains a relatively private life while staying active in his community.
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