There are two artists with this name: 1) Robert Parker (1930 – 2020) was an American R&B singer and musician best known for his 1966 hit, "Barefootin’". 2) Robert Parker is an artist make 80s synth-pop instrumental music. 1) Robert Parker (October 14, 1930 – January 19, 2020) was an American R&B singer and musician best known for his 1966 hit, "Barefootin’". Parker started his career as a saxophonist, playing with Professor Longhair on his hit "Mardi Gras In New Orleans" in 1949.