He was born in New York City, United States, and raised in Asbury Park, New Jersey, by his godparents, Eva and Robert Richardson.

When he was 16 years old, Welch participated in the initial rehearsal of The Mar-Keys in Asbury Park, his first time singing for another person.

[2] His biggest hit, a cover version of the big band standard "Since I Fell for You," reached number 4 on U.S.

"[1] He also recorded the first vocal version of "A Taste of Honey" in 1962 and performed the theme to the 1967 CBS TV series Coronet Blue.

[5] After Welch's recording career ended, he resumed his education, attending night school after driving a taxicab during the day.