Today, we pause to honor the life, legacy, and unmatched genius of Roger Troutman — born November 29, 1951, and gone too soon on April 25, 1999.
Roger wasn’t just a musician — he was a visionary. As the frontman of Zapp, he revolutionized the sound of funk with his signature talkbox, creating a sonic blueprint that shaped R&B, hip-hop, and West Coast music for decades. His sound became the heartbeat behind classic hits, party anthems, and some of the most sampled tracks in music history.
From “Computer Love” to “More Bounce to the Ounce,” his creativity pushed boundaries and brought a futuristic feel to Black music long before its time. Artists across generations — from 2Pac to Dr. Dre to modern-day creatives — continue to build on the foundation he laid.
Though we lost him far too early, Roger Troutman’s influence is everlasting. His music still rings out in clubs, cookouts, old-school sets, and late-night slow jams — keeping his spirit alive every time that talkbox hum hits the speakers.
89.9 KMOJ – The People’s Station salutes a true innovator, a musical architect, and a legend whose sound remains timeless.
Rest in power, Roger Troutman.
Your bounce, your vibe, and your genius will forever live on.