BIOGRAPHY
Zapp was formed in Dayton, Ohio, in 1977, and the original lineup consisted of the Troutman family members: Roger Troutman (vocals, guitar, talk box), Larry Troutman (percussion), Lester Troutman (drums), Terry "Zapp" Troutman (bass), and Gregory Jackson (keyboards).
The band's distinctive sound was heavily influenced by the funk and soul movements of the time, and Roger Troutman's mastery of the talk box became a defining element of their music. The talk box, combined with Roger's smooth vocals and the band's tight instrumentation, created a futuristic and funky sound that set Zapp apart in the R&B and funk landscape.
Zapp's self-titled debut album was released in 1980 and featured the hit single "More Bounce to the Ounce." The song's success propelled Zapp into the mainstream, and it became a classic in the funk genre. The album also included other funk staples like "Be Alright" and "Freedom."
Throughout the 1980s, Zapp released several albums, including "Zapp II" (1982), "Zapp III" (1983), and "The New Zapp IV U" (1985). These albums produced hits such as "Doo Wa Ditty (Blow That Thing)" and "Computer Love." Zapp's music was characterized by its infectious grooves, funky basslines, and Roger Troutman's distinctive vocals delivered through the talk box.
In addition to their success as a band, Roger Troutman embarked on a solo career and continued to collaborate with various artists. His solo hit "I Want to Be Your Man" further solidified his status as a funk icon.
Tragically, in 1999, Roger Troutman was fatally shot by his brother Larry in a murder-suicide. The shocking event marked the end of an era for Zapp and the Troutman family.
Despite the tragic loss, Zapp's influence endured, and their music continued to be sampled and appreciated by subsequent generations of artists. The talk box became a signature sound in the worlds of R&B, hip-hop, and electronic music, cementing Zapp's legacy as pioneers of funk and innovators in the use of vocal effects in popular music.