Roger Troutman (1951-1999) was an artist, songwriter, producer, and front man for the world-renowned funk band Zapp. He played a major role in the Ohio funk movement and heavily influenced West Coast hip-hop. Known for his innovative use of the talk box, a device that created unique vocal effects, he scored many funk and R&B hits throughout the 1980s and 1990s. The Troutman brothers planted their roots in Dayton and contributed to the vibrancy of the city, where Roger, Larry, Lester, Terry, and other musicians produced many gold and platinum sound recordings at Troutman Sound Labs. Roger remains celebrated by many friends and fans in Dayton and throughout the world, and his musical legacy lives on.