R.I.P. TROOP co-founding member Reggie Warren at 52

(March 15, 2021) We are sad to inform SoulTrackers of the death of Reggie Warren, one of the founding members of hit R&B group Troop, at age 52.

The Pasadena, California-based act consisted of longtime friends Steve Russell, Allen McNeil, John Harreld, Rodney Benford, and Warren, and named their band after the honorable acronym  TROOP, or Total Respect Of Other People.

After winning a televised talent contest, TROOP was signed by Atlantic Records and came out of the box hot in 1988 with the charttopping single “Mamacita” and a hit debut album. The followed the next year with two #1 hits, “Spread My Wings” and “All I Do Is Think of You” from the smash album Attitude. The success continued in 1992 with the album Deepa and another #1 smash, Sweet November.”

After two more album releases, TROOP disbanded in 1998, with group members doing separate projects. Russell, in particular, had success as a songwriter for other acts such as Jordin Sparks and Chris Brown.

TROOP reunited in 2004 and have been working on and off together for a decade and a half – often touring in multi-artist shows -  while also pursuing solo work.

Warren had reportedly been ill for some time, but it is difficult to see such a young, talented man pass. He will be remembered fondly by a generation of music fans for helping to create one of the most beloved acts of their time. Rest in peace.