*Sadly, we must report the passing of of a soul singer who never really achieved the success and acclaim commensurate with his talent.
We’re referring to DeWayne Julius Rogers better known as DJ Rogers. He was 72.
Here’s more on Rogers via Soul Tracks which was the first media outlet to report Rogers’ passing.
Rogers had a string of popular R&B albums in the 70s and several songs that are revered more than four decades after their release, including the beautiful ballad “Say You Love Me” (later recorded by Natalie Cole) and the dramatic midtempo top 20 hit, “Love Brought Me Back.” During that decade he recorded on the RCA, Total Experience and Columbia labels, each time delivering solid performances and memorable songs. He also worked with Deniece Williams, Maurice White and Patrice Rushen.
By the 90s and into the new millennium, Rogers was principally performing Gospel music. We last heard from him in 2012, when he contributed his recognizable vocals to the hit “Whoa to Wow” with Renee Spearman.
Rogers was part of a community of talented artists who brought both gospel and jazz sensibilities to 70s R&B, in many ways pre-dating the adult soul movement that would dominate much of mid-80s urban radio. His contribution was far more significant than his fame, and he is to be thanked for helping usher in a particularly rich era for soul music. He will be missed.
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As of this posting there is no information as to DJ Rogers’ cause of death.
You can leave your comments and condolences at DJ Rogers’ Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1085108701
