Reggie Warren, member of the R&B group TROOP (Total Respect Of Other People), passed away over the weekend. According to TMZ report, the singer — who suffered from several health issues over the years — died in his Pasadena home among loved ones. He was 52 years old.
Warren was reportedly hospitalized for a couple months back in January but was released with the expectation he would die, per a representative for TROOP. The family is awaiting autopsy results to ensure that the correct cause of death is disclosed. He did not die from COVID-19.
In the 1980s, Warren teamed up with childhood friends Rodney Benford, John Harreld, Steve Russell and Allen McNeil to form the group TROOP, who later signed to Atlantic Records. Under the label, they released several albums, but their second project, Attitude, produced their most notable hits, “All I Do is Think of You” and “Spread My Wings.”
After landing a platinum album, three gold albums and three number one singles, the collective — who paved the way for the New jack swing era — took a brief hiatus before reuniting in the 2000s. They performed in concerts featuring Boyz II Men, Keith Sweat, Jon B and Brian McKnight, and attended various public events together.
Unfortunately, however, despite the past success of the group, Warren — whose income started dwindling in 2014 — was struggling financially before he passed. According to TMZ, his family reportedly set up a GoFundMe with hopes to raise $30,000 for funeral and hospital expenses. The singer’s fiancée plans to step in and help organize the fundraiser.
The news of Warren’s death prompted several touching tributes honoring the life of the late singer. In a loving message to his group member, Russell wrote, “Job well done my brother I will see you on the other side. RIP Reggie Warren. #DamnReggie.”
Hit-Boy paid homage by dedicating his recent Grammy win to the TROOP star. “Bittersweet moment for me. I’m dedicating this years Grammy for Best Rap Album to Reggie Warren from the legendary R&B group troop who sadly passed away today,” the producer captioned his Instagram post.