“I Want to Be Your Man” is a song by American musician and singer Roger Troutman. It was released in September 1987 as the lead single from his third studio album, “Unlimited!” Roger Troutman was a multi-talented musician, known for his distinctive use of the talk box, a device that modifies his voice to create unique vocal effects. The song topped the Billboard Hot R&B Singles chart and peaked at number three on the Billboard Hot 100. Internationally, the song reached number nine in the Netherlands, number 15 in Germany, number 18 in New Zealand, and number 27 in Canada. Upon its release, “I Want to Be Your Man” became a major success, topping the Billboard R&B chart and reaching the top 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s popularity solidified Roger Troutman’s status as a prominent figure in the R&B and funk music scenes of the late 1980s. It has been featured in films such as 2000’s Love & Basketball and has been sampled by numerous R&B and hip hop artists.
In addition to his successful solo career, Roger Troutman was a founding member of the influential funk band Zapp, known for hits like “More Bounce to the Ounce” and “Computer Love.” His innovative use of the talk box and contributions to funk and R&B music have left a lasting impact on the genre.
Tragically, Roger Troutman’s life was cut short when he was fatally shot in 1999. Despite his untimely passing, his music continues to be celebrated and remembered, and his influence on modern music remains significant. “I Want to Be Your Man” remains a timeless and romantic R&B classic, capturing the essence of Roger Troutman’s smooth vocals and innovative musical style. Its memorable melody and heartfelt lyrics have made it a favorite among fans of R&B and funk music.