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"I've got to do my own thing / Fly my own way / Solve my own puzzle / I know it will be all mine / And I can't worry about what you think..." - D.J. Rogers
The universal order of sacred and secular music ministry has lost one of its mightiest messengers upon the passing of DeWayne Julius Rogers, better known as singer/songwriter/producer "D.J. Rogers." The music hero to many died of heart failure at age 72. The very first song on his very first self-titled album in 1973 declared, "Listen to the Message." And through his divinely scribed works of sumptuous melody, driving rhythm and inspirational rhyme, D.J. lifted spirits, tuned minds to higher planes, mentored the next generation and saved many a life.. .including his own.
D.J. Rogers is best known for composing, singing, producing and arranging one of the most poignant ballads of '70s Soul: "Say You Love Me." This achingly vulnerable and sincere slice of Gospel-rooted R&B devotion - introduced on D.J.'s benchmark sophomore album, "It's Good to Be Alive" (RCA - 1975) - was later recorded by Natalie Cole, Jennifer Holliday, CeCe Rogers and DanishAmerican star, Zindy. The song was also sampled, 'chopped-n-screwed' style, for the hit single/video "I Don't ···· With You" by rapper Big Sean.
Though Rogers' road in life and music was landmined with setbacks, he steadily pressed on to the beat of his own drum.
DeWayne Julius Rogers was the first born of four brothers and a sister - all but one born in Los Angeles. His father, Reverend Julius Cesar Rogers, was a minister, singer and choir director. D.J.'s mother was Eula. Upon Eula's passing, the senior Rogers married Wanda Rogers who helped raise all of his children.
D.J. Rogers started singing at age 3 and later...