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Turbo B
close-up profile of Turbo B wearing a black top and thick gold chain, with a black head covering, holding a microphone in one hand and appearing to perform
Turbo B in 2018
Background information
Birth name Durron Maurice Butler
Born (1967-04-30) April 30, 1967 (age 58)
Origin Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, US
Genres Eurodance, hip hop
Occupation(s) Rapper
Instruments Vocals
Years active 1990–present

Durron Maurice Butler (born April 30, 1967), known as Turbo B, is an American rapper and beatboxer. He became famous as the lead singer of the German electronic music group Snap!.

After serving in the United States Army in Germany, Turbo B toured with the group the Fat Boys. Soon after, the people behind Snap! discovered him. He helped create their popular albums World Power and The Madman's Return. These albums included huge number-one songs like "The Power" and "Rhythm Is a Dancer".

After leaving Snap!, Turbo B started his own music career. He also formed a group called Centory, which had several smaller hits. Turbo B still performs today with other artists who were popular in the 1990s. He has worked on songs with artists like Victoria Silvstedt, H-Blockx, Master Blaster, and Regi Penxten.

Turbo B's Early Life and Music Start

Durron Butler was born in McKeesport, Pennsylvania. He began his music journey as a drummer for a heavy metal band in his hometown. In July 1985, he joined the United States Army. He completed his basic training at Fort Dix. Then, he trained to become an ammunition specialist.

After his army training, he was sent to Friedberg, Germany. He joined the 60th Ordnance Company there. Once his army service ended, he returned to the US. However, he soon went back to Germany to tour with the Fat Boys.

How Turbo B Joined Snap!

In 1989, a DJ named Rico Sparx discovered Butler's rapping skills. Rico Sparx introduced him to Snap! producers Michael Münzing and Luca Anzilotti. They chose him to replace the vocals of another rapper, Chill Rob G, in their song "The Power". He picked the stage name Turbo B because it had been his nickname since he was a child.

Becoming Famous with Snap!

The song "The Power" became a massive hit around the world. Turbo B became well-known as the main singer of the group. To promote their first album, World Power, they went on many tours.

Big Hits and Leaving the Group

Before Snap!'s second album, The Madman's Return, came out in 1992, "Rhythm Is a Dancer" was planned as the first song to be released. However, Turbo B reportedly did not like this song. He wanted "Colour of Love" to be released instead. In December 1991, his wish came true. But "Colour of Love" did not become very popular in the UK and US.

After this, the producers insisted on releasing "Rhythm Is a Dancer." It became the group's second huge international hit. Turbo B left Snap! soon after this. He had disagreements with the group and its managers.

In 2000, Snap! and Turbo B worked together again for a short time. They released a song called "Gimme a Thrill." However, the song did not become popular. Their planned album, One Day on Earth, was never released.

Turbo B's Solo Career and Centory

After leaving Snap!, Turbo B started his own music career. He released his solo album, Make Way for the Maniac, in 1993. This album included songs like "I'm Not Dead," "Get Wild," "What You See," and "Nice & Smooth."

In 1994, he formed a new band called Centory. He was joined by Gary Carolla, Delgado, and Alex Trime. They released an album called Alpha Centory. This album had four songs that became minor hits in Europe. Turbo B toured with Centory after their success. He was not on their last song, a cover of Milli Vanilli's "Girl You Know It's True."

Turbo B did not release any more solo music until 2005. That year, his song "New Day" came out. He has also worked with many other artists. These include Victoria Silvstedt, H-Blockx, Master Blaster, and Regi Penxten.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Turbo B para niños

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