Ep 2. Leela James

Leela James is the focus of this episode of UnSung season 17. The show delves into her life and career, charting the rise of the soulful R&B singer-songwriter.

Born in Los Angeles, California, Leela James was exposed to music from an early age. Her mother was a singer-songwriter, and her father played the bass guitar. James was inspired by the gospel and soul music that she heard in church, and she began singing at the age of six.

During her teenage years, James sang in various bands and honed her skills as a vocalist. She was eventually signed to a record label, but her debut album was not released. James persevered, however, and continued to work on her music.

In 2005, James released her debut album, A Change Is Gonna Come. The title track was a cover of a Sam Cooke song, and the album also featured original tracks written by James. A Change Is Gonna Come was well-received, and it established James as a force to be reckoned with in the R&B and soul music scene.

Over the years, James has continued to release music and tour extensively. She has collaborated with a range of artists, from Anthony Hamilton to Robert Randolph and the Family Band. James has also been a guest on several TV shows, including The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Good Morning America.

In this episode of UnSung, viewers get a closer look at James' life and career. Interviews with friends, family, and industry insiders shed light on James' journey. We learn about the challenges she has faced as a Black woman in the music industry, including being typecast as a particular type of artist.

Despite these challenges, James has continued to create music that is authentic and connects with audiences. She is known for her soulful voice, which is simultaneously powerful and vulnerable. Fans of James' music will appreciate the behind-the-scenes look at her life and career, which provides insight into the creative process that goes into making her music.

Overall, this episode of UnSung is a must-watch for fans of soul and R&B music. Leela James' story is one of resilience, creativity, and perseverance, and it serves as an inspiration to anyone who is pursuing their dreams.