Leela James

Leela James’ career launched with her feature on The Roots’ song ‘Work’ for the 2000 Jamie Foxx film Bait soundtrack. She gained experience as an opening act, touring with The Black Eyed Peas and Macy Gray in 2004. That same year, James contributed vocals to Pete Rock’s album Soul Survivor II, and in 2005, collaborated with music icon Ray Charles on ‘Compared to What’ for his posthumously released album Genius & Friends. James released her debut album, A Change Is Gonna Come, in June 2005, with collaborations from Raphael Saadiq, Kanye West, and Wyclef Jean, and covers of No Doubt’s ‘Don’t Speak’ and Sam Cooke’s titular classic.

In the Spirit of Etta James in 2012, a tribute album. Her fifth studio album, Fall For You (2014), yielded two Billboard Urban AC chart successes: the title track and ‘Say That,’ featuring Anthony Hamilton, both reaching the Top 15. During this period, James also appeared in R&B Divas: Los Angeles Season 2 (2014) and Season 3 (2015). In 2017, James released her acclaimed sixth album, Did It for Love, which featured the single ‘Don’t Want You Back.’ This track hit number 1 on Billboard’s Adult R&B Songs chart, becoming her highest-charting single to date.

Her most recent album, Thought U Knew, was released in 2023. Looking ahead, Leela James continues to expand her influence. In 2024, she was inducted as an honorary member of the Zeta Phi Beta sorority, recognizing her significant impact and contributions. She is set to release her highly anticipated EP, 2BHONEST, in 2025, promising more of the powerful vocals and authentic musical style for which she is celebrated.