Leon Ware

Leon Ware, a talented songwriter, producer, and singer associated with Motown Records in the '60s and '70s, crafted a romantic soul music style that led to hits like "I Wanna Be Where You Are" by Michael Jackson and "I Want You" by Marvin Gaye. Despite working behind the scenes for nearly 50 years, Ware released over a dozen albums on labels such as United Artists, Gordy, Elektra, and Stax, including notable works like Leon Ware (1972), Rockin' You Eternally (1981), and Moon Ride (2008) on his own label, Kitchen. His songwriting credits extended to collaborations with Quincy Jones, Minnie Riperton, and others, establishing him as a quiet storm specialist in the industry.

Growing up in Detroit, Ware's association with Motown Records began early in his career, leading to successful collaborations with artists like the Isley Brothers and the Four Tops. His work on Quincy Jones' Body Heat album in the '70s marked a significant milestone, propelling him to further success as a songwriter and performer. Despite facing challenges with album releases, Ware's enduring impact as a soul music progenitor was recognized through reissues of his solo albums and collaborations with artists like Quadron in the 2010s. His legacy continued posthumously with the release of Rainbow Deux in 2019, showcasing his lasting influence on the music industry.