The Musical Mind of a Genius... Ryan Leslie
With the release of his long anticipated self titled LP, Ryan Leslie is finally reaping the benefits of a long journey. With all the hits that he has produced for others, it is finally time for this star to shine alone. This boy genius, graduating from Harvard University at the age of 19, also took an interest in music as well as academic studies. After years in the background as a producer, Ryan took a shot at being a singer in late 2004. Leslie signed a recording contract with Universal Records when he was an unknown artist. In 2003, he began recording his debut album, to be entitled Just Right. He released two singles off the album, "The Way That U Move Girl" and "Used 2 Be" featuring rapper Fabolous, but the songs did not chart. Due to the singles performing poorly in the U.S., the album was shelved indefinitely. With all the work he has put in over the years it's hard to believe that Mr. Leslie could be overwhelmed at the site of his poster plastered on the streets of Harlem.
However, after speaking with him I realised what a humble soul he is. I reached out to a few sources before I got a contact for Rich Dollars, Ryan's manager, and set up a chance for a quick interview after the 9pm R. Les show at S.O.B.'s. The March 11th show was sold out with barely room to move in the venue that serves as a landmark stop for artists of all genres. The audience was in for quite a show and from the crowd when I arrived it appeared they knew it too. On a day that had been drizzled with rain, night fell and the air was crisp, dry and electric.
Although I got there a few minutes early so did everybody else and I stepped in and could move no further. I soon got settled in and waited for the show to start. From beginning to end Mr. Leslie brought the type of energy that puts many of his peers to shame. 
Unlike many in his genre who have tried to move a crowd Ryan put the "show" in showmanship. R&B songstress Jazmine Sullivan was in the house as well as Usher who came on stage for an impromptu performance towards the end of the show. Accompanied by a live band, R. Les commanded the stage like a veteran and keep the crowd wanting more. His performance was a sweat drenched two hour show of hits. I had already purchased his album and was quite familiar with his work as was most of the crowd who sang along, tune after tune. Overall, its was a great night and a remarkable performance. Ryan Leslie genuinely looked as if he loved every moment of his performance as much as the audience did. If you ever wondered if his show would be worth seeing then I'll confirm it now, you don't want to miss it. For more information you can check out Ryan at his official website www.ryanleslie.com.
Ryan Leslie speaks of the need for a reformed music industry and the power and necessity of education. Here's the scoop:
Usher joins Ryan for an impromptu performance. Here's a few clips.
