Legendary Singer/ Songwriter The Great Leon Ware

Leon Ware, respected songwriter and producer of some of soul music’s most coveted recordings is in a somber, reflective mood. Touting. His latest collection, “Moonride” is trademark, smooth, soulful, romantic Ware, the kind of music that helped Ware craft his most noted recording, Marvin Gaye’s historic “I Want You” album in 1976. However, that album alone doesn’t do Ware, who remains largely unknown outside specialist soul music circles justice.

Born In Detroit, MI in 1940 it was natural that Ware would find his first home at Motown, writing for the likes of the Martha Reeves & The Vandellas, The Miracle, Kim Weston and Isley Brothers. Writing for Ike & Tina Turner’s 1971 album “‘Nuff Said” for United Artists landed Ware a solo deal at the label resulting in 1972’s self titled debut album, though his vocal career actually began 12 years earlier in 1960 with ABC Records.

However, Motown would provide Ware some of his most memorable successes. In the early ’70’s he formed a collaborative partnership with Diana Ross’ younger brother Arthur “T-Boy” Ross resulting in Michael Jackson’s “I Wanna Be Where You Are” (from the "Got To Be There" album) and of course, Marvin Gaye’s historic “I Want You”. Further collaborations throughout the decade with the likes of Minnie Riperton, AWB, Donny Hathaway, Quincy Jones, the Miracles, Bobby Womack.

What, perhaps, though is most compelling about Ware’s story is the longevity of his songwriting career. On into the ’80’s and ’90’s he has received songwriting credits for the likes of Loose Ends, Jeffrey Osborne, Teena Marie, James Ingram, Isley’s, Chico Debarge and Maxwell (“Sumthin’ Sumthin’”).