Spotlight: Leela James

MODERATED BY APPLE MUSIC’S WALTER J TUCKER

The GRAMMY Museum is thrilled to welcome GRAMMY Award-nominated artist Leela James to the Museum’s intimate 200-seat Clive Davis Theater for an evening discussing her upcoming music, latest single, Right on Time, creative process, and more, with a special performance to follow.

With a voice that’s raw, powerful, and unmistakably soul-stirring, Leela James has carved out a singular space in music where classic soul meets contemporary R&B. Since her breakout debut A Change Is Gonna Come in 2005, Leela has earned a reputation for blending deep, emotive storytelling with gritty vocals and timeless grooves. Influenced by legends like Aretha Franklin, Al Green, and Chaka Khan, she channels the spirit of old-school soul while fearlessly pushing musical boundaries.

Early in her career, she was honored by the legendary James Brown, who affectionately coined her “The Goddaughter of Soul,” recognizing her authentic voice and powerful connection to the roots of the genre.

Ms. James has gone on to record and release seven LPs, delivering seven Top 20 R&B radio singles, including two Number One tracks on the Billboard charts. Her 2021 single “Complicated” topped the Billboard Adult R&B Songs chart for three consecutive weeks in the summer of that year, solidifying her reputation as a force in contemporary soul.

Her beloved ballad “Fall For You” is now considered a modern classic and was certified Gold in October 2022, surpassing 500,000 units sold. Over the years, her music, including hits like “Don’t Want You Back” and “Say That” featuring Anthony Hamilton, has become synonymous with passion, authenticity, and emotional honesty.

In 2014, Leela won The Soul Train Certified Award, and in 2021, she garnered an NAACP Image Award nomination for Best R&B Collaboration. She earned another NAACP nomination in 2025 for her powerful single “Lookat Whatcha Done Now” featuring Kenyon Dixon, further cementing her role as a vital and enduring voice in modern soul.

Known for her electrifying live performances, Leela brings a fierce authenticity to the stage, connecting with audiences through her honest lyrics and unmatched vocal fire. Whether delivering a smooth ballad or an upbeat anthem, she sings with the kind of depth and conviction that only comes from living the music.

A true artist in every sense, Leela James continues to evolve while staying rooted in the rich traditions of soul. With each project, she reaffirms her place as one of the most compelling voices of her generation with a bold, unapologetic, and full of soul.

BAG POLICY: please note that only bags 9 inches x 6 inches and smaller will be allowed for this event. Vinyl, memorabilia, gifts, etc. will also not be allowed inside the building.  

*Physical Valid ID Necessary for check-in.

Member Check – In: 6:30pm

Nonmember Check – In / Doors: 7:00pm

Show Time: 7:30pm

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BAG POLICY: please note that only bags 9 inches x 6 inches and smaller will be allowed for this event. Vinyl, memorabilia, gifts, etc. will also not be allowed inside the building.   

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The holder of this ticket is granted admission to the indicated facility for the purpose of viewing the specified event. This ticket is for use by the holder only and the holder is bound by this policy. This ticket is not transferable and may not be sold, otherwise conveyed or used for any other purpose, including promotion or commercial, without the prior written consent of The Recording Academy. If this ticket is sold, otherwise conveyed or used in violation of this policy, it will be deemed revoked and void, and its holder deemed a trespasser at all Recording Academy events. This ticket is a revocable license and admission may be refused by refunding the face amount of the ticket or ejection may occur for failure to comply with any facility rule. The holder agrees not to transmit or aid in transmitting any description, picture, recording or reproduction of the event. The holder acknowledges that the event may be captured and recorded by audio, audiovisual, and/or photographic means, and hereby grants permission to utilize the holder’s image and/or voice in any and all media now known or hereafter devised to further the interests and mission of the Recording Academy. It is unlawful to reproduce this ticket in any form. The Holder assumes all risks incidental to the event, whether occurring prior to, during or after the event, and releases the facility, management, all participants and each of their affiliates, employees, officers, directors, members, partners, owners, managers, sponsors, contractors and agents from any loss, damage or expense resulting from any such risk. The Recording Academy reserves all legal rights and remedies. Save money on ticketing fees next time by becoming a GRAMMY Museum member! More info at grammymuseum.org.

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