Leslie Mendelson

Leslie Mendelson

Leslie Mendelson is a singer-songwriter from the United States, originally from New York. Her music draws on influences including Carole King and Laura Nyro. She develops an interest in music in early childhood, encouraged by her father, who is a trumpet player and music teacher.

Early work and New York scene

Mendelson begins performing her own songs with Mother Freedom, a Long Island funk-rock group with which she records an album. In the spring of 2002, she moves to New York City and starts focusing on songwriting. She becomes involved in Manhattan’s downtown music scene and takes part in the New York Songwriters Circle.

Solo releases and recording

In 2005, Mendelson self-releases her first solo CD, Take It As You Will. This leads to the involvement of jazz and R&B producer Joel Dorn, who helps record a new set of demos and supports her in securing a recording deal with Rykodisc.

Her album Swan Feathers is released on Rykodisc and features producer and arranger Rob Mounsey, who has worked with artists including Madonna, Paul Simon, Diana Krall, Steely Dan and Brian Wilson. The album also includes contributions from songwriter Steve McEwan, who plays guitar and co-writes several songs with Mendelson; James Maddock, leader of the English band Wood, who also contributes guitar; bassist Rich Hammond, who has worked with Nellie McKay and Raul Midon; and drummers Aaron Comess and Ben Wittman.

Recognition

Mendelson is named iTunes’ featured artist for the Discovery Download program in the week of the album’s release.