Ryan Leslie

Ryan Leslie is a singer, rapper, record producer and multi-instrumentalist from Washington, D.C., United States. He is also a US songwriter and producer, and he founds the multimedia company NextSelection Lifestyle Group, alongside the related publishing arm NextSelection Music Publishing.

Background

Born in 1978, Leslie begins making his own recordings as a teenager because he cannot afford studio time or outside producers for his demos. He later graduates from Harvard in 1998 and spends time in the Boston area selling beats, working in community service, and recording at night.

In 2000 he works with Corey “Latif” Williams, producing a contest-winning track that leads to a performance at the Apollo Theatre in Harlem. The pair later secures a Motown deal, and Leslie continues developing his own work while also producing for other artists.

Production and label work

Leslie builds a reputation for a hands-on recording method that avoids programmed beats and relies on live playing and writing in the moment. He produces for artists including Cassie, Keri Hilson, Fabolous, Donell Jones, Cheri Dennis, Tanto Metro & Devonte, Loon, B5, Danity Kane, New Edition, Britney Spears, Cher and One Chance. He also works with major figures including Diddy and Usher.

His publishing deal with Tommy Mottola’s Aspen Songs strengthens his role as both an artist and behind-the-scenes producer. He also records with Universal, through Mottola’s imprint, and works closely with Diddy’s Bad Boy circle, including on the song “Hot 2 Nite” and the Loon single “Down For Me”.

Artist releases

Leslie starts work on his debut album, Just Right, in 2003, but the project is shelved after disagreements with his label. He later records and releases his self-titled debut album in 2009, followed by Transition later the same year.

His song “Me & U” for Cassie becomes a defining success in his career, reaching number one and helping establish the NextSelection name. He also writes and produces Cassie’s “Must Be Love” and helps shape her rise through an internet-driven campaign that makes her one of the first major artists to break through via MySpace.

Style and wider activity

Leslie’s work combines hip hop, R&B and dancehall, with his productions described through thick analogue synths, heavy drums and layered vocal harmonies. He is also associated with a broader management and online media strategy built around NextSelection, including support for developing production talent and entertainment sites.