My condolences to James's family. I first met James in 2004 in New York City with my former manager, Lisa Osinloye who introduced us. James was in town for the SESAC awards and said that he wanted to meet me. James took us out to eat at world famous Shark Bar and it was like I had met a brother from another mother. His presence and demeanor was that of a humble King. We laughed and spoke about music for hours. While we ate the rapper LL Cool J walked in and was at the booth right next to us with music executives from Def Jam that James and I both knew and we laughed at how small the world is that God would allow us to have a meeting and would show us both that we were ment to be in that place at that exact moment and forge a bond. James helped me to get signed as a songwriter and music producer at SESAC and from that point on my life would never be the same. For 2 decades James mentored and guided my career. I never had anyone in the music business do that for me so unselfishly as James did. He helped me to establish my foot in film/tv as a film score composer and music supervisor. James guided me every step of the way. He’s the very reason why now I am a staff music producer for Tyler Perry Studios, a dream that I had, James helped to make come true. Our friendship was more than music or business, it was brotherhood. James always had this was about helping you to see the brightest side of things. He was an advocate for helping songwriters achieve and get what they deserve in the business. He was one of the most positive people I’ve ever come across in my life and career. It’s now coming up on a year since he transitioned and it still does not feel real to me. I will never forget you James. You made a difference in my life and my career. I will make sure that your legacy lives on and I will continue to fight for our music rights just as you did. Thank you my friend, my brother, my mentor and representative. Rest well my dear brother. 🫶🏽🌹🎼🎬
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2005, Westchester, NY, USA
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Memorial Service at Shepherd of the Hills Church 11/09/2024
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James was an amazing man. He is the reason I got hired at SESAC. He was always positive and never displayed anger. I will always remember him as a mentor and friend. There is no one who can replace him or step into his shoes, but I will do my best for his affiliates like I know he’d want me to. Rest easy James, you are loved and will forever be missed. ~ Lara
5
James was one of the few gentlemen out there that still opened the car door for you, pulled your chair out for you to sit and get up from his seat when you were getting up to go to the ladies room. I loved that about him.
5
5
Absolutely Perfect Memorial Service for James. So impressed and inspired by the love of his family members and associates. What an example he has been for us all. Godspeed James. Rex Benson
In response to "What always reminds you of James?"
4
James Leach and I have a friendship just shy of twenty years. We met in 2008 and he signed me to SESAC after hearing my songwriting.
We kept in touch through different seasons and changes in our lives, especially mine. James believed in me and saw my greatness as a vocalist, writer and business woman! However he could help, he pushed me forward and showed his support. James advocated for me without a thought, he didn’t gatekeep. If there was someone to connect me to or a resource, he was there. From sponsorships for my events to meetings. James answered or returned 99.9% of my calls.
Above all, we were friends. Those were the bulk of our exchanges. I’d call and talk his ear off lol, just check in. James is low key funny, so he’d throw out a line and I’d crrrrry laughing…
These tears today are full of disappointment and sadness. My friend is gone. 🥹
It is rare to connect with a man in the business who doesn’t try to abuse his influence or authority. James was raised right and he didn’t forget where he came from. He protected me from so much foolishness that lingers in this industry.
James was incredibly private and a man of faith, so I’m not surprised he didn’t tell me of his cancer. James 🥹
Enjoy Heaven my friend, I know your father greeted you!…and negro, you STILL ain’t gave me this book you bought me for my birthday 😂…I’m going to miss you 🙏🏾
James Leach is an intricate part of the success of SESAC and countless careers; and don’t any of you ever forget it. 🌺
Well done James 🥹
Forever remembering you,
Shiena 💜
4
My sincere condolences. I’ve been a SESAC writer for over 20yrs. So James was one of the first people I met. James was an INCREDIBLE HUMAN! He always had an encouraging word whenever we saw each other. As I watch the Celebration of Life from my couch in Atlanta, I can’t help but feel a connection. Your brothers, sisters, niece’s & nephews got me wishing I was in the family. Wow! Such a LOVING family. He will definitely be missed. I’ll pray God mend your broken hearts.
5
I’m still in awe…..James was so “nice” it’s hard to believe he’s gone. I will truly miss him!
4
I'm Hurt to see Guro James Leach pass away!!! He was TRULY a GOOD PERSON!!!
3
Butch was a wonderful person & friend he will be sincerely missed. Sending prayers of comfort to his family. Soon God will bring an end to sickness, sorrow & death. (Rev. 21:3,4) He will help the meek who are hoping in him to transform the earth into a paradise. (Psalms 37:9-11) At that time those asleep in the memorial tombs will be blessed with a promised resurrection at our King Jesus’ appointed time back to the paradise earth without the inheritance of sickness or death in God’s new world with forever in view. (Acts 24:15) The Lord’s Prayer talks about God’s kingdom that is in heaven also being here on our earth, this is the government that all mankind needs & longs for; providing equal justice for all. (Matthew 6:9,10) How wonderful it will be, because God has promised this hope for all mankind & he cannot lie! 💐💕💐
4
Peace, My condolences to James's family and friends. I first met James when working at various labels and we have known each other for over 30 years and through martial arts. James was a professional at all levels and very supportive in what made sense in terms of business of entertainment and development. It is never easy to say goodbye to an authentic person however may he forever rest in power and praise. Thank you for all your service and may those whom you have connected with stay connected to you in memory. PEACE LIFE ALLAH
3
James was a tremendous supporter of the Recording Academy's mission, and of me personally as a human being. He was a joy to be around - so warm and ever gracious toward all around him. Sending all of my love and prayers to his family. Please know he will be greatly missed by his friends and peers in the music industry.
4
Always with a smile. Always with Class and Dignity. One of the truly good guys. Miss you Brother.
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