Leroy Emmanuel

Leroy Emmanuel often shares a telling story about his musical heritage—his parents met in their school band, both playing the violin. Born in Georgia, he moved to Detroit at the age of eight, where he was mesmerized by a local guitarist. Determined to follow his passion, he collected cans and bottles until he saved enough money to purchase his first guitar, a Stella from a pawn shop, for $17. By age 12, he was playing the blues at a hotel restaurant, earning a humble $2, a hamburger, and a cola. Those modest beginnings laid the foundation for a legendary career. Leroy went on to perform and record with some of Motown’s greatest artists, including Marvin Gaye, Stevie Wonder, David Ruffin, Gladys Knight, and blues icon ZZ Hill. In 1989, he co-founded LMT Connection with Mark Rogers and John Irvine, blending soul, R&B, and blues to create a signature sound across four albums. Over his illustrious career, Leroy has recorded for renowned labels such as Motown, Westbound, Holland-Dozier, Brunswick, Universal, and Stax, solidifying his place in music history.