Two Sides To Every Story
In three short years singer/songwriter LeRoy Bell has built a reputation and a national fan base that has eagerly awaited the release of his first full length CD, "TWO SIDES TO EVERY STORY".  A year in the making, this album delivers poignant songs of peace, passion, politics, lament, love and deceit.The bountiful 14 tracks reflect LeRoy’s visions, past hopes, and future promises told from the multiple perspectives of life. "TWO SIDES TO EVERY STORY" brings to light social issues, concerns, and compassion for everyone. With the hopes of youth, love (and lost love), and optimism for humanity, Bell speaks through his personal observations and musical lyricism. Written by LeRoy Bell over the past two and a half years, the social parallels can be drawn by the listener.The sonic stratification of multiple guitars, strings, percussion and bass provide the lush layers and textures that allow Bell’s earthy, soulful voice to whisper and soar with emotion. The honesty of his voice and lyrics makes you feel as if each song is being sung directly to each listener.Also featured on "TWO SIDES TO EVERY STORY" are "His Only Friends", Bell’s trusty band of veteran musicians. The soaring cello played by Phil Peterson is a familiar element in LeRoy’s non-traditional sound. Guitar virtuoso Rick Novito adds an uncommon approach to texture and lyrical statements ranging from folk, to jazz & rock. The heartbeat of the music is the dynamic, funky bass of Terry Morgan, paired with incredibly rhythmic pulsations of LeRoy Bell on drums, guitar, banjo, accordion and miscellaneous percussion. Multi-cultural percussionist Stan White, adds a world beat perspective to Bell’s impassioned vocals and melodies, completing the sound.This knack for artful songwriting has a vivid history. As half of the youthful songwriting team Bell & James , Casey James and LeRoy Bell are the authors of Elton John's Grammy-nominated 1979 Top Ten hit, "Mama Can't Buy You Love," and Elton’s 2004 #1 British single "Are You Ready For Love".  Bell and James also attained top ten status with the dance hit, "Livin’ It Up Friday Night".For LeRoy writing was his main focus over performing allowing him to collaborate with legendary songwriter/producer Thom Bell (his uncle) and Casey James, penning songs for The Spinners, The O’Jays, Rita Marley, The Temptations, Johnny Mathis, Phyllis Hyman and many more.Only recently has LeRoy surfaced as the singer/songwriter he is today. Gaining early acceptance and a warm reception, he has recently performed with B.B. King, Al Green,  Taj Mahal, Jackie Green, Keb Mo, LeAnn Rimes, The Temptations, The O’Jays, Mavis Staples, Colin Hay, Leon Russell, Sonny Landreth, Kenny Loggins, The Young Dubliners, and others.