Leon Ware

Leon Ware (February 16, 1940 – February 23, 2017) was an American songwriter, producer, composer and singer. He was best known for co-writing and producing material for artists such as Marvin Gaye, Michael Jackson, Maxwell, Minnie Riperton, and Quincy Jones.

Ware began his career in the 1960s as a songwriter, penning tracks for artists like Ike & Tina Turner and The Isley Brothers. He secured his first major success with the song "I Wanna Be Where You Are," co-written with T-Boy Ross, which became a hit for Michael Jackson in 1972.

In 1976, Ware released his debut solo album, Musical Massage, which showcased his distinctive soulful vocals and sensual songwriting style. Although not commercially successful upon initial release, Musical Massage became a cult classic and is now considered a seminal work in the quiet storm subgenre of R&B.

Throughout his career, Ware continued to write and produce for other artists, including Marvin Gaye, with whom he collaborated on the unreleased album I Want You, later reworked and released by Gaye in 1976. Ware also released several other solo albums, including Inside Is Love (1979), Rockin' You Eternally (1981), and Taste the Love (1995).

Ware's influence on contemporary R&B and soul music is significant. He is recognized for his sophisticated songwriting, smooth vocals, and his ability to create intimate and sensual musical atmospheres. His work has been sampled and covered by numerous artists, cementing his legacy as a key figure in the development of modern soul music.