Like almost all other vocalists tagged neo-soul, Leela James' primary inspirations date no later than the late '70s (Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, and Tina Turner are regularly cited). Her debut album involved assistance from a range of noted studio rats from the fields of rap and R&B, including Kanye West, Raphael Saadiq, James Poyser, Chucky Thompson, and Wyclef Jean. The album, titled A Change Is Gonna Come (a definite reference to Sam Cooke), was released in late June of 2005. ~ Andy Kellman, All Music Guide
