We were lucky to catch up with Leo Williams recently and have shared our conversation below.

Leo , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?

Thank you for having me here. It’s truly exciting to contribute my stories and insights to this platform. The journey from idea to execution has been a remarkable one, filled with twists, turns, and moments of revelation.

My voyage began in 1994 when I took my first steps into the music world as a one-man street team in Memphis. Those early days were a whirlwind of learning and networking, and soon enough, I found myself in the heart of the street and club scene. This period laid the foundation for my deep-rooted connection with the music industry.

One pivotal moment occurred when I crossed paths with Rusty Batts, the owner of Free-Toes Studio. His offer to explore the world of sound recording sparked a fire in me. Witnessing the intricate process of music production gave me insights that would shape my entire journey. It was during this time that I realized my niche, the intricate dance between creative concept and tangible sound.

As I delved deeper, my network expanded to include notable Memphis rappers like Three-six-Mafia, Kingpin Skinny Pimp, Playa Fly, and DJ Squeaky, among others. These connections enriched my understanding of the industry’s dynamics and laid the groundwork for future collaborations.

Managing acts like Lil Shank and Chrome marked a significant turning point. These artists became not just projects, but partnerships where I channeled my skills in nurturing talent and fostering growth. Yet, challenges arose, testing my resilience. It was during these trials that I turned to gospel music, an unexpected but potent move that showcased my adaptability and strategic thinking.

The music world, however, is not bound by genres alone. The discovery of Marius Scott’s talent and the partnership with R&B artist Frankie DeCarlos expanded my horizons. Together, we ventured into uncharted territories, blending artistry and business acumen. Frankie DeCarlos’s album “Human Man,” released in 2007, and Marius Scott’s album “Turn It Over To The Lord,” released in 2006, stand as testament to our collective pursuit of musical excellence.

The pinnacle of this journey arrived in 2023 with the release of Lil Shank’s album “Still Relevant.” This achievement encapsulated years of dedication, collaboration, and unwavering belief in the power of music to transcend boundaries.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

Hello, I’m Leo Williams, the creative force behind Lepo Entertainment. My genuine passion for music has driven me to not only make my mark in the entertainment world but also to leave a lasting impact on the music industry. It all began back in 1994 when I started making a name for myself as a sought-after promoter in the vibrant street and club scenes. Collaborating with both well-established global record labels and unique independent entities, I’ve woven a path that resonates with meaning.

Through challenges and triumphs, I’ve skillfully managed remarkable talents like gospel artist Marius Scott and R&B artist Frankie DeCarlos, nurturing their growth. Beyond these musical realms, I’ve also taken the journey of guiding Lil Shank, leading to the much-awaited release of his album “Still Relevant” in the year 2023.

Can you share a story from your journey that illustrates your resilience?

Amidst the chapters of my music career, a defining moment emerged that showcased my unwavering resilience. The year was 2003, a time when the winds of fortune took an unfavorable turn for Lepo Entertainment. Lil Shank, an artist I was managing and believed in deeply, found himself entangled in legal troubles that led to his unfortunate imprisonment. Many might have seen this as a crushing blow, an insurmountable obstacle, but for me, it was an opportunity to exemplify my tenacity.

In the face of adversity, I chose not to yield. Instead, I transformed this setback into a turning point for my company. I recognized that in times of uncertainty, adaptability was paramount. This realization led me to explore a genre I hadn’t previously ventured into – gospel music. This strategic pivot wasn’t just a response to challenges; it was a testament to my ability to navigate uncharted waters with courage and creativity.

During this transition, I encountered Marius Scott, a remarkable singer hailing from Memphis. His talent shone brightly, and as I delved into the world of gospel music, I uncovered my latent skill for songwriting. This revelation was an unexpected treasure amidst the trials, and it culminated in my significant contribution to Marius’s album, “Turn It Over To The Lord,” released in 2006.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

My strong reputation in the market was built on my exceptional ability to identify and nurture raw musical talent, forging partnerships with renowned record labels, and guiding artists across various genres to successful album releases. This journey of resilience and dedication has earned me recognition as a visionary within the ever-evolving music landscape.

Contact Info:

• Website: LepoEntertainment.com

Image Credits
Medium Ink & Company, & J Cash photos.