It is with a heavy heart that we announce the passing of James Leach, a man whose immense contributions to the music industry leave a legacy that will be felt for years to come. The loss of someone like James is more than just a name on a list; it is the departure of a guiding force, someone who genuinely cared about lifting others as he climbed. In an industry where self-preservation often rules, James stood apart—he was not about “getting his” and moving on; he was committed to helping others reach their potential.
James was a rare gem, the kind of person who not only promised to help but always followed through. His word was as strong as his work ethic, and his integrity as deep as his care for the people around him. I had the privilege of many conversations with James over the years, particularly about SESAC, where he served as Vice President of Creative Operations. The insight he shared helped me better understand how to navigate the corporate world of performance rights organizations—especially in moments when my drive to push for more might have led me to make mistakes. He always stepped in with calm wisdom when I needed it most, even at times when I wasn’t asking for it.
In a career that spanned decades, James didn’t just contribute; he made a lasting impact. His leadership at SESAC and his dedication to songwriters and publishers went beyond the traditional roles expected of someone in his position. He wasn’t simply about signing names and closing deals. James was about connecting people, creating opportunities, and helping Black artists and industry professionals find their footing in a world that often doesn’t offer easy access. When you think of SESAC, you think of James Leach—it’s that simple. He was more than a connector; he was our connection.
His humility was striking. Despite his countless achievements, from helping launch SESAC’s west coast office to working with legends like George Clinton, Akon, and Harvey Mason Jr., James never made it about him. He quietly went about his work, influencing major shifts in the industry while remaining approachable and sincere. He never sought the spotlight, yet his contributions were impossible to ignore.
I was unaware that James was ill—he never discussed it with me, and in hindsight, I believe that’s because he didn’t want anyone to worry. That was the kind of person he was—selfless, even in the face of adversity. He kept moving, doing what he did best: helping others and making sure the music industry he loved was a better place for all of us.
James Leach leaves behind a tremendous void, not only at SESAC, where he cultivated relationships, recruited talent, and shaped the landscape of the creative services team, but also within the hearts of all who had the honor of working with him. From his early days at Michael Jackson’s prestigious ATV Music Group, handling iconic catalogs like The Beatles and Little Richard, to his time at Famous Music, where he signed Akon, James’s career is marked by profound achievements and a spirit of generosity that is rare in this business.
We will miss him deeply. The phones will ring, as they always do, asking for more details, but what we’ve shared here is all we will provide. His work, his memory, and his impact on the industry speak far more eloquently than any additional words we could offer.
Rest in peace, James. You have left an indelible mark on this industry, and we are all better for having known you.