Ryan Leslie

About

Anthony Ryan Leslie (born September 25, 1978), professionally known as Ryan Leslie, is an American record producer, singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and rapper from Washington, D.C. He is founder of the Disruptive Multimedia and NextSelection Lifestyle Group. Leslie has produced singles for a number of artists in a variety of genres, ranging from R&B/hip hop to pop to gospel. From 2005-2006, he had his most commercial success to date with NextSelection/Bad Boy/Atlantic recording artist Cassie and her single "Me & U". Leslie's debut album, Ryan Leslie (2008), features the songs "Diamond Girl", "Addiction", and "How It Was Supposed To Be". He was nominated for a Grammy in 2011. Early life: His parents are Salvation Army officers who frequently relocate for work. Ryan's family are practicing Christians. Ryan has lived in various states, cities, and countries. At an early age, Leslie taught himself how to play the piano. He developed the ability to recite music, as well as arrange chords to create songs. At the age of 14, Leslie scored a 1600 on his SATs--a perfect score--while attending Bear Creek High School, in Stockton, CA. In 1993, he applied to four University of Calif…