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Born in London, England, and raised in Los Angeles, California, Leon Rubenhold’s musical journey spans a wide range of experiences. From serving as the lead guitarist for R&B icons Wilson Pickett, Bobby Womack, and David Ruffin, to writing music for soundtracks, artists, and bands, his career has been anything but ordinary. Leon got his start at 17, joining The Outlaw Blues Band, a group that played the vibrant club scene and outdoor “Love-in” concerts in L.A. during the “Peace, Love, and Flowers” era. The band recorded two albums for ABC’s Bluesway label under the guidance of the legendary jazz producer Bob Thiele (John Coltrane, Buddy Holly, Impulse Records). Leon contributed original material, co-writing many of the band’s tracks. One of these songs, “Deep Gully,” was famously sampled by De La Soul and Cypress Hill, and became a major hit in 1993. Both albums have experienced a resurgence online thanks to a reissue label.
Following this, Leon joined a new original band, which caught the attention of Little Feat’s Lowell George. With George’s production and mentorship, the band was introduced to Earl McGrath of Rolling Stone Records, leading to a signing with a new label under Atlantic Records Chairman Ahmet Ertegun. After months of hard work, Leon, along with Lowell George and the rest of the band, crafted a dozen original songs. Unfortunately, the label went out of business, leading to the disbandment of the group. Leon then returned to his roots, working as a freelance guitarist, recording and touring. During this time, he crossed paths with songwriter and producer Deke Richards. Over the next few years, they collaborated on writing and recording for artists such as the Four Tops, Marin Jahan, and for various TV and movie soundtracks.
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