Leroy Kirkland

Leroy Edward Kirkland (February 10, 1904 or 1906 – April 6, 1988) was an American arranger, bandleader, guitarist and songwriter whose career spanned the eras of big band jazz, R&B, rock and roll and soul.

Life and career Born in Columbia, South Carolina, in either 1904 or 1906 (sources differ), He joined Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey in the 1940s, Kirkland's co-composed number, "Something's Got a Hold on Me" was first recorded by Etta James in 1962.

Although behind the scenes for most of his career, Kirkland contributed to the recordings of musicians such as Etta James, Charlie Parker, Ella Fitzgerald, The Righteous Brothers, The Supremes, Brook Benton and the Five Satins. He worked on 1963's No. 1 hit "Our Day Will Come" by Ruby and the Romantics, whom he managed.

Kirkland died in New York City in 1988.