Look up R&B-Jazz in the dictionary and you will find a picture of Les. He is not only musical, he is jazzical! Les is a seasoned entertainer, an accomplished pianist and keyboardist. His musical styles include; jazz, rhythm & blues, standards, and top 40.
He is an innovator, not an imitator.
My Story
Born and raised in Ewing Township, New Jersey, Les Paul was flooded with music from the Tri-State Area, the Philly sound, the New York groove, that DC funk as well as the Trenton rhythm. By the age of nine Les Paul knew his calling was the piano and the way he touched those keys were magical.
While working with Philadelphia International Records Les Paul added strings and horns to his musical arrangement repertoire. During his time at Philly International Les Paul was introduced to and became keyboardist for a new group, Love Committee (formerly The Ethics), where he shared his writing ability with Ron Tyson (now lead singer for The Temptations) on much of their music. Later, Les Paul joined TK Records and recorded “Moon Ride” and “It’s You Girl” with the group Universal Love.
Les Paul has traveled the globe playing with such groups as: Sister Sledge, Bonnie Pointer, Luther Ingram, and working as musical director for seven years with the one and only Mr. Billy Paul. Along with his mentor, Skip Scarborough (who taught him the music business and whom he credits for helping him to be the writer he is today), they co-wrote songs for Anita Baker and Edwin Hawkins.
The Reverend Rowe at Bethlehem Baptist Church in Trenton, New Jersey, is the person Les Paul credits for his gospel roots beginning in music. Les Paul says, “My love for the piano came once I learned my talent was a gift from God. I’ve always had passion for the music but once I realized the Lord was truly involved in my music and then having the chance Reverend Rowe gave me in church, it made me work even harder.” Getting his inspiration from the Creator above and being influenced by such greats as Herbie Hancock, Elton John, Joe Sample, Johnny Robinson, Gamble and Huff, and so many others whom he has played with and learned from along the way, Les Paul Roque is a musical force to be reckoned with.
Piano player/song writer/composer-when it comes to his music it all comes from the heart and his love and passion for what he does. Les Paul adds, “I am an energetic player and I produce and perform expressive music with a positive message. In my music you will hear some gospel, jazz, and funk.”
Grammy nominated for his CD “Dare 2B Dif’rent” Les Paul states, “I’m an originator and innovator, not a duplicator or imitator.”