Meyers Leonard’s Journey to the Stage: From NBA Star to Country Music Artist
A Night to Remember
On a warm and humid Saturday evening, Meyers Leonard took a deep breath behind the temporary stage set in a tree-lined field five miles south of Robinson, Illinois. This was not just any night; it was his debut concert, and the anticipation was palpable. The stage was adorned with the Stars and Stripes on one side and a vibrant orange Block I flag on the other, a nod to both his roots and his new musical journey. As music filled the air and the crowd buzzed, Leonard stole a moment to himself, looking out at a crowd nearing 1,000. Family, friends, and fans gathered not just to witness a concert, but to support a local hero as he embarked on a new chapter of his life.
Finding His Feet on Stage
Meyers, a towering 7-foot-1 athlete known for his time in the NBA, had traded his basketball for a guitar. "It’s a different feeling to get up on stage and entertain,” he shared, acknowledging the nerves that came with his performance. His best friend Cody Chamblin snapped a photo of the crowd, capturing the sheer joy radiating from the audience as they prepared to welcome Leonard’s musical debut.
As he stepped onto the stage, any initial fears he had melted away. “I know that my family and friends will always be real with me,” he stated, reflecting on their supportive feedback after his initial songs.
Opening Act with Heart
Leonard kicked off the night with “Southern Illinois Boys,” an original that resonated deeply, reflecting his connections to his closest friends and the community that shaped him. Fans could expect a mix of heartwarming originals and covers of popular country hits, from Toby Keith to Johnny Cash, showcasing Leonard’s deep voice and newfound talent.
The response from the crowd was overwhelmingly positive. Douglas McKinney raved, “He gave more than our money’s worth,” emphasizing the connection fans felt with Leonard as he entertained them with a nearly three-hour show that lasted well into the night.
Crafting Personal Narratives through Music
Leonard’s journey into music stemmed from a deep desire to share his story. His songs are a reflection of his life experiences, filled with joy, pain, and everything in between. He expressed his hope that listeners would feel they could have a conversation with him through his music.
One of the standout moments of the night was when Leonard introduced “Beer in Heaven,” a heartfelt tribute to his late father, James, who passed away in 1998. The emotional weight of the song was evident as Leonard fought back tears, sharing how difficult it was to revisit that part of his life. He aimed to draw the audience into the emotions of the song, making them feel the weight of his story. The crowd’s reaction was one of understanding, offering Leonard the comfort he sought as he opened up about his past.
Support from Home
The relationship Leonard has with his hometown of Robinson is palpable. As he performs, he embodies the same warmth and heart that the community has known for years. Kelly Brookman, a former teacher and coach, reflected on how amazing it is to see Leonard reach new heights: “He’s a great guy, and he deserves it all.”
The surprise at Leonard’s transition from basketball to music is only eclipsed by his own journey of self-discovery. Once heavily immersed in rap and R&B, it was his wife, Elle, who introduced him to country music while they were students at the University of Illinois. This transition, however, took time and introspection, developing gradually over the years.
New Beginnings
The pivotal moment for Leonard came during a period of recovery after an NBA trade in 2021. With time on his hands and uncertainty about his basketball career, he picked up a guitar, marking the beginning of his journey in music. Despite initial challenges, he found himself increasingly drawn into the art of songwriting and performance.
This newfound passion was forged through perseverance and collaboration. Working closely with songwriting partners, Caleb Mills and Steve Thomas, Leonard poured his heart into crafting melodies that were deeply personal yet universally relatable. The songwriting process often involved emotional discussions, laughter, and the camaraderie of shared experiences.
A Storybook Life
Leonard’s narrative doesn’t just surround making music; it intertwines with the impactful presence of his family. After retiring from basketball, he and his family moved to Nashville to fully immerse in the music scene. “My life feels like some sort of storybook,” Leonard mused, recognizing the twists and turns that have brought him to this point. His wife has been a constant support, encouraging him to pursue this dream even when it felt uncertain.
His first album, due for a January 2026 release, promises to capture this journey through a mix of heartfelt tunes. Leonard has a strong vision for the album, wanting to tell stories that resonate with listeners, showcasing the highs, lows, and everything in between.
Beyond the Stage
At the heart of Leonard’s music lies a deep emotional core, especially symbolized in songs he’s dedicated to family members, including special tracks for his wife and children. As he navigates this new path, he recognizes that each performance and song is an opportunity for connection.
For Leonard, singing has become more than a hobby; it’s a route to healing and understanding. “I’m writing and telling people how I feel and what I’ve gone through,” he explained, highlighting how music serves as both a therapeutic outlet and a means of storytelling.
In just a short time, Meyers Leonard has transformed from an NBA player to a promising country artist, embracing the challenges and triumphs of his evolving identity while being surrounded by the people who have always rooted for him.
