Leon Hughes

Leon Hughes, Sr. (born Leon Hughes, May 6, 1929, Los Angeles County, California) is an American singer. He is best known as an original member of The Coasters.

Biography

Leon Hughes is an original member of The Coasters (Bobby Nunn, Carl Gardner, and Billy Guy). He recorded with the original group line-up until 1958. His tenor voice is heard on many of the group's hits, including "Down in Mexico", "Searchin", and "Young Blood". The group's national debut happened in 1957, when the group appeared on NBC-TV's The Tonight Show with host Steve Allen. Both of these hits were National Top 10 Hits and the Top R&B Hits of 1957. He also appeared on Dick Clark's popular new national show - American Bandstand. He had been working at a car wash when Bobby Nunn had recommended him as second tenor for The Coasters. He was replaced after 1957 by Cornel Gunter. Leon's career with the Original Coasters can be seen on the groups timeline at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Museum.

Leon's career has given him opportunities to travel the world & to appear at many prominent venues. Some of them include the Famous Apollo Theatre, The Historic Howard Theatre, The Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, Madison Square Garden, Radio City Music Hall and Disneyland. He has appeared with legendary artists of the Rock and Roll Era. Some of these artists include: Chuck Berry, Little Richard, The Platters, The Drifters, Bill Haley and the Comets, The Shirelles and many more.