Jeff Leonard was born and raised in rural Franklin County, North Carolina. Like many artists, Jeff began singing at an early age within his church and for his school choir. Growing up, he was influenced by many genres of music from rock, gospel, country, R&B, southern rock, blues and soul. It was not until he volunteered as a disc jockey in the US Navy that Jeff found his true love for country music. Country music was about life and just like Jeff...it had a story to tell. So naturally, he began to write his own songs knowing that someday he would pursue his passion to perform on stage.

As an award winning disc jockey for AFRTS, Jeff continued to work as a disc jockey to help pay his way through college following his US Navy commitment. While at East Carolina University, he was a disc jockey for the Texas Two Step in Greenville, NC and then eventually moved to Raleigh, NC to work for The Longbranch Saloon. Over the years, Jeff noticed that bands were missing the mark when it came to engaging the crowd and their song selection. So in order to fill that niche and to give clubs, festivals and others the quality entertainment they were looking for, he decided to form a band of his own. The result was Southbound 85.

Since 2007, Southbound 85 has been one of the best bands in North Carolina...providing a high level of entertainment for music venues, festivals, weddings, corporate functions and private parties. As the owner and lead singer for Southbound 85, Jeff Leonard recently released his first self-titled debut album and is already working on his next release. Call 704.451.5343 for bookings!