Luke James (singer) facts for kids

Quick facts for kids Luke James
Boyd in Brooklyn; 2019
Background information
Birth name	Luke James Boyd
Also known as	WOLF
Born	(1984-06-13) June 13, 1984 (age 41) New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S.
Genres	Alternative R&B soul
Occupation(s)	Singer songwriter actor
Instruments	Vocals piano keyboards guitar saxophone
Years active	2004–present
Labels	Culture Collective Island Mercury N.A.R.S.

Luke James Boyd (born June 13, 1984) is a talented American singer, songwriter, and actor from New Orleans, Louisiana. He started his music journey in 2004 as part of the R&B duo Luke and Q. They even sang backup for the famous R&B artist Tyrese. Luke also wrote songs for big stars like Chris Brown, Britney Spears, and Justin Bieber.

Luke then decided to become a solo artist. He released his first album, Luke James, in 2014. Before that, he released two mixtapes called #Luke (2011) and Whispers in the Dark (2012). His song "I Want You" was even nominated for a Grammy Award! Later, his album to feel love/d (2020) also got a Grammy nomination.

In his acting career, Luke played R&B singer Johnny Gill in the 2017 TV show The New Edition Story. He has also appeared in movies like Little and TV shows such as Star, Insecure, and The Chi. In 2024, he starred as a main character in the TV series Them: The Scare.

Early Life and Music Beginnings

Luke James was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. He was raised by his single mother. He loved many types of music, especially jazz and R&B. Luke said his passion for music began when he saw someone sing a cover of "A Song for You" on Showtime at the Apollo. He felt chills and knew he wanted to entertain people with music.

As a child, Luke was inspired by artists like Marvin Gaye and Willie Nelson. He thanked his mother for showing him all kinds of music. Luke went to St. Augustine with future singer-songwriter Frank Ocean. In high school, Luke joined a music group called Upskale. This group introduced him to his longtime manager and choreographer, Frank Gatson.

After high school, Luke and his friend Quinten Spears (Q) formed a duo called Luke & Q. They even opened for R&B artist Tyrese Gibson. However, the duo eventually decided to go their separate ways.

Becoming a Songwriter and Solo Artist

After his duo broke up, Luke James focused on writing songs. He worked with producer Danja and wrote songs for many pop, R&B, and soul artists. He helped write hits like Chris Brown's "Crawl". He also wrote songs for Justin Bieber ("That Should Be Me"), Britney Spears ("Kill the Lights"), and Keri Hilson.

In 2011, Luke released his first free music collection called #Luke. His song "I Want You" was praised by critics. It even earned him a nomination for Best New Artist at the 2012 Soul Train Music Awards. In 2012, he released another free collection, Whispers in the Dark.

In 2013, Luke was chosen by Beyoncé to open for her Mrs. Carter Show World Tour. His song "I Want You" was nominated for a Grammy Award in 2013. In 2014, he received another Grammy nomination for his song "Options".

In 2016, Luke auditioned for the role of singer Johnny Gill in the BET TV show The New Edition Story. He got the part! From 2017 to 2019, Luke played Noah Brooks in the TV show Star on FOX. In 2019, he was also in the movie Little. In 2024, Luke James starred as a main character in the TV show "Them: The Scare". His acting in this show has been highly praised.

Music Albums

Studio albums

• Luke James (2014)
• to feel love/d (2020)
• For No Reason (2020)

Mixtapes

• #Luke (2011)
• Whispers in the Dark (2012)

Singles

Film and TV Roles

Film

Television

Music Videos

Concert Tours

• BET Music Matters Tour (with Estelle), (2012)
• The Mrs. Carter Show World Tour (opening act), (2013–14)
• Sweet Talker Tour (opening act for Jessie J), (2014–15)
• to feel love/d tour, (2020)

Awards and Nominations