LeeloSVG is a product of South Central Los Angeles, shaped by inner-city classrooms, tight-knit communities, and a culture that teaches you how to create something meaningful out of whatever you have around you. Growing up in South LA meant learning early how to make the most of limited resources, but it also meant being surrounded by creativity, resilience, and pride. For Leelo, that environment wasn’t a setback—it was a foundation. Music and art were present from the beginning, not as hobbies but as natural extensions of daily life. Painting, poetry, instruments—every form of expression felt accessible and alive.
Coming from a large Belizean family, Leelo and their siblings were the first generation born in the U.S., carrying both the weight and the beauty of that legacy. The connection to culture and heritage runs deep, and it shows in the way Leelo approaches music—with gratitude, intention, and a strong sense of self. That blend of roots and environment created an artist who understands where they come from and isn’t afraid to honor it.
Music entered Leelo’s life seriously around age eleven, starting with drums in school. From there, it grew naturally into guitar, piano, and anything else that could carry a melody or rhythm. Sports, especially basketball, were once a big part of life, but music slowly took over. It became the most honest way to communicate emotion and identity. Writing that first song on guitar felt less like a milestone and more like confirmation—this was what Leelo was meant to do.
The influences were wide and unapologetically diverse. Reggae, R&B, rock, gospel—nothing was off limits. Artists like Aaliyah, Erykah Badu, Lauryn Hill, Sade, TLC, and Alicia Keys shaped an early appreciation for soul and storytelling, while Lil Wayne—still considered the greatest in Leelo’s eyes—sparked a love for lyricism and confidence. From Nicki Minaj to Coldplay, Simple Plan to Avril Lavigne, Drake to Da Brat, the playlist was a reflection of curiosity rather than genre loyalty. Seeing artists like Justin Bieber and Kehlani go all in on their visions made Leelo believe doing the same was possible.
That open-minded approach is exactly what defines LeeloSVG’s sound today. It’s wavy, bass-heavy, and built on smooth harmonies, but it isn’t boxed in. Some tracks are fun and laid-back, rooted in West Coast and R&B energy. Others are louder, more aggressive, and unapologetic. Leelo describes it like the ocean—sometimes calm and reflective, sometimes crashing hard enough that you can’t ignore it. Underground rap, hip-hop, and alternative R&B all live in the same space, tied together by personality and presence.
Much of that sound has been shaped in the studio alongside trusted collaborators. One of the most important is close friend and engineer Javi Marzella, someone Leelo credits not just for technical skill but for helping develop vocal confidence and range. Another key collaborator is DominantDidIt, an engineer known for pouring heart and precision into every session. These relationships aren’t just professional—they’re built on trust, growth, and shared vision.
Outside the studio, Leelo’s upbringing included time spent in spaces that expanded perspective beyond South LA. Being in gifted programs meant early mornings at USC before regular school days, making the campus a familiar hangout spot. Add in the beach, skateparks, and the natural pull of exploring Los Angeles, and those experiences helped shape a broader worldview while still staying grounded in home.
Leelo’s most recent release, The Prelude, offers a glimpse into what’s coming next. The two-track project serves as an introduction to Heart of a Legend 2, an upcoming tape that expands on the story first told in Heart of a Legend. While the original project leaned more into singing and emotional expression, the sequel brings more rap records into the spotlight, revealing another layer of Leelo’s artistry and confidence.
New music is already on the way, including a standout track titled “AUTHENTIC” featuring close friend iamdad. The record is accompanied by a new video shot by one of LA’s most exciting visual creators, OffAir aka “ThaRentsDue” It’s a key moment in the rollout for Heart of a Legend 2 and a clear statement of where LeeloSVG is headed. With 2026 approaching, the plan is simple: consistent drops, high-quality visuals, and undeniable growth—showing Los Angeles and the world exactly who LeeloSVG really is.
Gratitude remains at the center of it all. After a serious accident last year, there was a moment when stepping away from music felt possible—until LeeloSVG realized the catalog had passed a million streams. That realization changed everything. Knowing people were truly listening, connecting, and supporting reignited the drive. The supporters, family, engineers, and everyone who played a role along the way are the reason the journey continues. For LeeloSVG, this isn’t just about making songs—it’s about honoring the love, the culture, and the people who made the path possible. As Leelo would say “To tha moon we go”.
