LeRoy Bell, born LeRoy Martez Bell III on August 8, 1951, in Florida, is an American singer and songwriter. He started his career with Casey James in the band Special Blend before forming the duo Bell and James. The duo released three albums: Bell and James (1978), Only Make Believe (1979), and In Black and White (1980). Their most successful single, "Livin' It Up (Friday Night)", reached number 15 on the U.S. Hot 100. Bell co-wrote songs for various artists, notably two hits for Elton John: "Mama Can't Buy You Love" and "Are You Ready for Love". The former earned a Grammy nomination for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. In 2011, Bell participated in The X Factor, reaching the live shows. He has also collaborated with Teddy Pendergrass, Lou Rawls, Jennifer Lopez, and others. His solo albums include Two Sides to Every Story (2006) and Traces (2010).
