The voice behind ‘Wild Flower’ and ‘I Can Understand It’ leaves a lasting mark on soul music
By Fisher Jack
(Source: eurweb)
*Unfortunately, we have sad, sad news to report about Leslie Wilson, lead singer of the R&B group New Birth, who has passed away. The group shared the news on October 30, 2025.
He passed away three days earlier, on October 27. His cause of death wasn’t announced, and his exact age wasn’t known, but he was in his 70s
Wilson’s voice helped define the sound of 1970s soul and funk. He often performed alongside his brother Melvin Wilson, who died in 2023 from pancreatic cancer, Soul Tracks is reporting. The two were known for their electric performances and deep harmonies.
Leslie Wilson’s Death Marks the End of a Funk Era
From Muskegon to the National Stage
Wilson grew up in Muskegon, Michigan. He and Melvin were called “B’s boys,” a nickname tied to their mother, Bernice. The brothers developed a love for music early on.
They started performing in Detroit with the group Love, Peace & Happiness. That group also included former Marvelettes singer Ann Bogan. These early shows helped launch their careers.
New Birth: The Supergroup That Changed Everything
In 1971, the Wilson brothers joined New Birth. The group was created by Motown producers Harvey Fuqua and Vernon Bullock. It combined several acts, including The Nite-Liters and The Now Sound.
Leslie’s voice quickly became the band’s signature. He turned New Birth into a force in soul and funk music.
Songs That Shaped a Generation
- “I Can Understand It” (1973):A cover of Bobby Womack’s hit. It reached No. 1 on the R&B chart.
- “Wild Flower” (1973):A soft, emotional track that became a fan favorite.
- “Dream Merchant” and “It’s Been a Long Time” (1974):Two funk-soul classics with lasting appeal.
Their albums Birth Day and It’s Been a Long Time were both R&B bestsellers. Many still consider them essential listening from that era.
Beyond the Hits: A Life in Music
After tensions inside the group, the Wilsons left New Birth in 1977. In 1981, Leslie joined L.T.D. as the new lead singer. He stepped in after Jeffrey Osborne moved on.
Although the group had already peaked, Leslie added new energy. His style helped them evolve during a slower period.
Return of New Birth and Late Career
During the 1990s, the Wilson brothers brought New Birth back. They added new members like Bobby Downs and Dawn Pree. The group toured again and released albums such as Platinum City and I’m Back.
They later settled in California but continued to perform. Even in later years, they appeared at select events in their hometown and across the country.
His Sound, His Influence, His Legacy
Leslie Wilson was never flashy. But his voice carried emotion, range, and depth. He knew how to let a lyric breathe.
Today, his work lives on. His songs stream under “New Birth featuring Leslie & Melvin Wilson” and reach new fans every year. His influence still echoes in modern R&B and soul.
Fans and Artists Celebrate His Life
As soon as the news broke, fans filled social media with memories. Many posted videos of “Wild Flower,” calling it one of the greatest soul songs of all time.
Artists, DJs, and longtime listeners honored him with photos and playlists. One fan wrote, “His voice will never be replaced. Rest in power, king.”
Final Thoughts and Public Tribute
Wilson helped shape over a dozen albums. He brought soul and funk into living rooms, clubs, and cars around the world.
So far, the cause of death has not been shared. The family may announce funeral plans in the coming days. For now, fans honor his music and memory.
New Birth’s Influence on Today’s R&B and Funk
Leslie Wilson’s work with New Birth helped shape the sound of modern R&B, funk, and soul. Many contemporary artists—from neo-soul acts to hip-hop producers—cite New Birth as an early influence. Their use of live instrumentation, layered vocals, and funk-infused rhythms became a blueprint for later generations.
Tracks like “Wild Flower” have been sampled or covered by artists across genres. Even decades later, New Birth’s records still inspire DJs, vocalists, and producers looking for authentic soul textures. Wilson’s vocal delivery—smooth, emotional, and full of restraint—remains a model for singers blending power with control.