Leroy, James

Websites:  http://www.jamesleroy.com/
Origin: Martintown, Ontario
Biography:

James Leroy: A Touch of Magic in Canadian Pop Rock

Born on April 3, 1947, at Grace Hospital in Ottawa, James Leroy emerged as one of Canada's most promising singer-songwriters of the 1970s. Raised in a family rooted in the farming heritage of Martintown, Ontario—a name he would later immortalize through his music publishing company—James showed early signs of independence and artistry. His father, Edgar Leroy (originally Edgar Lagroix), was a French-Canadian entrepreneur who founded Ottawa’s first Canadian Tire store in 1935.

James's musical journey began while attending Milford Prep in Connecticut, where Bob Dylan became a key influence. Though he pursued university studies in the U.S., he returned to Canada during the Vietnam War era, unwilling to see his friends drafted. Back home in Ottawa, he alternated between working at his father’s tire shop and writing songs. He began performing as a self-taught folk singer and quietly supported local bands like Renaissance and September Dawn with original material.

In a pivotal moment, James was advised by Doug Orr of the Modern Rock Quartet to explore the cultural roots of the Ottawa Valley. This suggestion inspired a sound that would eventually become known as "Denim"—a blend of rustic charm and pop-rock polish.

Leroy’s determination led him repeatedly to local impresario Harvey Glatt, who finally agreed to work with the young artist. With Glatt’s support and producer Adam Mitchell at the helm, James recorded his debut single “Touch of Magic,” which climbed to No. 6 on the Canadian charts in September 1973. That success led to a self-titled album on the GRT label, supported by a backing band that evolved into Denim—named after Leroy's song “You Look Good in Denim.” As James put it: “We all wear denim. It’s casual, wears well, and grows on you.”

Denim’s original lineup included:

Gary Comeau (lead/steel guitar) – formerly of Canada Goose, Esquires, the Townsmen

Dave Oslund (lead guitar, backing vocals) – from Jumbo

Gibby LaCasse (drums) – from Jumbo

Wayne Leslie (bass) – Canada Goose, the Townsmen

Valerie Tuck (vocals) – Canada Goose, Brimfull

Chuck Bergeron (bass, backing vocals) – Jumbo

Denim toured nationally and released several singles before disbanding in 1975.

James continued as a solo artist, often touring with the Stampeders. He recorded new songs for GRT, including “Lady Ellen,” produced by Ian Thomas. These years saw James refining his writing in Northern Ontario while performing regularly across the country.

In 1976, James joined Major Hoople’s Boarding House, taking over as lead vocalist and primary songwriter. The group shortened their name to simply Boarding House. They toured extensively through the Maritimes with James on vocals and RMI keyboard, alongside:

Richard "Rocky" Howell – guitar, vocals

Peter "Moss" Beacock – keyboards, synth

Keith "Chopper" Stalbaum – bass, vocals

Ed Miller – drums

James’s final years were a whirlwind of collaboration. In 1978, with new manager Martin Onrot, he revived Denim for a national tour with a revamped lineup:

Gibby LaCasse – drums

Marvin Dolgay – guitar, steel guitar

Paul Faubert – bass

John Stimson – keyboards, vocals

During this time, he also worked closely with the Terry Crawford Band, developing songs and touring alongside them. They played shows across Western and Eastern Canada, building momentum in new markets.

James’s music was deeply personal. He often told family stories through his lyrics and carried a reverence for his rural heritage, from Martintown to Moulnette—the latter a now-submerged village lost to the St. Lawrence Seaway.

His life, however, was marked by emotional highs and lows. Despite his charm, humor, and deep creativity, James struggled with mental health. Tragically, he died by suicide in Ottawa on May 10, 1979, at just 32 years old.

Though his life was cut short, his influence endured. On November 18, 2002, his breakthrough hit “Touch of Magic” was recognized with a SOCAN Classic Award for surpassing 100,000 radio plays in Canada. His contributions to Canadian music—through Denim, Boarding House, and his solo work—remain a testament to his talent, perseverance, and heart.

James Leroy truly brought a touch of magic to all who knew him—and to those who continue to discover his music.
-Robert Williston