Recently, Patti LaBelle, like many other music legends, has drawn inspiration from the hit song “Boots On The Ground,” performed by Southern Soul Superstar 803 Fresh, who hails from Wagener, S.C.
The song’s success can be credited to the innovative production by Terrance “T Da Wizard” Thompson, another South Carolina native from Blackville. Notably, many of LaBelle’s well-known tracks were crafted by the talented James “Budd” Ellison, my maternal cousin, who has deep familial ties to Salley, S.C., and remains an unsung hero in the music industry.
James “Budd” Ellison was born on July 11, 1952, in Brooklyn, N.Y. His father, James Ellison, hailed from Sawyerdale and spent his youth on the family property known as the Ellison Estates, situated on the outskirts of Salley. His mother, Irene Walker Ellison, was originally from North, S.C. Throughout Budd’s childhood, his father performed with various African American gospel music groups in Brooklyn, introducing Budd and his cousin, Tommy Ellison — who would later become a renowned gospel music figure and mentor — to the rich traditions of gospel music.
James “Budd” Ellison was Patti LaBelle’s longtime music producer with roots in Salley, S.C.
In his early adult years, Budd relocated to Philadelphia, where he began collaborating with LaBelle in 1975. He played a key role in her evolution as a solo artist, contributing to her self-titled debut album released in 1978.
The album featured the hit single “Joy to Have Your Love,” which became popular in R&B circles, while the dance track “Dan Swit Me” gained traction in clubs. One of the standout songs from the album was the heartfelt ballad “You Are My Friend,” co-written by LaBelle, Budd and Armstead Edwards, and originally dedicated to LaBelle’s son, Zuri, who now manages her career.
