March 22, 1934 was a wonderful day for Mr. Leon "The Burner" Austin.  It was the day of his earthly birth.  Although, his infancy was plagued with a critical illness to the point of concern for his survival.  Even then his strength, through GOD, was manifested.  Survive? Indeed, Leon did survive.  He grew stronger and stronger with love, care, and special attention.  At an early age, Leon received the Lord Jesus Christ as his personal saviour and was baptized at Macedonia Baptist Church.  His GOD-given musical gift was nurtured and thrived in a Christian environment at home and church.  Leon received limited formal piano training.  He plays "by ear." What he heard he practiced and played.  When others sang, Leon heard the notes (in perfect pitch) and was able to establish voice arrangements.  Leon can sing all "vocal parts."  This led to his playing for a youth group (The Mello-Tones) by the age of ten, later organizing his own gospel group (The Swanee Juniors), and much later playing for major gospel singers and groups.  Some of whom include;  Pastor James Cleveland, The Caravans, and Sister Pope and the Pearly Gates.  A little known fact is that Leon is responsible for suggesting (and suggesting, and suggesting) that the world-famous Swanee Quintet add a dramatic effect to their great sound by including a bass guitar in the rhythm section.  To our knowledge that was a first for any gospel group's sound.  Other little known facts about Leon are that he taught Mr. James "The Godfather of Soul" Brown how to play the piano with both hands, and introduced TGOS to the musical style of the House of Prayer.   Their life-long friendship developed from a third grade school introduction at Silas X. Floyd Elementary.

While in high school at Lucy C. Laney, Leon became reknown as an athlete.  He earned the honorable title of Captain of the football team. His speed on the track set many records, one of which has not been broken to-date.  His athletic prowness and skill earned him the respect and friendship of the likes of Pastor Jesse L. Jackson.

After graduating from Laney, Leon pursued his other career of Master Barber/Hair Stylist at Voohees Technical College.  Leon's Barber and Beauty Shop was so successful on the "Golden Blocks" (later known as "The Block") that it became the first stop for the "who's who" of famous, infamous, and plain good folk from coast to coast.

The close, personal relationship of James Brown and Leon over the years led "The Burner" into the secular music world.  Leon's first band was named "Leon Austin and The Buicks."  Did you know they went on to perform at the famous Apollo Theatre's amateur night.   (Leon says they would have won the competition if one of the group member had not become overly excited and stayed on stage a little too long singing their original song, "Hula Hoop.")  While a member of the James Brown Enterprise musical staff, "The Burner" recorded the following songs:

   "I'm a Man"

   "Real Woman"

   "Tutti-Frutti"

   "Georgia Peach"

   "Lovin' You"

   "Missing You," just to name a few.

Additionally, Leon sang background vocals, wrote and arranged songs for TGFOS.

Later, in life Leon returned to his first love - playing for the church.  As he says, "giving back to GOD what He gave to me---my musical abilities."  He has been deemed the "preacher's piano player" for his unique ability for playing the "hoop."

February, 2006 began another phase of life's journey for Leon.  People that we had not seen for many years were sent by GOD to encourage Leon.  Reminding him of things that he did for them and how much they love and appreciate his giving spirit. GOD's love for Leon endures and His mercies continue to flow from day-to-day. 

Therefore, on March 22, 2008, as we celebrate another year of life for Leon we thank GOD for this journey for we know that we are blessed in spite of...!

Early on the morning of June 12, 2008 GOD sent His angels to bring a man "after His own heart" to Him.  Leon is now playing and performing with the heavenly choir.  He is walking around heaven smiling, talking with everyone who went on before, and praising GOD all the day long.

We, who have been left behind, thank and praise the Almighty GOD for allowing Leon R. Austin to be in our lives.  Glory  hallelujah!!!