Jesse Powell grew up singing with his family and in local talent shows. In 1993, Powell met fledgling producer Carl Roland in Kansas City. Upon their arrival in L.A., the two began working together. Powell got his break when Louis Silas, Jr. heard him sing at an artist showcase; it was shortly thereafter that Silas signed Powell to a recording contract. The singer's recordings include 1996's Jesse Powell, 1998's 'Bout It, 2001's JP, and 2003's Jesse. Jesse Powell died in Los Angeles on September 13, 2022 at the age of 51.