Eli "Paperboy" Reed (born 1983 in Brookline, Massachusetts) is an American soul and R&B singer who honed his craft in the juke joints of the Mississippi Delta and as musical director at the Chicago church of soul singer Mitty Collier. His music blends a powerful falsetto with classic soul melodies and gospel energy, drawing on the traditions of Motown, Stax and Chicago blues. His breakthrough album 'Roll With You' (2008) brought him international recognition and multiple major-label deals; he has since built a reputation as one of the most consistent soul artists of his generation. In September 2026 he released his tenth studio album 'Getting There', produced by R&B legend Swamp Dogg.
On 11 September 2026, 'Getting There' was released via Yep Roc Records - Reed's first album with original songs in seven years, produced by Swamp Dogg.
In June 2026, Reed announced the album 'Getting There' with the eponymous title single, recorded in ten days live in the studio in Brooklyn.
Reed is scheduled to perform at the Zwarte Cross festival in Lichtenvoorde, his next European performance.
In May 2025, Reed cancelled his Australian tour - with the exception of his performance at Blues on Broadbeach - due to logistical problems.
