Leon Russell, American Hall of Fame musician and songwriter, Died at 74

  Music

Leon Russell (born Claude Russell Bridges) was born on April 2, 1942, and died on November 13, 2016.

He was an American musician and songwriter.

Russell recorded as a session musician and sideman and maintained a solo career.

Russell had 31 albums to his credit and recorded about 430 songs.

Leon wrote the song “Delta Lady”, recorded by Joe Cocker; he also organized Cocker’s “Mad Dogs and Englishmen” tour in 1970.

Over 100 artists have recorded his “A Song for You” (1970).

He was also a pianist, Leon played in his early years on albums by the Beach Boys and Jan and Dean.

On his first album, in 1970,included musicians such as John Lennon, Ringo Starr and George Harrison.

Among his early fans, was Elton John, said Russell was a “mentor” and “inspiration”, and they recorded The Union in 2010,

Which was John’s only duet album, which was later nominated for a Grammy.

He produced and played in recording sessions for Bob Dylan, Frank Sinatra, Ike & Tina Turner, the Rolling Stones, and others.

Russell wrote and recorded the hits “Tight Rope” and “Lady Blue”.

Leon performed at the Concert for Bangladesh in 1971 along with Dylan and Eric Clapton.

During 2011 he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Leon Russell passed away at 74 years old.