Leon Russell

American singer-songwriter, guitarist, pianist and session musician

Leon Russell (born Claude Russell Bridges; April 2, 1942 – November 13, 2016) was an American musician and songwriter. He recorded as a session musician and sideman. He had a solo career. He had 31 albums to his credit and recorded about 430 songs.

Leon Russell
Russell performing at a concert in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, April 2009
Russell performing at a concert in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, April 2009
Background information
Birth nameClaude Russell Bridges
Also known asHank Wilson & Leon Russell
Born(1942-04-02)April 2, 1942
Lawton, Oklahoma, United States
DiedNovember 13, 2016(2016-11-13) (aged 74)
Nashville, Tennessee, United States
GenresCountry, rock, folk, rhythm and blues, folk rock, blues rock
Occupation(s)Musician, singer-songwriter
InstrumentsVocals, piano, organ, guitar, bass guitar, mandolin
Years active1956–2016
LabelsCapitol, Shelter Records, Paradise Records

He wrote the song "Delta Lady", recorded by Joe Cocker. He also organized Cocker's "Mad Dogs and Englishmen" tour in 1970.[1] More than 100 artists have recorded his "A Song for You" (1970).[2]

Russell produced and played in recording sessions for Bob Dylan, Frank Sinatra, Ike & Tina Turner, the Rolling Stones, and others. He wrote and recorded the hits "Tight Rope" and "Lady Blue". In 2011 he was added into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and introduced by longtime friend Elton John.[3]

Russell died in his sleep at his home in Nashville, Tennessee, on November 13, 2016 from heart failure while recovering from heart surgery, at the age of 74.[4]

References

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  1. "Joe Cocker and Russell performing during the "Mad Dogs and Englishmen" tour". Archived from the original on 2016-11-14. Retrieved 2016-11-15.
  2. "A Song for You – Leon Russell & Friends (1971)". September 23, 2009 – via YouTube.
  3. "Leon Russell's Induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame 2011". March 21, 2011 – via YouTube.
  4. "Leon Russell, musician known for dynamic performances, dies at 74". November 13, 2016 – via Reuters.