Musician Leon Russell Dies In Nashville At Age 74
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (AP) -- Musician Leon Russell, a top session player in the 1960s and 70s who later had a successful solo career with such hits as "Tight Rope'' and "Lady Blue,'' has died. He was 74.
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Officials say Russell died in Nashville on Saturday night. An email sent to the Associated Press from Leon Russell Records cites Russell's wife as the source of the information. Russell had heart bypass surgery in July and was recovering at the time of his death.
Russell was primarily a keyboard player. He played back up for Joe Cocker, Bob Dylan, the Beach Boys and many other artists. John Lennon, George Harrison and Ringo Starr played on Russells' solo debut,
"Leon Russell.''
His concerts often ended with a rousing version of "Jumpin' Jack Flash.'' Billboard Magazine listed Russell as the top concert attraction in the world in 1973. He was named to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011.
Fans and celebrities remembered Russell and his impact on the music community on Twitter Sunday:
My darling Leon Russell passed away last night. He was a mentor, inspiration & so kind to me. I loved him and always will #LeonRussell #RIP pic.twitter.com/u2d1KccCNp
— Elton John (@eltonofficial) November 13, 2016
The magnificent Leon Russell amazing musician, true superstar "Long ago and so far away,I fell in love with you..After the 2nd show" R.I.P
— Whoopi Goldberg (@WhoopiGoldberg) November 13, 2016
RIP Leon Russell - a PROLIFIC talent. @GBguitar the late Ray Charles & I cover Masquerade at 1991 @MontreuxJazz https://t.co/rPDJqU9uuD
— C H A K A | K H A N (@ChakaKhan) November 13, 2016
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