Leon Russel

"Leon Russell is a music legend and probably the most knowledgeable and versatile musician in the history of rock 'n roll," begins Leon Russell's four-page biography. The list of places he played and musicians he worked with that follows shows that the statement is in no way an exaggeration.

Russell's career stretches back 50 years, during which time he played, wrote, arranged and produced he produced some of the best records in popular music. His songs were covered by major artists who scored hits with them: Ray Charlesrecorded 'A Song For You', B.B. King had a hit with 'Hummingbird', The Carpenters with 'Superstar' and Joe Cocker with 'Delta Lady'.

In In 2011, Leon was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriter's Hall of Fame. We would like to leave a summary of Russell's career to Elton John: watch the video below!

LEON RUSSELL Q & A

The music business changed radically since the start of your career.
Do you think it's going the right way?
The future seems to go it's own way, without my help or comment.

What was the last concert you went to yourself?
Bob Dylan with the band at St. Louis

What was the best concert you ever saw?
I recently saw a Vince Gill variety show at the Ryman Auditorium on tv that was spectacular.

Who's your source of inspiration?
There are so many inspirational artists they are hard to name - they include, Sam Cooke, Little Richard, Harpo Marx, Elton John, Elvis, BB King, to name just a few.

Which cover of one of your songs you consider to be the greatest compliment?
Alan Jackson's recording of 'bluebird' arranged by Alison Krauss was wonderful. That's the way I should have originally done it.
Donnie Hathaway had a beautiful version of 'song for you'.

How important is it to be in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
It was quite an honor to be inducted. I personally don't think about those things very much, but they seem to be very important to others.

Should you have been more widely known worldwide after an impressive career as yours?
Travel is difficult for me and in the past, I tended to stay away from the press. Those two things have probably softened my impact on the world stage.

What are your goals for the future?
At my age, one primarily tries to stay alive (and keep my sideburns too).