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.
An email from Leon Russell Records to The Associated Press says Russell died in Nashville "last night." The email cites Russell's wife as the source of the information. Russell had heart bypass surgery in July and was recovering from that at the time of his death.
The musician's website says that he died Sunday.
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."
Tulsa Mayor Dewey Bartlett:
"I have known Leon Russell for decades and his loss ends an era of some of the most celebrated music in history. It was Leon who worked with the Beatles, Bob Dylan, Elton John, The Stones, Phil Specter and I could go on and on. Leon brought the national spotlight to “The Tulsa Sound” and the tremendous influence it enjoys today upon all facets of music, whether it is rock ’n roll, blues, country, boogie, folk, jazz or soul. All of these genres are still relevant today because of their roots in Leon’s musical creations that came from “The Tulsa Sound”. Thank you our dear friend.“