Thank you, Elton John for Leon

Mitch Adelman · Post by **Mitch Adelman** » 24 Nov 2010 3:29 pm

I have to throw out a thanks to Elton John (though he'll never hear it) for bringing back Leon Russell out of the wilderness and back in the spotlight with the new album by them. A true act of kindness bringing his idol back out and making sure his final days are financially secure. He's giving the proceeds of the album (which has grammy all over it, even some great steel on one cut) to Leon. He even bought him a brand new grand piano. Apparently Elton opened for Leon on his first US tour during Leon's heyday in early 70's before Elton made it big and felt he owed him a debt of gratitude. 40 years later, he called Leon up and with T Bone made a really great record. I heard Leon's health isn't too good . It was really a nice thing for Elton to do for one of the neglected rock greats (not to mention the great Hank Wilson country stuff) Just IMHO I had to get off my chest. Thanks.

Dave Harmonson · Post by **Dave Harmonson** » 24 Nov 2010 6:50 pm

I totally agree. Saw them on Regis and Kelly this morning. Gonna have to pick up the record.
Saw Leon last winter here in town. There's always been something kind of mysterious and hypnotic about his music that I really enjoy.

Dave Zirbel · Post by **Dave Zirbel** » 24 Nov 2010 7:29 pm

Awesome!

Michael Johnstone · Post by **Michael Johnstone** » 26 Nov 2010 7:15 pm

It does my heart good to see my dear friend Leon Russell get some love at this particular point in time. He's been out there hackin in the trenches for decades with little or no to show for it apart from the steadfast appreciation of his "lifer" fan base. I know this because I've spent some time on his tourbus. I consider him to be one of the greatest bandleader/showmen,most unique and timeless musical voices of his generation - musically rich and culturally deep.
His left hand vamps are wider and thicker than what most piano players can accomplish with both hands.The complex voicings and internal motion within his dixieland and gospel turnarounds are works of art - not to mention his unique vocal stylings and great compositional accomplishments. He's witten several pop classics - Masquerade,Song For You & Superstar to name a few - and has left a huge mark on blues,pop,R&B, jazz,gospel and rock & roll. As a quintessential rock & roller,why he hasn't made it into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a mystery to me. Perhaps that will change now.

Craig Stock · Post by **Craig Stock** » 27 Nov 2010 6:09 am

And Michael, not to mention all the great records he played as a member of 'The Wrecking Crew'.
Will O' the Wisp is a classic album.

Jeremy Craft · Post by **Jeremy Craft** » 29 Nov 2010 9:22 pm

"And he shall be Leon...."

Eric West · Post by **Eric West** » 30 Nov 2010 10:25 am

Hmm.. I thought it was the other way around..

I did get the CD, and it was good. I've always liked Elton, and Leon both.

EJL

scott murray · Post by **scott murray** » 30 Nov 2010 3:41 pm

his playing on Willie Nelson's original version of "Mr. Record Man" is perfection