Leon Russell: The Master of Space and Time's Journey Through Rock & Roll History

Leon Russell is a highly acclaimed musician who has worked with rock royalty such as Bob Dylan, the Stones, and the Beatles. He started in the Fifties as a teenager touring with Jerry Lee Lewis and has played piano on records by Frank Sinatra, The Beach Boys, and Phil Spector. He also gets credit for altering Willie Nelson's career. Despite his struggles with substance abuse, severe depression, and stage fright, he is considered one of the most important music makers of the twentieth century.

Format: Hardback
Length: 592 pages
Publication date: 04 May 2023
Publisher: Hachette Books

Leon Russell: An Underappreciated Icon

Leon Russell is an icon, yet he remains an underappreciated artist. His reputation is spoken of in tones reserved not just for the most talented musicians, but also for the most complex and fascinating individuals. His career is a roadmap of music history, often intersecting with rock royalty such as Bob Dylan, the Rolling Stones, and the Beatles.

Russell began his journey in the Fifties as a teenager, touring with Jerry Lee Lewis. He went on to play piano on records by giants like Frank Sinatra, The Beach Boys, and Phil Spector, and on hundreds of classic songs with major recording artists. Leon was Elton John's idol, and Elton inducted him into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011.

In addition to his musical contributions, Russell also played a significant role in altering Willie Nelson's career. He gave us the long-haired, pot-friendly Willie we all know and love today.

During his prime, Leon filled stadiums on solo tours and was an organizer/performer on both Joe Cocker's revolutionary "Mad Dogs and Englishmen" tour and George Harrison's "Concert for Bangladesh." He also founded Shelter Records in 1969 with producer Denny Cordell, discovering and releasing the debut albums of Tom Petty, the Gap Band, Phoebe Snow, and J.J. Cale.

Russell's talent for assembling wildly diverse bands and performances fostered creative and free atmospheres for musicians to live and work together. He brazenly challenged musical and social barriers. However, Russell also struggled with his demons, including substance abuse, severe depression, and a crippling stage fright that wreaked havoc on his psyche over the long haul and at times seemed to will himself into obscurity.

Now, acclaimed author and founding member of Buffalo Tom, Bill Janovitz, shines the spotlight on one of the most important music makers of the twentieth century. "Leon Russell: The Soundtrack of Our Lives" is a captivating and insightful exploration of Russell's life and career, providing a deep appreciation for his musical legacy.

In conclusion, Leon Russell is an underappreciated icon whose musical contributions and impact on the world of music are truly remarkable. His career spans decades, intersecting with some of the greatest names in rock and roll history. Despite his struggles with personal demons, Russell's legacy continues to inspire and influence musicians around the world. Bill Janovitz's book "Leon Russell: The Soundtrack of Our Lives" is a must-read for anyone who appreciates the power of music and the enduring influence of one of its greatest artists.

Weight: 822g
Dimension: 165 x 240 x 47 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780306924774