Leon Russell Dies At 74; Fans Including Elton John Pay Tribute To The American Singer And Songwriter

The American musician and songwriter Leon Russell has passed away. He performed, sang and produced some of the rock n roll's top recordings.

Russell's significant other, Jan Bridges, said in an announcement that Russell died while sleeping during Sunday at their Nashville home. Russell's health has been causing obstacles from the previous years. Back in 2010, he had a surgery for brain fluid leak. According to Jan Bridges, Russell had a heart bypass surgery in July and has been scheduled for more interviews. Russell had been planning to resume his tour this January.

According to New York Times, there was no specific cause that was recorded regarding Russell's death on his website. His final performance was on July 10 in Nashville. Other than his music, Russell was known for his striking appearance: wispy white hair mostly down his back covering quite a bit of his face. Leon Russell is a legend when it comes to songwriting and music. The taste for his music is mostly gospel-infused southern boogie piano rock, blues, and country music for over 50 years.

In 2011 Russell has been awarded into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriter's Hall of Fame. During the ceremony, Elton John called Russell as The Master of Space and Time. He is a man who does it all, he sang he wrote and he played just the way John like to do it. Leon's songwriting that gave him credits are "A song for you, Hummingbird," "LadyBlue," "Back to the Island," and "This Masquerade."

Russell recorded hit melodies like "Tight Rope" and "Lady Blue" took an interest in "The Concert for Bangladesh." His first album was played by John Lennon, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr. After Russell reached his popularity in 1970, shied away from promoting himself and greatly set aside rock although he kept performing. He was awarded as the musicians' musician working together with great singers Elvis Costello and Elton John.

Some rockers poured out their emotions on Twitter regarding Russell's death including Elton John who considered Russell as a long time influence. Posted on the ultimate rock website, Elton John considered Russell a mentor and an inspiration pledging his unending love for his friend who recently died.

Leon Russell was born on April 2, 1942. He died in his sleep last Sunday at his Nashville home.