Leon Russell, who achieved rare fame as a session musician by playing with artists from The Rolling Stones to Elton John and pursuing his own eclectic career, has died. He was 74. Russell, who remained active and had tour dates in front of him, died in his sleep at his home in Nashville, his wife said in a statement Sunday without further details.
Born in Oklahoma, Russell mastered the piano as a child and soaked up a variety of musical influences from country to rhythm and blues to gospel.
By 14, he was singing pop standards in Oklahoma night-clubs and at 17 he took a Greyhound bus to Los Angeles, seeking out music gigs.
He eventually became a leader of the so-called "Wrecking Crew" of top-notch session musicians in Los Angeles who recorded with top artists.
Key collaborations throughout his long career included The Rolling Stones, Beatle George Harrison, Willie Nelson, Frank Sinatra, Doris Day, Bob Dylan, Eric Clapton and the Beach Boys.
With his long beard, top hat and lively, blues-infused piano playing, Russell was instantly identifiable at concerts.