On Tour Team: Leon Russell

This week’s playlist celebrates Leon Russell.

Last week we introduced the “On Tour Team” and when it came to Delaney & Bonnie’s “friends,” Leon Russell seemed to be a bestie, collaborating and playing on most of their records.

Of course, Leon was part of The Wrecking Crew, then had his own solo act, was a writer/producer/arranger, fell on hard times…then resurrected by Elton John at the end of his life with The Union.

Over time Leon evolved Gandalf the White, so naturally Mad Dogs & Englishmen were Leon’s Fellowship of the Ring.

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Allegedly Joe Cocker was told on March 12 that he had a tour starting March 17…and he needed a band.

Joe – or FroJoe Baggins – reached out to Gandalf who called the council of Delaney & Bonnie’s “friends” and went on tour. Delaney & Bonnie apparently had to cancel their tour because they didn’t have a band…

Leon was also a big part of The Concert for Bangladesh…but some money grubbing corporation blocks the from Spotify…so it’s dead to the playlist…

And speaking of playlists here’s our tribute to Leon Russell. A nice stroll along with all the incredible artists he worked with including Ray Charles, The Rolling Stones, The Byrds, George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson and more.

Cheers!