Leon Russell, born Claude Russell Bridges in 1942, was a highly influential American musician and songwriter with a career spanning six decades across genres such as rock and roll, country, blues, gospel, and the Tulsa sound. Known for his versatility, Russell released 33 albums and wrote over 400 songs, including classics like "Delta Lady" and "A Song for You," both widely covered by other artists. He played piano and collaborated with music legends like the Beach Boys, Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, Frank Sinatra, and Elton John. Russell produced and performed on numerous hit records, and organized Joe Cocker’s iconic Mad Dogs & Englishmen tour. Recognized for his impact, he was named Billboard’s "Top Concert Attraction in the World" in 1973 and was inducted into both the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Songwriters Hall of Fame.