One of the most incredible songwriters and musicians in history. He fell out of the spotlight and in recent years, Elton John thought to reach out to him. Leon was Elton's idol when Elton started out. Well, Leon was alone, ill and penniless and Elton recorded an album with him and got him inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This song is my favorite song of all time. Thank you Leon for writing it and performing it so well!
Leon was an absolute musical genius! Part or the wrecking crew. Big part of the concert for Bangladesh. And the band leader on mad dogs and English men tour! One of the best to ever do it!! RIP Leon!
A TRUE ICON!! A studio musician who can be heard on soooo many recordings including, Frank Sinatra, Cher, The Beach Boys, just to name a few. An swesome songwriter/arranger and a singer with a unique voice. He IS a member of The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and is truly missed by his fans.. Thanks for your reaction... Keep on keepin' on... BCNU...
Leon Russell was a sessions pianist for many artists. He is playing piano on some of Frank Sinatra's albums in the 60s. You've already heard Leon. You just didn't know it.
There is a video on TH-cam of Leon, Willie Nelson and Ray Charles singing this song live together that will bring you to tears. "I know your image of me is what I hope to be..."❤ RIP Leon
Imagine if Leon Russell and Joe Cocker sang together? Well wait no more, "Mad Dogs and Englishmen" is a live Joe Cocker album with Leon, Rita Coolidge, and many more. One of my favorites of all time!
Leon Russel was one of the best concerts ever! Please take a listen to "Stranger in a Strange Land", one of my favorites! So glad to see you react to Leon!
Leon was a great composer who wrote so many songs for other artists. He is an incredible piano player. He also was a studio musician that recorded on many albums. Also he has a unique voice.
I saw Leon preform in a small intimate venue…it left me indescribably speechless. He wrote so many songs for so many artists. He had been doing this since he was a teen. The talent! That voice! I was so heartbroken when he left us. 😢 His health was so bad at the end…when he was finished preforming and it was time to leave the stage for a standing ovation he said “we’re just going to pretend I got up and walked over there and walked back” :)) I was so touched with his genuine humanity. He had disappeared from the public and was down and out….Elton John searched for him, found him, and brought him back to us for the last years of his life 💔
Leon was part of The Mad Dogs and Englishmen tour with Joe Cocker which resulted in a live album, Leon put the band together which included Delaney and Bonnie, Rita Coolidge, Carl Radle, Jim Price, Jim Horn, Jim Keltner, Jim Gordon and Chris Stainton. That's a heck of a band.
If I'm not mistaken, Joe cocker lost his band just before a tour. Leon Russel was instrumental in putting together the replacement musicians... It was (and still is) a great double album!!
Back in those days, they produced many “concert” films. Many of us experienced Mad Dogs and Englishmen, Hendrix, Led Zeppelin and many other great bands on a weekend evening, with our friends at the local movie house.
I love Leon Russell. I think you all would really like "Tightrope" by him. This man was actually an idol of Sir Elton John. As you can tell by Elton Johns writing he took a lot of inspiration from Leon Russell, with his song writing. Please give it a listen even if not for a reaction just listen for your own enjoyment. As always great reaction guys.
Yep! Was looking for the comment where someone would say that this was THE idol of Elton's. He talks about others influencing him... but Leon was his hero.
Leon was multi-talented. He "made his name" originally as a studio musician who played piano on many of the early rock n roll hits. When he began writing his awesome songs & had trouble selling them, he began singing them himself...but he never considered himself a singer. FYI, he arranged all off Joe Cocker's early music & toured with him on the famous "Mad Dogs & Englishmen" tour, which was filmed and I saw in the theater a number of times in 70-71. He was awesome... RIP Leon.
@@David-kf5gk The documentary on The Wrecking Crew (that's the name of the doc as well) is worth watching for anyone wanting to find out more about the music of the 60s and 70s.
Born in late 50's in Tulsa, grew up listening to 60's/70's music and Leon was right there with the largest acts in the world. If you look at his history and who he played with your respect will grown exponentially for him. Stranger in a Strange Land, Home Sweet Oklahoma (a must for you from Oklahoma), Lady Blue, and of course This Masquerade (which was 'stolen' - in the best possible way - by George Benson and made his own). And for a live look - watch the clip from Concert for Bangladesh which Leon is the orchestrator for George Harrison, Bob Dylan, etc. and Leon almost steals the show with Jumpin' Jack Flash/Young Blood medley. A seriously undervalued contributor to the golden age of rock 'n' roll.
I will watch EVERY REACTION TO LEON RUSSELL!!! The Master of Time and Space. Producer to the Best, Arranger. WRITER!!! Multi-instrumental genius. Leon makes me cry with JOY!
Oh my... wonderful reaction and song. You guys have got to do his song "LADY BLUE" the studio version, Amber will get her horns and you will be transported. So glad y'all did Leon Russell, such a special, special talent. He was a musician's musician.
Oh my, leon Russell is one of our great songs writers. He has so many songs he has crafted for other artists it's crazy and since you did this song you have to (a must) react to Mr. Donny Hathaway who made this song his own. Donny in my opinion is one of our greatest song stylist and when I hear him sing this song it brings tears to my eyes every time! Love the reaction and love you both. Stay safe and please please react to Donny Hathaway a song for you!
Gotta love Leon. Please don't neglect his studio work. "Tightwire is a a good place to start. Thanks so much for this reaction. He had a long career of very much Leon.
It's that Tulsa Sound, with its own unique spin on blue-eyed soul. So proud that Leon is from my hometown. I grew up in the 70s hearing him around the house, as I had 3 older siblings. His songs evoke so much emotion and nostalgia for me. Especially this one and Lady Blue. Glad you guys discovered our homeboy. There is no one like Leon.
Leon wrote this song and it's one of the most covered songs in music history. He was also a session player and his piano is probably on more hit records than can be counted.
To each their own I guess. A lot of folks are technically better singers than Leon but to me it's like listening to canaries. They all sound pretty. No one sings a song like the person that wrote it because only they know what it's for and how it feels. Donnie Hathaway was a great singer though. No argument there. I've heard a hundred different singers do this song but it always comes back to Leon for me.
@@Spo-Dee-O-Dee You're right, that day is done. I disagree about Dylan but that's okay. Dylan had something to say and that's what made it good. Anybody else is just singing it. I don't mean it negatively, but as I said before. The world is full of canaries. They sound wonderful sometimes but there is no shortage of them. You can now actually go to school to become a pop star. Incredible.
The only cover I really like is by Ray Charles. That man could take any song and put so much emotion into it. There's an official version that has absolutely gorgeous orchestration.
A heavyweight here for sure. Well respected by Everyone in the business. A musician's musician. Songwriter extradinaire. There's a hall of famer in the house! This performance has a blend of Billy Joel & Ray Charles
When he was a studio musician he was so in demand that big name artists would schedule their recording sessions around his availability. Look up the list of who he played for and with.
Thank You So Much For Reacting To My Suggestion,, I Knew You Would Both Enjoy This Classic,, Also,, LEON RUSSELL "TIGHT ROPE" IS A MUST HEAR AS WELL..TRUTH!! R.I.P. LEON
Leon was also a studio musician and a member of the wrecking crew who performed on most of the hits in the sixties. Take me back to the island is another great song.
I was blessed to be able to catch Leon Russell live right before he passed. Turns out we had a friend that opened for him Matt Butcher. Otherwise we would of never known he was still performing! Amazed how great Leon sounded! Was an amazing concert at the Plaza Live in Orlando!!
Leon’s song Delta Lady was about Rita Coolidge who was also a background singer and arranger for Joe Cocker. Her solo material is worth checking out specifically the songs “Higher and Higher”, “I Feel The Burden”, “We’re All Alone”.
At 66 years old, I feel I can do my permanent top 10 songs of my lifetime. This song is in my top ten. I only have nine songs because I am leaving one spot open. This song goes to my soul.
Another song is Stranger in a Strange Land off of the Shelter People album. Leon and Joe Cocker made a live album and concert movie called Mad Dogs and Englishmen that you should check out. Leon also did country. He’s why Willie grew his hair long.
There is a live version of this with Leon, Willie Nelson, and Ray Charles. Each of the artists had recorded the song. Leon begins the song, Willie does the second part of the song, but they both get out of the way, and let Ray work his magic. Leon is such an interesting figure in music. He was a part of the legendary Wrecking Crew group of studio musicians. He helped Joe Cocker develop his sound on tour. After falling off the scene for years, Elton John did a duet album with him to help raise his profile again. There is a CBS Sunday Morning story that will make you want to cry it is so touching.
If you want to do Oklahoma natives, you should sample Vince Gill. Very versatile, started in 70's pop, but mostly known for country and gospel. Deep well (he has 22 Grammy's). Hired to replace Glenn Frey in the Eagles when Frey died. Excellent guitarist. Try Go Rest High on That Mountain (have tissues handy). My favorite of his is When I Call Your Name.
Watch Vince play Oklahoma Borderline live on A&E and it really shows what a great guitar player he is. Chet Atkins calls in and requests he play it. Fabulous from 1998.
I just learned that my older brother Dave died earlier today and wanted to hear a reaction to Leon Russell. He loved his music and passed on that appreciation of the outside the mainstream of entertainers to me.
Leon fell on hard times and Elton John pulled him out of the mire. At Leon's induction into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame Leon gives a very touching thank you to Elton who is the one who introduces him, you can find it on TH-cam.
Leon made his bones as part of "The Wrecking Crew", a legendary group of LA studio musicians who are on most of the hits from the 60s and early 70s, including Glen Campbell. It was a truly talented group of artists.
Leon was so many different things. He wrote this song anothers. He was the musical director for Joe Cocker's Mad Dogs and Englishmens Tour and also was a large part of the Concert for Bangladesh with George Harrison. And before all that he was a member of the Wrecking Crew and has played on thousands of recordings as a session musician. He's buried there in Tulsa and has a fabulous memorial.
Check out Leon doing "Youngblood" on George Harrison's Bangladesh album - Billy Preston is another piano, Eric Clapton on guitar, Ringo Starr on drums, George on guitar 🥴 it's powerful. Leon's a legend. His song, "Rainbow in Your Eyes" with wife, Mary is fire. 💕 Ray Charles puts his special sauce on this song. 😉 Always love your genuine reactions.
Leon is an absolute legend.......involved in so much music that people don't even know about. Like people know of Joe Cocker.........but Leon put together the band Mad dogs and Englishmen....which is one of the best albums of all time. I mean the dude was around and important in the music scene from the fifties to the end of the twentieth century.
Leon is a great songwriter too. Other people made big hits by covering his songs. Carpenters covered A song for You, Masquerade, and (I believe) Superstar. George Benson made Masquerade a big hit. I suggest Leon Russell singing his composition, This Masquerade.
Hello, I've loved leon russell from day one ❤ No one else like him. I was fortunate to see him two times in concert. Just taking a trip down memory lane... 🎹🎹🎹☺️ i am now 70 and really believe we had the best music.
This is my favorite Leon Russell song. "Back to the Island" is a close second. And, yes, Leon does some country songs (check out his "Hank Wilson's Back" album) but he's a bonafide rocker too ("Delta Lady").
OMG! I cannot believe you picked Leon. He was one of my fav’s in high school. He also did Tight wire and a piano duet with Sir Elton John. Excellent. He lived in New Orleans for some time.
I've told this in another reaction, I was the accounting manager at a company that made million dollar motorhomes from bus shells. Saw an old motorhome pull up outside and a guy gets out. I say out loud, "holy cow, that's Leon Russell!" Everyone in the office looked at me like I was crazy. He was white haired and bearded. Using a cane. He came in and met with a sales guy. I asked the receptionist if his name was Leon. She looked at me funny and told me it was. Wish I could have spoken to him. He was a national treasure IMO. RIP, Leon.
It's such a joy to share the music I grew up with my kids, and now with you, makes me happy you appreciate it. The 60's and 70's was a time of validating the genre of SOUL, & ROCK which is reflected in the changing times.
Leon was a multi-instrumentalist who for a time was a member of the famous studio musicians known as The Wrecking Crew, responsible for more music backing than u can imagine (see the documentary). He was musical director for Joe Cocker’s Mad Dogs n Englishmen tour/film! (The people in the background here were on that tour. So it’s about the same time. Very much hippie era. Yes. She’s cooking!) He was the pianist for the first Rock Benefit: George Harrison’s Concert for Bangladesh and STOLE THE SHOW with his Jumpin Jack Flash/Youngblood mashup!! Elton has said Leon was his piano idol he most wanted to play like! Known as The Master of Space and Time! RIP!!
Leon had a way of stealing a lot of shows. I was a teenager and in college in the 70's and am from Tulsa. He and JJ Cale, Roy Clark, Eric Clapton's band all lived in Tulsa making it a pretty lively live music scene to say the least. The Tulsa Sound. Look it up.
Leon recorded a whole album of duets with Elton John in 2010. Called "The Union" , one of my favourite albums ever. I'm sure you'd really enjoy it with its blues/Gospel/Country vibes. Keep up the good work!
Glad you liked it. Leon Russell is iconic IMHO. He has such an extensive musical background and so varied…he’s a true original. Play all you can from him. Try “Roll away the stone”.
Leon was a great great songwriter, and a tremendous musician, he was a studio musician before he went out on his own. He toured with Joe Cocker - Mad Dogs and Englishmen - great stuff. Joe covered Leon’s song Delta Lady. Check it out.
Melissa Ward here. Please go down the Leon rabbit hole. You will not be disappointed. We were able to see him twice in a small venue ,about 10 feet from his piano. Wonderful music and he is a legend. Thanks for the great song . He was always so classy. You should really check all his music out. Rest peacefully brother Leon Russell.
I can finally say that I had no idea who this was, think that I've heard the name, but never his music.Loved his style of playing, and I think that I might check out more of his music 🎶
I got to see Leon Russell at Milwaulee Summerfest a few years ago. What a treat. My sister had no idea who he was. He do you explain a legend to someone?. This man's body of work is a huge deep dive.
You guys just made my day!! Leon Russell is such a special artist. I am so happy you guys reacted to his wonderful lyrics and unique voice🎙This is one of the greatest songs ever written.
Before I forget... This reminded me of a song that is an absolute MUST for Jay! Long John Baldry - "Don't Try To Lay No Boogie-Woogie On The King of Rock & Roll"
Ahh Leon, the Master of Space and Time. Love him. Try Delta Lady by him. Leon was known more as a songwriter and musician than a singer but I loved his stuff. I’ve seen him live in Nashville many years ago.
Such a great song. You should watch the 2003 version he did with Willie Nelson and Ray Charles. Each sang a verse and Ray took it home at the very end. That performance was one of Ray Charle's last public performances, as he was dying, but it's fantastic. It literally brought Willie to tears, as you can see in the video. Definitely check it out.
I've always been a fan of Leon Russell but seems that I've been appreciating him more and more the older I get. He was and is so amazing as a singer, pianist, and song writer. I read that he was a child prodigy pianist as a young boy! RIP. We miss you. 🎼🎼🎼
Great song. He has such a soulful rasp to his voice. Just beautiful. Thank you for taking us old folks back in time and letting us hear these songs through young ears again
Whitney Houston did an amazing live version of this song at her 1991 Welcome Home Heroes concert that y'all should react to; Leon wrote Whitney a letter telling her how much he lived it. Love you guys ☮❤
Leon was a phenomenal musician - already a classical music trained child prodigy before he was 10 - and who could literally play any type of music. He was in a big band for awhile - and ultimately a member of the legendary "wrecking crew" - before he went off on his own. He was even a mentor to Elton John (who inducted him into the rock and roll hall of fame). He left us with a legacy of accomplishments - including playing background on a large number of albums we all love during the early seventies. He will be missed.
Thank you so much for this reaction. I love Leon Russell. Except for the Beatles, he's my favorite from the 70s. He's one of the best piano players of all time. Everybody who was anybody wanted him as a sessions player of their recordings. Song For You is one of the most covered love songs of all time. If you research into him, you'll be amazed to find out how much of his work you are familiar with. He was as big behind the scenes as he was singing. He was a session player, producer, songwriter. Just a truely gifted performer and very humble.
I loved Leon Russell when I was a teen. Leon in his later years was not around and Elton John went looking for him and found him down and out. Elton John asked him if he wanted to make a album with him. Leon said of course and they made The Union. Also they made a doc about the making of the Union. Leon had a stroke during the making of it and that is where you saw him with the long white hair. They also inducted Leon in the rock and roll hall of fame before he passed. Thanks for the reaction!
Leon’s song were perfect for a teenage girl in that time. I lost myself in his music. Check out tightrope and masquerade. I believe there may be a live version of those songs. I will check tomorrow for them.
This was my "walk down the aisle" wedding song a year and a half ago. My husband is a musician and a huge Leon Russell fan. I think he categorized Leon's music as Americana if I remember correctly.
I adore this man. I luckily saw him in concert 2 times and I was blown away. The lyrics are perfect: I love you in a place where there's no space or time. I love you for my life. You are a friend of mine. Just WOW!
You should react to Elton John's speech to induct Leon Russell into the Rock and Rock Hall of Fame. Elton provides some insight into Leon's career. He calls Leon a "bad mother****er" and says Leon was the best.
Leon wrote and sang so many great songs. Joe Cocker and he did a travelling show called Mad Dogs & Englishmen. This song is from an album called Leon Russell & The Shelter People and you'd be hard to find a bad track on the album. My personal favorite is "Crystal Closet Queen" which is a tribute to Little Richard -- another artist I think you would enjoy. The song you're listening to was part of a studio session which is unmissable and had kids, cooking, and amazing singers!
Nobody mentioned Hummingbird? From it's intro to the rising gospel refrain, one of his best in my opinion. The great Bonnie Bramlett, Clydie King, Merry Clayton, Bobby Whitlock and Joe Cocker were his backup singers, on this song. Leon was so respected among the top artists of his time. Two of the Beatles, three Stones, Stevie Winwood of Traffic, Klaus Voormann and Eric Clapton contributed to his debut album. Most people don't know half of his contributions to music.
Leon's piano playing had a huge influence on Elton John. Leon had a hand in so many records over the years besides his own. Another Oklahoman you need to listen to is J.J. Cale. A great guitar player with a laid back, subtle sound and an equally good songwriter. Eric Clapton was a huge fan and had a hit with his song , "Cocaine".
One of the most incredible songwriters and musicians in history. He fell out of the spotlight and in recent years, Elton John thought to reach out to him. Leon was Elton's idol when Elton started out. Well, Leon was alone, ill and penniless and Elton recorded an album with him and got him inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. This song is my favorite song of all time. Thank you Leon for writing it and performing it so well!
Dag, I didn't know he was alone and penniless, or about the Elton John connection. Hard to believe such a great artist could be forgotten.
Me too I didn’t know…. That’s lovely of Elton John giving back and helping a fellow musician.Thank you Elton ,
*100 % correct.... see lean on the Rock Hall of fame video, You Will Cry!!!
Be sure to YT search Elton's speech at Leon's induction into the Rock and Roll Hll of fame. It will bring tears of joy to your eyes...
I did not know that. But, now I can hear the influence in Elton’s music.
Leon was an absolute musical genius! Part or the wrecking crew. Big part of the concert for Bangladesh. And the band leader on mad dogs and English men tour! One of the best to ever do it!! RIP Leon!
Tight Rope is another good song that Leon wrote & does sing.
My personal favorite!
Love “Tight Rope” & “Lady Blue”..... 🤙🏽💯🔥
@@bkm2797 Mine too.
'Tight Rope' has been giving me goosebumps since I was a kid in the early 70s and would hear it on the radio.
You Only Had To Hear Leon's Voice ONCE & You Will Recognize It For The Rest Of Your Life.
Leon Russell is a legend! He wrote so many beautiful songs and was a member of the "Wrecking Crew".
The Wrecking Crew documentary is a must see for every old music lover.
A TRUE ICON!! A studio musician who can be heard on soooo many recordings including, Frank Sinatra, Cher, The Beach Boys, just to name a few. An swesome songwriter/arranger and a singer with a unique voice. He IS a member of The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and is truly missed by his fans.. Thanks for your reaction... Keep on keepin' on... BCNU...
Leon Russell was a sessions pianist for many artists. He is playing piano on some of Frank Sinatra's albums in the 60s. You've already heard Leon. You just didn't know it.
WOW - watch Kodi Lee from AGT - he got this song and made it 100% his own - but this is amazing!!! Thank you
Leon played keyboards on the Ventures' badass version of the 'Pink Panther Theme.'
"You've already heard Leon. You just didn't know it." Perfectly said.
I said as much in a comment. I didn't know this man's name but had heard the song a few times. I won't forget his name, though.
Lady Blue is an absolute beautiful, soulful love song by Leon, and it's got the horns you love Amber. God it's a beautiful song. ❤️
Can't recommend this one enough.
Love this song❤
There is a video on TH-cam of Leon, Willie Nelson and Ray Charles singing this song live together that will bring you to tears.
"I know your image of me is what I hope to be..."❤
RIP Leon
I've seen that...absolutely beautiful! Ray does his thing and brings Willie to tears.
Ray and Willie were very dear friends, and Willie was one of the few people who knew that Ray didn't have much time left
@@bethcrumpton476 Unfortunately i believe Ray passed away very shortly after this recording.
Imagine if Leon Russell and Joe Cocker sang together? Well wait no more, "Mad Dogs and Englishmen" is a live Joe Cocker album with Leon, Rita Coolidge, and many more. One of my favorites of all time!
Leon Russel was one of the best concerts ever! Please take a listen to "Stranger in a Strange Land", one of my favorites! So glad to see you react to Leon!
Leon was a great composer who wrote so many songs for other artists. He is an incredible piano player. He also was a studio musician that recorded on many albums. Also he has a unique voice.
Leon Wrote and recorded Delta Lady. Joe Cocker also recorded this and both versions are great and worth a listen.
There is a fun version of that song with joe cocker and tom jones
I saw Leon preform in a small intimate venue…it left me indescribably speechless. He wrote so many songs for so many artists. He had been doing this since he was a teen. The talent! That voice! I was so heartbroken when he left us. 😢
His health was so bad at the end…when he was finished preforming and it was time to leave the stage for a standing ovation he said “we’re just going to pretend I got up and walked over there and walked back” :)) I was so touched with his genuine humanity. He had disappeared from the public and was down and out….Elton John searched for him, found him, and brought him back to us for the last years of his life 💔
Leon was part of The Mad Dogs and Englishmen tour with Joe Cocker which resulted in a live album, Leon put the band together which included Delaney and Bonnie, Rita Coolidge, Carl Radle, Jim Price, Jim Horn, Jim Keltner, Jim Gordon and Chris Stainton. That's a heck of a band.
Don't forget Bobby Keys!! Delanie and Bonnie weren't in this band...they kept their own band going with Bobby Whitlock.
I saw them in concert when I was 15. FRIGGIN MIND BLOWING
If I'm not mistaken, Joe cocker lost his band just before a tour. Leon Russel was instrumental in putting together the replacement musicians... It was (and still is) a great double album!!
And they recorded with a little help from my friends.
Back in those days, they produced many “concert” films. Many of us experienced Mad Dogs and Englishmen, Hendrix, Led Zeppelin and many other great bands on a weekend evening, with our friends at the local movie house.
I love Leon Russell. I think you all would really like "Tightrope" by him. This man was actually an idol of Sir Elton John. As you can tell by Elton Johns writing he took a lot of inspiration from Leon Russell, with his song writing. Please give it a listen even if not for a reaction just listen for your own enjoyment. As always great reaction guys.
Yep! Was looking for the comment where someone would say that this was THE idol of Elton's.
He talks about others influencing him... but Leon was his hero.
Came here to suggest Tight Rope.
Many of the songs from Carney and Shelter People are worthy of their review!! If the Shoe Fits, Manhatten Serenade, Stranger in a strange world, ect.
Leon was multi-talented. He "made his name" originally as a studio musician who played piano on many of the early rock n roll hits. When he began writing his awesome songs & had trouble selling them, he began singing them himself...but he never considered himself a singer. FYI, he arranged all off Joe Cocker's early music & toured with him on the famous "Mad Dogs & Englishmen" tour, which was filmed and I saw in the theater a number of times in 70-71. He was awesome... RIP Leon.
Leon was part of the wrecking crew sessions musicians.✌️
@@David-kf5gk The documentary on The Wrecking Crew (that's the name of the doc as well) is worth watching for anyone wanting to find out more about the music of the 60s and 70s.
I was lucky enough to see the very first show they did in Detroit. It is the best concert I ever saw.
Born in late 50's in Tulsa, grew up listening to 60's/70's music and Leon was right there with the largest acts in the world. If you look at his history and who he played with your respect will grown exponentially for him. Stranger in a Strange Land, Home Sweet Oklahoma (a must for you from Oklahoma), Lady Blue, and of course This Masquerade (which was 'stolen' - in the best possible way - by George Benson and made his own). And for a live look - watch the clip from Concert for Bangladesh which Leon is the orchestrator for George Harrison, Bob Dylan, etc. and Leon almost steals the show with Jumpin' Jack Flash/Young Blood medley. A seriously undervalued contributor to the golden age of rock 'n' roll.
If you want the gravely voice and the rocking Jay likes, try Dr. John , Right Place, Wrong Time
Great suggestion! Also 'Such a Night'...and "I Walk On Guilded Splinters" for a trip to Voodoo Weirdsville.
I will watch EVERY REACTION TO LEON RUSSELL!!! The Master of Time and Space. Producer to the Best, Arranger. WRITER!!! Multi-instrumental genius. Leon makes me cry with JOY!
This is possibly the best song ever written, no matter who performs it.
Leon Russell....worth a dive down the rabbit hole!! He influenced so many through his writing and arrangements.
Oh my... wonderful reaction and song. You guys have got to do his song "LADY BLUE" the studio version, Amber will get her horns and you will be transported. So glad y'all did Leon Russell, such a special, special talent. He was a musician's musician.
Yes, my favorite!
I LOVE "Lady Blue". It gets to me every time I hear it.
My favorite is Lady Blue!
Leon's take of the Bob Dylan song "A Hard Rain is Gonna Fall" is well worth a listen.
He did Dylan better than Dylan.
...As are It's all Over Now Baby Blue and The Ballad of Hollis Brown.
Oh my, leon Russell is one of our great songs writers. He has so many songs he has crafted for other artists it's crazy and since you did this song you have to (a must) react to Mr. Donny Hathaway who made this song his own. Donny in my opinion is one of our greatest song stylist and when I hear him sing this song it brings tears to my eyes every time! Love the reaction and love you both. Stay safe and please please react to Donny Hathaway a song for you!
I love Donny Hathaway. One of my all time favorites.
The Donny Hathaway version of A Song For You is great. Jazz singer Carmen McRae's interpretation is magnificent.
Leon filled a niche in “space and time” I’ll never forget. I’m so happy I grew up with this.
Gotta love Leon. Please don't neglect his studio work. "Tightwire is a a good place to start. Thanks so much for this reaction. He had a long career of very much Leon.
The song is Tightrope, not Tightwire.
The entire Carney album is top notch. 🤡
It's that Tulsa Sound, with its own unique spin on blue-eyed soul.
So proud that Leon is from my hometown. I grew up in the 70s hearing him around the house, as I had 3 older siblings. His songs evoke so much emotion and nostalgia for me. Especially this one and Lady Blue.
Glad you guys discovered our homeboy. There is no one like Leon.
Leon wrote this song and it's one of the most covered songs in music history. He was also a session player and his piano is probably on more hit records than can be counted.
DONNIE HATHAWAY IS A BETTER VERSIOM THO FRFR
To each their own I guess. A lot of folks are technically better singers than Leon but to me it's like listening to canaries. They all sound pretty. No one sings a song like the person that wrote it because only they know what it's for and how it feels. Donnie Hathaway was a great singer though. No argument there. I've heard a hundred different singers do this song but it always comes back to Leon for me.
@@Spo-Dee-O-Dee You're right, that day is done. I disagree about Dylan but that's okay. Dylan had something to say and that's what made it good. Anybody else is just singing it. I don't mean it negatively, but as I said before. The world is full of canaries. They sound wonderful sometimes but there is no shortage of them. You can now actually go to school to become a pop star. Incredible.
The only cover I really like is by Ray Charles. That man could take any song and put so much emotion into it. There's an official version that has absolutely gorgeous orchestration.
@@melodymcdonald2140 I agree with that. Ray Charles could sing the phone book and it would come out good.
A heavyweight here for sure. Well respected by Everyone in the business. A musician's musician. Songwriter extradinaire. There's a hall of famer in the house! This performance has a blend of Billy Joel & Ray Charles
When he was a studio musician he was so in demand that big name artists would schedule their recording sessions around his availability. Look up the list of who he played for and with.
Thank You So Much For Reacting To My Suggestion,, I Knew You Would Both Enjoy This Classic,, Also,, LEON RUSSELL "TIGHT ROPE" IS A MUST HEAR AS WELL..TRUTH!! R.I.P. LEON
Leon was also a studio musician and a member of the wrecking crew who performed on most of the hits in the sixties. Take me back to the island is another great song.
I was blessed to be able to catch Leon Russell live right before he passed. Turns out we had a friend that opened for him Matt Butcher. Otherwise we would of never known he was still performing! Amazed how great Leon sounded! Was an amazing concert at the Plaza Live in Orlando!!
Leon’s song Delta Lady was about Rita Coolidge who was also a background singer and arranger for Joe Cocker. Her solo material is worth checking out specifically the songs “Higher and Higher”, “I Feel The Burden”, “We’re All Alone”.
Rita Coolidge is good .
But don't check out Rita Coolidge's "Higher and Higher" without checking out the Jackie Wilson original!
@@ediefolta9494 Way Better. Rita's puts me to sleep.
"I love you in a place where there's no place or time" I love this lyric! Just beautiful from Leon Russell.
At 66 years old, I feel I can do my permanent top 10 songs of my lifetime. This song is in my top ten. I only have nine songs because I am leaving one spot open. This song goes to my soul.
Truly one of the most beautiful love songs ever written.
Leon has looked like this since the early sixties. Fantastic composer. Gotta hear more!
My daughter was in a band that opened for Leon in the late 90’s when she was 16-17!!
My husband when young partied at Leon’s house .
Another song is Stranger in a Strange Land off of the Shelter People album. Leon and Joe Cocker made a live album and concert movie called Mad Dogs and Englishmen that you should check out. Leon also did country. He’s why Willie grew his hair long.
His career spanned 60 years and included every genre. 31 albums and 430 songs as singer or song writer. 200 artist covered this song.
Wow! Those are some incredible stats!
Stranger in a strange land is a must from this iconic singer/songwriter from the 60s,70s…phenomenal
There is a live version of this with Leon, Willie Nelson, and Ray Charles. Each of the artists had recorded the song. Leon begins the song, Willie does the second part of the song, but they both get out of the way, and let Ray work his magic.
Leon is such an interesting figure in music. He was a part of the legendary Wrecking Crew group of studio musicians. He helped Joe Cocker develop his sound on tour. After falling off the scene for years, Elton John did a duet album with him to help raise his profile again. There is a CBS Sunday Morning story that will make you want to cry it is so touching.
F yeah
OMG. How I love this version of Leon Russell's song. Thanks for playing it.
It's A MUST that you listen to the Carpenters rendition of this song! In my very biased opinion, Karen is immaculate!!
AGREED
The standard bearer for this song (and "Superstar").
We ordinary mortals are amazed by top singers, those artists we worship feel the same way about Leon Russel!!!
If you want to do Oklahoma natives, you should sample Vince Gill. Very versatile, started in 70's pop, but mostly known for country and gospel. Deep well (he has 22 Grammy's). Hired to replace Glenn Frey in the Eagles when Frey died. Excellent guitarist. Try Go Rest High on That Mountain (have tissues handy). My favorite of his is When I Call Your Name.
They just said they were glad not to have another Oklahoma Country Singer
@@VIDSTORAGE That's not the same as saying they won't listen to another OK country singer. Besides, they can always listen to Pure Prairie League.
@@eclconsulting Yea ,Pure Prairie League is one of my all time favs along with POCO when it comes to the country rock fusions.
Watch Vince play Oklahoma Borderline live on A&E and it really shows what a great guitar player he is. Chet Atkins calls in and requests he play it. Fabulous from 1998.
I have never heard of him. OMG he's amazing. Blessed with a gift from God. Wow.
Donny Hathaway singing this live is perfect and magical. Look it up.
I was about to suggest his version as well. Donnie made this his own, like Luther does with remakes. 💕
Donny
@@tanya2299 miss Donny so much. Loved his duets with Roberta Flack 💕
This is Leon's song. He wrote it. He also wrote "This Masquerade". Even the great George Benson couldn't make that song his own.
I just learned that my older brother Dave died earlier today and wanted to hear a reaction to Leon Russell. He loved his music and passed on that appreciation of the outside the mainstream of entertainers to me.
So sorry for your loss
Leon fell on hard times and Elton John pulled him out of the mire. At Leon's induction into the Rock n Roll Hall of Fame Leon gives a very touching thank you to Elton who is the one who introduces him, you can find it on TH-cam.
So fun to hear. I had a Leon Russel poster on my wall when I was a teenager in the 70s.
the Carpenters do a beautiful version of this song - so many artists have covered this song!
Yes, 200 artist to be exact.
They also had hits with his song This Masquerade and with Superstar - which was co-written with Delaney and Bonnie
@@markchapel6694 I had no idea those were his songs too. Now I’ll have to dig those out tonight. Thank you for sharing that! :D
@J T Good to know! I definitely am, so thank you very much! :D
My favorite version is Donny Hathaway's.
Leon made his bones as part of "The Wrecking Crew", a legendary group of LA studio musicians who are on most of the hits from the 60s and early 70s, including Glen Campbell. It was a truly talented group of artists.
Leon was so many different things. He wrote this song anothers. He was the musical director for Joe Cocker's Mad Dogs and Englishmens Tour and also was a large part of the Concert for Bangladesh with George Harrison. And before all that he was a member of the Wrecking Crew and has played on thousands of recordings as a session musician. He's buried there in Tulsa and has a fabulous memorial.
Check out Leon doing "Youngblood" on George Harrison's Bangladesh album - Billy Preston is another piano, Eric Clapton on guitar, Ringo Starr on drums, George on guitar 🥴 it's powerful. Leon's a legend. His song, "Rainbow in Your Eyes" with wife, Mary is fire. 💕
Ray Charles puts his special sauce on this song. 😉 Always love your genuine reactions.
The Bangladesh album had some of the all time greats of the era.
Back to the Island is a great Leon Russell song.
My absolute favorite by Leon.
Oh yes!
@@bobbit8987 and Bluebird
Bluebird is so awesome but so was that entire album !
Stranger in a Strange Land is another great song by Leon Russell!! He was an incredible pianists.
Leon is an absolute legend.......involved in so much music that people don't even know about. Like people know of Joe Cocker.........but Leon put together the band Mad dogs and Englishmen....which is one of the best albums of all time. I mean the dude was around and important in the music scene from the fifties to the end of the twentieth century.
Another one would be “This Masquerade”. Hell, the whole album “Carney”. You can’t go wrong.
"Carney" is a dynamic album for sure!! Masterpiece!
Leon is a great songwriter too. Other people made big hits by covering his songs. Carpenters covered A song for You, Masquerade, and (I believe) Superstar. George Benson made Masquerade a big hit.
I suggest Leon Russell singing his composition, This Masquerade.
It’s my favorite Leon Russell recording!
I’ll go straight from this song and TH-cam masquerade just a cause!
Hello, I've loved leon russell from day one ❤ No one else like him. I was fortunate to see him two times in concert. Just taking a trip down memory lane... 🎹🎹🎹☺️ i am now 70 and really believe we had the best music.
Back to the island ,by LEON RUSSELL....
And watch the sun go down
Watch the sea roll in
I'll be thinking of you
And how it might of been...
This is my favorite Leon Russell song. "Back to the Island" is a close second. And, yes, Leon does some country songs (check out his "Hank Wilson's Back" album) but he's a bonafide rocker too ("Delta Lady").
My introduction to Leon, one album I've listened to for 40 plus years! 👍
Back to the Island is my favorite song ever.
I love you in a place where there's no space and time........greatest line ever Rip Leon ✌️🙏♥️
OMG! I cannot believe you picked Leon. He was one of my fav’s in high school. He also did Tight wire and a piano duet with Sir Elton John. Excellent. He lived in New Orleans for some time.
JJ CALE He is considered to be one of the originators of the Tulsa sound, a loose genre drawing on blues, rockabilly, country, and jazz.
Listeb to JJ Cale today....have been since 1975
I love them.
I've told this in another reaction, I was the accounting manager at a company that made million dollar motorhomes from bus shells. Saw an old motorhome pull up outside and a guy gets out. I say out loud, "holy cow, that's Leon Russell!" Everyone in the office looked at me like I was crazy. He was white haired and bearded. Using a cane. He came in and met with a sales guy. I asked the receptionist if his name was Leon. She looked at me funny and told me it was. Wish I could have spoken to him. He was a national treasure IMO. RIP, Leon.
You'll love Leon Russell's "Lady Blue" and Donny Hathaway's version of A Song For You is absolute "BUTTA"!!!
It's such a joy to share the music I grew up with my kids, and now with you, makes me happy you appreciate it. The 60's and 70's was a time of validating the genre of SOUL, & ROCK which is reflected in the changing times.
Leon was a multi-instrumentalist who for a time was a member of the famous studio musicians known as The Wrecking Crew, responsible for more music backing than u can imagine (see the documentary). He was musical director for Joe Cocker’s Mad Dogs n Englishmen tour/film! (The people in the background here were on that tour. So it’s about the same time. Very much hippie era. Yes. She’s cooking!)
He was the pianist for the first Rock Benefit: George Harrison’s Concert for Bangladesh and STOLE THE SHOW with his Jumpin Jack Flash/Youngblood mashup!!
Elton has said Leon was his piano idol he most wanted to play like!
Known as The Master of Space and Time! RIP!!
Leon had a way of stealing a lot of shows. I was a teenager and in college in the 70's and am from Tulsa. He and JJ Cale, Roy Clark, Eric Clapton's band all lived in Tulsa making it a pretty lively live music scene to say the least. The Tulsa Sound. Look it up.
Leon recorded a whole album of duets with Elton John in 2010. Called "The Union" , one of my favourite albums ever. I'm sure you'd really enjoy it with its blues/Gospel/Country vibes. Keep up the good work!
Glad you liked it. Leon Russell is iconic IMHO. He has such an extensive musical background and so varied…he’s a true original. Play all you can from him. Try “Roll away the stone”.
⚘You should hear him when he got older. His voice is richer with more soul now
Leon was a great great songwriter, and a tremendous musician, he was a studio musician before he went out on his own. He toured with Joe Cocker - Mad Dogs and Englishmen - great stuff. Joe covered Leon’s song Delta Lady. Check it out.
You took the words out of my mouth. RIP Leon.
Melissa Ward here. Please go down the Leon rabbit hole. You will not be disappointed. We were able to see him twice in a small venue ,about 10 feet from his piano. Wonderful music and he is a legend. Thanks for the great song . He was always so classy. You should really check all his music out. Rest peacefully brother Leon Russell.
I can finally say that I had no idea who this was, think that I've heard the name, but never his music.Loved his style of playing, and I think that I might check out more of his music 🎶
Do! You will be blown away as we used to say in the old days lol!
@@kona883 Lol,in a good way 👍
I got to see Leon Russell at Milwaulee Summerfest a few years ago. What a treat. My sister had no idea who he was. He do you explain a legend to someone?. This man's body of work is a huge deep dive.
You guys just made my day!! Leon Russell is such a special artist. I am so happy you guys reacted to his wonderful lyrics and unique voice🎙This is one of the greatest songs ever written.
'Lost in a Masquerade' a top Leon Russell song.
Before I forget... This reminded me of a song that is an absolute MUST for Jay! Long John Baldry - "Don't Try To Lay No Boogie-Woogie On The King of Rock & Roll"
EXCELLENT suggestion!!! 👍
Ahh Leon, the Master of Space and Time. Love him. Try Delta Lady by him. Leon was known more as a songwriter and musician than a singer but I loved his stuff. I’ve seen him live in Nashville many years ago.
Delta Lady! What a song!
Such a great song. You should watch the 2003 version he did with Willie Nelson and Ray Charles. Each sang a verse and Ray took it home at the very end. That performance was one of Ray Charle's last public performances, as he was dying, but it's fantastic. It literally brought Willie to tears, as you can see in the video. Definitely check it out.
I only knew him as a songwriter but this was Lovelt.
Y'all kept referring to Carrie Underwood as an Ohie; I think Texas might draw 6guns over that
I've always been a fan of Leon Russell but seems that I've been appreciating him more and more the older I get. He was and is so amazing as a singer, pianist, and song writer. I read that he was a child prodigy pianist as a young boy! RIP. We miss you. 🎼🎼🎼
Great song. He has such a soulful rasp to his voice. Just beautiful.
Thank you for taking us old folks back in time and letting us hear these songs through young ears again
I love how excited Amber gets. Both of them definitely appreciate music at the soul level.
Whitney Houston did an amazing live version of this song at her 1991 Welcome Home Heroes concert that y'all should react to; Leon wrote Whitney a letter telling her how much he lived it. Love you guys ☮❤
Leon was a phenomenal musician - already a classical music trained child prodigy before he was 10 - and who could literally play any type of music. He was in a big band for awhile - and ultimately a member of the legendary "wrecking crew" - before he went off on his own. He was even a mentor to Elton John (who inducted him into the rock and roll hall of fame). He left us with a legacy of accomplishments - including playing background on a large number of albums we all love during the early seventies. He will be missed.
Lady Blue by Leon, is a fantastic song! ❤️ It's been on my playlist forever!
Thank you so much for this reaction. I love Leon Russell. Except for the Beatles, he's my favorite from the 70s. He's one of the best piano players of all time. Everybody who was anybody wanted him as a sessions player of their recordings. Song For You is one of the most covered love songs of all time. If you research into him, you'll be amazed to find out how much of his work you are familiar with. He was as big behind the scenes as he was singing. He was a session player, producer, songwriter. Just a truely gifted performer and very humble.
I loved Leon Russell when I was a teen. Leon in his later years was not around and Elton John went looking for him and found him down and out. Elton John asked him if he wanted to make a album with him. Leon said of course and they made The Union. Also they made a doc about the making of the Union. Leon had a stroke during the making of it and that is where you saw him with the long white hair. They also inducted Leon in the rock and roll hall of fame before he passed. Thanks for the reaction!
Ohhh and Leon was known to wear a top hat. He looked amazing
That's so sad.
That's so sad.
Leon’s song were perfect for a teenage girl in that time. I lost myself in his music. Check out tightrope and masquerade. I believe there may be a live version of those songs. I will check tomorrow for them.
“Back to do Island”…you won’t be disappointed.
This was my "walk down the aisle" wedding song a year and a half ago. My husband is a musician and a huge Leon Russell fan. I think he categorized Leon's music as Americana if I remember correctly.
I adore this man. I luckily saw him in concert 2 times and I was blown away. The lyrics are perfect:
I love you in a place where there's no space or time. I love you for my life. You are a friend of mine. Just WOW!
You should react to Elton John's speech to induct Leon Russell into the Rock and Rock Hall of Fame. Elton provides some insight into Leon's career. He calls Leon a "bad mother****er" and says Leon was the best.
Great choice. Leon was the best.
Saw him in concert about 10 years ago. He’s awesome and has been for a long time. RIP Leon ❤️
Leon wrote and sang so many great songs. Joe Cocker and he did a travelling show called Mad Dogs & Englishmen. This song is from an album called Leon Russell & The Shelter People and you'd be hard to find a bad track on the album. My personal favorite is "Crystal Closet Queen" which is a tribute to Little Richard -- another artist I think you would enjoy. The song you're listening to was part of a studio session which is unmissable and had kids, cooking, and amazing singers!
Nobody mentioned Hummingbird? From it's intro to the rising gospel refrain, one of his best in my opinion. The great Bonnie Bramlett, Clydie King, Merry Clayton, Bobby Whitlock and Joe Cocker were his backup singers, on this song. Leon was so respected among the top artists of his time. Two of the Beatles, three Stones, Stevie Winwood of Traffic, Klaus Voormann and Eric Clapton contributed to his debut album. Most people don't know half of his contributions to music.
Leon's piano playing had a huge influence on Elton John. Leon had a hand in so many records over the years besides his own.
Another Oklahoman you need to listen to is J.J. Cale. A great guitar player with a laid back, subtle sound and an equally good songwriter. Eric Clapton was a huge fan and had a hit with his song , "Cocaine".
Yes please check out JJ! Another good Tulsa band from that era was the GAP band. Totally different style of music but still Tulsa through and through.
Crazy Mama, Sensitive Kind and Magnolia. Love these 3 songs.
@@chlynn13b92 i Agee, Cherry’s also my jam
And Also "After Midnight" and "Call Me The Breeze" by Lynyrd Skynyrd
Thank you for the reintroducing me to Leon and this song. Wow!