Leon Russell, whose real name was Claude Russell Bridges, was an American musician, songwriter, and producer. He was born on April 2, 1942, in Lawton, Oklahoma, and he passed away on November 13, 2016, in Nashville, Tennessee. Leon Russell was a highly influential figure in the world of rock, pop, and country music, known for his distinctive songwriting and musical talent. Leon Russell began his music career as a session musician in Los Angeles during the 1960s. He played piano on numerous recordings for artists such as The Beach Boys, Frank Sinatra, and The Byrds.