13 Days of Oklahoma Music: Leon Russell joins the rock and roll and songwriters halls of fame
The 13 Days of Oklahoma Music continue here at BAM’s Blog, as we look back on the musical milestones state artists experienced in the past year as 2011 draws to a close.
Tulsa Sound pioneer Leon Russell’s 2010 resurgence powered through 2011.
After 50 years of rocking, the Lawton native officially rolled into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in March, with British superstar Elton John, with whom Russell recorded the 2010 duet album “The Union,” ushering him into the hall.
In April, Russell and John performed on “Saturday Night Live,” with the “Rocket Man” pulling double duty as host. Also in April, director Cameron Crowe’s (“Almost Famous”) documentary chronicling the making of “The Union” will open New York’s Tribeca Film Festival.
On May 1, the singer/songwriter/pianist known as Uncle Leon played the closing day of the Stagecoach Festival. In June, Russell and Oklahoma country superstar Garth Brooks were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
And in September, Russell returned to “Home Sweet Oklahoma” to play what was believed to be his first showcase at the state fair.
Hopefully, Russell, 69, will continue his comeback into 2012.
-BAM
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I am happy to see Leon recognized for his years of making music. I recently saw the program of Leon and Elton John recording “The Union” CD. Terrific work by both artist. Good luck to Leon on his current endeavors.