Leon Russell Vinyl Records Lps For Sale
Check out these new and used Leon Russell vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Leon Russell vinyl collection with the essential albums A Song For You, Dixie Lullaby and I Put A Spell On You. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from rock musicians.
Auto Amazon Links: No products found.
Leon Russell: The Maestro of Rock and Roll
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Leon Russell, born Claude Russell Bridges on April 2, 1942, in Lawton, Oklahoma, was destined to become a musical icon. Raised in a musical family, he started playing piano at the tender age of four. His prodigious talent quickly gained attention, and by his teenage years, he was already performing in clubs around Tulsa.
In the early 1960s, Russell became a sought-after session musician in Los Angeles, contributing to recordings by artists like The Byrds, Frank Sinatra, and The Beach Boys. This period set the stage for his illustrious career and the formation of his own band.
The Formation of The Asylum Choir
Russell’s journey as a band leader began with The Asylum Choir, a psychedelic rock duo formed with Marc Benno. Their self-titled debut album, “The Asylum Choir,” released in 1968, showcased Russell’s unique blend of rock, blues, and gospel influences. The experimental nature of the album hinted at the musical boundary-pushing that would become a hallmark of Russell’s career.
Shelter People and the Emergence of Leon Russell
The late 1960s saw the emergence of Russell as a solo artist. His second album, “Leon Russell,” released in 1970, marked a significant step in his solo career. The album, often referred to as the “Carny” album due to its cover art, featured the hit single “A Song for You,” which has since become a classic covered by numerous artists.
Following the success of his self-titled album, Russell released “Leon Russell and the Shelter People” in 1971. The album included standout tracks like “Stranger in a Strange Land” and “Crystal Closet Queen,” further solidifying his reputation as a masterful songwriter and performer.
Mad Dogs & Englishmen: A Pinnacle of Live Performances
One of Russell’s most celebrated works is the live album “Mad Dogs & Englishmen,” recorded during Joe Cocker’s 1970 tour. Russell served as the bandleader for the ambitious project, which featured a large ensemble of musicians. The album captured the raw energy of the live performances and showcased Russell’s ability to command a stage.
Carney: A Masterpiece of Songwriting
“Carney,” released in 1972, stands out as one of Russell’s masterpieces. The album featured the hit single “Tight Rope,” a soulful and energetic track that became a chart-topping success. The diversity of musical styles on “Carney” demonstrated Russell’s versatility, with elements of rock, country, and R&B seamlessly woven together.
Influences and Musical Style
Leon Russell’s music is a melting pot of genres, encompassing rock, blues, gospel, and country. His distinctive gravelly voice, coupled with his exceptional piano skills, created a sound that was both soulful and authentic. Russell drew inspiration from artists like Ray Charles, Hoagy Carmichael, and Jerry Lee Lewis, blending their influences into a style uniquely his own.
Similar Bands and Musical Kinship
Several bands share a musical kinship with Leon Russell, either through stylistic similarities or collaborations.
The Band
The Band, known for their Americana roots rock, shared a musical camaraderie with Russell. Collaborations between The Band’s members and Russell were not uncommon, highlighting the mutual respect and admiration between these influential musicians.
Joe Cocker
The collaboration between Joe Cocker and Leon Russell on the “Mad Dogs & Englishmen” tour and album showcased a perfect synergy of their musical talents. Both artists shared a passion for blues and soul, creating a live recording that remains a testament to their dynamic partnership.
Delaney & Bonnie
Delaney & Bonnie, a husband-and-wife musical duo, also collaborated with Russell. Their soulful blend of rock, gospel, and blues resonated with Russell’s musical sensibilities, leading to fruitful collaborations and shared performances.
Legacy and Influence
Leon Russell’s impact on the music industry extends beyond his own discography. His work as a session musician, songwriter, and bandleader has left an indelible mark on the rock and roll landscape. Russell’s influence can be heard in the music of subsequent generations of artists, spanning genres and styles.
Elton John
Elton John, a longtime admirer of Russell, collaborated with him on the album “The Union” in 2010. The album paid homage to Russell’s enduring influence on the music scene and marked a symbolic passing of the torch from one piano maestro to another.
Bruce Hornsby
Bruce Hornsby, with his virtuosic piano playing and genre-blending style, has cited Russell as a significant influence. The echoes of Russell’s musical innovation can be heard in Hornsby’s diverse body of work.
Influence on Southern Rock
Russell’s roots in the American South and his incorporation of various southern musical traditions had a profound impact on the Southern rock genre. Artists like Lynyrd Skynyrd and The Allman Brothers Band drew inspiration from Russell’s soulful approach to rock and roll.
In conclusion, Leon Russell’s contribution to the world of music is immeasurable. From his early days as a session musician to his prolific solo career, Russell’s influence has touched countless artists and genres. As we continue to celebrate his legacy, it’s clear that the Maestro of Rock and Roll will forever hold a revered place in the pantheon of musical legends.
![[Exquisite Appearance] Built from wood and metal materials with a unique sense of layering; The streamlined corner design is truly atmospheric and stylish(Note: long hold the start button to turn the power on, and press again to start) [All in 1] Thi...](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41vovGjFkeL._SL160_.jpg)
1 by ONE High Fidelity Belt Drive Turntable with Built-in Speakers, Vinyl Record Player with Magnetic Cartridge, Bluetooth Playback and Aux-in Functionality, Auto Off
8% Off
Audio-Technica AT-LP60X-BK Fully Automatic Belt-Drive Stereo Turntable, Black, Hi-Fidelity, Plays 33 -1/3 and 45 RPM Vinyl Records, Dust Cover, Anti-Resonance, Die-Cast Aluminum Platter
$169.00 (as of May 14, 2025 19:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Sony PS-LX310BT Belt Drive Turntable: Fully Automatic Wireless Vinyl Record Player with Bluetooth and USB Output Black
7% Off
Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK Fully Automatic Wireless Belt-Drive Turntable (Black) (ATLP60XBTBK)
$239.00 (as of May 14, 2025 19:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
1 by ONE Belt Drive Turntable with Bluetooth Connectivity, Built-in Phono Pre-amp, USB Digital Output Vinyl Stereo Record Player with Magnetic Cartridge, 33 or 45 RPM
37% Off
Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK Direct-Drive Turntable (Analog & USB), Fully Manual, Hi-Fi, 3 Speed, Convert Vinyl to Digital, Anti-Skate and Variable Pitch Control Black
$379.00 (as of May 14, 2025 19:30 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Victrola Nostalgic 6-in-1 Bluetooth Record Player & Multimedia Center with Built-in Speakers - 3-Speed Turntable, CD & Cassette Player, FM Radio | Wireless Music Streaming | Mahogany
41% Off
