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Leon Russell, born in Lawton but raised in Tulsa, is a musical genius who influenced artists such as George Harrison, Eric Clapton and Elton John.
Leon had his own band in the 1950s with friends such as J. J. Cale and David Gates. At the age of 19, he went to Hollywood where he earned a place in the famous Wrecking Crew as a keyboardist and arranger. A solo career followed, but he made history as an innovative producer behind the mixing boards.
In addition to the music he gives us, Leon founded The Church Studio recording studio in Tulsa.
– Bob Blackburn, Oklahoma Historical Society