PDF Summary:Leon Russell, by Bill Janovitz

This biography delves into the life and musical journey of Leon Russell, chronicling his rise from a young artist in Tulsa, Oklahoma to a sought-after session musician for the legendary "Wrecking Crew" in Los Angeles. It explores how Russell's experimentation with psychedelics shaped his artistic vision, propelling his transition into a successful solo artist and bandleader.

Bill Janovitz details Russell's creative collaborations with peers like Joe Cocker, George Harrison, and Bob Dylan. The book also recounts Russell's business ventures, personal life, and enduring influence, as well as the deep connection he shared with his dedicated fans, the "Leon Lifers."

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Leon Russell showcased his diverse talents as he took on the roles of orchestrator, conductor, and musician throughout Joe Cocker's Mad Dogs & Englishmen tour.

Leon played a crucial role in salvaging Joe Cocker's faltering tour. In an impressive display of leadership, Leon assembled a group of musicians, prepared them, selected and organized the music, and put together a performance, all in less than ten days. Joe Cocker, who had come to Los Angeles for a break from the demands of touring and recording, had included Leon's recent contributions on an album. By this time, Leon had initiated his individual music journey with the release of his debut album and had co-founded Shelter Records alongside Denny Cordell. Leon saw a chance in a project that would not only launch his new label but also promote his songs and persona. Leon orchestrated a remarkable sequence of shows from Cocker's interrupted tour, which would go down in history as one of the most memorable rock tours, acclaimed for its live performances and its portrayal in a film.

Practical Tips

• Improve your adaptability by learning a new skill that requires both creativity and precision, such as digital video editing. Start with free or low-cost software and create a short film or video montage. This process will require you to assume multiple roles, from director to editor, and will help you understand how to switch between different functions seamlessly, much like a musician playing different instruments.
• Create a 'rescue team' with colleagues or friends who have diverse skills and experiences. When a project or situation is going south, having a group of people to brainstorm with can lead to innovative solutions. Set up a group chat or a monthly meetup where you can share issues and get fresh perspectives.
• Organize a virtual concert series using a platform like Zoom or Twitch to bring together musicians and audiences. Reach out to musician friends or local music schools to find participants, then schedule a series of short concerts. This allows musicians to perform from their own homes, which can be especially appealing for those with time constraints or who are geographically dispersed.
• Start a community project that involves collective contributions, like a mural or a digital collage, where each participant adds their own touch. This can foster a sense of unity and creativity, much like a musical collaboration, and result in a unique piece that represents the collective talent of the group.
• Document your learning or creative process in a blog or vlog to share your journey with others. This not only helps you reflect on your progress but also connects you with a community that can offer support and feedback. If you're learning to cook, for instance, post weekly updates on new recipes you've tried and the techniques you've learned.
• Offer to manage or assist with a project for a local non-profit or community group. This could be anything from helping to organize a charity concert to leading a fundraising campaign. The experience will give you insights into the dynamics of partnership and the satisfaction of contributing to a cause, mirroring the collaborative spirit of Leon and Denny's venture.
• Collaborate with local artists or creators to cross-promote each other's work. Reach out to individuals in your community who have skills or products that complement yours. If you're a musician, for example, partner with a visual artist for your album cover, and promote their work in your music releases. This mutual promotion can help you both reach wider audiences and create a more compelling story for your brand.
• You can harness the power of social media to create buzz for your events by live-tweeting progress and behind-the-scenes preparations. This strategy involves using platforms like Twitter and Instagram to share updates and sneak peeks of the event planning process, which can generate excitement and anticipation among your audience. For example, if you're organizing a local art show, post photos of the artwork, interviews with the artists, and the setup process to engage the community and build interest.
• Host a themed movie night featuring films that showcase legendary concerts or tours. This can help you grasp the visual and emotional impact of a well-documented tour. Invite friends or family over and watch a film that captures the essence of a live tour. Discuss what aspects of the film made the tour seem memorable, such as the cinematography, the behind-the-scenes moments, or the portrayal of the audience's reaction.

Leon, who played a pivotal role in establishing the Shelter People, a group known for its musical diversity, always favored collaborative musical projects.

Leon assembled a new group known as the Shelter People, bringing together former associates from the Mad Dogs and enlisting renowned session players from Los Angeles like Carl Radle on bass, Chuck Blackwell and Jim Keltner on drums, and guitarists such as Don Preston and Joey Cooper. Janovitz describes this collective of artists, both singularly and together, as a distinguished assembly that ultimately became known by a term typically used for white musicians whose work is profoundly shaped by the gospel and blues traditions of the American South, incorporating aspects of rock and country. Leon ensured that each member of the band had their moment in the spotlight, providing support during individual solos and while they performed his extensive repertoire of original music.

Practical Tips

• Start a virtual jam session using video conferencing tools where participants are encouraged to play instruments or sing, regardless of their skill level. This can be a space for musical experimentation and collaboration, fostering an environment similar to a diverse musical group. You might find that blending a beginner's ukulele with a more experienced keyboard player can lead to unexpected and enjoyable results.
• Organize a 'songwriting roulette' where participants contribute one line or melody to a song in a round-robin fashion. You can do this through a dedicated email thread, a messaging app, or a shared document. Each person adds their piece without knowing what the others will contribute, resulting in a collaborative and often surprising composition.
• Enhance your team-building skills by organizing a 'skill-swap' event within your community or workplace. Encourage participants to list their skills and interests, and then match them with others who have complementary abilities. This can lead to new partnerships and projects, similar to how musicians might come together to form a new sound.
• Write a short story or piece of creative writing inspired by the music of the Shelter People. Use the emotions and narratives you draw from their music as a basis for characters or plot lines, which can be a fun way to connect with the music on a personal level.
• Create a playlist that blends genres to explore the fusion of musical styles. Start by selecting songs from gospel, blues, rock, and country genres and arrange them in a way that showcases the transition and influence between them. This can help you develop an ear for how different musical traditions can complement and enhance each other.
• Start a peer recognition program where team members can nominate each other for a "moment in the spotlight" award. This could be based on demonstrating core values, achieving a personal milestone, or helping others. The award could be as simple as a shout-out in a team newsletter or a small token of appreciation, like a gift card.
• Start a personal project that involves creating something from scratch, such as writing a song, painting, or crafting. Dedicate time each week to work on this project, focusing on the joy of creation rather than the outcome. This mirrors the process of composing original music and allows you to experience the satisfaction of bringing your own ideas to life.

Leon demonstrated his multifaceted talent and deep appreciation for the diverse spectrum of musical genres in the United States by delving into country music with his 1973 endeavor, "Hank Wilson's Back."

Janovitz delves into the 1970s shift toward a musical style that was profoundly anchored in the core components that spawned the initial stages of rock music. The author emphasized that Leon's foray into the country genre through his 1973 album "Hank Wilson's Back" was driven by a profound appreciation for the style rather than a return to his musical origins.

Working alongside Willie Nelson on tracks like "Heartbreak Hotel," they created music that served as a conduit between country and rock listeners.

Janovitz highlights the partnership between Leon and Willie Nelson, focusing on their combined project, "One for the Road," which included duets recorded within Leon's touring vehicle. The author describes how the two men saw the potential in joining forces to broaden the audience for both of them, with Willie bringing in his fan base of country music purists and Leon's audience, largely younger and more attuned to the rock aesthetic. The author highlights that Elvis Presley's "Heartbreak Hotel," known for its unique country flair, climbed to the pinnacle of the Country Music charts.

Leon Russell showcased his admiration for and impact on fellow musicians by taking part in George Harrison's Concert for Bangladesh and collaborating on recordings with Bob Dylan.

Bill Janovitz highlights the profound impact that collaborations with George Harrison and Bob Dylan had on Leon's artistic output. After the Beatles split up, Harrison pursued a solo career and, inspired by the commitment of John Lennon to philanthropic causes, set up the first significant charity rock concert to support the refugees from Bangladesh. Although Harrison was the key organizer, he brought in Leon Russell to oversee the concert's coordination and also featured him as one of the performers. George Harrison sought Leon's skills for the arrangement and performance on the charity single "Bangla Desh." Since 1965, Bob Dylan had been working alongside session musicians from Nashville. Leon was a trailblazer in the rock production arena, working with Dylan to lay down the rhythmic foundation with his band for Dylan's new songs.

Context

• The album "One for the Road" was a commercial success, reaching number 25 on the Billboard Country Albums chart and earning a gold certification, highlighting the effective crossover appeal of their collaboration.
• The success of the Concert for Bangladesh raised significant funds and awareness for the refugee crisis, demonstrating the power of music as a tool for social change.

Other Perspectives

• While the collaboration aimed to merge fan bases, it could be argued that country and rock audiences have distinct tastes, and such a merger might not appeal to purists on either side.
• George Harrison's decision to involve Leon Russell in the Concert for Bangladesh could be seen as a strategic move to ensure the event's success by including popular artists of the time, rather than a direct endorsement of Russell's skills in arrangement and performance.
• While Leon Russell's contributions to rock production are significant, it's important to recognize that Bob Dylan's sound was already well-established by the time he worked with Russell, suggesting that Dylan's foundational rhythmic style was not solely established through this collaboration.

Leon's business ventures, personal life, and the obstacles he faced towards the end of his career are thoroughly documented, as well as his enduring influence and the deep connection he had with his loyal fans.

Janovitz explores the impact of Leon's business ventures, personal life, and health issues on the direction his career took. The author concludes that Leon's most notable musical achievements arose through his famous collaborations. Leon's steadfast fan base has remained loyal over the years, and his reputation has seen a resurgence lately, largely due to the support from the famous Elton John.

Leon's complex financial dealings reflected his shifting priorities and the fluctuating nature of his financial situation, coinciding with the closure of Shelter Records.

This portion of the chapter explores the final stages of Leon's career, highlighting the financial struggles and competitive challenges he faced. The author highlights his tendency to delegate responsibilities but frequently fails to oversee these projects, leading to diminished confidence, financial waste, and the alienation of associates throughout the process.

He established a supportive environment for Tulsa's local musicians by setting up a recording space, aiming to foster a dynamic hub for native talent.

During the early 1970s, Leon Russell's increasing disillusionment with the darker aspects of fame and his life prompted his relocation from Los Angeles to Tulsa. The author details how Leon was motivated to create his own ensemble of recording artists in Tulsa, influenced by his recent successes and the precedent of session musicians in Muscle Shoals and Memphis. He and Cordell bought up property, including a church that would become the iconic Church Studio, to house the recording facilities as well as shelter various staff and musicians in a family-like setting. The book emphasizes that Leon Russell, although one of the initial founders of Shelter Records, was mainly an idea conceived by Denny Cordell, and as the company began to flourish, Leon retreated to the seclusion of Oklahoma.

Context

• The 1970s saw a cultural shift where many artists sought authenticity and connection to their roots, prompting moves away from commercial centers to more personal or meaningful locations.
• The establishment of a recording studio in Tulsa allowed local musicians access to high-quality recording technology, which was often only available in larger cities.
• Session musicians in both Muscle Shoals and Memphis were highly skilled and versatile, often contributing significantly to the arrangement and feel of the recordings. Their ability to adapt to different artists and styles made them invaluable in the music industry.
• The ensemble and the environment Russell created in Tulsa had a lasting impact on the music industry, influencing future generations of musicians and producers.
• The church building, with its unique architecture, provided distinctive acoustics that contributed to the sound quality of recordings made there, adding to its allure for artists.
• By providing a space for musicians to live and work, the studio fostered a collaborative environment that encouraged creativity and innovation among local and visiting artists.
• Cordell handled much of the business operations and strategic decisions for Shelter Records, leveraging his industry expertise to navigate the complexities of running a record label.
• Russell's move to Oklahoma was partly driven by a desire for a quieter life and to escape the intense demands and lifestyle associated with fame in Los Angeles.

Confronting economic challenges and shifts in the music business, he relocated to Nashville to adjust to the changing dynamics of the industry.

Bill Janovitz delves into the period when Leon left Mary and relocated to Nashville, a city renowned for its vibrant community of session musicians. The author emphasizes the financial difficulties Leon Russell encountered, which included losing his music publishing rights and the end of his commercial partnership with Cordell, alongside the collapse of Shelter Records. During this period, his production of new albums diminished, and he frequently released his music independently, garnering excitement albeit from a smaller fanbase, while he continued to uphold an intensive itinerary of live shows. Leon Russell exemplified the era, emphasizing that neurosis was at the heart of all that transpired. The author emphasizes Leon's steadfast resolve and continuous endeavors to progress in his music profession while maintaining his presence in live performances.

Practical Tips

• You can adapt to industry changes by mapping out emerging trends and aligning your skills accordingly. Start by researching the latest developments in your field, using online resources, industry reports, and social media insights. Then, identify the skills that are becoming more valuable and seek out online courses or local workshops to develop those competencies. For example, if you're in marketing and notice a surge in demand for data analytics skills, you might take a course on data interpretation and apply it to your marketing strategies.
• Diversify your income streams to safeguard against business failures. Instead of relying on a single source of income, explore various avenues such as merchandise sales, live performances, teaching, or online content creation. For instance, if you run a small record label, consider offering music lessons or workshops, selling branded merchandise, or creating a subscription-based online platform for exclusive content.
• Consider crowdfunding as a way to finance your projects while cultivating a sense of ownership among your fans. Create a campaign on a platform like Kickstarter or Patreon, offering exclusive content or experiences to backers as incentives. This could be anything from early access to your work, personalized messages, or limited edition merchandise. Make sure to communicate your story and why your project matters to encourage support.
• Create a personal "performance log" to track your activities and reflect on how you handle challenges. After each scheduled activity, jot down what went well, what setbacks occurred, and how you overcame them. This log serves as a reminder of your commitment to staying active and can be a source of motivation when facing future setbacks.
• You can harness the power of daily micro-goals to progress in your chosen field, much like Leon's dedication to music. Start by setting a small, achievable goal related to your interest every morning, such as writing a paragraph of a novel, practicing a language for 10 minutes, or sketching a simple drawing. This approach breaks down larger ambitions into manageable tasks, ensuring consistent progress and helping to build a routine that fosters improvement.
• Start a music appreciation group with friends or community members to share and discover new music, focusing on the contributions of session musicians. This could involve monthly listening parties where each person brings a track featuring standout session musician work. Through these gatherings, you'll develop a keener ear for the nuances of professional musicianship and the role of session artists.
• Create a playlist that captures the mood of different decades to reflect on how music can mirror societal neuroses. Choose songs from various eras, starting with the time period of Leon Russell, and move through to the present day. As you listen, pay attention to the themes and emotions in the music. Consider how the lyrics and tone may express the collective neuroses of the time and how they resonate with your own feelings.

Leon's influence and connection with his audience remained strong, even during challenging periods and times when his fame had waned.

Janovitz concludes the narrative on a positive tone, highlighting the lasting impact that Leon Russell has had on the musical landscape, along with his enduring legacy that reflects his triumph over depression. Even after his zenith in the early 1970s, followed by a succession of imperfect albums and a period performing in less prominent venues and exhibition spaces, Leon still enjoyed the unwavering support of a dedicated fanbase, who remained enthusiastic about his musical creations. The film "A Poem Is a Naked Person," crafted by Les Blank, significantly bolstered his standing as an innovative and skilled artist, providing viewers with a deep understanding of his most impactful era. Elton John, a prominent pupil of Leon, was instrumental in paying tribute to Leon's achievements in his later life.

The "Leon Lifers," a devoted fan base recognizing his enduring influence and celebrating his melodic contributions.

The trajectory of Russell's professional life faced challenges due to personal errors and diminishing album sales, but his dedicated followers became even more fervent in their support. The author notes that Russell's influence persisted into the 1990s with the emergence of an online community that included message boards and dedicated websites. A group of devoted admirers arranged a tribute event where they shared memories in celebration of the musician Leon Russell. Leon made it evident how much he valued their constant backing when he gave his speech of gratitude.

The release of "A Poem Is a Naked Person" highlighted Leon's crucial period in the early 1970s to a wider public.

Leon eventually consented to the exhibition of "A Poem Is a Naked Person," a documentary filmed at the peak of his musical career, which offered an insight into his personal life. The film distinguishes itself by being unconventional and at times bewildering, yet it conveys humor, sentiment, and insight, reflecting the essence that typifies Leon. The book portrays a man with profound sensitivity, recognized for his engaging, amiable, and genial demeanor, yet at times he could be reticent, quiet, and hesitant to share his thoughts.

Context

• The film's eventual release in 2015 allowed new audiences to appreciate Leon Russell's influence and personality, offering a retrospective look at his contributions to music during a pivotal era.
• "A Poem Is a Naked Person" was directed by Les Blank and filmed between 1972 and 1974. It captures Leon Russell during a vibrant period of his career, offering a unique glimpse into the music scene of the time.
• Les Blank's approach to filmmaking is known for its observational style, focusing on the atmosphere and environment surrounding the subject, which adds depth to the portrayal of Leon Russell's world.
• The film includes a mix of live performances, candid backstage moments, and interactions with other musicians, contributing to its eclectic and sometimes bewildering feel.
• The documentary provides glimpses into Leon's personal life, showcasing his philosophical outlook on music and life, which often emphasized authenticity and emotional expression.
• Throughout his life, Russell faced various personal and professional challenges, which may have contributed to his introspective nature and the sensitivity observed by those around him.
• His Southern roots and Oklahoma upbringing may have influenced his warm and friendly demeanor, often reflected in his interactions with fans and fellow musicians.
• Leon's reticence could be attributed to the pressures of fame and the music industry, which often demand public personas that can be at odds with personal inclinations.

Leon was duly honored for his remarkable career with an induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and his collaborative work with Elton John on The Union.

Leon Russell's career witnessed a considerable revival in its concluding phase, primarily because of the passionate support from Elton John. Leon depended on Elton more than Elton did on his companionship. Elton John aimed to help Leon regain respect in his career and personal life, a partnership that Janovitz explores for its profound emotional significance to both artists. Elton played a pivotal role in rejuvenating his career and had the honor of inducting Leon into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, where Leon delivered a heartfelt rendition of "A Song for You" in front of a gathering of his contemporaries and those who inspired him, all there to celebrate his extraordinary talent. Leon's life came to a satisfying end in a final chapter that occurred less than two years after the mentioned events.

Context

• This institution, established in 1983, honors influential figures in the music industry, recognizing their contributions to the development and perpetuation of rock and roll music.
• Being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame not only acknowledges an artist's past achievements but also cements their legacy for future generations. It often leads to a resurgence of interest in their music and can introduce their work to new audiences.
• The making of "The Union" was documented by filmmaker Cameron Crowe, providing insight into the creative process and the personal dynamics between Russell and John.
• The performance of "A Song for You" at the induction ceremony was particularly poignant, as it symbolized Russell's enduring influence and the emotional connection he had with his audience and peers.

Other Perspectives

• The collaborative album "The Union" and subsequent attention could be seen as a mutual benefit for both artists, rather than a one-sided rejuvenation of Leon's career by Elton John.
• The idea that Leon needed Elton to regain respect could undermine Leon's own efforts and the quality of his work, which may have been enough to warrant a revival in interest and respect on its own merit.
• The use of the word "considerable" might be challenged on the grounds that the revival, while notable, was short-lived, as it occurred in the concluding phase of his career and did not have a long-term impact on the music industry.
• The term "satisfying end" may not fully encapsulate the complexity of a person's feelings and experiences at the end of their life.