Leon Russell dies at the age of 74

NEW YORK - OCTOBER 18: Leon Russell performs onstage during the 9th Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation's 'An Enduring Vision' benefit at Cipriani, Wall Street on October 18, 2010 in New York City. (Photo by Jemal Countess/Getty Images)

NEW YORK - OCTOBER 18: Leon Russell performs onstage during the 9th Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation's 'An Enduring Vision' benefit at Cipriani, Wall Street on October 18, 2010 in New York City. (Photo by Jemal Countess/Getty Images)

Brianna Chambers contributed to this report.

Music legend Leon Russell has died at the age of 74, according to a post on his official Facebook page. 

Russell died in his sleep at his Nashville home, his wife said, according to the post.

Musician Leon Russell has died in Nashville at the age of 74.  His wife said he died in his sleep.

Posted by Leon Russell on Sunday, November 13, 2016

Russell, who grew up in Tulsa, Oklahoma, began his musical career playing in bars and clubs as a teenager. He later played with musicians such as Eric Clapton and B.B. King.

He was inducted to the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame in 2006 for his contributions to the music industry, and he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011.

Russell had heart bypass surgery in July with hopes to continue touring in January, according to National Public Radio.

Russell's hit songs included "This Masquerade" and "Superstar," and he put out "The Union" album with Elton John in 2010. 

Elton John wrote a message on Twitter, saying he "loved (Russell) and always will."

About the Author