By Kristi O’Toole

Leon Russell the long haired, scratchy-voiced pianist, guitarist, songwriter and bandleader who moved from playing countless recording sessions to making hits on his own, died on Sunday in Nashville, Tenn. He was 74.

His website said he had died in his sleep but gave no specific cause.

Mr. Russell’s health had had significant setbacks in recent years. In 2010, he underwent surgery for a brain fluid leak and was treated for heart failure. In July, he had a heart attack and was scheduled for further surgery, according to a news release from the historical society of Oklahoma, his home state.

NewzBreaker extends our condolences to the Russell family in their time of grief.

When Kristi isn’t writing for NewzBreaker, she writes supernatural suspense novels having three currently published. If you would like to check out any of her books they can be found online and at other major retailers like Books a Million and Amazon. Never one to rest, she also paints/designs shoes and items for the home. Check out her eBay store, Watered Down Vodka and her FB page.

[si-contact-form form=’3′]