In Nashville death star rock n roll Leon Russell at the age of 74 years. The musician appeared in 1970-e years behind the scenes as a session pianist for other musicians.

Russell died in his sleep, told his wife in a statement posted on its website. The doctors and his daughter had said earlier that he is recovering from quadruple bypass surgery. But his body can not withstand such loads.

Russell was named the star of rock-n-roll in 2011 after ten years working as a pianist, guitarist and songwriter. After recording in the 1960s, the years of songs with a group Los Angeles session musicians called the Wrecking Crew, Russell has captured the attention of the public as pianist and bandleader for Joe Cocker's "Mad Dogs and Englishmen" tour in 1970. While Coker frowned his vocals, Russell calmly controlled the stage with gestures and looks that earned him the nickname "Master of time and space."

He wrote and performed such hits as "Delta Lady" and "Song for you" that was played by many musicians and became a hit by Ray Charles. "Superstar" co-authored with Bonnie Bramlett, rose to No. 2 on the charts.

He has performed with George Harrison and Bob Dylan 1971 "Concert for Bangladesh" in Madison Square garden. It was one of the first major charity concerts. The record received a Grammy award for album of the year.

Russell became less popular in the following decades. He also collaborated with Elton John in 2010 on the album "Union". Russell is survived by his wife, 4 daughters and 3 grandchildren.
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