Legendary Songwriter Leon Russell Dead At 74

Baby boomers have lost another old friend. Rock 'n Roll Hall of Famer Leon Russell has passed away at the age of 74.

I recall seeing Leon perform a couple of times at Grant Street Dancehall here in Lafayette back in the '90s. The last time I saw Leon perform was at the Cajundome with Elton John in 2010.

His best known recordings are "A Song for You," "Back to the Island," and "Tightrope." Leon's greater impact was as a songwriter. Numerous artists covered his songs over the years. George Harrison recorded a haunting version of "Beware of Darkness." The Carpenters had a #2 hit with "Superstar."

He's also a member of the Songwriters Hall of Fame. The Independent reports he died peacefully in his sleep.