It's a very sad coincidence that shortly after we have posted the lastest Elton Fan Survey, which this week is about "The Union", it has been reported that Elton's collaborator on that album, Leon Russell, has passed away.

Leon Russell died in Nashville at the age of 74, according to his Facebook page. His wife said he died in his sleep. Fans quickly posted tributes to the Oklahoma musician, a Grammy award winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Famer.

Russell had a heart attack earlier this year and had bypass surgery.

Born Russell Bridges, he changed his name to Leon Russell after relocating to Los Angeles from his home in Tulsa. He got his start playing in Tulsa nightclubs when he was just 14. Russell’s nearly 60-year career has spanned recording some of the great 1960s music as a Hollywood session musician to his own “superstar” status beginning in the 1970s, to recording and touring with Elton John in this decade.

Some of his most well-know hits include "Tight Rope," "A Song for You," and "Delta Lady." He performed with many stars over the years including John Lennon, Elton John, Bob Dylan, Ringo Starr, Joe Cocker, and George Harrison.

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