If not for the kindness of Elton John Mr. Russell would have spent his last years in isolation and obscurity. Instead he got another time in the spotlight and experienced the adoration of his fans. We all got a chance to relive the soul and passion of this great musician before he passed. Thank you both

I don't get how anyone was inducted before Leon Russell. He is one of the reasons why there even is a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

"About a year ago, Elton came and found me in a ditch by the highway of life." this line always chokes me up.

Sometimes the Like button seems entirely insufficient. This made my day

I have 66 years of experience and I'm sitting here with tears in my eyes. I missed him too.

No one looked cooler in a top hat and sunglasses than Leon , and that voice ...come on !!! ❤

Absolute legend. Thank you Elton for bringing him back to us. RIP Leon.

Back in the 90s my ex-husband and I were just driving around trying to figure out where to go that evening. We ended up driving to Milwaukee to attend Summerfest. This was totally unplanned. We got to the park, paid the entrance fee and checked out the schedule of performers. To our amazement, and good fortune, Leon Russell was playing that night. We were thrilled and honored to see and hear him in person and in a smaller venue. He was the greatest. So happy Elton John reconnected with him and made sure he was never forgotten. ❤

I'm gonna be short....Leon Russell was Leon Russell 100% best blues musician EVER...I got married and my reception was all Leon...My husband loved him,When lost his battle 2 cancer he said just b4 he died- please can I hear some Leon Russell....

This is one of the greatest and moving moments in rock 'n' roll. Elton made it happen,

Leon along with Glen Campbell were part of the Wrecking Crew. Leon did not seem to get the recognition he deserved. Both are legends.

Almost 13 years ago, it was Leon's moment, and richly deserved. But I wanted to add, based on my experiences that began almost 53 years ago, the world has been a better place all this time simply because Elton John has been in it.

In 2010 or 11, I saw Leon in Walgreens here in Nashville. We mostly leave entertainers alone here and I knew that he was a very private person but I starred for a few seconds and as he turned we made brief eye contact so I nodded and he gave the faintest of nods back and I mouthed “Thank you” and he gave a second, slightly more pronounced nod and we went our separate ways. I was fulfilled by our interaction. I hope he was as well.

So lucky as baby boomers to have had the wonderful music of the 60's - 70's, Loen's will continue on along with all the other greats from back in the days, RIP Sir Leon. And thank you Sir Elton for not forgetting our dear Leon and his music....

To have Elton John say "he was my idol" is an honor probably on par with the induction itself.

I was very fortunate to meet Leon backstage at a Willie Nelson picnic in 1976. He was very humble. I still have a polaroid picture of him with my friend backstage. God bless you sir.

The greatest tribute paid to an artist is to acknowledge that they brought joy to our lives. Mr. Russell did all that an more.

Named my son sfter Leon hes always been a big part of our lives. Elton we all know has a huge heart. He is like a godfather in this industry and Leon needed a godfather. Well done Leon and thankyou Elton a brit we are all proud of

The respect for Leon just pours out of John's guitar. What a moment.

Leon Russell was extraordinary. I loved him since saw him in Mad Dogs And Englishmen. Life is difficult for us all, and Leon suffered, but he was great. Loved him and what Elton did was lovely. You are a true friend.This is wonderful.

Leon Russell was Rock n Roll at its highest level...no one better to honor him than Elton ...

2024 and this old SW Okie boy tearing up on a Saturday morning listening to Leon and Elton singing and talking about the past. You can hear Leon's phrasing in a lot of Elton's work. I remember thinking it at the time Elton was conquering the world. And he lays it out right in this intro. Bless Elton for what he did for Leon towards the end. What a kind, descent human thing to do. Two REAL artists who lived the Masterclass.

A very humbling experience, where the world would become a better place if there were more Elton’s in the world ❤️❤️

Elton is a musicologist so having him induct you in the Hall Of Fame is this good as he was. I like the album he did with Leon a while ago.

Always amazed by the UKposts algorithm that brings these things to my feed. Elton pulled Leon from the ditch for a final well deserved hurrah.

When I heard he died, I sat at my desk at work, & just started crying. What a legend!! I only saw him once at Ventura Theater, but I have loved this man for oh so many years. RIP Leon, God Bless you for all you shared with us..

I’m happy Leon was able to be here to celebrate his incredible accomplishments, and a special thanks to Elton John Rest in Paradise Sir 🙏🏾🕊️

This was Bloody Awesome. Showed Me a Different light to Elton and Leon. RIP Leon Russell

Leon was the greatest piano player/singer in history. You know you are great when you were a member of the "Wrecking Crew".

Among the many, many, many magnificent moments in this clip is probably the most beautiful, heartbreaking guitar solo I've ever heard. Mayer's respectful restraint is masterful. Three giants of music; Leon Russell, Elton John and John Mayer.

That absolutely destroyed me. I always loved Leon's music. It was a big part of my youth in the 70's. My freshman year in college, I would listen to "Lady Blue" two or three times in a row. Leon Russell was a spiritual soul and I miss him greatly. My esteem for Elton John quadrupled after see this as well.

I saw Leon in the early 70's in Boulder Colorado. I can still see him driving up in his long black limo, getting out all dressed in white with a white hat. I'll never forget it. I'm 72 and still truckin ☮️✌️

When Jackson Browne played the Hard Rock Casino in Tulsa several years ago, he personally named all of the “Tulsa Sound” musicians he met in Los Angeles, CA. Leon Russell & JJ Cale were at the top of his list, & rightfully so.

one of my greatest passions is guitar Willie gave me in 94 when he and Leon were touring together in Hawaii , my job was to make sure they had what they needed ,, right before they left the hotel Willie and Leon called me over Brother Mike thank u for being u Willie hands me this old 50s Hofner he'd been jamming on sign on the the back " TO BROTHER MIKE SCHO WITH PEACE LOVE AND ALOHA Willie and Leon " i got to meet Leon on several occasions after that another legend Michael POKE Zeller a good friend was his sound man along with other acts from the golden ages always made sure i got to see Leon when he was in town ,, Leon one of the sweetest humblest humans to ever grace this earth

I had the pleasure of seeing Leon Russel in concert in the early 70's at the Nassau Colosseum and it was a truly great experience. He absolutely commanded that stage and had the audience in the palm of his hand the entire time. I am deeply touched by Elton's presentation here and for playing a role in bringing Leon into the Rn'R Hall of Fame. He well deserves it. You are loved Leon. Cheers.

Stranger in a strange land will always be one of my favorite songs Thanks for the gift Leon

This choked me up good. Thank you for sharing this. I had no idea. Elton is such a good man and so is his friend Leon Russell. Sometimes even greatness is forgotten, left behind and needs a hand back up to the place it belongs. What a gift Elton and Leon gave us all.

Thank you Elton. You did something that's so few people do. You went back and did an enormous kindness for someone that meant a lot to you. You corrected history and made a miracle happen. Leon was one of a kind and very deserving. I hope that you are surrounded by that rare level of love

That was truly moving. Leon is the most underappreciated keyboardist ever. So nice to see him getting the credit he deserves. Kudos to John Mayer on that sweet guitar solo also.

I've been lucky in my life, because of my two older brothers. When THE CONCERT FOR BANGLA DESH Movie was released, my one brother took me to the theatre to see it, as we were crazy Beatles' fans and we wanted to see George and Ringo. I was probably about 11 or 12 years old, and to this day, I can remember being in the theatre and just screaming and cheering after Leon sang "Youngblood" and "Jumpin' Jack Flash". We were just blown away by this guy with the long hair who was playing and singing the shit out of both songs. We were young and didn't know about all the records he'd been on and recorded, but became instant fans!! And then some years later when I was in my late teens, I was talking to my other brother and we were talking about how much we loved Badfinger and their STRAIGHT UP album. We always loved "Day After Day" but it wasn't until just about 10 years ago when I was in my early 50s, I learned Leon played the piano on that record as well. When George Harrison was producing the record, he told Pete Ham, "Let's bring in Leon to do the the piano. He'll make it amazing." Leon was brought in after he agreed to do the session, and was played the unfinished record only ONCE (as this has been said) and then he sat for a moment and said, "OK, let's roll tape and do it"...and recorded the piano part in ONE take. Go back and listen to the record. He plays with compassionate and feeling right from the heart. So sweet!! All I can offer Leon is my thanks for all of the great music and may God bless him. Truly one of a kind. And Elton's speech...I'm beyond words for his praise and love. Dig, DmGrk

Totally, Most eloquent words Ive ever heard! Well done Elton

If you’re a pianist, you can definitely hear Leon’s influence in Elton’s work. Two great artists and musicians!

Thank you Elton for bringing Leon back to where he deserves to be. I have the deepest respect for your actions and the deepest appreciation of Leon’s music! RIP Leon! Luv ya Sir Elton’

I always loved Leon Russell, he was bigger than life to me. Some of the music that he has graced us with was some of the best rock and roll had to offer. Period! RIP Leon, I'm still singin' this song for you!

Wow, just wow. And John Mayer to boot. What a great thing Elton did here.

Wonderful, now I realize what an impact Mr. Russell had on people.

My dad is a huge Leon Russell fan. When I was little he had a signed photo of his on his piano. I was convinced Leon was santa for nearly a decade.

I remember when I hear that Leon Russel had passed....I cried.

My ex-wife was a fan of Leon when she was growing up. She introduced me to his albums way back in the seventies. We saw him in concert back then. I think of her every time I listen to one of his songs. I have ten or more of his albums and a couple DVDs, so I still listen to his music and think of her. Thank you Leon.

Thank you Elton John! You saved his life. I was blessed to see Leon perform w Elton and it was truly a religious experience! Thank you Leon for all you have gifted the music industry! God bless you!

Great story.I was playing in a travelling blues trio, and in the mid 90's, we were at an open air bar on Bourbon St in New Orleans for a week during Mardi Gras. This dude comes walking in with a top hat and cane, tails and just looked amazing. We were on break, and he was talking to us. There was an upright piano on stage, and we didn't have a keys player. He asked if he could come up and jam on the next set. We said hell yea, come on up with us. We were all in our 20's, and though we knew the name, we never saw his face. It was Leon Russell. As soon as he walked on stage, there was something a bit different and we didn't realize what we were about to witness. He did a 45 minute set of barrelhouse blues standards with us and brought the house it's knees. When we finished, he stood up, tipped his hat to us and thanked us for letting him "jam" with us. Incredibly humble guy with the best stage presence and just a feel for the music like I had never witnessed. Whether or not he was in a downtime didn't matter. He was on his game that night and my only regret is not having cellphones back then.

Leon = True musical genius .. Thanks Elton .. for bringing him back to us.

I live in Tulsa, a lifelong fan of Mr. Russell. Now a lifelong fan of Elton John for staying in our find city to help build a private medical suite in Leon's studio so he could continue recording/working on his last album. What an incredible man, both of them.

This Masquerade, one of the great tunes of all time!❤

Leon NEVER got the recognition he deserves---- there will never be another one !!!! Absolutely fabulous !!!! ❤

Leon and JJ Cale put that Tulsa boogie into the world of rock music and never looked back...I saw Leon perform in Tulsa when I was hitching to New Orleans my first road trip before graduating High School and I've been a life long fan.! His songs spoke to me. Masquerade is one of the greatest ballads ever written.

Leon Russell was one of my favorite musicians. He reaches the soul.

Well done Elton! Leon deserves to be remembered, it’s so sad life can pass over the best of us.

I grew up in TTown & had the pleasure of bumping into Leon in ‘78 at a very tiny club behind the “Fountains” restaurant. I was only 19 & was immediately “entranced” with the gorgeous blue eyed long gray hair/bearded soulful man, he was playing an upright piano and singing, alone; 30 feet from me. I can still picture “him” today Twas like an “Aura of Light” ✨ ✨ ✨ was emitting from him. I learned soon after who Leon was. My ex husband was commissioned to paint a huge wall mural at a cool lil’ watering hole “Cardos Cadillac”, they had Tulsas 1st frozen margarita machine & the best fried mushrooms to dip in sour cream, many “happy hours” were spent there after work. His payment for the mural was one of Leon’s old oak upright player pianos that was used at the club for performances. Darn it, we sold it many moons ago, young and dumb, I’ve got several photos of it & of me sitting at the bench when I was 23, wish I could post them here. I LOVE Tulsas favorite son and our master of space and time. Thank you lovely Sir Elton for appreciating and exposing Leon to all of us music lovers, and Leon’s distinctive roll in making great tunes with the “Tulsa Sound” genre he helped to create. Btw…he DID look like a total BADASS wearing that top-hat with the Holy Trinity t-shirt & sooo COOL, too!! 🩵🤍🤍

I love A Song for You. Bravo, Leon. RIP. Thanks, Sir Elton, for reaching out to Leon.

This was a great video capped by that incredible solo by John Mayer. Even choked up Leon. Right there Leon knew he left an impact. Respect to Leon, Elton & JM.

Back in high school in 1979/80 my friend next door had an older brother who had a double live album of Leon. It was my introduction to his music and I knew instantly he was a unique and special artist. I’m so thankful to Sir Elton John who demonstrated his deep humanity by helping Leon and giving all of us another chance to witness this living legend. Hallelujah!!

2016, another legend gone. I'm glad I got to see perform, even though it was only one time. I'll never forget it.

What a list of achievements. You know he's a total G.O.A.T when Elton John just scratches the surface like that!

His induction to the Rock n Roll Hall Of Fame is well deserved and Elton obviously did something worth recognition too.

Elton its a Great and Beautiful thing you did for Leon and I know you have a lot to be proud of in this world but this is has to be one of the biggest. God Bless

So many people get forgotten and no one knows all the amazing accomplishments they have done in this life. It is a great miracle if they are recognized . Honor is an amazing gift that many die without receiving.

I had the privilege of working for Leon at Shelter Records in the 70's. I loved his music for years and saw Mad Dogs and Englishmen in Chicago before I moved to LA. I couldn't believe my luck to end up working for him and Denny Cordell because I thought they were the best band around. God bless Elton for what he did for Leon. I cried thru the whole thing. I miss him and I'm sure he is still jammin' with the great musicians that passed before him. 💘

You can hear Leon's influence in Elton's music , Elton is our hero, Leon was his. Brilliant ! Beautiful music !

Awww, this brought a tear to my eye RIP Leon. You were Legend and will NEVER be forgotten! and Sir Elton, you are a good soul to do what all you did

Great tribute to your hero, Mr. Elton. Thanks for the kind words.

One of the most prolific songwriters, musicians, & singers, & yet humble as could be. Leon Russell, you shaped the lives of so many people with your music. Words cannot describe the effects you had on us & legacy you left behind. Dear Sir, RIP, Thank You, & Hallelujah.AMEN!

The guitar solo brought me to tears.

Yeah, was an extraordinary musician..always loved his "Hard Rain" version..Elton done a wonderful job...very respectful..and heartfelt..😎✌❤

Legendary Leon Russell and Elton John!!! 🎶 ❤ 🎶 We grew up in the best of legendary music 🎶 times!!! ❤ 😊 ❤

As a singer he was an acquired taste, but as a musician he had no one better. It sounds corny but it was really sweet of Elton to help Leon.

Forever grateful for Elton John making sure Leon was recognized for the legend he is! He will always have eternal love from his greatest fans…including me!

If you have not gotten The Union cd by Elton and Leon you are missing some of the finest music ever made❤❤❤❤❤❤❤

A Great Artist ,Singer...Songwriter Being a true friend to another Great Artist ! Humanity at its best ! Thank You both Mr. JOHN AND Mr. RUSSELL❤

Just amazing. Wow. Elton and Leon, both treasures

Loved Leon and Elton since the 70's.Elton ,your generosity of spirit is heartwarming.Thank you for being so kind

Thank You Leon Russell for the music... You and JJ Cale spent a lot of time together and musicians all over the world have learned from you both till this day.😎

Elton is such a generous, beautiful person.. he does this with everyone he believes in ❣️

There will never be a batch of musicians such as what we had in the past 50 years. Who could ever top these masters of music?

Listening to this amazing man still brings a tear to the eye. Thank you Sir Elton for the induction speech! What a beautiful way of saying we love you Leon!

Makes me cry . Love him so much. Thank God Elton did that.

That introduction and tribute was as classy and kind as it was honest! Elton I’ve always loved you man! As a young child I was introduced to your music and I think I have everything you ever put out! And Leon you are surly missed…but so glad that you were here for as long as you were! And the fact that you were able to do what you loved and be admired by so many greats and finally being given the recognition you deserved are true blessings! Your music…like Elton’s will continue to touch the hearts and souls of all who are blessed enough to get to hear it! Thank you both for sharing your talents with those of us who have none. We can sing along and live vicariously through people like you and try to emulate your kindness and respect! Rest in peace forever!

Sir Elton John, I have loved you for 45 years now. Because you have a very beautiful heart and soul.. Blessings and love from Georgia USA 🇺🇸 ❤😊

Such a wonderful induction speech, Elton. Absolutely marvelous and loving!

I played his albums over and over back in the day. Love him! Thank you Elton!

Elton was tapped by his angel and he followed through. Music never dies. Musicians NEVER Fade away.

God Bless Leon & Elton! We love music. Recently moved from NorCal to a small town SE of Tulsa… I named my pickup truck Leon in his honor.❤

Leon, Still got it. Well done Elton. The last few pages of any book can break your heart. 💙

I had the amazing pleasure of seeing him at Bojangles, a mid-sized blues club in Portland Oregon. What an experience. Thank you for everything Mr. Russell! THere's not a dry eye in the house.

Thank you Elton for the accolades for Leon Russell. Legend and a treasure . Guitar of John Mayer perfect complement on this song . RIP Mr. Russell ❤️

Russell was truly a musical god. Amazing that he seemed happy staying in the background the way he did.

I was fortunate enough to catch Leon Russell at Disneyland. As a teen I was mesmerized by hits like “Tightrope” and I knew he was a legend then. The rest of my day at Disneyland I have no particular memory. But I sure do remember Leon and the awesome performance of that beautiful sunny day. God bless that soulful inspired legend, always - Mr. Leon Russell. RIP

LEON RUSSELL IS A TREASURE !! HOW CAN ONE MAN BE SO TALENTED??!!!❤😂❤❤❤❤

Thank you Elton for being you. And thank you Leon for all the great music you’ve allowed me to enjoy these 61 years. Thank you God for helping us through difficult times. Bravo to you Leon and congrats!

I loved Leon Russel and love Elton John. The record they did together is beautiful. Two amazing talents. I wish I could have met him. And wish to meet Sir Elton and family.