On Thursday, August 1, OETA is set to premiere a heartfelt celebration of one of music’s greatest icons with Leon Russell: The Tribute. Airing at 7 p.m., this special program commemorates the life and illustrious 60-year career of the legendary musician Leon Russell. The tribute concert, recorded at his alma mater, the historic Will Rogers High School in Tulsa, offers a moving reflection on Russell's extraordinary contributions to music.
Leon Russell, a celebrated artist known for his collaborations with some of the biggest stars of the 1960s and 70s, left behind a legacy of 31 albums and 430 songs. His remarkable career included working with legends like Bob Dylan, Frank Sinatra, and the Rolling Stones, and composing timeless hits such as "This Masquerade" and "A Song for You." Russell’s influence extended far beyond his music, shaping the careers of many and leaving an indelible mark on rock and roll.
The tribute concert, recorded on February 9, 2019, brings together 16 talented musicians who played alongside Russell at various points in his career. The ensemble, led by Paul Benjaman, includes notable performers such as Ann Bell, Brian Lee, Jared Tyler, and Wanda Watson. Music historian and radio personality John Wooley serves as emcee, adding depth and context to the celebration.
Produced by Dick Risk, the concert was a labor of love for Russell’s fans and the Will Rogers High School Community Foundation. The project faced delays due to the pandemic but was revived to honor the commitments made to donors. The program was eventually submitted to the National Educational Telecommunications Association (NETA) and released by PBS earlier this year. Now, it will be broadcast on OETA, making it accessible to audiences across Oklahoma.
A significant part of Russell’s legacy is tied to The Church Studio in Tulsa. A historic building in Tulsa, The Church Studio began its life as Grace Methodist Episcopal Church in early 1915, making it one of the city's earliest churches. In 1972, Leon Russell purchased the church, transforming it into The Church Studio, a renowned recording studio and creative haven. This mysterious stone structure became a hub for musical legends, hosting sessions for artists such as Tom Petty, J.J. Cale, Eric Clapton, and Stevie Wonder. Today, the latest owners, Ivan Acosta and Teresa Knox, focus on restoring and rehabilitating the space while preserving Leon Russell's legacy. The Church Studio now serves as a recording studio, audio engineering school, museum, and event space, having completed its renovation in 2022.
Leon Russell’s influence on the music industry was profound. Known for his unique piano style and contributions to the "Tulsa Sound," Russell's career spanned from his early days in Tulsa to his influential time on the West Coast. He played a significant role in shaping the rock music landscape and was a mentor to many, including Elton John, who once opened for him and later collaborated on the Grammy-nominated album The Union.
Before his rise to fame, Russell, born Claude Russell Bridges, honed his craft at Will Rogers High School, where he performed impromptu concerts for classmates. His early exposure to rock and roll, combined with his classical training, helped develop a distinctive style that influenced generations of musicians.
The Will Rogers High School Community Foundation and the Will Rogers Stage Foundation, both founded by Dick Risk, continue to support educational and cultural initiatives.