Tulsa Man Says Elton John Gave Him His Life Back

NewsOn6.com

UNDATED -- Tulsa native Leon Russell appeared on CBS Sunday Morning over the weekend and said Elton John gave him his life back.

Leon Russell started playing piano at clubs when he was just 14. Then, he got his big break, made a few hits and faded into the background.

But, Elton John never forgot him. On an annual safari, he loaded his Ipod with old Leon Russell songs and came up with a crazy idea.

"So, I was laying in bed watching As the World Turns and he was laying on an elephant and he called me," Leon Russell said during the interview.

"I ran him up and said it's me, 39 years later, but would you like to do a record," Elton John said.

They hit the studio and "The Union" was born. Rolling Stone calls it one of the year's best albums. And, it's been nominated for a Grammy.

11/12/2010 Related Story: Elton John, Leon Russell Play Tulsa's BOK Center