Leon Russell holds an important place in the history of rock as a pianist, vocalist, composer, arranger and band leader. Beginning as a session player, including serving as part of Phil Spector's Wall of Sound, Russell subsequently worked with such superstars as Joe Cocker, Delaney & Bonnie & Friends, Bob Dylan and George Harrison, and enjoyed a successful solo career with songs like "Delta Lady" (also a big hit for Cocker), "A Song for You," "Tightrope" and "This Masquerade" (covered by George Benson and others). Russell joined John (elected in 1994) in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2011.
In his four-decade career Elton John has sold more than 250 million records, making him one of the most successful artists of all time. His single "Candle in the Wind 1997" has sold over 33 million copies worldwide, and is the best selling single in Billboard history. He has more than 50 Top 40 hits, including seven consecutive No. 1 US albums, 56 Top 40 singles, 16 Top 10, four No. 2 hits, and nine No. 1 hits. He has won six Grammy Awards, an Academy Award, a Golden Globe Award and a Tony Award. In 2004, Rolling Stone ranked him Number 49 on its list of the 100 greatest artists of all time. John composed the music for a West End Theatre production of Billy Elliot the Musical in 2005 with playwright Lee Hall. Along with 'Billy Elliot', John's other Broadway hits include 'The Lion King' and 'Aida'.
