The Most Heartbreaking Celebrity Deaths Of 2016

Leon Russell

Miraculously piano prodigy Leon Russell managed to make it to 74 years of age after experiencing numerous health complications over the years. After undergoing major surgery in 2010 for a brain fluid leak, Leon was treated for heart failure and later suffered a heart attack in July.

Born Claude Russell, the mangy, top-hatted musical genius was destined to be a front man of rock and roll greatness although he held back to concoct studio work for artists like Bob Dylan, Frank Sinatra, Aretha Franklin, Elvis Costello, Elton John and many more. Known for his last minute compilation of Mad Dogs & Englishmen when Joe Cocker’s Grease Band fell through before their tour, Russell established himself as a big dog amongst the biggest. After a significantly fulfilling career, Russell passed away in his sleep in Nashville, Tennessee at 74 years old.