Today is Billy Preston’s birthday, an amazingly talented American musician, singer, and composer, who spent much of his musical life in the shadow of others.
The edit above and the musical birthday calendar / reference work featuring 366 famous musicians, were made by me, Frieke.
William Everett Preston was born on September 2, 1946, in Houston, Texas, but grew up in Los Angeles, California. He hailed from a musical family and was recognized as a child prodigy, beginning performances at only seven years old. He played the Hammond organ for artists such as Mahalia Jackson and quickly gained acclaim for his virtuosity.
Billy Preston is best known as the “Fifth Beatle.” He played a crucial role during the latter years of The Beatles, and in 1969, during the making of Let It Be he was invited to join on keyboards. His contributions to tracks like Get Back, Something, and Don't Let Me Down are iconic. The single Get Back was released as “The Beatles with Billy Preston.”
After The Beatles disbanded, Preston continued collaborating with ex-Beatles, particularly George Harrison. He performed on Harrison’s solo album All Things Must Pass and was a featured guest at the Concert for Bangladesh in 1971. His instrumental contributions to Miss You (1978) by The Rolling Stones were also essential. Preston worked frequently with Eric Clapton as well.
Beyond collaborations, Preston released a string of impressive solo albums and hits. His debut album, That's the Way God Planned It (1970), was released on Apple Records—The Beatles’ label.
- Notable albums include:
- I Wrote a Simple Song (1971) met Outa-Space
- Music Is My Life (1972), with his first big hit Will It Go Round in Circles
- Everybody Likes Some Kind of Music (1973) containing Space Race.
- The Kids & Me (1974) with Nothing from Nothing
- With You I'm Born Again (1979) with Syreeta Wright.
Preston's life was turbulent. He struggled with drug addiction and legal troubles. Despite these challenges, he remained active in the music world until his death on June 6, 2006, in Scottsdale, Arizona, from complications related to hypertension and other health issues, aged 59. (The GuardianPeople.com)
He is remembered as one of the most gifted and versatile keyboardists in pop and rock history. His influence resonates through the music of countless artists, and both his collaborations and solo work have secured him a permanent place in music history.
Reactie plaatsen
Reacties