TULSA, Okla. — People across Tulsa are paying tribute to hometown rock 'n' roll legend Leon Russell, who died on Sunday at age 74.
"It's a very sad day, but you know, it's also kind of a day to celebrate, because he had a long life and touched so many people and such a huge talent." Dwight Twilley said he'll never forget the days he spent in the recording studio with fellow musician, Leon Russell.
"He even invited us into his home and had us come and record at his home studio and played with us and played on some of our records and stuff," said Twilley.
Many Tulsans like Twilley said they were shocked after hearing the rock 'n' roll legend died in his sleep, overnight in his Nashville home.
"It's just sad. It's one of those that you're fortunate enough that his art will live on forever, but you'll miss the person," said Circle Cinema Employee Ryan Thomas.
Several people spent the day paying tribute to Russell, with Circle Cinema playing videos of the musician inside the theater, and fans setting up a memorial outside the recording studio on Leon Rusell road.
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"I have a lot of friends across the country who aren't fortunate to be from Tulsa, Oklahoma to stand here and honor him and the places he made music and as a Tulsan, as a fan, as a magic maker, a music lover, it's the right place to be," said Leon Russell fan and friend Sky Lyons.
Twilley said Russell was like a mentor to him and hopes the rock 'n' roll hall of famer will get the recognition he deserves.
"I know there's this little tiny Leon Russell Boulevard over by where the church stands today. It oughta be a whole damn street!" said Twilley.
