Elton John, Leon Russell to roll out "The Union" in New York
A few weeks ago, it was looking as if Elton John and Leon Russell would play their first gig in support of their forthcoming album "The Union" in Los Angeles. Now it looks like New York will get the honor.
The longtime friends and iconic pianists are now set to play an Oct. 19 show at New York's Beacon Theatre -- the same day the new album hits stores. The duo previously announced a Nov. 3 gig at the Hollywood Palladium in Los Angeles.
The New York show will feature musicians who joined John and Russell for the album's recording sessions, including Jay Bellerose (drums), Marc Ribot (pedal steel), Jackson Smith (guitar), Keefus Ciancia (keyboards), Mike Compton (mandolin) and Dennis Crouch (bass). The Hollywood show will feature John and Russell's regular backing bands.
No further details about touring plans behind "The Union" have been announced, though John -- speaking about the album at the Electric Cinema in West London in July -- said that shows are in the works for 2011, according to Billboard.
Russell and John first toured together 40 years ago.
As previously reported, the 16 tracks that make up "The Union" were written by John and lyricist Bernie Taupin, with Russell and Burnett pitching in on a few. Guest artists featured on the album include Neil Young, Brian Wilson, organist Booker T. Jones and steel guitarist Robert Randolph.
19 - New York, NY - Beacon Theatre
November 2010
3 - Los Angeles, CA - Hollywood Palladium
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