Leon Russell Goes Universal

Said UMPG Chairman/CEO David Renzer: "Leon Russell is a legend in his own right. Teaming with Elton John, and Bernie Taupin has resulted in a special record that will be a true event around the globe. We're honored to have Leon join the UMPG family and look forward to seeing this project achieve worldwide acclaim and success."

"Representing three of the greatest songwriters who have ever lived, on one project, is a once in a lifetime opportunity. It doesn't get any better than this and we intend to do everything we can, here at Universal Music Publishing Group, to make this an incredibly successful project around the world," said Evan Lamberg, EVP of Creative, East Coast, Universal Music Publishing Group.

The Union rekindles the musical friendship that Elton John and Leon Russell, whom John has referred to as his idol, initiated more than forty years ago. John, Russell, and Taupin (along with producer T Bone Burnett) co-wrote the entire album, their first ever studio collaboration, which they described to Rolling Stone as "Two pianos, no egos." The album features thirteen duets between Elton John and Leon Russell, with Rondor's Brian Wilson featured as a guest collaborator and features such singles as "If It Wasn't For Bad," "Hey Ahab," and "Monkey Suit." All songs on the album were performed live, with one or two takes. John and Russell are planning for The Union tour in 2011.