Roll Away The Stone

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Roll Away The Stone" by Leon Russell from his self-titled debut album, a track that’s a perfect vibe for the Zoo Freaks tuning in. This song, closing out the 1970 album, is a boogie-infused lament that blends southern rock, gospel, and R&B, showcasing Russell’s knack for weaving emotional depth with gritty musicality. In a 2023 Classic Rock History piece, the song’s descending piano lines and squalling guitars were noted for pushing its stakes beyond a simple tale of romantic betrayal, feeling like a “psychoanalysis/love letter fried in bacon grease.” It’s a raw reflection of personal frustration, with lyrics like “She was my woman and he was my friend / But I was wrong again,” hinting at a tangled narrative of love and betrayal. Unlike Mott the Hoople’s later track of the same name, Russell’s version, released four years earlier, leans into a uniquely soulful and desperate tone, making it a standout in his catalog.

Trivia about "Roll Away The Stone" also surfaces in fan discussions. A 2024 Reddit post on the ClassicRock subreddit sparked comments about Russell’s early days, noting that before he was a star, he played piano in the house band at Pandora’s Box, a Sunset Strip nightclub central to the 1960s LA scene. This gig, backing teen heartthrob Bobby Rydell alongside future legends like Carl Radle, placed Russell at the heart of the era’s musical pulse. Fans also point to the song’s inclusion on the Best of Leon compilation just six years after its debut, underscoring its lasting impact. The track’s gospel-charged energy, as described in a 2016 Relix tribute, mirrors the transformative power of Russell’s live performances, where his “Cosmic Ecclesiastic” persona captivated audiences during his 1970-1973 peak.

Leon Russell, born Claude Russell Bridges in 1942 in Lawton, Oklahoma, began his musical journey early, studying classical piano from age three. By 14, he was playing trumpet in Tulsa nightclubs, fibbing about his age to secure gigs. At 16, he jammed with Ronnie Hawkins and caught the eye of Jerry Lee Lewis, who offered him a touring spot. As detailed in a 1970 Rolling Stone interview, Russell left Tulsa at 17 for Los Angeles, where he worked clubs using a borrowed ID. His big break came as a session musician in LA, joining the elite Wrecking Crew. He played on hits by the Byrds, Beach Boys, and Phil Spector’s productions, like the Ronettes’ “Be My Baby.” This studio work honed his versatility across rock, pop, and R&B, setting the stage for his solo career. His 1970 debut album, featuring "Roll Away The Stone", included heavyweights like Eric Clapton and George Harrison, cementing his status as a musical force.

Russell’s official online presence is maintained through his website, which celebrates his legacy as a 2011 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee and shares updates on projects like reissues by Dark Horse Records. His Facebook page keeps fans engaged with posts about his discography and tributes, while his Instagram account shares archival photos and performance clips. On X, the account highlights his influence, often reposting fan content. Fans also gather at sites like Leon Russell Records, an archival hub, and the Leon Russell Fan Club on Facebook, where Zoo Freaks can connect over his music. Another group, Leon Russell Fans, shares memories and rare recordings, keeping the spirit of Russell’s gospel-rock alive for new and old listeners alike.