Do you think Leon is worthy? I do. He has been around forever, played with numerous legends, and wrote several classics. I’m not sure they will ever recognize him as Hall worthy, but I think they should.
I’ve always considered him a niche master like Leon Redbone or Bob Dylan–he makes music HE likes whether other people like it or not. I would have loved to attended a Russell/Cocker ugly man concert. But I know few others who share this twisted desire.
He deserves it. Partly for his direct contributions, and mostly for his indirect contributions/influences of the likes of Joe Cocker. I can’t speak to his technical abilities (superior as I’m led to believe) but he certainly performs with abandon.
He did the organizing/arranging/bandleading on Joe Cocker’s Mad Dogs and Englishmen tour – the album of which is a desert-island album for me. However painful the experience may have been for Mr. Cocker, the music was absolutely brilliant. For that, L.R. deserves an honorable mention. I agree with Inigo’s comparison to Leon Redbone – quirky, distinctive, and not about what the public wants.
He was awesome in concert back in the 70’s, the man really gave his all.
Still listen to his music regularly.
Fine American songwriter with unquestionable musicianship.
He’s already in my personal Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame.