Tag Archives: Gary Busey

Lost Inside of You

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Did you know that Leon Russell wrote “Lost Inside of You” with the one and only Barbra Streisand? The hit song was recorded for the movie, A Star is Born, and that’s Leon on the soundtrack. He will forever be the one and only Master of Space and Time, a musical, visionary genius.

Barbra Streisand took on the lead female role of Esther Hoffman in the 1976 remake of the 1954 film A Star Is Born, opposite Kris Kristofferson as John Norman Howard, an aging singer engulfed by excesses and demons.

Howard’s road manager was portrayed by Gary Busey, a friend of and drummer for (as Teddy Jack Eddy) Leon Russell. Busey introduced Barbra to Leon, and while at her Malibu ranch, Barbra and Leon wrote “Lost Inside of You”.

It was included in the film, on the soundtrack, and as a B-side to Barbra’s single “Comin’ In And Out Of Your Life” from her 1981 hits album Memories. The soundtrack album has sold more than 15 million copies worldwide, and Memories did well with over 10,000,000 in sales worldwide, earning Russell loads of money in royalties as a songwriter. From Leon Russell Superstar in a Masquerade

I love knowing that Barbra Streisand collaborated with Leon and I love hearing him play the piano. I wish I had a photo of the two of them. One day, it would be my dream to chat with her about it.

A small anecdote about my six degrees connection to Barbra Streisand is that I once met and had lunch on set with her husband, James Brolin, when he did some filming locally. He was SUPER nice and welcoming. It was a special day and if you’re wondering, he’s even more handsome up close.

P.S. And did you know that Streisand’s co-star in A Star is Born, Kris Kristofferson, was married to Rita Coolidge, who was once upon a time Leon Russell’s girlfriend? Leon’s song, Delta Lady, was written about her. Cool info, huh?

What I’m Reading: Leon Russell In His Own Words

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“Once in a lifetime across your lifeline crosses an energy like no other. This is Leon Russell to me.”
Gary Busey, musician, actor, long-time friend of the Master of Space and Time.

It’s a sunny and warm November day here in SoCal, a perfect time to sit outside on the deck and read Leon Russell In His Own Words.

It’s not a huge book but any light shed on the mysterious, charismatic, and enigmatic MOSAT is appreciated.

It features memories by and about LR from his childhood, high school bands, session work in Los Angeles, and some of his tours.

I’m always amazed at the sheer numbers of records that benefited from Leon’s words, arrangements, and productions. He was a legendary musician, composer, and performer whose musical influence can’t be overstated.

Leon Russell was a one-of-a-kind human; I don’t think we’re likely to experience that kind of genius in several lifetimes.

This little book was enjoyable and informative; I totally recommend!

Now I’m waiting for my Christmas/Hanukkah gift: another book about Leon Russell ; this one is written by Bill Janovitz: Leon Russell: The Master of Space and Time’s Journey Through Rock & Roll History

Some people simply defy stereotypes: