Leon Russell dead: Rock and roll musician dies aged 74

'His wife said that he passed away in his sleep,' a statement posted on the singer's website reads

Born in Tulsa in Oklahoma, Russell embarked on his musical career at the age of just 14 in local nightclubs (Getty Images)

American musician and songwriter Leon Russell has died at the age of 74.

The artist, who is best known for the songs "Shine a Light" and "A Song for You", died in Nashville on Sunday.

“His wife said that he passed away in his sleep,” a statement posted on Russell’s website read.

Russell's colourful career saw him lead Joe Cocker's ‘Mad Dogs & Englishmen’ tour, perform with George Harrison and Friends and tour with everyone from Sir Elton John to Willie Nelson, Delaney & Bonnie and Friends, Edgar Winter and The New Grass Revival.

He then dipped into relative obscurity for a period before coming back with a vengeance after he recorded The Union alongside Sir Elton - who saw Russell as a longtime hero. This collaboration boosted his popularity until his last days, with him going on to release a solo album and tour the world.