How Leon Russell’s Hats Improved His Showmanship

Leon Russell’s Signature Style

Leon Russell’s distinctive vocal and instrumental style made him one of the great singer-songwriters of all time. He was a unique pianist, composer, singer, songwriter, and showman. 

He collected masks, noisemakers, and musical instruments, but his canes and hats were his most well-known belongings. The canes were functional as well as stylistic – helping Leon manage his cerebral palsy.

But what most people remember are his hats. He had several styles of them, but the most iconic were his top hats. They became as familiar as his hit songs, representing his flair and commanding stage presence.

A Shy Performer Finds His Confidence

In his biography, Leon Russell in His Own Words, Leon shares a story of being publicly shamed at the age of four. An aunt embarrassed him in front of other relatives, and he never forgot it. The episode caused stage fright that Leon struggled with for years.

However, as his brilliance on the “Piana” grew and his success in the music industry took him to California in the 50s and 60s, the young, shy boy from Oklahoma gained confidence, onstage and off.

Leon’s Top Hat Era Begins

After a decade of studio recording with some of the greats in rock-n-roll, Leon decided to become the master of his own show. He grew his short, slicked-back hair out, let his beard lengthen, and started to wear top hats.

The hats helped change the shy background musician into a true master of ceremonies. His hats added to his stage persona and set him apart visually.

By 1970, photos often featured him in a top hat.

A Symbol of Showmanship

Music journalist Mike Elliott best describes Leon in Albumism.com.

“A cool look of supreme confidence peeks out from under a top hat with part of the brim turned up-the absolute coolest anyone’s ever looked in a top hat, with apologies to Abe Lincoln, Slash, and Willy Wonka.”

 

In March 1971, Leon released his second album, Leon Russell and the Shelter People. Elliott again describes Leon’s great showmanship:

“Make no mistake, Leon Russell dominates Leon Russell. It’s all his show. You may hear a signature lick here and there from, say, Clapton (on “Prince of Peace”), but the guests never detract or distract, they merely enhance the overall vibe.”

 

Leon was THE showman! And his hats became part of his identity and life story.

The “Jolson” Hat Story

In the spring of 1970, Joe Cocker invited Leon to put together the musicians for his Mad Dogs and Englishmen Tour. On the way to the tour, Gram Parsons (of the Byrds) met Leon at the airport and handed Leon a top hat. 

The “green silk number” became a feature on the tour and got quite worn out. Someone sat on the hat, and when Leon turned it over to punch it out and restore the shape, he noticed a handwritten label inside:

Jolson/Jazz Singer

The hat’s history was a surprise and mystery to all.

The Replacement Hat Story

Another top hat story involved Shawn, the toddler son of Leon’s girlfriend, Carla Brown McHenry (Shawn is photographed laying on the floor in front of the band on the Mad Dogs and Englishmen album). 

Shawn peed in one of Leon’s top hats. According to Leon’s friend, Michael Mullen:

“It was okay though, they were in New York City and quickly rushed out to buy another one. Oh, the stories those hats could tell!”

Leon’s Other Hats

While Leon was often seen and photographed with his top hat, he loved many types of hats. He wore a cowboy hat on his Hank Wilson albums, and crocheted pillbox hats topped his head in several family photos. Other photos show Leon in fedoras and bucket hats.

My Favorite Leon Russell Hat

My personal favorite was his flower-covered top hat. Leon was one of the first to wear a top hat and by wearing it, inspired other Rock and Rollers to do the same. 

I remember going to concerts at Mohawk Park in Tulsa in the early 70s and seeing numerous hippies sporting black top hats – a nod to our local hero.

Where to See Leons Hats

Tulsans remember Leons hats! You can find them in various murals and fun hat art around town – including a “steel top hat garden pole inspired by the late great Leon Russell” at the Garden Deva.  

Every May the Church Studio in Tulsa hosts Carney Fest, and many of the Leon Russell fans that attend don a top hat in his memory.

Church Studio visitors can also enjoy a 6,000+ piece archive that displays artifacts, music memorabilia, and several of Russell’s hats and canes.

Let us know if you have a Leon hat photo or story!

FAQ: Leon Russell’s Hats

• Why did Leon Russell wear top hats?
  To create a distinctive stage persona and boost his confidence during performances. The top hat became a symbol of showmanship.
• Did Leon Russell wear any other style hat?
  Yes, Leon also wore cowboy hats, pillbox hats, bucket hats, and fedoras.
• Did Leon Russell have other signature items besides hats?
  Yes, his canes were also part of his iconic look, adding flair and personality to his stage presence.
• Are Leon Russell’s hats displayed anywhere today?
  Yes, several of his hats are on display at The Church Studio in Tulsa, Oklahoma, alongside other memorabilia.

Get The Book!

For some almost-lifesize photos of some of Leon’s hats, order a copy of Sanctuary of Sound, the coffee table book that documents the history and restoration of The Church Studio.