Billy Preston

About

William Everett Preston was an American keyboardist, singer, and songwriter whose virtuosity shaped the sound of popular music across multiple genres. Born September 2, 1946, Preston emerged as a top session musician during the 1960s, lending his talents to an extraordinary roster of artists including Little Richard, Sam Cooke, Ray Charles, the Everly Brothers, Reverend James Cleveland, the Beatles, and the Rolling Stones. His breakthrough as a solo artist arrived with the spiritual funk of "That's the Way God Planned It," followed by a string of infectious hits that showcased his mastery of rhythm and melody. Preston passed away on June 6, 2006, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most sought-after session players of his era.

Preston's solo career produced some of the era's most memorable records, including the Grammy-winning "Outa-Space," the chart-dominating "Will It Go Round in Circles" and "Nothing from Nothing," and the spacey funk of "Space Race." His songwriting prowess extended beyond his own recordings, most notably with "You Are So Beautiful," which became a major hit for Joe Cocker. Preston achieved a rare distinction in popular music history when the Beatles credited him on their 1969 single "Get Back," a recognition that underscored his significance even among the world's most legendary musicians. His work encompassed R&B, rock, soul, funk, and gospel, demonstrating an artistic range that influenced generations of musicians and cemented his place as an indispensable architect of modern popular sound.