Billy Preston

Full Name: William Everett Preston
Profession: Soul Musician and Pianist, 5th Beatle

Biography: Keyboard prodigy Billy Preston played the organ for gospel singer Mahalia Jackson, and piano as a guest on "The Nat King Cole Show" before he was a teenager. He toured with Little Richard and released his own debut album at 16.

Preston was in demand as a session musician across all genres of music, and contributed to The Beatles final two albums, becoming the only performer to share credit with them, on the single "Get Back" (credited to "The Beatles with Billy Preston"), He was a featured performer at George Harrison's 1971 Concert for the Bangladesh. He worked as a session and touring player for the Rolling Stones from 1973 to 77.

As a solo artist, he had hits with "Will It Go Round in Circles" (1973) and "Nothing From Nothing" (1974). You Are So Beautiful", which Preston co-wrote, became Joe Cocker's biggest solo hit. In 1975, Preston was the musical guest on the premiere episode of Saturday Night Live.

Difficulties with cocaine, and alcohol, led to guns, arson, and insurance fraud resulting in some time in prison in the 1990s, during which he was able to kick his addictions.

Born: September 2, 1946
Birthplace: Houston, Texas, USA

Generation: Baby Boomer
Chinese Zodiac: Dog
Star Sign: Virgo

Died: June 6, 2006 (aged 59)