Leon Russell/Elton John Collaboration; Artists Crossing Borders

Leon Russell Signs Deal with UMPG for Elton John Collaboration

Legendary songwriter and artist Leon Russell has signed a worldwide co-publishing deal with Universal Music Publishing Group (UMPG) for The Union, his collaboration with Elton John and lyricist Bernie Taupin. The Union was released on October 19th.

Russell, John and Taupin co-wrote the album, which is their first studio collaboration, with producer T Bone Burnett. A tour is in the works for John and Russell in 2011.

“Leon Russell is a legend in his own right,” says UMPG Chairman/CEO David Renzer. “Teaming with Elton John and Bernie Taupin has resulted in a special record that will be a true event around the globe. We’re honored to have Leon join the UMPG family and look forward to seeing this project achieve worldwide acclaim and success.”

Russell’s career spans over five decades, and he has collaborated with artists including Eric Clapton, George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Willie Nelson, Jerry Lee Lewis, Frank Sinatra, B.B. King, Glen Campbell, The Beach Boys and The Rolling Stones.

Border Crossing

Touring artists crossing the U.S./Canadian border now have a resource to assist them with the process. Border Entertainment is a service company that provides business consultation and ease when moving between the United States and Canada, saving clients time and money.

Entertainers touring in other countries need to be aware of Immigration, Customs, Tax and Labor laws in the host country, and if proper paperwork is not completed, offenders can face inspections and interrogations.

The Border Entertainment customer service team works with clients to ensure a smooth entry and exit to another country. More information is available here.