Billy Preston, born in Houston in 1946, was a keyboard prodigy who performed with Mahalia Jackson by age 10. You’ll recognize his soulful playing on Beatles classics like “Get Back,” where his contributions earned him the unofficial title “Fifth Beatle.”
He later topped charts with solo hits including “Will It Go Round in Circles” and “Nothing from Nothing.” His collaborations with legends like the Rolling Stones showcase his remarkable musical journey.
Early Life as a Child Prodigy
Billy Preston’s musical path began in Houston, Texas on September 2, 1946, where his extraordinary talent emerged early. A self-taught musician, he never received formal lessons, yet his natural gift set him apart immediately.
By age 10, Preston was performing on the organ, backing gospel stars like Mahalia Jackson. Highlights from his early years include:
- Appearing on Nat King Cole’s NBC TV show at age 11
- Performing “Blueberry Hill” for national audiences
- Joining Little Richard’s band as an organist in 1962
- Playing on Sam Cooke’s “Night Beat” album in 1963
Preston’s rise mirrored the vitality of Houston’s gospel and music scene, which provided fertile ground for his artistic development.
Musical Beginnings With Gospel and Little Richard
Image: Heinrich Klaffs, Billy Preston perforning in 1971, CC BY-SA 2.0
Although he lacked formal training, Preston’s gospel roots laid the groundwork for his iconic style. His skill was evident as a child, and his televised performance with Nat King Cole introduced him to millions.
At 16, Preston joined Little Richard’s touring band, where he met the Beatles in Hamburg. That encounter marked the beginning of a pivotal relationship. His session work on Sam Cooke’s Night Beat displayed the depth of his keyboard range, and by 1967, he had joined Ray Charles’s band, sharpening his versatility across genres.
The “Fifth Beatle”: Joining the Let It Be Sessions
In 1969, George Harrison invited Preston to the Let It Be sessions, injecting energy into a band on the verge of breaking apart.
Preston’s influence is unmistakable:
- His electric piano uplifted songs struggling to come together
- His presence eased internal tensions among the Beatles
- Paul McCartney acknowledged he couldn’t replicate Preston’s playing
- His solo on “Don’t Let Me Down” remains one of the band’s most expressive moments
Credited on “Get Back,” Preston was one of the only artists ever to receive shared billing with the Beatles.
Solo Success: Grammy Wins and Chart-Topping Hits
Preston’s solo career soared in the 1970s. He hit #1 with:
- “Will It Go Round in Circles” (1973)
- “Nothing from Nothing” (1974)
He won a Grammy Award in 1973 for “Outa-Space,” a funky instrumental that showcased his synthesizer prowess. He also co-wrote “You Are So Beautiful,” later made famous by Joe Cocker.
In 1975, Preston became the first musical guest on Saturday Night Live, debuting in the premiere episode and cementing his pop culture status.
Collaborations With the Rolling Stones and Other Legends
Image: Tony Morelli, The Rolling Stones with Billy Preston (1975), CC BY-SA 2.0
Preston’s enduring partnership with the Rolling Stones lasted from 1971 to 1977, gracing albums like:
- Sticky Fingers
- Exile on Main St.
- Goats Head Soup
Beyond the Stones, he worked with:
- Aretha Franklin, Sly & the Family Stone, and Eric Clapton
- Bob Dylan and Ringo Starr
- Wrote “You Are So Beautiful,” recorded by Joe Cocker
- Appeared on Johnny Cash’s American IV: The Man Comes Around (2002)
His keyboard genius was sought by music’s most iconic artists.
Songwriting Legacy and Musical Style
Preston’s soul-infused keyboard style defined his sound. His Grammy-winning “Outa-Space” and #1 hit “Will It Go Round in Circles” remain radio staples. He brought a unique, joyful funk to every track, blending gospel, R&B, rock, and soul.
He co-wrote “You Are So Beautiful” with Bruce Fisher, giving Joe Cocker a timeless ballad. Preston’s rendition of George Harrison’s “Something” hit the charts in 1970, showcasing his ability to reinterpret classics.
Television and Film Appearances
Preston’s charisma extended to screens big and small:
- Played with the house band on Shindig!, a 1960s music variety show
- Appeared in the film Blues Brothers 2000 (1998)
- Played keys on Johnny Cash’s American IV album (2002)
His stage presence and musical fluency made him a standout in every medium he touched.