Billy Preston

Name: Billy Preston
Associations: Little Richard, Sam Cook, The Beatles, Sly and The Family Stone
Instrument: Keyboard, Piano, Organ
Brands: Fender, Hofner, Hammond

Musician’s Biography:

Though born in Houston in 1945, William Everett Preston, known as Billy, moved to Los Angeles at the age of three. It was here that he began playing the piano under the guidance of his mother at a young age. He was considered a child prodigy, at at the age of ten, Preston played organ for famous gospel singers like Mahalia Jackson, James Cleveland and others.  At 11, Preston appeared in the film St Louis Blues alongside Nat King Cole.

Preston became the organist for Little Richard in 1962. While traveling with that band, he met The Beatles as a 16 year old. The Beatles with Billy Preston recorded multiple albums, and Preston is often referred to as “The Fifth Beatle”.  At one point John Lennon actually wanted to bring Preston in as a touring band member, however it was decided adding a fifth member would be too complex.

Preston continued work with The Beatles, releasing his first solo album on their label entitled “That’s The Way God Planned It”, which was produced by George Harrison. He then went on to release “Encouraging Words” which featured the likes of Eric Clapton, Ringo Starr, and others. Starting in 1970, Preston was the keyboard player for the Rolling Stones both in recording sessions, and as a touring band member. He continued song writing and recording, including writing the Joe Cocker hit “You Are So Beautiful”.

Overcoming personal problems in the 90’s, Preston returned to touring with Eric Clapton and others where he played keyboards. He remained active, recording with Johnny Cash, Ray Charles and others. In 2006, Preston played the clavinet, an instrument he helped make famous, on the track Warlocks for the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Preston made his final public appearance in 2005, celebrating the re-release of the documentary of The Concert for Bangladesh. Preston passed away in 2006.

The Billy Preston keyboard is the Hofner Clavinet D6.  Preston is credited for making the Clavinet popular in funk music.