BILLY PRESTON's TRAGIC Story: GAY, Addiction, Abandoned House, SAD DEATH and Net Worth...

[@marcoman385]

In 1975 I worked with Billy's management team and got to know him quite well. I attened recording sessions, accompanied him on a promotional trip from Los Angeles to New York, and visited his home at the time in Topanga Canyon. What I recall best about his house are three things; the wrought iron gates at the front of the driveway have a big BP on it; the white Bentley that was once on an album cover of his was parked near his house; and as you entered his home studio which was a smallish separate building near his main house, at you entered on the left wall there was a gold 45 record of Get Back which was credited "The Beatles featuring Billy Preston". That was the only time anyone was ever credited on a Beatles song. Billy was a complex man and, like so many in the 1970s had his demons. But he truly had a wonderful heart, loved God, and was one of the most amazing musicians I've ever met. Cocaine was omnipresent all over the LA music scene at the time so it's no surprise Billy got into that too. In so many ways Billy was a man lost in his own mind but, while making music, he, for those moments in time, knew who he was and found peace. That we all got to share that with him was a joy. RIP old friend.

[@Lakridza67]

Beautifully written! You show amazing insight and empathy. Rip BP🙏🏼💔

[@marcoman385]

@@Lakridza67 Thank you. He was special.

[@TheDriftwoodlover]

He was a great talent.

[@mosestyson2705]

You knew him for sure. I traveled to Australia and others places. I spent time at Topanga. He has a detached studio up there....the white rolls and a jeep...and green rolls Royce also.. tony jones and suzanne de passe managed him. Ranch style house. He was a great person. Gone too soon. . Moses Tyson Jr

[@marcoman385]

@@mosestyson2705 When I worked with Billy he was being managed by Bob Ellis who was married to Diana Ross at the time and is the father of Tracy Ellis Ross. I met Suzanne de Passe at her home one time though I really didn't know her. Billy liked cars. I used to drive his 1974 Citroen Maseratti and his 1975 Jensen black on black convertable while he was on tour with the Rolling Stones. During the time that Billy was tour with the Rolling Stones in Europe Eric Clapton and Patty Harrison rented his ranch and stayed there for the duration of the Stones tour. One afternoon I got a call from Eric Clapton asking if I could get him tickets to see Jeff Beck at an outdoor ampitheater in Pasadena called the Starlight Ampitheater. I told him if I couldn't do that for him I was probably in the wrong business. Needless to say when I contacted the promoter and told him what I wanted I got the tickets and backstage passes. I went with Eric and Patty that night. When we arrived back stage folding chairs were place in front of the front row for us. After the show Eric was given a private dressing room back stage and Jeff Beck came in for a very warm reunion. Billy returned from the Stones tour, contacted me, and said he wanted to do a free concert of gospel music in McArthur Park around Christmas. I set up the rehearsal space and Billy had a choir there as well as members of his family. He was so happy and I was so happy for him and that I could help make it all happen for him. Be well.

[@bethcause5526]

That was a kind tribute to Mr. Billy Preston. He was a musical genius ! May he R.I.P.

[@johnfoster535]

I was lucky and accidentally met Billy at the check in counter of a major hotel, when he was touring with Ringo's all star band. He was very friendly and we joked and laughed for quite a while before he left. I had seen Billy electrify the huge audience that attended Ringo's first tour...he stole the show with " Nothin' from Nothin'" with the high energy and spirit of that song. What a memory to have !! Despite all his struggles, Billy gave the world the best parts of his soul and God given talent.

[@tommybotts]

Ringo once said Billy Preston was the only keyboard player he ever worked with that never hit a wrong note.

[@Jeff-bz6jp]

How would Ringo even know? I kid. RIP BP.

[@CaptainCock-Strong]

When ur playing with The Beatles it’s wise to never hit a wrong note.

[@sylviasmith3366]

NEVER🎉🎉🎉🎉

[@Pisces-1978]

Loving all the comments from people who worked with him or had the chance to bump into him. Seemed like a genuinely nice guy. Wouldn't have strangers and people who worked with him saying such things if they weren't true. RIP BILLY 🕊

[@SouLoveReal]

I went to see Billy Preston in 1972. He was the middle act. There was Tower of Power, then Billy, and the headliner was Buddy Miles. He had just released his album, "I Wrote A Simple Song," Tower of Power had just released, "Bump City," and Buddy Miles was still riding with "A Message To The People." Billy Preston TORE IT THE HELL UP!!! He was "surrounded" by three keyboards, and could make ALL THREE keyboards "SING" in _three different languages_ - all at once! That was the only time I got to see him. I'm 68 now and still marvel over that performance. They just don't make concerts like that anymore. Just to add... I grew up watching Billy on *_Shindig!_* back while I was still in elementary school. He was once or twice featured singing as well as dancing like Jame Brown.

[@msaintpc]

I'm nearly 79, from Laguna Beach and was there. I knew just about everybody. I played in one of the earliest all Black rock bands named "Melvin Wonderful". I had lots of money back then and had the apartment above the Whisky. One of my girlfriends (Edith Gurcell) had a penthouse suite at the Riot House and another apartment next door to the Comedy Club. Most rock and R&B stars at one time or another came to either my crib or my girlfriend's. I was the celebrity's weed coke and man from the Laguna Beach BEL. There'll never be another time like that again and I feel sorry for those who missed out.

[@Momus2024]

finally a man that really was as good as they want us to believe.... as good a musician....friend and overall talent....of course i remember Billy Preston who does not??

[@Geordan419]

i’m not being shady when i say this but i heard of some extremely disturbing allegations involving him and a young boy. he was arrested for it. of course he’s an amazing musician but if the above is true, it most definitely dampens his legacy. truly sad…smh

[@BackwoodsFilms]

The robot. Voice is. Very annoying.

[@vayabroder729]

AI videos suck a little…..or a lot….

[@lisag18]

You. Are right.

[@toddmayer6859]

It sucks so hard it blows

[@VictorianMaid99]

AI loves you!

[@timflippance3040]

It can't be so difficult to grab a microphone and talk into it? Why bother with AI?

[@janicestewart8291]

I played his music in my room growing up. There were some things I didn't know, but listening to this, doesn't surprise me. He was a music man. He is loved and missed.

[@judynone7805]

Yes I agree he was ahead of his time. One of a kind. May he rest in peace❤

[@ginafriend1690]

Billy Preston was a Legend. Love his music and his Fro!

[@beverlycoleman1916]

He certainly was an outstanding musician!!!!❤🎉

[@dallaskenn]

Not to mention the greatest gospel organist of all time.

[@michaelreardon3958]

RIP Billy Preston. As a straight man, I don't see being gay as a tragedy. Billy's still the man in my book. A true legend.

[@Garraliposker]

i agree totally. And, being a straight man, I subscribe to your point of view about being gay. The clip title should be edited.

[@stansirlmkhope2312]

Similar to rob halford

[@swiftusmaximus5651]

I didnt know he was an ankle grabber, sad

[@MichaelJohnson-dt8tv]

@michaelreardon3958- Yeah, I’m just a plain old straight dude, with a powerful affinity for the ladies. But that’s me, and however another person may be is how they are and they don’t need my approval or understanding. The only time the fact that a man is Gay should be relevant to another man is if that man is also Gay. All I know or care about Billy is that the Brother had some pipes on him, and he played funky licks on those keyboards!

[@mikeymutual5489]

@@swiftusmaximus5651 I didn't know you were a DB, sad.

[@leifhoffman6533]

"Rest in Peace" Billy. You were and will always be an amazing musician and a large part of musical history.

[@judyholland7236]

He was such a fantastic performer. I got to see him & his band perform twice in one night over in Santa Cruz at the boardwalk. There was a crowd of about 3000+ but he made you feel that he was performing in your living room. Loved the stories he shared with all of us. ❤🎹🎶

[@bdpage2023]

Amazed that anyone makes it through that industry without drug or alcohol problem.

[@Kelz-c]

Or worse.... sad

[@BoxingGOATEdits]

But would he be as brilliant as he was without his horrific childhood?

[@bdpage2023]

@@BoxingGOATEdits Those of us who've been thru hell have a more nuanced perspective on life. Coping with suffering changes those who survive it for the better. True spirituality is pretty colorful when expressed through the arts & music. It's a non-descript, palpable sensation for the sensitive. Unfortunately, some are too sensitive to life's harsh abrasion and burn out. Others burn so brightly, their wicks don't endure at length. These are my tribe.

[@BoxingGOATEdits]

@@bdpage2023 Amen

[@pugnacious1]

Just a very talented and versatile musician. Really appreciated his music. Sometimes the most troubled people release that stress and sorrow in their art. RIP.

[@JamesBrown-i2e]

Saturday Night Live Season 1 episode 1 had Billy Preston and Janis Ian as the first musical guests. I really enjoyed his music.

[@sapphirebluebeauty5243]

This was truly a great documentary on the talented Mr. Billy Preston.

[@markarroyo9266]

May God bless Billy Preston and his family 🌹🙃

[@geegeelast7597]

Billy Preston and a very young duo The Brothers Johnson performed a concert at my high school. He was a very nice generous man as this concert was free. After which he took time to speak to the students. Great memories.

[@MrPlum0001]

Caught him while in the army in Oahu in 73 or so. Remember his music to today. It was a great festival, but, his music was fire ! Sorry for his life struggles 😢

[@MikeLawrence-i6r]

He was a legend

[@Chuck31495]

Nothing from nothing leaves nothing you got to have something if you want to be with me 😊 great song R.I.P. Billy Preston

[@robinrodriguez480]

RIP Billy you brought me joy with your music!!!...

[@RollingStoneZzzzz]

I grew up with his music 🎶 and loved all work he did with various bands and his own work as well. Billy Thanks for the music and the memories! 👍🏻😉❤

[@tyronedoberson7546]

Billy Preston was A Great musical Icon ! Left Us ! With His Great ! Music ! R.I.P.

[@dzapp98]

He was far more brilliant than I imagined! Very informative!

[@fredericklindenberg5627]

Billy was the first musical guest on SNL in 1975.

[@lesal.1373]

His A&M years were his best! When you can't be free, demons take hold. Rest well Mr. Preston.

[@jackaction7077]

This computer robot voice made alot of mistakes..Try using a human narrator next time.

[@timflippance3040]

Why is it so difficult to find a real human being and get them to talk into a microphone?

[@NelsonStJames]

@@timflippance3040 Because you'd be amazed at the number of people who can't read.

[@CarlJohnson-uk4fe]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂​@@NelsonStJames

[@gewglesux]

I hear more and more of it everyday..

[@CarlJohnson-uk4fe]

@@gewglesux 💀💀💀💀☠️😅

[@sallykohorst8803]

I enjoyed this story of Billy. loved his music and when he was with the Beatles. Thanks for sharing this with us.

[@anontool2711]

I saw Billy Preston open for a Beatles tribute band called Beatlemania for free in LaSalle Park in Buffalo NY in 1988. I was 14. Then years later i was backstage to see Buddy Guy and Ray Charles in Los Angeles. While walking down the hall backstagevat the Greek Theatre, we passed a room with the door open and the lights off. There was a man sitting down and praying. He was alone. It was Billy Preston. We quietly walked by trying not to disturb him. Later in the show, he joined Ray Charles onstage and Billy and Ray traded licks back and forth. It was out of sight. (NO PUN INTENDED )

[@goldfieldfireworks7352]

Great musician and performer! "Outa Space," "Nothing from Nothing" and "Will it Go Round in Circles" are all classics!

[@JamesBond-u8p]

Excellent & extraordinary documentary about Billy Preston. Lots of great pictures & videos. Loved ❤ it.

[@johnogorman4925]

RIP Billy. Great man great music.

[@carlbeamon1343]

❤️🎶🎤I’ve always liked his music since I was young o matter who he played with at the time. I could easily distinguish his music before I actually knew it was him performing. This segment is a amazing history of Billy Preston that I would’ve never imagined or known about. Many Thanks for honoring his legacy.👏🏾❤️🎤🎶🎼

[@LoriVFenske]

Loved him so much! I saw him for the last time playing with Clapton in Seattle in the very early 00s. I was in the second row right in front of his piano and organ. He played his four big hits and at one point he looked at me and smiled. I will never forget it. He was amazing.❤💔🕊️🎼🎶🎹

[@kevinwaters5872]

Billy had his demons , no doubt. But musically , he was a genius. Great artists often have checkered private lives. Respect and RIP , Billy.

[@davidjackson2690]

I saw him in one of his last live performances with Eric Clapton at the United Center in Chicago.

[@scottpool4777]

He’s a genius no matter what I’ve always loved his music so genius.

[@wendyclark3655]

I grew up listening to Billy Preston. I miss you a lot and wish we could listen to your new music now if you was here rest in heaven, Billy❤

[@John-vw3lr]

Listen to a duet he performed with Syreeta called “ One More Time for Love “ absolutely stunning track.

[@chrisjeffries2322]

Yes, it is!

[@laurabornicke6095]

Preston being gay should have nothing to do with him being a talent and wonderful person

[@Chillednfunked]

Being gay as a black person must be so incredibly difficult because the guilt piled on with the religious overtones must be so hard to bear. Luther VanDross had a similar issue unfortunately.

[@timages]

It was his sexual identity that contributed to Billy's very sad life of addiction. Kathy Silva went on the marry Sly Stone, and I feel that was the turning point in Billy's personal epiphany about being gay. Being Christian and collaborating with world famous rock stars drove him further into hiding and more into drug use, ...how very sad for this sweet extremely talented man.

[@ew3rivera112]

He was and always will be a legend.

[@familydogg1234]

I got to see Billy Preston with the Rolling Stones in 1975. They played " Space Race"!! " Thats the Way God Planned it" Single features Keith Richards and George Harrison. I was saddened by the news when he passed......

[@desmondcastro3679]

A true American musical icon. Gos bless you, sir. RIP😊🙏🏼

[@SmilingAirboat-gj6ru]

Billy Preston was On Top and Things Happen 💯💯💯 His Song Nothing From Nothing Leaves Nothing Rest IN Peace ☮️☮️☮️☮️☮️☮️☮️☮️☮️☮️☮️

[@JohnEastmanExAttyAtLaw]

yea...on top of some man booty.

[@jeffreyallen9626]

An incredible talent rip brother😓❤️🙏

[@duffrox1964]

🎹

[@lloydrobert6182]

That was beautiful. Thank you for the empathy. He was obviously so talented.

[@dianemegnin7581]

I just loved Billy Preston his music 🎶 was something I grew up listening to since I was a little girl until now!! He will be greatly be missed he was so out of sight!! Love 💕 Diane 😢

[@DukesMusic84]

This dude, this cat, this soulful brotha was the Black Beatle, the only REAL Black Beatle. That can never be taken away. He was also the only actual Beatle in the Sgt. Pepper's movie.

[@classic-kool]

Billy was a very special talent......RIP

[@shirleycallis9449]

I saw Mr. Preston play keyboards with The Rolling Stones during their 1975 tour.

[@williecunningham3725]

People are so busy judging the man and not even taking a moment to stop and realize( because it's what people do), realize how much of a musical GENIUS this man really truely was. I read articles on how he worked with Ray Charles, Eric Clapton and many others, and he helped the Beatles and the Rolling Stones sound. He was very creative on the keyboards and is probably one of the greatest keyboardists there ever was!!!! He did so many brilliant things for the music industry. Continue to rest in peace Billy P, your work will carry on forever.!!!!!❤❤❤

[@stephenking3356]

All I see here is appreciation for the man and his musical gifts. I don't see any judgement at all on his personal life.

[@garyrodriguez8414]

Got to see him perform back in the 70's always admired his background in gospel and fearless sharing of his faith when many were seeking alternatives to faith. His talents on the Hammond B organ popularized the instrument macking him an icon for his expertise. A genius muscian and friendly soul. He will be remembered for his much loved performances with many iconic performers

[@MyName-pl7zn]

Billy put that gospel sound on The Rolling Stones best song Shine a Light

[@slowpokerodriguez3993]

I worked on a TV show he was on several years before his death. He was a nice guy and did a great job, including a spontaneous rendition of "Nothing From Nothing"...

[@lorimoss1909]

wow I had no idea how much he was involved in the musical careers of so many other famous musicians. He certainly had the talent to influence them and at such a young age! it really angers me that he was sexually molested as a child. so many of these stories go untold and the victims tend to harbor deep sadness that leads them down dark paths of substance abuse. its sad how drugs/alcohol took over his life and eventually caused his demise. I can't imagine his homegoing service. it sounds like they all did him proud! RIP Billy Preston

[@alanabrahams2232]

I was there and flew Joe Cocker and his pianist in to sing "You Are So Beautiful"....and I read all the letters and emails at Faithful Central Church...........I miss him - he played on several recordings I produced

[@michaelmckenna6464]

That was only the tip of the iceberg! He also played as an anonymous session musician on many budget albums as well.

[@TimSpangler-rd6vs]

@@alanabrahams2232 I spent the day with him at Avenal Prison

[@knuckleballlady6952]

Saw him in the mid 90s with Ringo Starr and his All Star Band. He was amazing. RIP Billy ❤

[@lisalovelace6784]

Billy Preston was a child prodigy and musical genius, loved his music, RIP.

[@bakeembakeem]

Legendary Iconic Musician 💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯💯

[@nulife022]

That's sad. He was a big part of the Beatles later tunes. John wanted him to be the "fifth Beatle" but Paul nixed the idea saying that it was hard enough getting accommodations for four.

[@charmcrackermusic4250]

They should make a movie about his life. It would be fascinating story I mean who wouldn’t want to play and be on Beatles records it don’t get any better then that what a gig probably the greatest gig of all time

[@mschillyj]

In the 60's I was a teen. I sang in Dori's Akers Sky Pilot Choir when Billy played the organ at the church The day we sang there's a sweet sweet spirit in this place pastor asked anyone wanting to be filled with the Holy Spirit to come to alter Young billy and another girl came prayed with me. We didn't leave until God blessed me with speaking in tongues I will always hold that memory in my heart

[@garyanthony4854]

Thank you for making this.

[@andrewwilkins4113]

Got 'Outa Space ' on my daily mix!! I had no clue about his personal demons!! Another tortured Genius!! I grew up in the 70s and remember Preston all over the musical map!! Lets see his solo material was pure genius and oh yeah being called the "Fifth Beatle" always looks good on the Resume and then there's the stint with the Stones!! Huge Respect!! RIP Billy!!😒🙏🙏🎼🎼🎼🎼🎼

[@Robin-ri5ci]

❤ R. I. P. Billy Preston ❤ The Man and The Musician, He brought ALOT of Joy with His Music 🎶🎵 Gone, but Never Forgotten ❤

[@salvadorcastanos5834]

Genious came wraped in all forms and there's still a human being splendor...miss you dear Billy Preston...🇲🇽✌😎

[@jeanmyers1787]

John Lennon moaned that electric organ was out of tune. Billy immediately shot back electric organs don’t go out,of tune. That shut John up!

[@scotttube5]

All the talent he worked with knew his playing and energy would lift their spirits and define the music.

[@WyattLite-n-inn]

His parents lived on Masselin Ave in the 1200 block in LA…Between Pico and Olympic on the East side of the street..Harold Huff from Rhythm Heritage lived a few blocks away on Nauser..They threw him out of the house while he was still in high school_I know because one of my best friends lived next door.

[@fw1421]

I consider myself very lucky to have seen Billy when he was in Eric Claptons band. Great keyboard player and singer. Sad he passed the way he did.

[@romecottrell6444]

I am sorry that Billy Preston died he will be truly missed 😢 💔 as a person and a musician 🙏 😢.

[@TimSpangler-rd6vs]

I spent one day with Billy...and he was a great Christian man. We all sin. Some of us are forgiven

[@princeali1786]

NOT FOR BEING A HOMOSEXUAL!!

[@TimSpangler-rd6vs]

@@princeali1786 What the devil are you talking about?

[@Brandi6666]

Was he huge? Did it hurt? Did you enjoy it?

[@Brandi6666]

Fruitcake🤭🤭🤭🤭

[@beestonpoet]

He said day not night ​@@Brandi6666

[@geod3589]

I remember working night shifts at a medical lab in the early 70's and we'd have the radio on, and 2 of his hits were played all the time. Nothing from nothing and will it go round in circles. Every time I hear them, which isn't often anymore, I think of those long nights in the lab.

[@Hyperspeed78]

❤ this great black man Was one of the greatest in The music world 🌎!! Dr.tyrone of Chester PA

[@ibdam1]

Thank you for the music. May you rest in peace👏🏾👏🏾❤️❤️

[@DeeDeeOrr]

A musical legend who warms my heart of hearts.

[@silentnight3235]

He was truly gifted. I had no idea about his xxxuality, not that it takes away from his talents. Nature reigns supreme in the end. Live your life. R.I.E.P. 🌹 🕯🥀 💐.

[@jimmcclain6255]

Nature? Are you S-----g me? It is what he chose.

[@silentnight3235]

@@jimmcclain6255 Xxxuality is determined at the point of conception. It is natural though not normal.

[@ralphowen3367]

Talents get forfeited by. Bad conduct.

[@silentnight3235]

@@ralphowen3367 Being gay isn't bad conduct!

[@ralphowen3367]

@@silentnight3235 Jesus said it was-- I will go with his true witness. You merely listened to the big lie enough to think it was true.

[@marywilson6354]

Can we it go round in the circle? was my first introduction to his music at 5 i loved that song when i was little 40 years ago. i ended up singing one of his hits at my cousin wedding .

[@SisyphusQuit]

Billy Preston's story deserves better than a bot narration

[@adventuretravelromance]

I didn't know Billy Preston had such a traumatic life. I followed him from when he was with the Beatles. I saw him live with the Rolling Stones and solo. I remember as band leader of Nightlife with David Brenner. The picture of the Temptations does not show Ollie Woodson but was taken much earlier.

[@Pheobe-w3s]

I Love his style, an Awesome Artist, a Great Human being.💖♥️💖♥️🌹🌹

[@DRogers-fo3lv]

This guy was special. He was a once in a lifetime musician. I believe if he would have came out about his sexuality. But I understand. We are only a sick as our secrets. Rest in peace Mr Preston

[@andrewpatterson4393]

Will it go round in circles.. The jam

[@DavidBrown-uc4yv]

What a great documentary… about music with no music.

[@rondohatton7292]

I saw Billy Preston perform with the Rolling Stones in 1975. They gave him the stage and backed him for two of his hits, giving Jagger a break mid-show.

[@craigbrowning9448]

Preston also did an instrumental gospel album for Vee-Jay released in 1965 released as eather "Gospel In My Soul" or "Hymns Speak From The Organ" depending on the release.

[@apocyldoomer]

I never knew this about Billy Preston, I learn something new every day, thanks.

[@budmcnew7763]

I didn't either.

[@theoriginalsurferbob]

Iv been a Billy Preston fan over 50 years. The first .45 I ever bought was Outta Space. I saw him live as a kid, my dad took me to see him at The Circle Star Theater in San Carlos. Billy was a fabulous musician and an elite talent. One of a kind. Billy died too young, but I’ll never forget him.

[@danielbautista4757]

I saw him in 1972 , he was the opening act for Tina turner.

[@The_momur]

Musical genius. Beauty flowed from him.

[@billfolino5952]

Excellent Tribute to an Ichon!

[@richerworldproductions]

i guess the AI doesn't know the difference between the Beatles and the Rolling Stones

[@douglasolomon5191]

I saw Billy perform in 72 as the opening act with Grand Funk Railroad. I remember mostly his movements behind the piano would make his big afro sway back and forth

[@markhoffman2237]

Billy Preston was a fantastic musician. Before he played with the Beatles and Rollings Stones, he played keyboards with Mahalia Jackson, Ray Charles, Little Richard, and the Everly Brothers, impersonated the young W.C. Handy in a movie, and backed up Howlin' Wolf on the TV show "Shindig" in the only time that blues giant appeared on America TV.

[@ThomasBryant-sg6sn]

He's was totally awesome 😎 sad loss