Early Life & Musical Prodigy

William Everett Preston was born on September 2, 1946, in Houston, Texas, and raised in Los Angeles, California. From an early age, Billy was recognized as a prodigy—a child with a rare gift for music. His mother, Robbie, was a church musician, and Billy began playing piano at age three. By ten, he was performing on national television, backing gospel legends like Mahalia Jackson and Andraé Crouch.

Billy’s early exposure to both gospel and R&B would shape his style for life: a blend of ecstatic energy, soulful improvisation, and technical mastery. He was soon touring with Little Richard, Ray Charles, and Sam Cooke, absorbing influences from the best in the business and honing his skills as a keyboardist and organist.

Early Career & Rising Star

In the early 1960s, Billy Preston was already a seasoned performer, despite his youth. He played on Little Richard’s European tours, where he met a young Beatles band who were supporting acts in Hamburg. The Beatles were immediately impressed with Billy’s talent and charisma, and a friendship began—especially with George Harrison, who saw Preston as a kindred spirit.

Billy released his own solo albums, including The Most Exciting Organ Ever (1965), and worked as a session musician for artists like Sam Cooke and Ray Charles. His energetic playing, infectious smile, and positive attitude made him a sought-after collaborator.

Joining The Beatles: The Let It Be Sessions

Billy Preston’s pivotal role in Beatles history came in January 1969, during the tumultuous “Get Back” (later Let It Be) sessions. The Beatles were struggling—tensions were high, communication was breaking down, and the joy of making music together was fading. Enter Billy Preston.

George Harrison invited Billy to the sessions at Apple Studios, hoping his presence would ease the atmosphere. It worked like magic. Billy’s dazzling electric piano and organ lifted the band’s spirits and brought a fresh, soulful sound to their new songs. His playing is instantly recognizable on tracks like “Get Back,” “Don’t Let Me Down,” “Something,” and “I Want You (She’s So Heavy).”

Paul McCartney later said, “Having Billy there was like a breath of fresh air. Suddenly, everybody was on their best behavior.” John Lennon even suggested making him a full member of the band.

The Only Musician Credited on a Beatles Single

Billy Preston holds a unique honor in Beatles history: he is the only musician to receive a co-credit on a Beatles single. “Get Back,” released in April 1969, is officially credited to “The Beatles with Billy Preston.” This recognition was unprecedented and speaks volumes about his contribution.

His swirling organ and gospel-tinged improvisation gave “Get Back” its distinctive groove, while his keyboard work on “Don’t Let Me Down” and “Something” added depth and emotion. Billy’s presence also helped defuse the tension in the studio, allowing the Beatles to complete their final album together.

The Rooftop Concert

On January 30, 1969, Billy Preston joined The Beatles for their legendary rooftop concert atop Apple Corps headquarters in London. He played electric piano, his joyful energy evident as the band performed live for the last time. The footage of Billy, beaming behind his keyboard as the wind whipped through his hair, captures the spirit of that moment—a celebration of music, camaraderie, and creativity.

Friendship with George Harrison

Billy’s bond with George Harrison extended far beyond the Beatles era. Harrison admired Billy’s spirituality, musicality, and sense of humor. After the Beatles split, George invited Billy to play on his landmark solo album All Things Must Pass (1970), where Preston’s organ graces classics like “My Sweet Lord” and “Isn’t It a Pity.”

Billy was also a key player at the Concert for Bangladesh in 1971, delivering a show-stopping solo performance of “That’s the Way God Planned It.” His friendship with George remained strong throughout their lives, and Billy often cited Harrison as one of his closest friends in the music industry.

Solo Success and Session Work

Billy Preston built a stellar solo career in the 1970s, blending soul, funk, rock, and gospel into a string of hits. His signature songs include “Will It Go Round in Circles,” “Nothing from Nothing,” “Outa-Space” (which won a Grammy), and “You Are So Beautiful” (co-written with Dennis Wilson, made famous by Joe Cocker).

He became a go-to session musician for superstars—playing with The Rolling Stones (notably on “Sticky Fingers” and “Exile on Main St.”), Eric Clapton, Aretha Franklin, Bob Dylan, Sly & the Family Stone, and many more. His versatility and joyful presence made him one of the most beloved musicians of his era.

Personal Life, Struggles, and Resilience

Billy’s life was not without hardship. He struggled with substance abuse, legal troubles, and the challenges of being a Black musician in a predominantly white rock world. Despite these obstacles, his faith and love for music never wavered. He was open about his struggles, sought help, and ultimately found peace in his later years.

Billy was also a quiet pioneer for LGBTQ+ representation in music, living much of his life as a gay man in an industry and era that was not always accepting. His courage and authenticity have inspired many.

Later Years and Legacy

Billy continued to perform, record, and collaborate into the 2000s, even as health issues slowed him down. He contributed to the Beatles’ Anthology project in the 1990s, reconnecting with Paul, George, and Ringo. He also played on Eric Clapton’s tribute to George Harrison, “Concert for George,” in 2002, delivering a moving rendition of “My Sweet Lord.”

Billy Preston passed away on June 6, 2006, at the age of 59, after a long illness. His legacy lives on in the countless recordings he graced, the musicians he inspired, and the joy he brought to every stage.

Fun Facts & Stories

• Billy was sometimes called “The Fifth Beatle,” a title he shared with George Martin and Brian Epstein.
• He was a child actor, appearing in the film “St. Louis Blues” with Nat King Cole.
• Billy’s signature afro and radiant smile became iconic in the 1970s.
• He played on The Rolling Stones’ “Miss You” and “Heartbreaker.”
• Billy’s “Outa-Space” was a favorite of NASA astronauts and was played on space missions.

Quotes

• “Music is my life, and my life is music.”
• “The Beatles were like brothers to me. We made magic together.”
• “When I play, I feel free.”

Billy Preston’s Lasting Impact

Billy Preston brought soul, spirit, and unity to the Beatles at a critical moment. His musicianship elevated their music, his personality eased their tensions, and his legacy continues to inspire musicians across genres. Whether laying down a funky groove, soaring through a gospel solo, or simply bringing out the best in those around him, Billy Preston was a force of nature—one of the greatest keyboardists in rock and soul history.

In the story of the Beatles, Billy Preston is not just a footnote—he’s a headline. He was the friend who showed up when it mattered most, the artist who made a difference, and the “Fifth Beatle” whose sound will live forever.