Carney (Leon Russell album)

Carney
Studio album by
ReleasedJune 26, 1972 (1972-06-26)
Studio
  • Skyhill (Hollywood)
  • Muscle Shoals (Sheffield, Alabama)
  • Paradise (Tia Juana, Oklahoma)
Genre
Length37:34
LabelShelter (US); A&M (UK)
ProducerDenny Cordell
Leon Russell
Leon Russell chronology
Asylum Choir II
(1971)
Carney
(1972)
Looking Back
(1973)

Carney is Leon Russell's third solo studio album, released in 1972. It peaked at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 200 and was the first for Russell to contain a hit single — "Tight Rope" b/w "This Masquerade" — which reached number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Side one of the record profiles roots rock, while side two features psychedelic music. Considered a surrealistic examination of Russell's newfound fame, it was inspired by the musician's personal downsides in being a celebrated live performer. The album has been described as semi-autobiographical, Russell using the record to draw parallels between his life and old-fashioned carnivals and circus clowns. The record reflects the musician's interests in vaudeville and sideshows and also features two experimental pieces.

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