Leon Russell collaborated with Elton John on the 2010 album The Union.
The project brought John together with Russell, an influential American singer, pianist, songwriter, and session musician. John had admired Russell for years, and the album was conceived as a meeting between two distinctive piano-led artists from different generations.
Produced by T-Bone Burnett, The Union includes songs written or performed by both musicians. Bernie Taupin contributed lyrics to several tracks, maintaining the long-running John-Taupin creative connection.
The album title refers to the partnership between John and Russell rather than a band formally named The Union. It received positive critical attention and introduced Russell's work to many listeners who primarily knew him through his earlier recordings.