'Fifth Beatle' Billy Preston dead at 59
Jun 06 3:09 PM US/Eastern
US blues and rock giant Billy Preston, dubbed the "Fifth Beatle" following his collaboration with the Fab Four, has died at the age of 59, a US television network reported.
Preston's representatives could not immediately be reached for comment and the hospital in Scottsdale, Arizona where he reportedly died could not confirm the passing of the legendary musician.
Fox News said the musician and songwriter died of "malignant hypertension" that resulted in kidney failure and other complications following a long illness.
Preston was dubbed the Fifth Beatle after taking to the keyboard on The Beatles classic song "Let It Be," as well as on their "The White Album" and "Abbey Road."
Preston also played with musical superstars such as soul genius Ray Charles and rocker Little Richard, and collaborated with The Rolling Stones, Aretha Franklin, Bob Dylan, The Jackson Five, Sly and the Family Stone and diva Barbra Streisand.
Preston also produced hits on his own, including "Nothing From Nothing," "Will It Go Round in Circles" and "You Are So Beautiful," which became a major hit for British blues singer Joe Cocker.