William Eugene Russell (December 2, 1932 – May 5, 1981), known as Gene Russell, was an American pop, jazz, and soul keyboardist who played acoustic and Fender Rhodes.
[1] Russell was born in Los Angeles, California and was a cousin of guitarist Charlie Christian.
Russell played with Rahsaan Roland Kirk, Zoot Sims, Leroy Vinnegar, Dexter Gordon, Wardell Gray and Miles Davis.
[2] With financing from Dick Schrory, Russell established Black Jazz Records in 1969.
[3][4] The aim of the record label was to promote young African American jazz musicians and singers.