Who is Leland Sklar?
Leland Bruce Sklar, born on May 28, 1947, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, is a well-known American bassist and session musician. He is recognized for his significant contributions to the music industry, having played on over 2,000 albums. Sklar’s career began as a member of James Taylor‘s backing band, which later transformed into The Section, the unofficial house band for Asylum Records. This group supported numerous legendary singer-songwriters of the 1970s, such as Jackson Browne, Carole King, and Linda Ronstadt. Sklar’s versatility and talent have made him a highly sought-after musician, leading to collaborations with artists like Phil Collins, Toto, and Lyle Lovett. He is also a member of The Immediate Family, a band that brings together many of his former bandmates from The Section.
Age
As of 2024, Leland Sklar is 77 years old, having been born on May 28, 1947. He continues to be active in the music scene, performing and recording with various artists, demonstrating his enduring passion for music.
Height
Leland Sklar’s height is not commonly noted in public records. However, his stage presence and distinctive long beard make him a recognizable figure in the music industry. His physical size is overshadowed by his substantial influence and contributions to music.
Education
Leland Sklar’s early education involved studying classical piano, which was inspired by his admiration for Liberace on TV. He began piano lessons at five and quickly excelled, winning accolades from the Hollywood Bowl Association. However, by age twelve, he lost interest in the piano and switched to bass guitar while attending Birmingham High School in Van Nuys, California. This switch marked the start of his successful music career.
Spouse
Details about Leland Sklar’s spouse are not easily accessible in public sources. He generally keeps his personal life private, emphasizing his professional accomplishments in the music industry.
Family
Leland Sklar comes from a family with roots in Milwaukee and Duluth, Minnesota. His father’s family originally hailed from Odesa, Ukraine, where “Sklar” means glazier. When he was four, his family relocated to Van Nuys, California. His early musical exposure came from his mother, who owned a baby grand piano, and his admiration for Liberace’s performances on television.
Career
Leland Sklar has enjoyed a career spanning over six decades, making him one of the most prolific bassists in music. He gained fame as a member of James Taylor’s backing band, which later evolved into The Section, influential in defining the sound of many 1970s singer-songwriters. Sklar’s adaptability has allowed him to explore various genres, including rock, pop, country, folk, jazz fusion, and Christian contemporary music. He has recorded and toured with numerous artists, such as Phil Collins, Toto, and Lyle Lovett. Beyond live performances and studio recordings, he has also contributed to soundtracks for films and TV shows. Since 2018, he has been a member of The Immediate Family, continuing to make music with lifelong friends and former bandmates.
Net Worth
Leland Sklar’s net worth is estimated to range from $1 million to $5 million. This estimate reflects his extensive career as a session musician, live performer, and member of various influential bands. His work on more than 2,000 albums and numerous tours has significantly contributed to his financial success. Despite his wealth, Sklar remains committed to his craft and continues to inspire musicians around the globe.
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