Billy Preston

Rising crossover star was moving to the world's biggest stages after working with the Beatles and Rolling Stones.

He was a trusted sideman with the Beatles and Rolling Stones who also charted with several solo hits.

Keyboardist "cut the ice" in the studio, allowing the group to ditch the drama and focus on music.

He played a key sideman role with two of classic rock's biggest bands while still amassing an impressive pile of solo hits.

Known for his big smile and his even bigger afro, he died in an avalanche of health, legal and financial problems.

Yes, it's Billy Preston, who played organ, piano and keyboards alongside some of the biggest rock bands in the world -- including Eric Clapton, the Rolling Stones and most famously, the Beatles -- in addition to having his own successful solo career...