Elton and Leon - together again

The only thing surprising about the new Elton John-Leon Russell collaboration, "The Union," is why these two grizzled rock pianists haven't done it before.

They've been pals since the early '60s - John calls Russell "The Master"; Russell calls John "The Guv'nor." Here's a tale of the tape between the two great rock and roll characters, on the eve of their tour kick off at Manhattan's Beacon Theatre Tuesday:

ELTON JOHN PROFILE

Back story The ultimate frontman, known for his gigantic glasses, furry butterfly costumes and, more recently, brightly colored suit jackets. John went solo in the late '60s, after he couldn't get along as a sideman for British singer Long John Baldry.

Legacy A global superstar who has sold 250 million albums worldwide, friend of Eminem and Lady Gaga, occasional paparazzi foil and Billy Joel dueling-piano partner.

Best-known song "Tiny Dancer" (from 1971's "Madman Across the Water"). Since it appeared memorably in Cameron Crowe's 2000 film "Almost Famous," the song has come to personify John's poignant side rather than his flamboyant side.

Affectation Feathers

LEON RUSSELL PROFILE

Back story The consummate sideman, a crucial weapon in Phil Spector's three-piano Wall of Sound, Joe Cocker's Mad Dogs & Englishmen, George Harrison's Concert for Bangladesh, the Byrds' "Eight Miles High" and Herb Alpert's "A Taste of Honey."

Legacy Still a cult hero. John recently told Rolling Stone: "Leon is one of my idols. It -- me off that he was forgotten."

Best-known song "A Song for You" (from 1970s "Leon Russell"). One of the great rock and roll standards, opening with a brilliant line full of mystery and melancholy - "I've been so many places." Covered by Aretha Franklin, the Carpenters, Willie Nelson, Herbie Hancock and, most famously, Donny Hathaway.

Affectation Beard

WHO Elton John & Leon Russell

WHEN | WHERE 8 p.m. Tuesday, Beacon Theatre, 2124 Broadway. Find available tickets.

MORE "Elton John and Leon Russell Live From the Beacon Theatre" airs at 8 p.m. Tuesday on Fuse with limited commercial interruptions. Visit fuse.tv.