Leslie West, born Leslie Abel Weinstein, was a prominent American guitarist, singer, and songwriter, best known as the co-founder, guitarist, and co-lead vocalist of the rock band Mountain. His career, spanning several decades, was marked by musical innovation, personal struggles, and ultimately, resilience. West's journey included significant weight fluctuations, health challenges, and a constant drive to create music that resonated with audiences worldwide.
Early Career and the Formation of Mountain
West's musical journey began in the New York metropolitan area with the Vagrants, an R&B/blue-eyed soul-rock band. This early experience laid the groundwork for his later success. In 1969, West joined forces with Felix Pappalardi, who had previously worked with Cream, to form Mountain. The band's name, "Mountain," was, as Rolling Stone noted, believed to have been inspired by West's then-considerable physical bulk. This detail underscores West's early relationship with his weight, a theme that would recur throughout his life and career.
Mountain quickly gained recognition for their powerful sound, often described as a louder version of Cream. Their performance at Woodstock in August 1969 catapulted them into the spotlight, although West himself recalled the event as a nervous experience amidst chaos. The band's breakthrough hit, "Mississippi Queen," released in 1970, became a rock anthem, characterized by its crunching riff and memorable cowbell intro. The song's enduring popularity is a testament to West's ability to create music that was both catchy and impactful.
Solo Ventures and Health Challenges
Following Mountain's initial success, West embarked on various solo projects and collaborations. He worked with ex-Cream bassist Jack Bruce and released solo albums, including one humorously titled "The Great Fatsby," a nod to his weight. However, West's career was also marked by personal struggles, including drug use and health issues.
In the mid-1970s, West sought treatment for drug addiction, moving to Milwaukee to focus on his health. He credited this period with saving his life, emphasizing the importance of separating drug use from musical creativity. "Some of these kids think the one goes hand in hand with the other, playing music and drugs," West said, "I just hope that they get the message."
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West's weight also became a significant health concern. He was diagnosed with type-2 diabetes and, in the mid-1980s, lost 85 pounds by watching his sugar intake. Despite these challenges, West maintained a sense of humor about his size. As he once stated, "I ain't thin--I still weigh 200--but I look like I lost a person."
Leslie West's Weight Loss
Leslie West's weight loss journey was significantly influenced by his diagnosis of type 2 diabetes. Faced with this health challenge, West made a conscious decision to address his weight and improve his overall well-being. He focused on reducing his sugar intake, a crucial step in managing diabetes.
West's approach to weight loss was straightforward and practical. He cut back on sugar and made a firm decision to prioritize his health. As he put it, "Once you decide to do it, it's easy." This statement reflects his determination and commitment to making positive changes in his life.
The results of West's efforts were notable. He lost 85 pounds, a significant achievement that improved his health and physical appearance. Despite the weight loss, West maintained a realistic perspective on his body image. He acknowledged that he was "ain't thin" but recognized the positive impact of his weight loss, joking that he looked like he had "lost a person."
West's experience highlights the importance of addressing underlying health conditions when managing weight. His diagnosis of diabetes served as a wake-up call, prompting him to take proactive steps to improve his health. His story is an example of how lifestyle changes, such as reducing sugar intake, can lead to significant weight loss and improved health outcomes.
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Later Career and Legacy
In his later years, West remained active in music, touring, recording, and collaborating with other artists. He participated in the Guitar Speak tour, worked on Sam Kinison's remake of "Wild Thing," and released his own albums, including "Blue Me." Despite facing health challenges, including the amputation of his lower right leg in 2011 due to complications from diabetes, West continued to perform and create music.
West's influence on rock music is undeniable. His powerful guitar playing and distinctive sound inspired generations of musicians. "Mississippi Queen" remains a classic rock staple, and his contributions to the genre were widely recognized.
Leslie West died on December 23, 2020, following a cardiac arrest. His death was mourned by fans and fellow musicians alike, with many paying tribute to his talent and legacy. He left behind a rich body of work that continues to inspire and entertain.
Artists Who Battled with Weight
Leslie West was not alone in the music industry when it came to battling weight issues. Several other prominent artists also faced similar challenges, demonstrating that talent and success are not limited by body size.
Fats Domino
Fats Domino, born Antonine Dominique Jr., was a boogie-woogie piano player who became a rock and roll pioneer. Discovered at a backyard barbeque, he wrote his first hit, "The Fat Man," which sold over a million records and launched his career. Domino's weight was part of his persona, and he embraced it, with his bandleader even giving him the nickname "Fats."
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Mama Cass Elliott
Mama Cass Elliott, of The Mamas & The Papas, was known for her big voice, big personality, and big physical presence. She became a media star, and her fans loved her energy and talent. Despite her success, Elliott faced scrutiny for her weight, and her early death at 32 was partly attributed to unhealthy habits.
Bachman-Turner Overdrive
Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO) was a band known for their hard-rocking sound and irreverent attitude. While not all members were overweight, the Bachman brothers joked that their bodies were built to "keep the groupies away." Randy Bachman, the band's leader, eventually faced serious health problems due to his weight, leading him to undergo bariatric surgery and lose 155 pounds.
Meat Loaf
Meat Loaf, born Marvin Lee Aday, was a larger-than-life performer with a powerful voice and theatrical stage presence. His weight was often a topic of discussion, but he never let it define him. Meat Loaf was a vegetarian for 11 years, during which he lost weight, and later became known for giving weight loss tips to the public.
Musical Style and Equipment
West was renowned for his distinctive guitar tone and playing style. He favored Gibson Les Paul Jr. guitars, often using models with modified features. He also experimented with various amplifiers, including those from Carlsbro, Marshall, and Budda. His unique sound was a combination of his equipment and his technique, which included a distinctive vibrato.
West's vibrato was a key element of his playing style. He developed it over time, emphasizing the importance of stretching the string and allowing it to breathe. As he once humorously explained, "Playing vibrato is the same motion as jerking off. But you've got to do it slow; you can't just go fast and expect results. Go slow."
Reflections on Fame and Recognition
Despite his success, West remained grounded and appreciative of his fans. He offered advice to aspiring musicians, emphasizing the importance of tuning their guitars, playing straight into the amp, and finding their own sound. He also spoke candidly about the challenges of touring with a disability, highlighting the lack of accessible transportation options.
West's legacy extends beyond his musical achievements. He was a role model for overcoming adversity and pursuing one's passion despite obstacles. His story is a testament to the power of music, resilience, and the importance of staying true to oneself.