Carney (Leon Russell album)

Carney is Leon Russell's third solo studio album, released in 1972. It peaked at number 2 on the Billboard Hot 200 and was the first for Russell to contain a hit single — "Tight Rope" b/w "This Masquerade" — which reached number 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Side one of the record profiles roots rock, while side two features psychedelic music. Considered a surrealistic examination of Russell's newfound fame, it was inspired by the musician's personal downsides in being a celebrated live performer. The album has been described as semi-autobiographical, Russell using the record to draw parallels between his life and old-fashioned carnivals and circus clowns. The record reflects the musician's interests in vaudeville and sideshows and also features two experimental pieces.