Layton often performed with Canadian singer/songwriter Leonard Cohen, on albums and on tour. He also played with Frankie Valli, Barbara Cook (As of Today), Maynard Ferguson, and on the all-star album Lost in the Stars: The Music of Kurt Weill. He was heard on film soundtracks for National Lampoon's Animal House, The Warriors, Vigilante, and Fame, as well as The Great Space Coaster cast album (with other Sesame musicians).