Jul 18, 2023: Elton John and his legendary journey from a talented child to a Pop Icon. Read the BackgroundPepper to know the superstar better.
One of the greatest living performers in popular music, Elton John, announced his retirement from touring last Saturday with a last performance in Stockholm.
Thousands of fans gathered at the Tele2 Arena in the Swedish capital to say goodbye to the Rocket Man.
During the final show in Stockholm, Elton John, the iconic 76-year-old musician, expressed his immense gratitude to the audience. He described his career as a remarkable journey filled with joy and disbelief, spanning 52 years of playing music.
Elton John acknowledged the pivotal role his fans played in his success. He credited their support in purchasing his singles, albums, CDs, cassettes, and most importantly, their attendance at his live shows, which he deeply cherished. Without their unwavering support, he acknowledged that he wouldn't have had the privilege of sharing this special moment with them.
The Rocket Man announced his retirement back in 2018 before starting the "Farewell Yellow Brick Road" tour, which included 333 shows over five years and earned a record-breaking 7,630 crore rupees to become the highest-grossing tour of all time.
Who is Elton John and why is he nicknamed “Rocket Man”?
Elton John, born Reginald Kenneth Dwight on March 25, 1947, is an English singer, songwriter, and pianist. He is one of the most successful and influential musicians in the history of popular music. Elton John's career spans several decades, starting in the late 1960s, and he has released numerous hit songs and albums. Known for his flashy stage presence and unique fashion sense, Elton John is celebrated for his dynamic vocals and expertise on the piano. He has explored various genres of music, including rock, pop, glam rock, and ballads, and has collaborated with lyricist Bernie Taupin on many of his most well-known songs.
Elton John's contributions to the music industry have earned him numerous recognition, including nearly 40 studio albums, over 50 hit singles, five Grammy wins, two Oscars, two Golden Globes, and a Tony Award.
He is also known for his philanthropic work, particularly in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
Elton John is known as "Rocket Man" primarily because of his hit song of the same name. "Rocket Man" was released in 1972 as a single from his album "Honky Château." The song, written by Elton John and Bernie Taupin, tells the story of an astronaut who feels lonely and disconnected from his family while on a space mission. The lyrics include the iconic line, "Rocket Man, burning out his fuse up here alone."
It became one of his signature songs and is often considered one of his greatest hits.
Elton John's final show included performances of his iconic hits like "Rocket Man," "Your Song," and "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road." Coldplay's Chris Martin joined the tribute remotely from his own show in Gothenburg, Sweden, expressing gratitude for Elton John's influence and contributions to the music industry. Martin acknowledged John's support for various causes, including the AIDS Foundation, LGBTQ rights, fashion, and his impact on music.
Elton John- Early life & journey
Elton John, born as Reginald Kenneth Dwight in 1947, showed musical talent from a young age. He started formal piano lessons at seven and earned a junior scholarship to the Royal Academy of Music at 11.
While he appreciated classical music, his true passion lay in the blues and rock 'n roll that was emerging from America. In 1962, he formed the band Bluesology, opening for renowned American acts. However, his breakthrough came in 1967 when he responded to an advertisement placed by an A&R representative for Liberty Records.
This led to his collaboration with lyricist Bernie Taupin, marking the beginning of a songwriting partnership that continues to this day.
Elton John's journey from his humble origins in a working-class household in Middlesex to becoming a legendary musician with an extensive list of awards is truly remarkable.
Elton John and Bernie Taupin faced obstacles early in their career. Their first album, "Regimental Sergeant Zippo," was shelved/cancelled due to similarities with the Beatles' "Sgt. Pepper's." Their actual debut, "Empty Sky," received little response.
However, they achieved success with the release of the self-titled album "Elton John," featuring the hit single "Your Song" which reached #8 on the US Billboard Charts.
The album "Honky Chateau" (1972) marked the beginning of a remarkable streak for Elton John. With its diverse range of musical styles and Taupin's clever lyrics, the album became the first of seven consecutive number one albums on the US charts. In 1973, "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" was released, showcasing enduring hits like "Candle in the Wind" and "Bennie and the Jets." This album is often regarded as his masterpiece and solidified his status as a glam star and fashion icon, thanks to his flashy outfit and captivating stage presence.
From 1970 to 1976, Elton John experienced his peak in both wealth and artistic innovation. He constantly reinvented himself with each album, exploring pop-rock, glam, and confessional art-rock genres, however, this period took a toll on him, leading to his first retirement from touring in 1977, which lasted only a short while.
John received his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1975
Unfortunately, his career faced challenges afterward, with his 1979 disco experiment album "Victim of Love" being a failure, marking a rough patch.
Despite the setbacks, Elton John reunited with Bernie Taupin and made efforts to revive his career in the 1980s. However, it only resulted in mediocre albums like "Leather Jackets" (1986).
Nevertheless, he used his fame to support various causes, participating in Live Aid and actively raising funds for HIV/AIDS research, leading to the establishment of the Elton John AIDS Foundation in 1992.
In the 1990s, Elton John once again reinvented himself, focusing on melodic piano ballads such as "Sacrifice" and "Healing Hands."
Notably, he contributed to soundtracks for animated TV shows, Disney's "The Lion King," and gained immense popularity with his 1997 reworked version of "Candle in the Wind" as a tribute to Princess Diana. This era allowed Elton John and Bernie Taupin to amass a new generation of devoted fans.
A ballad is a song that tells a story, and it can be dramatic, funny, or romantic.
February 24, 1998 – Elton John is knighted by Queen Elizabeth. He was honoured for his for services to music and his charitable services
Elton John has transformed from a controversial rock and roll wild-child to a respected elder statesman of pop music. John has taken aspiring artists under his wing, collaborating with a diverse range of musicians, from Alice In Chains to Lady Gaga. He has also found success in the realm of musical theatre with acclaimed Broadway hits like "Aida" and "Billy Elliot the Musical."
From his first shows in 1970 to the present, Elton John has performed with his band over 3,800 times.
As his farewell tour comes to an end, Elton John sets yet another record, showcasing his remarkable career and exceeding expectations. While he looks forward to spending time with his family and intends to continue writing and recording music, he hints at the possibility of occasional performances in the future. Regardless, this moment is a celebration of an artistic genius and an influential figure in pop music history. After six decades of touring, Elton John gracefully exits the stage, still overflowing with the spirit of a survivor and the passion of a youthful artist.