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23 Dec 2025

Christmas Notes from Elton John’s Legendary Musicians

Kathy Babylon
Born in Los Angeles, USA · Close collaborator with Elton John’s musical circle

Kathy Babylon was born into a musical family and began as a studio singer at age 12. She has performed with The Carpenters, Frank Sinatra, Joe Sample, Nigel Olson, and on Disney projects. She was married to Guy Babylon, Elton John’s longtime keyboardist and arranger, and remains close to him and his band. Kathy continues to collaborate on music projects and musicals, including works with Holly Doubet and John Vester (This Is NOT A Drill The Musical). Kathy is also a proud mother and grandmother.

Merry Xmas from the Babylons! Kathy Babylon

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Adam Chester
Born in the USA · Pianist and stand-in for Elton John

Adam Chester is a powerhouse pianist and vocalist who serves as Elton John’s official band stand-in, affectionately known as the “Surrogate Elton.” He has performed at rehearsals and select live events, including Elton’s final U.S. Dodger Stadium concert in 2022, Glastonbury Festival 2023, and the 2024 Gershwin Prize ceremony. Chester arranges and conducts choral performances for Elton’s productions. He has collaborated with artists such as Joni Mitchell, Brandi Carlile, Garth Brooks, and Miley Cyrus. Adam began his musical journey at age four and studied at USC’s Thornton School of Music. He continues to perform regularly in Los Angeles and for private events nationwide.


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Kudisan Kai

Born in the USA · Former backing vocalist for Elton John

Kudisan Kai is an accomplished singer who has performed as a backing vocalist for Elton John, Chaka Khan, Anita Baker, Natalie Cole, Jeffrey Osborne, and others. She is currently a session singer for film and television. Kai was a former associate professor at Berklee College of Music and is the author of Memoirs of a Back Up Diva. She hosts her own podcast, Backstories On Kai-Fi, and released a single, Step Into The Light. Kai also runs Vocal Music Evolution, an online forum for singers, vocal contractors, and coaches.

Sending love and good wishes to to everyone on EltonJohnAllSongList as Christmas fast approaches 🍾🍾❤️πŸ·πŸŽ„πŸŽ„ I see your light ✨✨✨✨
Kudisan Kai

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Shirley Lewis

Born in London, UK · Backing vocalist for Elton John

Shirley Lewis is a British vocalist known for her work as a backing singer for Elton John and other musical greats, including George Michael and Stevie Wonder. Her voice can be heard on some of George Michael’s biggest hits, including Father Figure and Freedom. Lewis toured with Elton John during his 1985–86 World Tour, including the Australian shows with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra. She took part in the seven-day The George Michael Singers UK tour in March–April 2025, helping to keep his music alive for fans. Lewis has extensive experience as a studio and stage performer.

Happy Christmas and blessings for the New Year to all The Elton John AllSongs list πŸŽ„ blog πŸŽ„ Shirley Lewis

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Charlie Morgan

Born in the UK · Drummer for Elton John

In 1985, Charlie Morgan’s drumming work with Nik Kershaw attracted the attention of Elton John, who invited him to play on the Ice on Fire album. Later that year, Morgan joined Elton John on stage at Live Aid, beginning a thirteen-year period of recording and touring together. He became a core member of Elton’s band throughout the late 1980s and 1990s. Beyond Elton John, Morgan has worked with artists such as Kate Bush, Paul McCartney, Tina Turner, Cher, and The Moody Blues. He is also the owner of Manicdrums Productions.


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Caleb Quaye

Born in London, UK · Original lead guitarist for Elton John

Starting in 1969, Caleb Quaye played guitar supporting Elton John at live concerts around the London area, in line-ups that later became the nucleus of Hookfoot. This live work continued until Elton formed his original touring band in spring 1970 with Dee Murray and Nigel Olsson. Quaye is best known as Elton John’s original lead guitarist, having played on much of his early recorded work. Beyond Elton John, he built a major career as a session guitarist and producer, collaborating with artists such as Harry Nilsson, The Beach Boys, Joan Baez, Dusty Springfield, Liza Minnelli, Pete Townshend, and Hall & Oates. He remains a highly respected figure in British rock history.

Thank you all for the love and warmth you continue to share — it truly means the world to me. I’m excited to share that my documentary, Louder Than Rock : The Director’s Cut will be released at the end of January, and I hope the music continues to bring you peace, light, and joy.
Caleb Quaye


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Richie Zito

Born in Los Angeles, USA · Guitarist and collaborator with Elton John

Richie Zito is a guitarist, songwriter, composer, and record producer with a career spanning more than 50 years. He has contributed as a session musician to recordings by numerous artists, including Elton John, Neil Sedaka, Diana Ross, Leo Sayer, and Art Garfunkel. Zito has also produced charting singles and worked as a composer for projects such as the 1986 anime film Project A-Ko. He was named Billboard’s Producer of the Year in 1990. Known for his versatile production and guitar work, Zito remains active in music and studio projects today.

Wishing Everyone a Safe, Healthy& Happy Holidays!!!! Richie Zito

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20 Dec 2025

To the Stars of the Elton Universe, This Christmas by Jack rabbit

Every Christmas carries a sense of reunion.

With family, with memories, with the songs that have accompanied us all our lives. But also — and this is something I’ve learned thanks to this blog — with people I may never meet in person, yet with whom I share the very same emotion.

This year, my Christmas wish is meant especially for you, eltonites.

For those who arrived here looking for a specific song and ended up staying to read a story.
For those who commented, wrote, corrected, shared memories, old posts and new ones.
For those who love music not only for how it sounds, but for what it means.

Elton John has taught us many things throughout his career: to exaggerate without shame, to be fragile without asking permission, to dress in color when the world feels grey. But above all, he has taught us that a song can become a refuge, a confession, a home.

This blog was born almost as a personal exercise — a way of organizing songs, dates, and curiosities — and it has become something far greater than I ever imagined. It has turned into a shared space, an open conversation, a small community united by melodies, lyrics, and memory.

From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank all the eltonites who have taken part in Eltonites Day, whose passion and generosity gave real meaning to that celebration. I am deeply grateful as well to all the artists, musicians, and singers from the Elton John universe who have so kindly devoted their time to us through this blog, sharing their voices, memories, and stories.

And finally, I owe an enormous debt of gratitude to my sources of inspiration — my masters and guides along the way: Claude Bernardin, Keith Hayward, John F. Higgins, George Matlock, Liz Rosenthal, Tom Stanton, Stephan Heimbecher, and especially Jim Turano, whose generosity, knowledge, and trust have been a constant source of motivation and inspiration. 

My Christmas wish is not a grand one.
I’m not asking for exclusives, scoops, or more visits (although those are always welcome πŸ˜‰).

What I truly wish is that we never lose the ability to listen:

  • to listen to a song as if it were the first time,

  • to listen to a lyric as if someone were speaking directly to our soul,

  • to listen to one another, with respect and passion.

May 2026 bring us more music, more stories, more memories to share.
May this little corner continue to be a place where nostalgia is not sadness, but celebration.
And may we press play again with the same excitement as that first record that changed our lives.

Merry Christmas, eltonites.
Thank you for being here.
Thank you for reading.
Thank you for feeling.

Miquel aka jack rabbit

Picture by JΓΊlia 12 years old 

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14 Dec 2025

Beyond the Glitter: Essential Gifts & Collectibles for Elton John Fans

Christmas always feels special — but when you add a little Elton John magic, it shines even brighter. This year, we’re launching a brand-new Elton John Christmas Gift Guide, carefully curated to help you discover the perfect present for every type of fan: essential albums, collector’s box sets, official apparel, books, artwork, memorabilia, games, and unique treasures that celebrate Elton’s extraordinary world. Whether you’re shopping for a lifelong Rocket Man devotee or looking to treat yourself during the holidays, this guide is designed to inspire and delight. Let the festive sparkle of the Yellow Brick Road begin!

Perfect for both newcomers and lifelong fans.

Music – Studio Albums & Live Records

  • Goodbye Yellow Brick Road (1973)

    Classic double album featuring “Candle in the Wind,” “Bennie and the Jets,” and “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road.”
    Price: €40,99
    Link: Amazon UK

  • Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy (1975)
    An autobiographical masterpiece chronicling the rise of Elton and Bernie Taupin.
    Price: €34,99
    Link: Elton John Store

  • Live in Australia with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (1987)
    Powerful live performances featuring orchestral arrangements of Elton’s classics.
    Price: €40,99
    Link: Elton John Store

  • Songs from the West Coast (2001)
    A stunning return to form with heartfelt tracks like “I Want Love.”
    Price: €90,00
    Link: Discogs

Box Sets & Compilations

For the superfans and completists — collections that tell Elton’s full musical story.

  • Jewel Box (2020)
    A treasure trove of deep cuts, rarities, and unreleased tracks curated by Elton himself.
    Price: €156,99 (9LP vinyl set)
    Link: Elton John Store

  • Diamonds (2017)
    The definitive greatest hits compilation, spanning Elton’s entire career.
    Price: £17.99 (3CD set)
    Link: Elton John Store

  • To Be Continued… (1990)
    A collector’s dream — 4 discs tracing Elton’s evolution through rare mixes and B-sides.
    Price: €62,02
    Link: Amazon UK

Apparel – Style with a Spark

Bring Elton’s flair into your wardrobe.

  • Elton 1970s Live T-Shirt
    Retro-inspired tee featuring live imagery from Elton’s golden decade.
    Price: £30
    Link: Elton John Store

  • Farewell Yellow Brick Road Flower Portrait T-Shirt (2023)
    A beautiful farewell-tour design featuring Elton’s signature look.
    Price: £35
    Link: Elton John Store

  • Troubadour Boot Black Hoodie
    Stylish, comfortable hoodie celebrating Elton’s legendary Troubadour debut.
    Price: £75
    Link: Elton John Store

  • Vintage Elton John 80s World Tour Piano 1986
    Pre-owned - Good: This item has been gently used but is in good condition.
    Price: $135
    Link: Ebay

Books – Stories, Love and photos

  • Me (Autobiography)
    Elton’s honest, funny, and deeply emotional memoir — one of the greatest rock autobiographies ever written.
    Price: €29
    Link: Elton John Store

    Love is the Cure
    A powerful and compassionate reflection on Elton’s activism, his fight against AIDS, and the humanity at the core of the Elton John AIDS Foundation.
    Price: £10 approx.
    Link: Amazon

    Elton John by Terry O’Neill (Photography)
    A stunning visual collection featuring Terry O’Neill’s most iconic photographs of Elton — from spectacular stage moments to intimate behind-the-scenes portraits.
    Price: £30–£40 approx.
    Link: Amazon UK

  • Goodbye Yellow Brick Road: The Making of an Epic Album
    Co-authored by Andrea Grasso and Luca Perasi, this richly detailed study explores Elton John’s legendary 1973 album. Combining historical research, musical and lyrical analysis, and rare interview insights from Andrea’s own archive, the book traces the album’s creation, artwork, recording process, and lasting influence in rock history.

    Price: approx. £16,90
    Link: Amazon UK

Limited Edition Prints / Artworks

For fans who want something unique on their walls.

  • Captain Fantastic 50th Anniversary Lithograph
    A stunning commemorative print celebrating one of Elton’s most loved albums.
    Price: £85
    Link: Elton John Store

  • Farewell Yellow Brick Road Commemorative World Tour Print
    Vibrant, collectible print capturing Elton’s final world tour.
    Price: £35
    Link: Elton John Store

  • Signed Memorabilia Items / Posters
    Occasionally available online — a true collector’s gem for dedicated fans.
    Price: varies
    Link: eBay UK

Collectibles & Memorabilia

Add a touch of magic to your shelves.

  • Limited Edition Commemorative Snow Globe
    Elton figure in a pink jacket on the Yellow Brick Road base — charming and festive.
    Price: £75
    Link: Elton John Store

  • Elton John Monopoly Board Game
    Play your way through Elton’s extraordinary career. Buy, Sell, and Trade memorable moments from Elton John’s over fifty-year career including his Hollywood Walk of Fame Star (1975), Knighthood (1998), and Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour (2023). The game includes six collectible tokens featuring his iconic headgear. Stage and Studio cards feature titles of memorable songs sure to keep you singing. In the end, you will need to bankrupt all the other players to claim, “I’m Still Standing” and win
    Price: £45
    Link: Elton John Store

  • Elton John Playing Cards by Bicycle
    Featuring iconic artwork of Elton John on the court cards and golden holographic piano keys on the tuck, take a stylish journey down the Yellow Brick Road with every hand. Stylish card deck featuring Elton’s imagery and logos.
    Price: £10
    Link: Elton John Store
  • Captain Fantastic Puzzle (1000 pieces)
    Celebrate the 1975 classic with this colourful jigsaw. The album's original cover art available as a 500 piece jigsaw puzzle printed on high quality board. 500 pieces. 
    Price: £20
    Link: Amazon UK

  • Barbie Elton John Doll
    Limited edition Barbie honouring Elton’s flamboyant style and career. It 
    shines bright in a glittery top and flared denim embellished with Elton's sparkling initials. Her "Elton"-embossed bomber jacket features star-printed sleeves and a rainbow-striped hem

    Price: £50
    Link: Amazon UK

  • Elton John Radko Grand Slam Ornement

    This dazzling ornament features the iconic musician in a full-on baseball getup, blending the glamour of rock 'n' roll with the excitement of America’s favorite pastime. It’s a grand slam for any fan of music and sports!
    Price: €115
    Link: Elton John Store

8 Dec 2025

Dance in the Kitchen While Embers Glow: Elton’s Christmas Moments

Some say Christmas is a state of mind. If that’s true, few artists have captured it with as much joy, irony, and emotion as Elton John. From his very first holiday single, Step Into Christmas (23 November 1973), to his special concerts and recent collaborations, Elton has delivered songs that feel like postcards full of light and memory.

In December 1973, Elton recorded Step Into Christmas as a thank you to his fans after an incredible year of record sales and the release of Goodbye Yellow Brick Road. Reflecting years later, he said:

“Let’s do a Christmas record! we thought … Bernie absolutely loves Christmas songs, so he was all for it.”

The result was a holiday anthem that still shines today. The B-side, Ho, Ho, Ho (Who’d Be a Turkey at Christmas), added a dose of festive sarcasm, gently satirizing holiday excesses. As he recalled:

“The Christmas single is a real loon about and something we’d like to do a lot more of.”

Elton’s holiday spirit continued over the years through songs that blend fun, melancholy, and special collaborations. These include Cold As Christmas (In the Middle of the Year), a wintery reflection; the political satire Merry Christmas Maggie Thatcher (2005); and classic covers such as White Christmas with Rosie O’Donnell or Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (1973). All Quiet on the Western Front remains a more introspective track on the Step Into Christmas EP.

Collaborations have also played an important role. Highlights include Calling It Christmas with Joss Stone (2005), Joseph, Better You Than Me with The Killers and Neil Tennant (2008), and the 2021 songs with Ed Sheeran: Merry Christmas and Sausage Rolls for Everyone with LadBaby. Each track shows Elton’s ability to connect with other artists and generations while keeping his holiday essence intact.

During his early appearances and holiday concerts, Elton revealed how Christmas gradually entered his life. While performing Step Into Christmas live, he reflected,

“I’m beginning to get into the Christmas spirit. It’s creeping nearer and nearer.”

He also shared his thoughts on the power of music:

“Music has healing power. It has the ability to take people out of themselves for a few hours.”

And with his usual warmth, he added:

“I love the idea of people gathering together for a song — that’s what Christmas should be about.”

Every concert and performance became a true celebration shared with fans. Elton’s holiday concerts were magical: On 22 December 1973 he appeared on the Gilbert O’Sullivan Show in London performing Step Into Christmas, and from 21–23 December he played at the Hammersmith Odeon. From 20–24 December 1974, the Hammersmith “Christmas shows” were a huge success, with 24 December considered a special Christmas performance. On 24 December 1982, he performed another holiday show at Hammersmith Odeon during his December tour. Elton’s holiday concerts continued to captivate audiences throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including these memorable performances at Hammersmith Odeon.

Beyond his historic shows and songs, Elton’s festive influence extends even into the world of advertising. In 2018, he starred in John Lewis’ Christmas advert, The Boy and the Piano, a touching journey through his life set to Your Song. The story follows a young Elton receiving a piano at Christmas, symbolizing the start of his musical journey and connecting viewers to the magic, nostalgia, and joy of the festive season. Revisit the commercial here.

More recently, in 2024, he released a video with Carla Lavigne that brings a modern, playful twist to Step Into Christmas. The video features festive scenes with bright lights, whimsical choreography, and a joyful energy that reflects Elton’s enduring holiday spirit, showing how his music continues to connect generations and bring people together. Watch the video here.

What makes Elton John’s holiday music so special is this combination of fun, melancholy, and human warmth: a universe where each song is a shared memory, each concert a celebration, and every note a chance to gather together—even for just a few minutes—in the true spirit of Christmas. Truly, Elton John proves that Christmas is more than a season—it’s a state of mind, and his music embodies it perfectly. From 1973 to today, his holiday songs continue to be cherished and celebrated worldwide.