“Different Is Good”: The Elton World of Matt Thomas

Among the many voices that keep Elton’s legacy alive online, Matt Thomas stands out as one of the most active members of the official fan community. His posts, insights, and enthusiasm have made him a familiar presence for Eltonites around the world. A lifelong admirer of Elton John, Matt has combined passion and curiosity through collecting — turning small pieces of music history into lasting memories. As part of our Recollecting series, we invited Matt to look back on his journey as a fan and collector — a story that begins, as most do, with a single song.

Matt, could you introduce yourself to our Eltonites? When and how did you first become an Elton John fan? 

I grew up in suburban Chicago and still live in the area with my wife and three kids. I first became fan of Elton John around the time of the “Sleeping with the Past” release. My parents had recently gotten cable TV for the first time: I discovered VH1 and saw several music videos I loved from the SWTP album and bought the cassette tape. Then that Christmas got Greatest Hits Volume One and Volume Two as gifts and it grew from there. Prior to this I really only recognized Crocodile Rock on the local Oldies station 104.3FM in Chicago. I believe it was my freshman year of High School and didn’t have much in the way of friends then and I clinged on to this and dove deep. I remember my neighbor had a record collection with a bunch of Elton John lps that I recorded onto cassette.  I had become more fascinated and really liked Tumbleweed Connection.  Some where in there I discovered East End Lights, Hercules and the 22 Row clubs and even attended several events where I made great friends. One of which I meet a girl my age that happened to be visiting from New Zealand. We became pen pals (before email and Facebook) and would write each other and share Elton stories. We are still long distance friends today. I met up with Vicki in London twice, once for her wedding, New York and am the godfather to her oldest. Yep, Elton did that!

Nice story, Matt!!! But why Elton — and not someone else? What is it about his music, image, or personality that first caught your heart?  

Why Elton? He is fucking awesome am I wrong? 😉 At the time a high school student liking a gay celebrity was not a popular idea, fortunately times have changed. That said it never bothered me and I just liked his music and his style and it was So big I could just keep learning more. Actually in my Junior year of high school I did a presentation on Elton for my Media class. I made a cassette with like 10 second snips of his music and had records all set up and a poster. The presentation went way over the 5 minute time slot and most the class had Nirvana, Metallica and Megadeth on their folders all kind of looked at me like what is up with this guy and Elton? Then one kid said Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting is a rockin’ toon and I felt some relief. I also remember some kids liking Bon Jovi’s Levon so there was progress. I remember I got some shit for having a yellow and blue ELTON East End Lights sticker on my 87 Honda Civic so I moved it to my sunroof, now a days I would have left it. I was never an avid reader, but I read Tom Stanton’s book almost all the way through and found it fascinating and from there on grew my Elton did you know trivia. I would say I’m not run of the mill, do what is popular and like what everyone else does. I liked what I liked and that has always been fine with me. For instance, I like classic cars but choose a 1968 Datsun a 1965 Checker Marathon for my classic car hobby, and I will tell you that at a car show people will pass up a high valued muscle car to see the different car. Different is good. This may sound unreasonable today as Elton is so accepted and everywhere, but it wasn’t that way for a high school kid in the early nineties.

True! So how many years have you been following Elton, and how has your fandom evolved over time? 

About 33 years I would say I’m not the greatest at dates and recalling exactly. I started with a couple tapes and records then CDs and more records and then cutting out every magazine and newspaper article, even a Philadelphia Free Cream Cheese container I changed to read Philadelphia Freedom Cream Cheese, Boy London Watch, One of Elton’s Out of The Closet shirts and a bunch of knickknacks. I have three bins of stuff like that stored away that are not on display. After High School I put an ad in the Chicago Tribune looking for an Elton John pinball machine that I learned of and ultimately ended up buying one from a guy in Chicago that manufactured the solenoids and bought the Bally’s stock to reproduce the caps. The place was amazing with over 500 machines, and he had two Captain Fantastic machines. He told me of the early back glass without all the stars. I remember he had an original poster on the wall promoting this 1976 machine which was Bally’s most produced machine, I believe 20,000 in total. I took out a $1000 loan and paid for it that way. Over the years I have moved it from apartment to apartment to house to house to house. I love it and have one cap signed by Elton from a show although I smudged his EJ.. It sits in our living room, my wife couldn’t be more thrilled…. 😉 About ten years ago I got the home version for $100 from a lady on Facebook Marketplace and learned to fix both that and my arcade version. Last year at work I saw the new Jersey Jack one come in testing before it was released and was so excited, but I do not own one. Kids and family first and while they know Dad loves Elton I don’t still cut out everything Elton I see and buy everything. That said in the last year or so though I have focused more on building my 45 and 33 collection if I see a deal pop up.

Fantastic! Have you attended many concerts? Is there any particular show or tour that stands out in your memory? 

This is terrible that I don’t know the exact number that I have attended like Jim Turano does but somewhere around 25 only. My first Elton concert was the One Tour at the United Center in Chicago. Regrettably I never saw him at Poplar Creek before it was torn down. I have to say my favorite concert was with my wife, 4-year-old daughter and sister in at a show for a private company they paid Elton to perform at. Not everyone was able to go or wanted to attend so my sister got us three free tickets. My punk rock wife that has no fear said let’s go upfront and I nervously followed and during the show not only did Elton rub my daughter on the head as she was on my wife’s shoulders, but I got my Lady Samantha 45 and pinball cap signed, oh and shh.. but I have it all on DVD. My second favorite was taking my wife, daughter and sons to see Elton at Solders Field in Chicago for the final tour, we had nosebleed seats, but I was so great because I was able to take my family to see Elton who they know is Dad’s favorite. We all wore one of my Elton T-shirts and I am fairly certain it was memorable for my kids as it was for me. My one son said he liked the song about the Indians. I have also seen Elton at The Royal Opera House in Convent Garden December 2002 with my pen pal Vicki and others (I remember we spotted Elton’s Mum Shelia and Derf in the audience and several prevalent others and I saw Elvis Costello with Diana Krall in the hall and shook his hand). During that Trip Vicki took me on a walking tour where we saw several Elton sights including the Northwood Hills Pub where Bluesology played and Eltons Childhood ad Frome Court where Your Song was written if I am correct. Also the One Night only shows met up Vicki there too and once playing tennis at the Rosemont Horizon amongst 20 or so other shows

So great!!! And have you ever met Elton, Bernie, or anyone from their team? If not, what would you like to tell them if you ever had the chance? 

I have met John Jorgenson, and he is a wonderful person. I touched Elton’s finger when he passed me back the Sharpie marker but never met him. I have an irrational fear that if I met him he might be in a sour mood and ruin all these years of icon to me. I’d love to meet Bernie, Davey, Ray and Nigel but never have. I did have a duck named Nigel though and a cat named Reginald and a goldfish Dee.

Hahaha wonderful! Every fan has a crazy story — something we’ve done for Elton that others might call a bit mad. What’s yours? 

Sometimes I actually believe that I made Elton popular again 😉, lol maybe...  It’s like people I know feel the need to send me info they see on Elton because they know how much I like Elton and honestly I kind of like that thought. But what have I done for Elton? I went to an Elton John birthday party with other Elton fans that he was not at and I am fairly certain he had no knowledge of but it was fun and I met great people. I donate to EJAF when I can. Oh I know! I became known to a smaller time radio station in Chicago as the number one Elton fan because I kept requesting songs and I truly believe they play more Elton songs because of that. Some rare ones too like Mama Can’t Buy you Love, Part Time Love and Lani Hall’s version of Come Down in Time and Nigel’s Dancing Shoes and Sedaka’s Bad Blood. I have counted 36 different ones so they play. I did that. The program director has since retired from the station, but we still joke about it and Elton still gets regular play.

(Clapping!) Which Elton songs mean the most to you, and why? Could you share your Top 5 all-time favorites? 

My Wife’s favorite is “Mona Lisa’s” so I think of her when I hear that, I gave my daughter the middle name of “Amoreena”, when my childhood dog passed away I heard “Friends” and when my cousin was tragically killed I heard “I Guess that’s why they call it the Blues” my favorite though boy I really like Roy Rogers and for some reason "Heavy Traffic" but I will go with “Country Comforts”, that may change tomorrow to something; for instance I really enjoyed hearing “The Emperor’s New Clothes”  today and every time I hear the Union album I thing this really should be a top 100 all time recording.

What kinds of items make up your collection — records, tour programs, backstage passes, stage-used items, autographs...? 

I have the Beer and Bread 45 as well as Lady Samantha in my fairly large Elton 45 collection as well as two copies of the DJM 12 pack, some fairly rare 33s, one reel to reel and a handful of 8-tracks, Cassette tapes, several hundred CDs, VHS, DVD, Books, Magazines, shirts, posters, bobble heads, the Elton doll, the singing crocodile a friends Mom bought me, Pinball machines, pictures, limited tour prints. One thing I had that I misplaced some how that I really regret was John Jorgenson’s Big Pick Tour guitar pick. I would say I have a lot of Elton stuff but then I have seen people post what they have and I have not nearly that much stuff ant that is ok.

What’s the most treasured piece in your collection — and why does it hold such meaning for you?

Probably that signed Lady Samantha 45 with the marker used although this recent release of Captain Fantastic LP from Blood Records is my current favorite thing.

Is there something rare or special you’re still hoping to find — that “holy grail” missing from your shelves? 

It would be awesome if I had a picture with Elton and could tell him what an appreciative fan I am of him and his music.

You’re one of the most active fans on the official Elton John Facebook groups — what does that community mean to you? 

I enjoy sharing, drives my wife nuts but its fun for me to share and interact with the people that appreciate it. The collection and love of it all is something I have a lot of pride in.

Finally, what does it mean to you to be an Elton John fan today? 

Love

To read Matt’s story is to see what being an Eltonite truly means: the mix of music, friendship, laughter, and memory that turns admiration into something much deeper. From the kid in suburban Chicago discovering Sleeping with the Past to the father proudly taking his family to Elton’s farewell concert, his journey mirrors that of so many of us — growing up with the songs that have soundtracked our lives. 

Before you go, Matt, I have someone here who want to send you some words, it’s Vicki here from New Zealand:

"Hi Matt, I was asked to write something about you, and I hope this is a nice surprise! I met you at an Elton John birthday convention in Chicago March 1998 along with other fans. Matt and I have stayed in contact ever since and have shared Elton concert experiences and Elton conversation over the years both living in different countries.  Matt flew into London, United Kingdom over 20 years ago for my wedding and my husband and I asked him to be Godfather to our first born over a year later. I am really looking forward to both our families coming together one day either in New Zealand or Chicago. Thanks for being such a great friend over the years Matt, twenty seven Elton John friend years and counting. Best wishes, Vicki "

Friendships like yours are a beautiful reminder of how Elton’s music connects people across oceans and continents — uniting fans in every corner of the planet. Thank you Vicki for being here.

And thank you, Matt, for reminding us that collecting is not just about objects, but about the moments and feelings they hold. Different is good — and your story proves it.

Picture of Elton John Fan Convention courtesy of Vicki Allen
Other pictures courtesy of Matt Thomas

The C-O-M-E-B-A-C-K

 

C-O-M-E-B-A-C-K. It’s not just a word, it’s a chain, a process, an ordered sequence of events and growth that brings me back here, to my passion for the All Songs List blog. That’s why I write each letter separated, with hyphens: because every step has had its moment, its importance, and together they form this C-O-M-E-B-A-C-K I’m announcing today.

After five years of pause due to a personal lapse, I return with more strength and a fresh perspective, inspired also by the Elton John of today. We have witnessed the Farewell Tour, marking the end of a spectacular and emotional era for him and his Eltonites. But the Elton John I know now is more than an ending: he’s an artist who keeps growing, reinventing himself through a few but very meaningful collaborations, and preparing new projects that keep his legacy alive.

The blog www.eltonjohnallsongslist.blogspot.com.es is my space to follow this journey, to collect, analyze, and share his entire body of work—from the classics to these new stages—always with the same passion and rigor. At All Songs List, our Comitee d’Experts ensures depth and accuracy across diverse sections—interviews, curious research, and what I call Forth of a Kind: exclusive collaborations with renowned writers offering fresh, original insights.

And as part of this C-O-M-E-B-A-C-K, I’m thrilled to announce that soon I’ll be hosting the creators of the new Broadway musical This Is Not a Drill. A visit that symbolizes this chain of important moments and that I want to share exclusively with all of you.

Thank you for being here, for waiting, and for being part of this journey. This is just the beginning of a new chapter, full of music, stories, and emotions.

Stay tuned for exclusive interviews, deep dives into Elton’s timeless songs, and all the latest news about his ongoing projects and collaborations.

Welcome to my C-O-M-E-B-A-C-K. Let’s get started!

Picture: At Madison Square Garden, October 2018 – witnessing Elton's Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour. A moment that stayed with me... and now leads me to this C-O-M-E-B-A-C-K.

Eltonites About Superhuman

"The new album of the cellist Martin Tillman "Superhuman" it's a journey through meticulous musicals harmonies. A  experience provided by a talented musician who knows how to exploit all the possibilities of the cello. What a delight to discover that each time we hear the album,   there will always be a new and fantastic way to feel the songs. Our ears are thankful to hear  this wonderful work!" (Vera Piovezan, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil)

Some songs are a mixed between Tubular Bells and Jean Michel Jarre. The song I like most at first sight is "The Invisible Shield Of Strings And Bows". I think this is the essence of all the cd and maybe it's the most completed ,in melodically terms, with cello and piano. Also I would remark "Wonder" and "Involuntary Midnights". But as I said before, "Invisible" makes me feel very beautiful emotions. Not long time ago, I saw a film about one man who was waiting in the train station, because his promised girl had to go to Himalaya to recovering. He had hopes, while waiting, that she would not be at time and couldn't depart. When he saw her arriving, he started to cry because it was certain he would lost her for ever most. Hugs and kisses showing all their love. But music there hasn't filled with the scene. When I heard Tillman's song I certainly remember that should be the perfect track for the film. Thanks to Mr. Tillman for fullfilled with your music that scene that captivates me (Jon Jon, Vic, Spain)

The Music of Martin Tillman is, in an instant, reminiscent of the dance era. The offerings of the music easily accommodate the "Club Scene" as well as a solo introspective time upon the warm sands of beach. This music, and each track of "SUPERHUMAN" will evoke a different emotion, thought, image, and interpretation by each who listen. Moreover are the undoubted visual images of one's mind painted as the music progresses seamlessly through its rhythms. The music found within "SUPERHUMAN" lends itself first to the ear, and then deeper towards the heart and soul of mankind. Best played in a crowd, alone, for a reason specific or none at all...It Is Just Best PLAYED! (Tommy T. Baughman, Mississippi, USA)

"Tracks on Superhuman made me run an emotional gamut"

I was honored to be asked to review Martin Tillman's new album, Superhuman.  Not being familiar with his work, I decided to do a little research.  Not only is he a world-renowned cellist and composer, I discovered that he played with Elton John and the Band for Elton's 60th birthday celebration at Madison Square Garden.  What's more, Davey Johnstone plays on Superhuman.  Ok, so far so cool.

I went to SoundCloud and saw that the album was categorized as Dance/EDM (Electronic Dance Music).  Hmmmmm.  I'm not very familiar with that genre, but I put on my headphones and gave it a listen.

One word: Awestruck.

The 11 tracks on Superhuman made me run an emotional gamut. And any music that makes me feel something - whatever the emotion - has done its job. From relaxation to exhilaration...from uncertainty to uplifting…from swaying to bopping my head to even humming along at some point...I found the music very intriguing.  It was a somewhat similar experience to the first time I listened to Pnau - I thought I might not like it, but I actually liked it a lot.  Quelle surprise!

After first listen, I'd have to say my favorites right now are Future Dawns, Unlocking the Locks and Translated to Beauty.  Perhaps because (to me) they sounded more like the kind of music I normally listen to - with keyboard and guitar (was that Davey?!)  vs. only synth.

As Mr. Tillman himself said, "Music lets us dream a dream a different existence, and make it our own."  Your music certainly does that for me, sir.  Thank you.

Needless to say, I will be listening to Superhuman many times over again.  Sometimes discovering new music or a new musician is like finding a new friend, which is always a good thing.

My name is Kimberlee Kemble and I'm from Boca Raton, Florida. I've been an Eltonite since almost the very beginning. I had all the albums, the singles, EJ posters plastered on my bedroom wall (my favorites were from "Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player"), an EJ candle, the Time Magazine cover, Tiger Beat magazines with EJ on the cover, EJ shirts, an EJ necklace, you name it. If you've seen the video for Original Sin, that's me!

"Differents paths sometimes blend into each other" by Andrea Grasso: "Superhuman" review

The new Martin Tillman album, Superhuman, is a collection of instrumental tracks all written and arranged by the master of cello, Martin himself; helping him in this adventure are renowned musicians like Michael Landau on electric guitars, Vinnie Colaiuta on drums, Toto founder David Paich on keyboard, Toto occasional bass player Leland Sklar and also his friend from the Elton John Band Davey Johnstone on electric and acoustic guitars.

As it can be read in the liner notes of the album, Superhuman is a reaffirmation of the power of the human spirit and is dedicated to Martin’s wife Eva, who 8 years ago was diagnosed ill but has found the courage and strength to battle against it, and this has inspired Martin to compose the songs for this album.

The record has basically two different paths, that sometimes blend into each other: the “rock” path and the “dance” (or EDM, “Electronic Dance Music”) path. I personally prefer the rock path, who is more akin to my musical tastes, but in this case I can also appreciate the EDM tracks. My favourite tracks are obviously the rock ones, with “Future Dawns” and “Celluloid Spaces” being my favourite; Dawns has a great organ, a spacey synth, a very good piano solo and reminds me very much about a progressive rock track that could have been recorded in the 1970s, and in fact Martin himself in the liner notes clains that bands like Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple and Rolling Stones were big influences on him and his musical growing. Celluloid is even more interesting since the composer declares it’s a sort of concept about the history of drugs, from the mid-60s to today, and that’s why is divided into different sections; it features once again a beautiful organ, electric guitars performed by both Johnstone and Landau, and the soul backing vocals of Dee Lewis-Clay, reminding very close something that Pink Floyd could have recorded for Dark Side of the Moon.

Another track that I like a lot is “Unlocking the Lock”, featuring again more rock guitars along with ethnic percussions, strings, and again Dee’s vocals; Tillman in the liner notes explain that he thought about this as his stadium rock piece with many musical rooms to unlock, and that’s why there are several themes and parts together.

Another favourite is “Translated to Beauty”, a very “sexy” track, with an esotic riff and an atmosphere that reminds me of the 60s; its composer in fact says that it’s something you could hear in a French or Italian movie… a quite peculiar track that demonstrates the versatility of Tillman as composer and arranger, apart the obvious one as cello player.

The final track of the album, “The Invisible Shield of Strings and Bows”, featuring the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra, could be easily used as a score for a huge Hollywood movie; Tillman in fact wrote it as a tribute to the scores he played on in Los Angeles, and wanted to end the album with something “extraterrestrial” to associate with the “superhuman” feeling of the whole album.

This album is a mixture of moods, atmospheres and listening experiences that can help you relax, or make you dance, or lift your spirits; but you can also use it to meditate and travel with your mind and find your inner “superhuman” powers; Martin Tillman is just showing you the right path.

"I'm a huge Elton fan and collector from Italy, having started to follow him in 1992. I run since 2012 "Elton John Italia", an Elton John fanclub on Facebook where I share with Italian fans current news and any kind of information about Elton and his discography, which I know in every small detail, including obscure collaborations and rarities..."

https://www.facebook.com/groups/eltonjohnitalia/

"Cyberpunk Meets Pop" by John Kwok: "Superhuman" review

Cyberpunk meets pop, rock and classical in cellist/composer Martin Tillman’s superb new album “Superhuman”. Tillman cleverly plays with and merges different musical genres, ranging from industrial techno-pop to what sounds like a futuristic homage to Byzantine or Medieval Roman Catholic sacred music on “Involuntary Midnights” sung by renowned contemporary music vocal ensemble Anonymous 4. It’s Karlheinz Stockhausen and Gyorgy Ligeti merged seamlessly together by a Brian Eno-like musical wizard familiar with William Gibson’s near future cyberspace landscape. Tillman has assembled a superb assortment of some of the finest studio musicians residing primarily in the Los Angeles area, ranging from long-time Elton John collaborator – now musical director of the Elton John Band - guitarist Davey Johnstone,  guitarist Graham Russell (“Air Supply”), David Paich (long-time “Toto” keyboardist), drummer Vinnie Colaiuta (best known for his work with Frank Zappa, Sting, and Joni Mitchell, also an in demand studio musician featured on most of the songs on Sara Bareilles’ “Kaleidoscope Heart” album), and bassist Leland Sklar, with orchestral arrangements performed by the City of Prague Symphony Orchestra. 

“Superhuman” sounds like a vast, epic-like, soundtrack for a yet to be made fast-paced Hollywood thriller science fiction film, like the forthcoming sequel to Ridley Scott’s “Blade Runner”, especially the album’s last track, “The Invisible Shield of Strings and Bows”. It’s an extremely memorable, compellingly listenable, album that should draw ample interest from a diverse range of musical audiences, not just those familiar with instrumental techno-pop music or long-time admirers of Tillman’s exceptional skills as a superb classically-trained cellist and composer. Among my favorite pieces are “Wonder”, a fast-paced ode to techno-pop music, the previously mentioned “Involuntary Midnights”, “Cracked Diamond”, a riveting musical dialogue between solo cello and an entire orchestra, “Celluloid Spaces”, noteworthy for its brilliant playing by Davey Johnstone on acoustic and electric guitars, “Zero Gravity”, which I regard as Tillman’s 21^st Century reimagining of Gustav Holst’s “Neptune, the Mystic” from “The Planets” suite, and last, but not least, the “The Invisible Shield of Strings and Bows”.

Long-time Elton John fan John Kwok is a freelance writer, speculative fiction writer and photographer, whose classical and contemporary musical tastes range from J. S. Bach, J. Haydn, W. A. Mozart, L. Beethoven, F.  Schubert and F. Chopin to J. Brahms, C. Debussy, G. Mahler, M. Ravel, R. Strauss, A. Schoenberg, I. Stravinsky, A. Copland, S. Barber, G. Ligeti, O. Neuwirth, D. Felsenfeld and M. V. Waller.

Welcome to Martin Tillman's Weekend!!!

This is a very special weekend for the site. We have one of best cellist players of our time. He is one person related to Elton, because he collaborated with him live and in the studio, a very good friend of Davey Johnstone (Davey is so proud of this magician of cello) and seeing him playing live is just MAGICAL. The reason to dedicate a Weekend to him is to celebrate the release of his last album: "Superhuman". If you had "A Year in Zurich" album, you understand what I mean. But this album transcends everything. Eltonites, that is not only an album of music. Martin's first sentence it is an statement of his intentions: "Superhuman (is composed) to trigger the spirit’s quest to elevate our endeavors and realize our superhuman strengths". Too mysthical? But no, life itself. When you understand the reason behind this source of creation, this powerful creation, you understand everything. No one could write like him, no one could play like him (magnificients Two Cellos', Hauser and Sulik, are fans too), but no many had seen the hardest part of life to go through when a very close familiar is suffering. Eva is behind one of bests works of Tillman for being a source of inspiration. Eva is Martin's wife who is suffering an unjustice illness. Pain? Yes and no. Eva is LOVE, is MAGIC. No regrets. A lesson of life for the ones who don't appreciate life as the most precious thing we have. Eva is powerful, Eva is stronger, Eva is admiration. And Martin recollect all of this is his album. Every song is a masterpiece on its own. Along with his cello, with the piano, he delivers a touchful performance counting with best session players around, big names of the scene, playing with most top artists of our world. All together in one solid project well executed live. If you had the chance they were close to your town, just go. Prefer intimate sessions? then Solo (with a wonderful session of lights). Prefer a rock band? 5 musicians and, as Martin is a perfeccionist and multitalented artist, you have dancers and singers. A complete piece orchestra? You got it! To my loving eltonites who love soundtracks and cinema, in extension, count how many albums Martin has credits. An endless list growing. Well, could't explain you more for now, just join AllSongsList to celebrate the Weekend, dedicated to a greatest artist of our time, and to celebrate the magnificient team the Tillmans are. Martin and Eva, my love and respect for you. Hope you enjoy as much as me doing this. Eltonites, thanks for being there and a big thank you to the ones who kindly collaborate to focus this two days on this.

Jack Rabbit

The Guest Book: Kim Bullard seen by Eltonites

This is Kim Bullard's guest book. There are several eltonites who, after the interview with Bullard, send me their pictures and thoughts about him, so we were agree to make it public. One thing is obvious, Kim Bullard  has conquered the hearts of fans with his kindness, passion and professionalism. So there's a taste of comments sent to Jack Rabbit about our guest, in the past days. Feel free to send whatever thoughts or wishes you have for him, just to show how much we love him. Thanks so much for your collaboration. Eltonites, this is your time.

"Loved reading the article Kim, It shows your passion for Music, and for Elton himself.. You make the EJ band cool!!! Look forward to seeing you in June... I will have my "madman" tee shirt on.. 2nd row.. ready to rock!!!.Cant wait" .. Pic from Leigh in June.. xxx" (Janet Lois Speariett, UK, 43 concerts, since 1973)

"Kim Bullard,a fine genuine person and a great musician. This photo was at the Elton John LATW in Las Vegas,Nevada. It was a pleasure meeting you.You have filled in beautifully into the Elton John band. All the best wishes for continued success" (Richard Georgeou, USA, 88 concerts, since 1970)

"I've had the privilege of meeting Kim Bullard in person twice now.  First, at the Elton Expo in Vegas in October 2013, and most recently, before my 43rd Elton John concert in Jacksonville, Florida. I've always had great respect for him, and I have a special place in my heart for piano and keyboard players. What a gracious (and might I add very handsome) man! In Vegas, I introduced myself as "I'm a Kim, too" and he high-fived me. He signed my GBYBR CD, so I now have all 5 of the current touring band members' signatures on that same CD.  A prized possession! In Jacksonville, he gladly took a photo op with me, signed my tour book and we chatted for a few minutes. (Burn Down the Mission is his current favorite song to play.  Glad they added it back to the set list)! Since then, I found out his daughter (Katy Rose) was born on January 27 - same day as my son! Thank you, Kim, for your graciousness and for all the years of amazing music! Hope to meet you again sometime soon" (Kimberlee Kemble, USA, 43 concerts, since 1974)

"Anybody who has ever heard FFAF/LLB knows what a demanding synthezizer piece it is. Kim Bullard has managed to reproduce it perfectly live. Using several complex electronic sounds at once, the audience is blown away every time it hears this. He arrives from out of the smoke on stage.  In fact, Kim is often the one who starts the shows, since this piece is often the opening number. Alice also gives Kim, along with Davey, the chance to add unusual sounds. Now with more string drama towards the end, the song is more exciting than ever. However, he also has an ear for Elton’s more melodious music. The soft strings you hear in the background in ballads like Tiny Dancer and Your Song make the songs sound soft and smooth. Elton’s music is so varied that for a keyboard player’s point of view, it’s like working for ELO, Carole King and Scissor Sisters at the same time. Some of my favourite playing of his is in The Blues. He has completely made the harmonica solo his own at the same not forgetting the original solo by Stevie Wonder. Kim adds to the magic but never overplays. He interacts with the band from his platform and often poses for a smile or laughs with other band members, at the same time as he’s delivering the goods. We have been very lucky to have met him twice in person. He was so kind to take some time with us and share our Elton experiences. Both times were awesome as he really seemed to enjoy the fans company as well and we couldn’t be more pleased. We are completely overwhelmed to attend our very first show in The Colosseum in Vegas this April. An event we never would have imagined. We can’t wait to live this experience with Elton & The Band" (Mariona Calafell, Spain, 31 concerts, since 1997)

"Picture was taken at Fayetteville, North Carolina on March 11th by my good friend Tommy T Baughman. Please let Kim know that I am a big fan and I'm sure he knows who I am from seeing me at the front at UK concerts! I'm looking forward to seeing him and all the Band this summer" (Ros Dinsdale, UK, 40 concerts, since 1973)

"Kim is a SUPER nice guy !!! I had the pleasure to meet him a few times... He is a lovely man and during this years he has become a precious member of the EJ's Band! Can not wait to see him again in italy this Summer" (Silvia Corsaletti, Italy, 35 concerts, since 1993)

"I met Kim this past January and had a wonderful time just chatting and hanging out. He's so down to earth and easy going and so fan friendly....so lucky to have had the chance to meet him...." (Jennifer Keller, USA, 10 concerts, since 1980)

"Kim, you are a keyboard wizard! The way you've mastered "Funeral For A Friend" is just incredible. I am so happy and thrilled for you that you joined the band! When I saw you with EJ and the band in Denver on 9/20/2014 from the 3rd row, I felt the vibrations beneath my feet! Even more so at the front of the stage. (I wore the flashing blue sequined hat.) It was great seeing you enjoying yourself, having realized a dream. I have friends who have met you and say how nice and cool you are, and always happy to take a picture with them. I admire your humility and kindness when it comes to meeting fans! I am hoping to get to Vegas for the show on 4/14 (there is a free front row ticket and hotel for me; all I need is airfare and I'm there! !) Wishing you many blessings and much happiness, always". (Stacie Purcell Pearson, USA, 50 concerts, since 1970)

"I had the opportunity to meet Kim twice. Once in 2011 and the other time was in 2013 at the Elton Expo in Vegas. I cannot say enough good things about this man. He is very personable as well as professional. He took the time to chat with me. When I spoke with him, I informed him that I am a gymnast. I shared with him that I am using Elton’s music for my gymnastics routines". (Missy Gymns, USA, 10 concerts, since 2002)

"Besides being an outstanding professional who gives a special color to the repertoire of Elton John with your fantastic keyboard, Kim Bullard earned his place at EJ Band definitely with talent and charisma. And just like all his band mates, he's always very friendly with all the fans. I wish Kim all the success. He deserves!" (Vera Lucia Piovesani, Brazil, 5 concerts, since 2009)

"Since Kim joined the band he has kept a steady line between keeping the integrity of Elton's music intact and stamping his own personality on it. Because he 'gets' Elton's music it's no chore for him to carefully navigate the myriad of colours that Elton's music has conjured up over the years. Whether it be Synth strings, Moog, Hammond, Fender Rhodes and all other keyboards in between. Even though Kim might not wear a cape he's still got the versatility to keep any man awake! See what I did there... like all his colleagues in the band he's a terrific ambassador for Elton and his music. Both to the common man on the street and most importantly, the diehard fans. I can't wait to hear him on the new album later this year!!" (Paul Purcell, Ireland, 12 concerts, since late 80s)

"Hello from Italy, I look forward to see you live in Italy this summer and to hear the new Elton album featuring your work for the first time ever...I'm sure it will be a success!" (Andrea Grasso, Italy)

"Would love if you could tell Bullard how much I love the band and his playing. He's a genius, and I'm looking forward to the summer, in Bergen, Norway" (Inge Alexander Simonsen, Norway, 7 concerts, since 2008)

* Picture of Kim Bullard behind Elton, with Matt Bisonette, courtesy of Rudy Garrido, Spain

"I have been a diehard fan of Elton's band members since ever since. Since I was a kid, my dream was seeing Elton playing with any member of the band. Kim Bullard is part of the impeccable sound which I will feel eternal devotion. A musician worthy to be part of my loving Elton's band. Thanks for existing" (Mayra Fuentemayor, Venezuela, 1 concert, since 1974)

"Hi Kim and Katy Rose, I never got to see you play with Elton yet. I hope to someday soon, I enjoyed reading your articles and learning a little more about both of you. Take care........... (Jim Oksen newloneranger, USA, 7 concerts, since 1980)

* Intro picture by the greatest Jennifer Keller, USA, she took the picture of him after leaving the stage, after Elton finished SNARFF at The MDP show. How appropiated for the intro of the article. Thanks so much Jennifer. (Jack Rabbit)

I've Heard This Record Too: Good, Not Great, Elton John. By John Kwok, from the Comittee Of Experts

Much has been made of "The Diving Board" as the return of a stripped-down Elton John, accompanied primarily by bass and drums, in a style reminiscent of his early legendary trio, comprised of him on piano, Nigel Olsson on drums, and the late Dee Murray on bass. To a certain extent it is, but then again, it isn't, reminding this listener more of a lesser Big Picture"> without its great ballads "Live Like Horses" and "Something About The Way You Look Tonight", than any of Elton's earliest albums. It's definitely his most jazz-oriented album in years, replete with blues and gospel, but it is also his darkest, darker than "The Big Picture", with many songs written in minor keys, of which the darkest may be "My Quicksand", a haunting ballad with especially poignant, bittersweet lyrics by Bernie Taupin that is one of the album's best, with Taupin channeling the likes of William Faulkner and Frank McCourt. "Oceans Away", the opening song, is a heart-felt tribute by Bernie Taupin to his father's maritime career. It's followed by "Oscar Wilde Gets Out", quite possible the album's best song; a great ballad about Oscar Wilde's descent into madness by the John/Taupin songwriting team that bears favorable comparisons with "Empty Garden" ("Jump Up") and even, "Ticking" ("Caribou"). "A Town Called Jubilee" is a pleasant, gospel-influenced tune, that lacks the terrific vocals and melodies of "If the River Can Bend" (from "The Big Picture"), and "Amazes Me" and "I Never Knew Her Name" (from "Sleeping with the Past"). "The Ballad of Blind Tom" is a good gospel/blues-oriented ballad, but lacks the dramatic piano playing and vocals which Elton demonstrated on "The Wasteland" ("Songs from The West Coast"). Dreams # 1 and # 2, are terse piano solos in which Elton emulates respectively, Bach and Liszt (Dream # 1) and Chopin (Dream # 2), and may be among the most original tunes he has written for this album. Dream # 3 is a captivating jazz tune perfomed by Elton and the studio musicians. "Can't Stay Alone Tonight" is a pleasant, easy going, country tune, but a tune which lacks the memorable guitar playing of John Jorgenson and the riveting story recounted in Taupin's lyrics in "Turn The Lights Out When You Leave" ("Peachtree Road"). "Home Again" is definitely an instant Elton John/Bernie Taupin classic, with Elton yearning to returning home, replete with some of the most riveting piano solos heard on this album. Of the other songs on "The Diving Board", the most memorable may be "The New Fever Waltz", a rollicking country-western tune, and as runners-up, both "Mexican Connection" - this album's slowed-down version of "Monkey Suit" ("The Union") - and the wistful "The Diving Board", which John said was written as a tribute to the trials and tribulations of troubled young actress Lindsay Lohan; a slow-tempo bluesy, jazz song that emphasizes the dark themes present in most of the album's songs. (Much to my surprise, Elton dropped "5th Avenue", a memorable ballad that could fit well with "The Captain and The Kid" with a chorus reminiscent of "Burning Buildings" ("Breaking Hearts") and should have ranked along with "Oscar Wilde Gets Out", "Home Again" and "My Quicksand" as the album's best, for other songs that I believe are not nearly as compelling; it's being offered for free now at the Amazon UK website.)

"The Diving Board" is a good Elton John/Bernie Taupin album, but, when compared to earlier classics like "Honky Chateau", "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road", and "Captain Fantastic and the Brown Dirt Cowboy", or later ones like "Made in England", the greatly underrated "The Big Picture", "Songs from the West Coast", "Peachtree Road" and "The Captain and the Kid", it should be regarded as a pale imitation, even if Elton John and Bernie Taupin have advanced light years ahead of songs as memorable as "Rocket Man" ("Honky Chateau"), "Candle in the Wind" and "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" ("Goodbye Yellow Brick Road") in their music and lyrics. Most of "The Diving Board" songs could have benefited from great vocal harmonizing of the kind demonstrated by Nigel Olsson, Dee Murray and Davey Johnstone in those classic early 70s and early 80s albums or by Olsson, Johnstone, John Mahon and Bob Birch in "Peachtree Road" and "The Captain and The Kid". Many of the albums I have cited also possess great orchestral arrangements from the likes of Paul Buckmaster - who is still composing memorable arrangements (a notable recent example is for Train's "Drops of Jupiter") - and Guy Babylon; in stark contrast, the string and horn arrangements on "The Diving Board" sound murky and undistinguished. I hope the next studio album will feature the current Elton John Band, whom I regard as the Wiener Philharmoniker (Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra) of rock and pop, not some hand-picked crew of studio musicians who are not as familiar with Elton's music as current band members or former members like drummer Charlie Morgan and guitarist John Jorgenson. An album that should be produced by a producer who truly understands Elton's musical legacy; someone like Stuart Epps or Patrick Leonard (producer of Songs from the West Coast. An album that could include a notable symphony orchestra like New York City's Orchestra of Saint Luke's playing new Paul Buckmaster orchestral arrangements, recorded in the same recording studio venerated by many classical and jazz musicians, the auditorium of the American Academy of Arts and Letters, used by classical pianist Simone Dinnerstein and alt-country singer/songwriter Tift Merritt in their critically acclaimed recent album Night, which sounds more like a tribute to early Elton John than does "The Diving Board". This year is the 40th anniversary of the original release of what many view as Elton's greatest album, "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road"; I suspect many will be more enthusiastic about acquiring its 40th anniversary edition, than in buying "The Diving Board".

John has been a fan of Elton's music ever since he heard "Rocket Man" for the first time on the radio and learned the words to "Crocodile Rock" in his junior high school music class back in the Fall of 1972. In high school, he remembers hearing "Island Girl" blasting out of the radio of one of his classmates in their drafting class. Having studied clarinet and piano in his youth, he's currently working on the keyboard as a freelance writer and book doctor. As a former paleobiologist, John is concerned with the quality of science education in North America and the United Kingdom and condemns the teaching of "scientific creationism", especially Intelligent Design as a great attack on public understanding of science. In high school he studied writing with Frank McCourt who would become famous years later for writing "Angela's Ashes" and was a prize-winning student of McCourt's; in college, he studied with a visiting English speculative fiction writer, Angela Carter.

He's written an unpublished near future alternate history post-cyberpunk science fiction novel set in the USA and Ireland; an excerpt was published here:

http://www.trickhouse.org/vol15/door_09_charlesalexander/charlesalexander.html

He intends to write a near future cyberpunk science fiction novel that will feature the music of a certain well known British pop and rock and roll musician.

Eltonites About Bob Birch

“It is nice to see Bob Birch being highlighted here. I have to say that Bob seems to be an underrated (by the fans) bass guitarist / backing vocalist. Hard to believe but Bob has been EJ's bassist longer than anyone - even Dee Murray. When EJ and the band came to Toronto earlier this year for the "Face-to-Face" shows I thought that Bob really stood out. The sound was magnificent and Bob sounded tremendous! I don't like to compare musicians because each has their own something special...but Bob and Nigel, as a rhythm section, were pretty hard to beat that night! Bob seemes to really enjoy playing with EJ - lots of small bits of interaction between them live. Thankfully, he seems to have recovered fully (after years of pain) from that pedestrian vs. truck accident in Montreal back on the MADE IN ENGLAND tour in 1995. Thanks for all the great music Bob!” (DougS)

"Bob is a great guy. Had a chance to meet and chat with him in Gainsville, Florida." (Missy Gyms)

"Cool interview! I knew there was a reason Bob is one of my faves....Blues for Baby and Me AND Harmony in his top 5 list!!" (Harmony59)

Eltonites About David Paton

"Back in 1995 Bob Birch (EJ's bassist) was hit by a vehicle in Montreal on the MADE IN ENGLAND tour. Bob was badly hurt and David Paton received a call from the Elton John HQ and was asked to fill in IMMEDIATELY on the tour! David graciously agreed and helped save the rest of the tour. In fact, David was the bassist at the next city (Detroit - Palace of Auburn Hills) and was excellent...I was fortunate enough to be there for it. I was worried that he wouldn't be able to play that huge 2 3/4 hour setlist but he was simply great.

That 1995 performance wasn't the only time that I was fortunate enough to see David Paton. I also went to see EJ and the Band in an all-time record rainfall in August of 1986 at the Toronto CNE. Whoa! Lightning, thunder, and buckets of cold rain! But a really hot show!

The band's version of "One Horse Town" remains, to this moment, one of my most enjoyable concert memories. After the eerie intro to the song, they just blew us away. "Can I Get A Witness" as an encore was pure heaven - David Paton always seemed to enjoy playing live and the band had a great sound on that tour. Songs like "Sad Songs" and "This Town" (check the great live version of this from 1985 on Youtube) really excelled live with this line-up."

Doug