Where Music Speaks: Linda Dupuis and the Heart of the Eltonite Spirit

Linda Dupuis is a well-known and deeply respected member of the Elton John fan community. Through her YouTube series Music Speaks, she has created a unique space where musicians share their personal stories, memories, and reflections — often revealing the human side behind the music we love. Her conversations with artists connected to Elton John’s world, both past and present, resonate with fans who value authenticity, warmth, and a genuine passion for music history. Beyond YouTube, Linda remains highly active across social platforms, helping keep the Eltonite community connected across the world.

In this Eltonites Day feature, we explore not only Linda’s journey as a fan and interviewer, but also the heart and vision behind the voice. We were delighted to speak with Linda and begin at the very beginning:

How and when did you first discover the music of Elton John?

I remember being 13 years old when my cousin said to me, “You have to listen to this!” Growing up in Canada, Elton John wasn’t as huge here as he was in the US —or at least I wasn’t aware of just how big he was. At the time, I was mostly listening to The Carpenters and Cat Stevens.

But the moment I heard Bennie and The Jets, from his first Greatest Hits album, I was completely hooked. I still have the copy I bought back then!

What was it about his music that truly captured you at that moment — and made you stay?

It sounded completely different from everything else. There was rock in it, blended with touches of jazz and blues. And the lyrics felt like little short stories set to music.

He seemed to grow older alongside me. His music evolved as I did — moving forward with us, never frozen in a particular time.

How has Elton’s music influenced your life on a personal level?

I’d call it my ultimate feel-good music. There was always a song that matched whatever mood I was in. In recent years, it’s had an even bigger impact on my life, especially as I became more connected with the community of fellow fans.

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

The songs that still move me deeply are Your Song, Tonight, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me, and Curtains. I really can’t pick a favorite!

And which Elton item in your collection do you treasure the most — either because it was difficult to obtain or because of the happiness it brought you?

I have two treasures: a tambourine personally dedicated to me by John Mahon, and a photo of Caleb Quaye that he signed and dedicated to me. They mean the world to me.

What I cherish most are the memories of time spent with past and present band members and collaborators, as well as with fans from around the world whom I’ve met on my journey and who have become dear friends.

At what point did you move from being a fan to becoming actively involved in the fan community?

I finally saw Elton’s farewell show in 2019—and you have to understand, I had never seen him live before. It was a bittersweet experience! That’s when I realized just how much I had missed by not attending his shows earlier. After that, I joined Facebook fan groups and started binge-watching every concert I could find on YouTube, along with every interview and article I could get my hands on.

At one point, I was invited to join a fan group that was holding Zoom sessions during COVID to stay connected. My friend David Connell came up with the idea of inviting Elton’s collaborators—who couldn’t work at the time because of the pandemic. The first guest was Ian Beck, who designed the Goodbye Yellow Brick Road album, followed by John Mahon, Ray Williams, and others. I helped David with these Zooms, and after about a year, I took over coordinating the interviews and arranging the guest appearances.

Later, some guests asked for my help with their social media and other projects, which eventually led to the creation of the Music Speaks project.

Your YouTube series Music Speaks has become a space for very honest and heartfelt conversations. How did this project begin?

During the Zooms, only a small number of fans can join, and I realized that many more would love the chance to get to know Elton’s collaborators as we did. I also feel that these incredible people contributed so much to Elton’s music, and I want to honor their legacy.

So I decided to start interviewing them and share all the conversations in one easily accessible place. I began with the members of the Rock of the Westies band (Ray Cooper, Davey Johnstone, James Newton-Howard, Kenny Passarelli and Caleb Quaye) to celebrate the album’s 50th anniversary, and then continued with other musicians and collaborators.

What kind of atmosphere do you try to create when you interview musicians?

It’s a warm, friendly, and safe space where they can trust me. I would never share anything they don’t want published. They also know that I actively support their work by sharing their projects, albums, music, and performances with the fans.

I also back their charitable efforts, especially Hillsides in California, where John and Pam Mahon are deeply involved. The organization provides education and other services for children and families, and each year our Zoom group raises funds to support their work.

You’ve spoken with many artists connected to Elton John’s world. What have these conversations taught you about the people behind the music?

That these stars are human—full of dreams, accomplishments, insecurities, successes, and hardships. When they feel respected, they return that respect. I would never betray their trust.

Were there any conversations that particularly surprised or moved you?

Each of them moves me in some way. Whenever they open their hearts, it’s always an unforgettable experience.

How important do you think the fan community is in preserving musical legacies?

The fan community is absolutely vital in preserving musical legacies. Fans are not just listeners—they’re storytellers, archivists, and ambassadors. They keep the music alive by sharing it with new generations, celebrating milestones, and connecting with the artists’ collaborators to learn the stories behind the songs.

In the case of Elton John, for example, fans have created groups, organized events, and documented concerts and interviews that might otherwise have been forgotten. They help maintain the context of his work, the evolution of his music, and the contributions of everyone involved, from band members to songwriters and designers. For other artists, it’s the same: the dedication and passion of fans ensure that these legacies aren’t just remembered—they continue to inspire.

What role do you think platforms like YouTube and social media now play in music storytelling?

Platforms like YouTube and social media have transformed how music stories are told and preserved. They allow fans and artists to share concerts, interviews, and behind-the-scenes moments that were once hard to access. They’re also a gateway for younger generations to discover music from the ’60s, ’70s, and beyond—songs and artists they might never encounter otherwise.

For artists like Elton John and others, these platforms keep their music and stories alive, letting fans engage, share memories, and help preserve a legacy that continues to inspire.

When you look back at your own journey — from fan to interviewer — what would you say to someone who dreams of starting a project of their own within the music world?

I’d say: go for it. Dive in, get involved, and really get to know your subject. Do your research, work hard, and follow your passion. Don’t hesitate to start something new—but always stay respectful, and make sure you give as much as you take.

What place do you believe Elton John will hold in the history of rock music?

I believe Elton John will always hold an extraordinary place in the history of rock music. His genius was never solo—his long-time collaborator Bernie Taupin provided lyrics that told vivid, timeless stories, and his incredible band and musicians brought those songs to life. Together, they created a sound that transcended genres—rock, pop, blues, even jazz—and combined showmanship with deep emotion in a way few artists ever have.

Elton’s music isn’t just about hits; it’s about storytelling, connection, and artistry. With the contributions of Bernie, his band, and all the collaborators along the way, his work has become an essential part of rock history, influencing generations of musicians and fans alike.

After all these experiences, what does being an “Eltonite” mean to you today?

After all these experiences, being an Eltonite means feeling connected—not just to Elton and his music, but to the community of fans and collaborators who share that passion. I know his work so well that I have a story about him for just about every moment in my life! It’s about celebrating the music, the memories, and the people who helped bring it all to life.

Thank you. Would you like to add any observation, suggestion, or message for fellow Eltonites around the world?

I’d just say to fellow Eltonites around the world: keep celebrating the music, the stories, and the incredible people behind it. Share your memories, connect with other fans, and never be afraid to dive deeper into the history and the collaborations that made it all possible. Every story, every experience adds to keeping his legacy alive—and it’s a joy to be part of this community.

Thank you, Linda!!!

Listening to Linda Dupuis is a reminder that music does not end when the final note fades. It lives on in memories, in conversations, in friendships formed across continents, and in the quiet dedication of those who choose to preserve its stories. Through Music Speaks and through her unwavering commitment to the Eltonite community, Linda embodies something essential: the understanding that legacy is not only built by artists on stage, but also by those who carry the music forward with care, respect, and love. In a world that moves quickly, voices like hers ensure that the heart behind the songs continues to be heard.

Beyond her own words, we felt it was important to hear from someone who has worked closely with Linda and witnessed her generosity and spirit firsthand. David Connell, a central figure in the Zoom community and a close friend, kindly shared the following message for her. That's for you, Linda:

"In a world that can often feel divided and distant, there are rare individuals who remind us what true community looks like. Linda Dupuis is one of those people — the kind of “Fan Friend” who feels like the personified equivalent of a warm hug.

Linda has created a safe and welcoming environment for fans and music lovers alike. Through her kindness, sincerity, and unwavering love for the music, she has built a community rooted in compassion and connection. It is a space where people feel seen, valued, and embraced. Elton fans truly are the best in the world, and Linda Dupuis is the epitome of that spirit.

Her Music Speaks project is a beautiful bridge between eras, bringing the classic sound and soul of Elton John into the modern age. At the same time, it respectfully tips its hat to those who have been there from the very beginning, honoring the past while welcoming a new generation. Through this work, fans from around the world are able to feel connected — not only to the music, but to each other.

Linda’s love for the music brings people together in a way that feels both natural and extraordinary. I cannot express how proud I am of her — not only for the incredible work she continues to do, but for loving me as a friend in a way I have never experienced before. She is a powerhouse woman whose strength is matched only by her heart.

In such a divisive world, Linda brings people together in a way that is awe-inspiring and, most importantly, deeply needed.

To Linda, and to all those who have paved the way for the Zoom Group community — the admins, fellow fans, and loyal followers — you are appreciated and loved beyond measure. Your dedication, warmth, and shared passion have created something truly special."

Pictures courtesy of Linda Dupuis / Photos of David Connell by David Connell

From Six Yellow Roses to The Elton John Connection: Marta Coloma’s Journey into Elton’s World

Marta Coloma is a Madrid-based singer who has successfully combined talent, sensitivity, and deep respect for Elton John’s legacy. In October 2024, she released her EP Six Yellow Roses, offering reinterpretations of classics from the 1970s and one track from the 1980s, bringing her own voice and style while preserving the essence of the original compositions. From the emotional subtlety of Goodbye to the intimate strength of Seasons, each song showcased the artistic vision of a performer who loves music and wants to share it with a broad audience.

In this interview, we talk with Marta about her beginnings, her connection with Elton John, the creative process behind her EP, and what fans can expect from her upcoming The Elton John Connection concert in Madrid.

Hola Marta, thank you very much for being here. Could you tell us, first, about your musical journey and what led you to become a performer?

As Kiki Dee would say, I had always had the music in me :) But it took a while for me to develop the belief that I could perform. I went to music school and took piano and choir lessons when I was little, and I had always loved singing, but at some point I started putting all my efforts into school, languages, and becoming a journalist, and just stopped seeing it as an option. I kept loving music and all things related to it — but it was just a hobby. At some point in my late 20s, I realized harnessing my voice and my performance spirit could help me heal. I enrolled in a gospel music school (something I had always dreamed of trying), and then all started to come into place. I joined a disco band, I auditioned for Coro Gospel de Madrid, and this sparked the realization that I could actually do it. I'm really glad I took that leap of faith.

And what does Elton John mean to you, both as an artist and as a person?

It all actually started because of him. Up until 2019, Elton John was just a beloved artist from my childhood soundtrack (my dad used to play his songs along with other artists from the era like Abba, Pink Floyd, Queen, or Stevie Wonder). Hits like I Guess That's Why They Call It The Blues, Crocodile Rock or Your Song were in heavy rotation when I was a child. I also remember being fascinated by the Passengers music video. 😃  But Elton was just another artist from that part of my life. When the Rocketman movie came out, it all changed (yes — I'm one of those who turned into an Eltonite thanks to the movie!). I'd been listening to Elton many times in my life but I never really took interest in his life story... and when I finally dived into it, I honestly felt understood. It moved me in ways that I didn't expect. As the ultra-curious person that I am, this unleashed a whole obsession: I read about his music, about his life, about his personal struggles, about his career path and artistry, and I listened to his discography in loop. I was so surprised to find out he was the whole package of what an artist should be: a rebellious, curious, funny, open to experimentation, gifted musician that also has a knack for supporting, mentoring, and collaborating with others. I found it so inspiring that he had been able to create such monumental work while struggling with his identity, family conflicts, and relationship issues. This led to interactions with other fans and more musical exploration. The world opened before me when I re-discovered Elton.

On your live project: how do you choose which songs to cover? Is there a story behind each selection?

For The Elton John Connection, I've made a point of straying away from the usual collection of hits that Elton himself is tired of playing. Some of them are present in the show, of course, but there are so many Elton tributes out there that I wanted to do something different. I didn't wanna impersonate Elton (not that I even could 🤣) or to play the songs everyone knows. One of the main goals was to uncover the hidden catalogue that most listeners haven't even heard of. There are so many hidden gems in the setlist that illustrate why Elton's work fascinated me for the first time, and I want to share that fascination with the audience. Since I am a storyteller myself, I decided to do this by following his personal story, mostly focusing on his career, which has been incredibly varied and surprising. The story I share in the show is also full of anecdotes and hilarious moments that speak about his character. To make the selection, I just followed the soundtrack that I think was more fitting with the episodes I wanted to highlight. There are hits in there, of course, but also so many deep tracks that fans will love to hear live, like Idol, Tell Me When The Whistle Blows or Healing Hands, since Elton hasn't played them for a long time. I'm incredibly excited to keep performing these songs, and to add more to the roster as the show's script evolves.

What technical or emotional challenges did you encounter while recording Six Yellow Roses?

Woof, that was a rough process! Six Yellow Roses was born because one of Elton's longest-standing fans, Bennett Zimmerman, really believed in me. When we met in LA for EJ's last North American show, he prepared a lovely fan evening with a show where a fantastic band, Flight of Voices, covered some deep favorites for us. He heard me sing and suggested that I select and record some. He thought Elton in a woman's voice that knew his catalogue inside out would be an intriguing project. But I was in Spain, he was in the US, and the American piano player and producer he wanted to enroll for the project, Adam Marsland, was in Cambodia at that time. So the biggest challenge was producing, recording, and mixing it all remotely. Second to that, it was also challenging to find the right key to transpose the songs to and find out what kind of adjustments and stylistic choices would suit my soprano voice more. It took a few months to put it all together, but in the end, we were happy with the result.

Can you tell us more about your band — who the musicians are and how you decide which instruments are part of your arrangements?

This might sound cheesy, but I feel that The Elton John Connection band is truly spectacular. I'm really grateful I could gather these musicians to make the project a reality. It was difficult at first, but through recommendations and references from other musicians in Madrid, I was able to put together a great band. Initially, I was worried about finding the right piano player — I studied piano but I don't have the expertise required to play these songs. The amazing Dan Vidal ended up becoming our lead at the keys and I couldn't be happier. Although I love the original Elton John band with Nigel, Dee, and Elton, I wanted to put together a full production, so apart from the bass (Bas Kisjes) and drums (Giancarlo Spirito), I added guitar (Pedro Chalkho/Miguel Tarzia) and a lovely set of back-up singers (Irene Cobián, Laura Guardiola and Julia Tapia), which also happen to be my dear friends from the gospel choir. That's the core band, but we're also adding other surprises along the way 😉 When I step on stage with them, I feel so lucky.

Elton John’s recordings are often associated with the legendary producer Gus Dudgeon and lyricists like Bernie Taupin, Tim Rice, and Gary Osborne. How do you connect with their contributions when interpreting Elton’s music?

It's so difficult to get close to the greatness of Elton's records. People are so used to hearing the studio tracks and live versions, so I've tried to give the songs my own flavor. Bernie's lyrical prowess is always highlighted in the renditions themselves and in the script. He's always telling magnificent stories and that itself creates a special atmosphere. Some of the earlier albums arranged by Paul Buckmaster are masterpieces, but I wasn't able to put together a string orchestra (yet 😆), so we've tried to make those more intimate and laid-back. In summary: you can't really replicate that sound, so my idea is to give it a twist while we honor the era and make people travel in time with us.

Great, precisely, do you have a favorite Elton John album, era, or band lineup that inspires you the most?

This is a hard one! Many fans will dispute this, but it's obvious that the 70s albums are the peak of the classic Elton sound. Tumbleweed Connection and Honky Chateâu are among my favorites. I'm also a huge advocate of albums that don't get as much attention, like Rock of The Westies or The Fox. I have to say though that, as much as Elton's early production was undoubtedly amazing, the 80s and 90s have so many hidden gems and some fans tend to be very harsh with their feedback. Regarding band lineups, the answer is easy: the original Elton John Band (as in 11-17-70 or Madman Shakes Tokyo! 1971) and the Elton+Ray duo from the A Single Man tour (that '79 Moscow concert is just hauntingly beautiful and includes my favorite version of Rocket Man ever).

From your perspective, what makes Elton John’s sound unique and enduring after all these years?

It's a combination of his natural ability at crafting impossibly catchy tunes and his rich musical references. Most Elton John songs sound like classics because they are: he appreciates music history and other trailblazers that came before him, and he isn't afraid of exploring different genres when he's writing songs. After all, he's a music fanatic. Pair that with his prodigious technical ability and perfect pitch, and add Bernie's evocative stories on top, and you've got a winning formula. He makes the difficult seem easy. I also appreciate that he's always trying new things and is open to experimenting. Other artists his age don't, and that's what really keeps creativity alive.

Do you have plans for more covers, collaborations, or upcoming projects related or not to Elton John?

With this project, I want to keep exploring Elton's catalogue and uncovering more deep tracks to the audience if there's an interest. I have a long list of songs I'd like to talk about and perform! And of course, I'd love to collaborate with other artists that revere his music as much as me. It's always fun to perform with other musicians that appreciate his catalogue. Apart from this, I'm gonna continue performing other genres I love, like 70s disco and gospel, and I'm opening up to the possibility of writing my own songs. I didn't imagine I'd be doing this four years ago, so who knows! But I definitely think there's more to explore moving forward.

Looking forward, what kind of music would you most like to explore and develop in the future?

As you can probably tell, I adore the music and artists from the 70s. I think it's such an inspiring era — one of the best decades in popular music so far. The rock, pop, disco, punk, soul, folk... artists were absolutely incredible back then, and the songwriting was really high quality. However, I enjoy and take inspiration from tons of contemporary musicians (Florence Welch and Rufus Wainwright are two of my absolute favorites), so I'm looking forward to open my horizons and get inspired to write my own music. For now, in terms of performance, I get such a kick from combining storytelling with live music, and I'd like to explore that formula further.

Speaking with Marta Coloma is a reminder of why Elton John’s music continues to inspire — because within his catalog, artists like her find space for discovery, reinvention, and sincere connection. Her approach is thoughtful and passionate, honoring the past while bringing her own voice to the forefront.

With Six Yellow Roses and The Elton John Connection, Marta shows that Elton’s repertoire still holds countless stories waiting to be told. Stories she delivers with honesty, warmth, and a genuine love for the music. It will be exciting to follow where her artistic journey leads next, and what new surprises she has in store for fans.

As our conversation comes to an end, it feels only fitting to close with the words of someone whose artistry Marta deeply admires. Shortly after hearing her interpretation of Grow Some Funk of Your Own, former Elton John band member Cidny Bullens sent her this heartfelt message — a note that reflects not only Marta’s talent, but the musical thread that connects artists across generations:

Marta: It is great to hear "Grow Some Funk..." revitalized by you. I wish you all the best in your career and life. Keep singing! We both know it is one thing that keeps us all connected. All the best. Cidny Bullens 

THE ELTON JOHN CONNECTION: Marta Coloma’s Narrative Musical Tribute

There are tributes, and then there are experiences. THE ELTON JOHN CONNECTION, the project led by spanish singer Marta Coloma, clearly belongs to the second category. Defining it simply as a concert would fall short: it’s actually a narrative and musical journey through the legacy of one of the most iconic artists of the 20th century, told with intelligence, sensitivity, and a depth rarely seen in typical tribute shows.

A Show That Reveals Hidden Connections

The starting point is both simple and brilliant: Elton John is not just the piano man. As the foundational text of the show puts it: he is “the shy blues and country singer, the champion of soul and funk, the glam icon par excellence … and, above all, the little boy who fell in love with rock ’n’ roll after listening to Little Richard and Jerry Lee Lewis.”

THE ELTON JOHN CONNECTION builds on this premise to show the hidden connections between 20th-century popular music and Elton’s artistic evolution. Each genre, each influence, each style that marked his career is interwoven into a narrative: a musical map of an era in which he was not only a protagonist, but also a trailblazer.

The Voice and Charisma of Marta Coloma

This journey needs a confident and emotive guide—and that’s where Marta Coloma shines. With a warm, expressive, and versatile voice, and a natural charisma that immediately connects with the audience, Marta takes on the role of musical narrator: she contextualizes, presents, explains, sings, and celebrates.

She doesn’t aim to imitate Elton—and she doesn’t have to. Her strength lies in how she re-reads and reinterprets his songs, placing them in their historical and sonic context, revealing their roots, and expanding their meaning.

Accompanied by a high-energy, multi-talented band adept at navigating rock, soul, country, funk, and glam, the result is a show that feels both authentic and creatively free.

The Live Experience: Music, Narrative & Emotion

On stage, THE ELTON JOHN CONNECTION is far more than a simple setlist. Marta and her band craft a story with a beginning, middle, and end. The introductions—always measured, never excessive—situate each song in its universe:

• short anecdotes about Elton’s influences

• stories about the musical styles that shaped him

• reflections on his creative journey

• and emotional moments of connection with the audience

The concert thus becomes an educational and emotional experience, perfect for die-hard Elton fans but equally compelling for listeners looking at him from a fresh perspective.

High-points arrive when songs resonate directly with Marta’s words: a comment about gospel leads into a passionate performance, or a reflection on Elton’s more intimate side gives way to a delicate, heartfelt rendition.

A Show for Everyone

The ideal audience for this show is surprisingly broad:

• Elton John fans longing to hear new interpretations of beloved songs

• Music lovers interested in the historical tapestry of 20th-century popular music

• Spectators who enjoy narrative-driven concerts, not just performance

• Curious newcomers who may not yet know Elton deeply, but are eager to understand why his music remains so powerful

Because, at its core, THE ELTON JOHN CONNECTION is a sincere, carefully crafted celebration of a legacy that continues to inspire generation after generation.

A Lasting Experience

“Prepare to relive the emotion of a legacy that still inspires. This is not just a show—it’s an experience.”

This phrase captures the essence of the project. Marta Coloma doesn’t just perform Elton John: she contextualizes him, reclaims him, and makes him speak to our collective musical memory. And she does so with passion, respect, and creativity that transform the show into a unique piece within the world of tributes.

A different kind of tribute. A necessary journey. An experience to remember.

Recent & Upcoming Dates for The Elton John Connection

• October 10, 2025 – Tempo Club, Madrid. Tickets: €12–€15. Tempo Club
  

• November 28, 2025 – Sala Vesta, Madrid. Tickets from €12. Tickets

• May 29, 2026 – Luz de Gas, Barcelona. Tickets around €22. Entradas.com