Unforgettable Video Guests: Remember Them? (Part One)

I've always liked music videos. I still remember me recording the videos on my old VHS record player when they were aired on the TV. Maybe I could say that I became an eltonite for the videos. It was so amazing to see Elton dancing on "Who Wears These Shoes?", falling on the sea on "Passengers" (not mention the helicopter), playing the piano on "I Don't Wanna Go On With You Like That"; the list could be so extensive. But I could not forget the video guests credited on Elton's videos: Robert Downey Jr. on "I Want Love", Bernie Taupin on "Passengers", Justin Timberlake on "This Train Don't Stop There Anymore"; another extensive list. Those were celebrities, of course, but what about the others guests? Who are they and what they've been doing now?

Bruno Tonioli, was 28 when he starred as one of Sir Elton's dancers for the top ten hit video "I'm Still Standing" (1983), which was filmed in Nice and Cannes, France. He wore a number of outrageous outfits including the ripped leotard, complete with studded belt and leather military-style cap, which he wears to greet Elton outside the Carlton Hotel in Cannes. In another scene, he sports some very tight and revealing orange trousers for a dance on the beach, while in another, he gyrates semi naked on a sun lounger. Bruno starred in the video when he was working as a freelance dancer in the Eighties.

He is a renowned choreographer and has worked on countless films, plays, music videos, commercials, concerts, trade shows and television series with such music icons as Elton John ("Please"), Michael Jackson ("Give in to Me"), Sting ("This Cowboy Song"), Tina Turner ("Steamy Windows") and Paul McCartney ("Hope of Deliverance"). He also works in theater and television: Tonioli has been a popular judge on all seasons of the ballroom US dancing competition, Dancing with the Stars and its UK counterpart Strictly Come Dancing.

On "Ice On Fire" (1985), Elton released a love song who reached the top of the music charts across the world: "Nikita", featuring George Michael as a backing vocalist. It's undeniable that video helped in the success. Directed by Ken Russell, Anya Major features an East German female Border guard, on one side of the Wall during the Cold War conflict, with her "ten tin soldiers in a row", while Elton, a rich westener, is taking photos on her at the border crossing, as he is refused to entry. Only in dreams they could get together sharing their love. As a spin-off, Major released a single, "Moscow Nights", using the name Anya. "Nikita", a russian male name indeed, was not the first guest appearance by Major. In fact, Ridley Scott provided Major, then a discus-throwing athlete, the role in Apple's famous 1984 Macintosh commercial, for being the only one capable of running up to a large video screen, swinging a sledgehammer in a wide spin, and releasing it at the video screen of Big Brother.

Major was born in UK at 1966. There was a widely-circulated rumor years ago that she had died of breast cancer, but happily this was false. She's living in England with her husband Kim Rajah and their three children: Luke, Georgia and Oliver. Anya Rajah, graduated from Central St Martins, has exhibited her artworks in Tunbridge Wells (where she lives now), Brighton and London.

Singer and actress Mandy Moore appeared in the promo for Elton's Original Sin landing roles in the video as the daughter of Elizabeth Taylor and Elton, following her journey as an awkward teen circa 1976 (complete with braces, acne, bushy eyebrows, and wig) to her dream like fantasy of transforming into a rock groupie front row center of the VIP section of an Elton concert. The video, directed by David Lachapelle, let Moore to be close to her idol, as she explained about the experience: "Being the geek I am, I had him sign a copy of his ‘Yellow Brick Road’ album and [I] am getting it framed immediately", while adding "I remember sitting alone in the living room portion of the house we shot in and listening to Elton play ‘Crocodile Rock’. It was like no one else was listening.. like a private concert… too cool!!!".

Born April 10, 1984 in Nashua, New Hampshire, she grew up in Orlando, Florida when she made a name for herself, from appearances in local theatre productions to singing the National Anthem at professional sporting events. Her first single, "Candy", from the CD So Real (1999), was released when Moore was only 15 years old (it was certified platinum in Australia). Her early films included the teen romance A Walk To Remember (2002). She has appeared in Romance & Cigarettes (2005) and American Dreamz (2006), including a role as Diane Keaton's daughter in Because I Said So (2007). Her fourth album, Coverage (2003), received a less than enthusiastic response for its musical maturity. Additionally, Moore has modeled, appearing on the cover of Cosmopolitan, started her own fashion line, Mblem, as well as the women's social network Upumpitup.com.


End Of Part One
To Be Continued

The Eltonites' Day With Jody Towles!!!

Hello Dear Eltonites, welcome to the new season, the 28th this time. Long time ago I began recollecting newspapers, magazines, pictures, cards, everything related to Elton. As a fan of music charts list, I created my own only about Elton. But I was alone, people I knew were not fans of Elton, just like some songs and so on. But Internet changes everything. I've been so much lucky meeting other people, Eltonites I call them. Good people, good friends, with a lot of things to depart and share. As a way to say thank you to Eltonites, lately I've been starting the season with one of them, as I do this time. I take this opportunity to introduce someone very special, a passionate, so welcome Jody, so nice to have you here.

Could you tell us, please more, who are you and where are you from?

Hey, My name is Jody Towles and I am from Tampa, Florida.

Ok! When did you became an Eltonite? Remember the first time you heard Elton's music and what moves you to buy his music?

I can remember Elton as far back as memory allows. My earliest memory of hearing EJ was of hearing the song Little Jeannie playing on radio stations growing up. I also remember the Lion King coming out and I think that for my generation, that's where we really started to know who Elton John Was. The first time I remember clearly seeing Elton Play on TV was probably at the Funeral for Diana, Princess of Wales. I had always knew about Elton John, but when I was in my last year of college, I remember going to a local retailer, I was just getting into music heavily at the time and I saw Elton's compilation Greatest Hits 1970-2002 on the sale rack, so on a whim I picked it up. I didn't quite get it at first, but I listened to it over and over and over and finally one day, it clicked for me. I realized that so many of the lyrics fit my life. The first EJ song i truly connected with was Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me. Little did I know that from buying that one album, my life would change.

And what was it like seeing Elton for the first time and how many concerts have you been?

I’ll never forget my first show. It was Birmingham Alabama in 2007, a few weeks after the MSG 60 show. He sang almost the exact set that he sang in NYC a few weeks prior. I remember that I wanted to see him, so the closest show that he was currently playing to me was in Alabama, I went on ebay and bought 2 tickets, row 13 floor and i talked my mother into taking a 10 hour road trip with me. It was not my first concert but It was my first EJ show, I can still remember it clearly today. Recently I got the bootleg of that show from another Eltonite. Fast forward almost 5 years later and by the end of this year, I will have seen EJ in concert 33 times.

What would you do if you meet Elton sometime? What would you talk about and which question would you like to ask him?

This is a question that I have thought long and hard about. When I first started Seeing EJ, All i wanted to do was meet him, now at this time I no longer pursue that, I figure that If It is meant to happen then It will happen. I've long thought about what I would say, but honestly, I think a simple hello and introduction is enough, I believe that Elton would lead the conversation.

How should be your dreamt concert? Which could be a great set list, for example? Or the best Elton’s band? And which one of Elton's live shows you thought you should be there, if you could, even back in time?

Those who know me, know that As far as albums go, Peachtree Road is by far my most favorite album, so any show where he could add any song from that record in, I would be happy. I don't have any specific requirements for any show, as I am truly blessed any time that I am able to hear him live. Too many fans climb on the soapbox about EJ not changing the set list, so what? At least he still plays live, i’ll take anything as long as he's still out doing what he does.

I have always said that I was born in the wrong decade, If I could go back to one show, it would October 26th 1975 at Dodger stadium in LA. EJ was god to people then, he was at the height of his stardom, I can only imagine what It would have been like on that day.

Elton said in 2008 he was “too old for sequins and skintight clothes”. Let’s talk about Elton’s stage oufits. What’s the most extravagant fancy dress costume of Elton you could remember? And do you like the jackets he uses now on stage?

I would say that my earliest recollection is of EJ in the Donald Duck costume, He was such a showman in those days, he still is of course, just in a different way. In the case of his current wardrobe, I love it. Part of the excitement for me is when im in the audience waiting for him to come out to see what he is wearing that particular night, On my facebook page I have an EJ's jackets album that I compiled for reference purposes. I still get a huge thrill when he wears something that we have not seen yet.

So great!!! Looking back to Elton’s catalogue. Which are your favourite albums and the most underrated songs? And your favourite “B” sides?

I would say that my Top 3 albums in order are Peachtree Road, Captain Fantastic, and Don’t Shoot Me. I have always said that PTR was seriously underrated. Each one of these 3 albums have songs that are very personal to me. In addition, Captain Fantastic includes We All Fall In Love Sometimes, quite possibly one of the most underrated and best songs ever written in my opinion. As far as B-sides go, my favorites are; So Sad The Renegade, Things only get Better With Love and The Retreat.

What could we expect from the new album Elton and Bernie are preparing, due to record next January 2012? Only two albums have to release Elton to fullfill his contract. Which could be a better end?

With Elton, I have no expectations as far as what he puts out, If It's one thing we've learned the last 40 years, its that EJ keeps us guessing. I Loved The Union, and it took me a while to understand it, but I think It's great. I loved the organic and simple feel of the record, so I would say that they found something that worked and absolutely keep it going and continue that feel into the next album.

What kind of place do you see for Elton John in the History of Rock Music?

I think EJ has firmly planted himself into the top Ranks of the Rock Music Hierarchy. He is truly rock royalty. Seldom do you go out in public and not hear Elton John, Seldom do you not meet someone who does not know who Elton John is. His influence is far reaching and is truly global, places that I've seen him in still roll out the red carpet when he comes to town. I think History will remember him as an incredible entertainer and most importantly an amazing human being through his gift of his music and his charitable works.

Which is your Elton´s item that you really appreciate, for being hard to get or for the happiness you´ve got to have it?

My most valued EJ possession is my LATW poster I got signed by him and the band in Tallahassee and Gainesville Florida at the very first shows where I ever set first row. It was also the very first time that we met the band.

Fantastic! Well, you know I am a fan of Ben Babylon too, and he has a record ready to be released, and a single coming out in September/October. We eltonites really appreciate him. Which would be your advice to him, about music, about life, about the starting of his career?

I'm not sure that I am really qualified to answer this but i’m gonna try anyway. I would say to never give up, set goals, and don't let anybody stand in your way. Life will throw a lot at you, you just have to learn to manage it the best you can. In the end its the journey not the destination. I believe its best to be good to people and treat them right, and most importantly as EJ said in Letters To a 16 Year Old Me: Stay away from Drugs.

Thanks. Apart from music, which are your interests? What you like to do with your off time?

Music is my primary passion, I also enjoy reading, and I am a huge stand up comedy and movie buff. Other than my passion of music, I also love photography. My perfect day off is spent in the company of friends or searching for that one album in a vintage vinyl store.

And finally, could you tell me your five favorite Elton's songs in running order, for my AllSongsList?

Its hard to choose only 5 but here they are...

Freaks in Love
We all fall in Love Sometimes
Someone Saved My Life Tonight
High Flying Bird
Sixty Years On

Thank you. Would you want to add some observation or suggestion, or something you want to say to other eltonites?

The last 5 years of my life have been some of the Highest and the lowest, but the journey has been amazing. I've met the most fantastic people and have been to the most fantastic places. I have seen the best and worst people, Its most important I think to treat each other with respect. Share the fun, there's plenty to go around.

I can say that 5 years ago Elton changed my life, seeing him made me truly realize who and what I was. When in times of darkness, it has been he who has pulled us out. In times of great Joy, his music has been there to lift us up even higher, It is he who brings us together and makes us feel like one big family. Thanks to all the fellow Eltonites who have shared this journey with me.

Thanks so so much for sharin' your time with us, Jody, and for your collaboration. Really a worth experience for me this interview. Take care and good luck.

Pictures courtesy by Jody Towles

Updating The List (2011)

Hi Eltonites. Welcome to a new upate of the list. We are covering a period between September 2010 to July 2011. During this time, two albums were released (The Union and Gnomeo & Juliet), they entered to charts, and Elton's been touring with Ray Cooper, with the band, with Leon Russell (his partner on The Union album), and solo. Apart from your votes, what I really appreciate and thank, I would like to remark an iniciative BiteUrLip had developing a diary “Song Of The Day” poll, where eltonites vote for each song, every day. That could be followed on forums like Hercules or the Facebook group. This time the list is ponderating more the Eltonites' category, with the intention to make their opinion more rellevant without losing objective at all.

"Your Song" remains on the Top of the list. On the Top 10, "Candle In The Wind" jumps to Number 3 while "Sorry Seems To Be The Hardest Word" downs to Number 4. Good jumps for "Rocket Man", instead of "Daniel" and "Don't Go Breaking My Heart" for "I'm Still Standing". "Tiny Dancer" is rising jumping two positions, like "Levon" does, and also "Little Jeannie" surpasses "Blessed". "Skyline Pigeon" debuts on the Top 50, jumping from 56 to 49. Other remarkable moving ups are "Madman Across The Water" (from 64 to 60), "Grey Seal" (69 to 65), "The Greatest Discovery" (71 to 66), "Captain Fantastic & Brown Dirt Cowboy (83 to 76), "Come Down In Time" (98 to 87) and "Mama Can't Buy You Love" (104 to 94).

Eltonites favourites songs are doing well on the list: from the Top 200: "Where To Now St. Peter? (127 to 112), "Blues For My Baby And Me" (131 to 115), "Chloe" (135 to 123), "Holiday Inn" (137 to 121), "Talking Old Soldiers" (163 to 131), "Amoreena" (170 to 134), "Ego" (172 to 156), "Ballad Of A Well Known-Gun" (193 to 173), "My Father's Gun" (243 to 182) or "Pinky" (202 to 184). On the Top 300, for example, we have "Razor Face" (jumping from 239 to 200), Between Seventeen & Twenty (250 to 232), Someday Out Of The Blue (280 to 213) and "Electricity" (281 to 221), "And The House Fell Down" (298 to 243) and "Hey Ahab" (304 to 277). Precisely, from "The Union", "Gone To Shiloh" (303 to 268) and Monkey Suit (325 to 313) are findin' their way on the list. Other songs to remark, could it be: "Not Me" (540 to 510), "Steal Away Child" (556 to 520), "Across The River Thames" (557 to 514), "The Drover's Ballad" (583 to 553), "Peter’s Song" (608 to 528), "How’ Tomorrow" (640 to 540).

Finally, 8 songs debuted to the list: Gnomeo's "Hello Hello" (569), "Love Builds A Garden" (655), "You Got The Love" (865), "Stagger Lee" (863), "Da Doo Ron Ron Ron" (856), "When I'm Sixty-Four" (886), "Hard Times" (902) and "All Of The Lights (819).

Also from the "AllSongsList" we could approach to different categories to see:

United States
Their Top 20 Favourite Songs
Don't let the sun go down on me
Bennie and the Jets
Your song
Goodbye yellow brick road
Daniel
Saturday night's alright (for fighting)
Crocodile rock
Rocket man
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
Honky cat
Can you feel the love tonight
Candle in the wind
Circle of life
Someone saved my life tonight
Border song
Don't go breaking my heart
Something about the way you look tonight
The bitch is back
Island girl
Philadelphia freedom

Canada
Their Top 20 Favourite Songs
Don't let the sun go down on me
Your song
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
Bennie and the Jets
Daniel
Crocodile rock
Saturday night's alright (for fighting)
Goodbye yellow brick road
Rocket man
Can you feel the love tonight
Candle in the wind
Honky cat
Don't go breaking my heart
Sacrifice
Someone saved my life tonight
Tiny dancer
Sad songs (Say so much)
The bitch is back
Island girl
Circle of life

United Kingdom
Their Top 20 Favourite Songs
Don't let the sun go down on me
Candle in the wind
Your song
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
Saturday night's alright (for fighting)
Goodbye yellow brick road
Rocket man
Daniel
Crocodile rock
Bennie and the Jets
Sacrifice
Don't go breaking my heart
I'm still standing
I guess that's why they call it the blues
Honky cat
Song for guy
Someone saved my life tonight
Blue eyes
Nikita
Sad songs (Say so much)

France
Their Top 20 Favourite Songs
Don't let the sun go down on me
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
Sacrifice
I'm still standing
Your song
Song for guy
Can you feel the love tonight
Don't go breaking my heart
I guess that's why they call it the blues
Nikita
Blue eyes
The one
Daniel
Saturday night's alright (for fighting)
Sad songs (Say so much)
Someone saved my life tonight
Candle in the wind
Crocodile rock
Rocket man
Something about the way you look tonight

Germany
Their Top 20 Favourite Songs
Don't let the sun go down on me
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
Candle in the wind
Sacrifice
Daniel
Crocodile rock
Don't go breaking my heart
I guess that's why they call it the blues
Nikita
Your song
Blue eyes
Rocket man
I'm still standing
Goodbye yellow brick road
Sad songs (Say so much)
Saturday night's alright (for fighting)
Song for guy
Something about the way you look tonight
Can you feel the love tonight
Kiss the bride

Holland
Their Top 20 Favourite Songs
Don't let the sun go down on me
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
Your song
Daniel
Sacrifice
Nikita
Song for guy
Don't go breaking my heart
Crocodile rock
Can you feel the love tonight
Blue eyes
I guess that's why they call it the blues
Candle in the wind
Circle of life
Goodbye yellow brick road
I'm still standing
Rocket man
The one
Someone saved my life tonight
Something about the way you look tonight

Italy
Their Top 20 Favourite Songs
Don't let the sun go down on me
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
Daniel
Crocodile rock
Don't go breaking my heart
The one
Your song
Candle in the wind
Rocket man
I guess that's why they call it the blues
Blue eyes
Sacrifice
Sad songs (Say so much)
Whatever gets you thru the night
Song for guy
Saturday night's alright (for fighting)
Nikita
I don't wanna go on with you like that
Can you feel the love tonight
Someone saved my life tonight

Switzerland
Their Top 20 Favourite Songs
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
Don't let the sun go down on me
Your song
Sacrifice
Nikita
Crocodile rock
Can you feel the love tonight
Don't go breaking my heart
I'm still standing
Blue eyes
Candle in the wind
I guess that's why they call it the blues
Daniel
Sad songs (Say so much)
Rocket man
Something about the way you look tonight
Circle of life
The one
Written in the stars
Flames of paradise

Spain
Their Top 20 Favourite Songs
Don't let the sun go down on me
Crocodile rock
Candle in the wind
Rocket man
Daniel
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
I guess that's why they call it the blues
Don't go breaking my heart
Your song
Nikita
Goodbye yellow brick road
Sacrifice
Saturday night's alright (for fighting)
Whatever gets you thru the night
I'm still standing
Someone saved my life tonight
Song for guy
Sad songs (Say so much)
The bitch is back
Bennie and the Jets

Norway
Their Top 20 Favourite Songs
Don't let the sun go down on me
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
Crocodile rock
Daniel
Sacrifice
Rocket man
Can you feel the love tonight
Your song
Goodbye yellow brick road
Nikita
Candle in the wind
Don't go breaking my heart
I guess that's why they call it the blues
Blue eyes
Honky cat
Something about the way you look tonight
Saturday night's alright (for fighting)
I'm still standing
The one
Whatever gets you thru the night

Sweden
Their Top 20 Favourite Songs
Don't let the sun go down on me
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
Sacrifice
Can you feel the love tonight
Nikita
I guess that's why they call it the blues
Circle of life
Your song
Candle in the wind
Don't go breaking my heart
The one
Daniel
Whatever gets you thru the night
Blue eyes
Something about the way you look tonight
Song for guy
I'm still standing
Rocket man
Bennie and the Jets
Crocodile rock

Australia
Their Top 20 Favourite Songs
Don't let the sun go down on me
Candle in the wind
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
Your song
Crocodile rock
Daniel
Don't go breaking my heart
Goodbye yellow brick road
Rocket man
Song for guy
I guess that's why they call it the blues
Bennie and the Jets
Sacrifice
Blue eyes
I'm still standing
Saturday night's alright (for fighting)
Nikita
Someone saved my life tonight
Philadelphia freedom
Tiny dancer

New Zealand
Their Top 20 Favourite Songs
Don't let the sun go down on me
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
Candle in the wind
Your song
Goodbye yellow brick road
Crocodile rock
Bennie and the Jets
Saturday night's alright (for fighting)
Rocket man
Daniel
I guess that's why they call it the blues
Don't go breaking my heart
Someone saved my life tonight
Philadelphia freedom
Can you feel the love tonight
Sacrifice
Honky cat
I'm still standing
Song for guy
Nikita

Japan
Their Top 20 Favourite Songs
Your song
Daniel
Crocodile rock
Something about the way you look tonight
It's me that you need
Border song
Rocket man
Honky cat
Don't let the sun go down on me
Goodbye yellow brick road
Candle in the wind 1997
Candle in the wind
Skyline pigeon
Saturday night's alright (for fighting)
Someone saved my life tonight
The one
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
Can you feel the love tonight
Levon
I guess that's why they call it the blues

Top20 Albums
The Most Present On The Albums Released (Not Only By Elton)
Your song
Rocket man
Daniel
Crocodile rock
Don't let the sun go down on me
Candle in the wind
Goodbye yellow brick road
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
Bennie and the Jets
Saturday night's alright (for fighting)
Honky cat
Philadelphia freedom
Don't go breaking my heart
The bitch is back
Someone saved my life tonight
Border song
I'm still standing
Tiny dancer
Blue eyes
Sacrifice

Top20 Covers
The Most Covered By Other Artists
Your song
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
Daniel
Candle in the wind
Rocket man
Don't go breaking my heart
Can you feel the love tonight
Goodbye yellow brick road
Don't let the sun go down on me
Crocodile rock
Blue eyes
I guess that's why they call it the blues
Bennie and the Jets
Song for guy
Circle of life
Sacrifice
Take me to the pilot
Saturday night's alright (for fighting)
Border song
Nikita

Top20 Live
The Most Played Live
Your song
Rocket man
Bennie and the Jets
Daniel
Don't let the sun go down on me
I guess that's why they call it the blues
Philadelphia freedom
Saturday night's alright (for fighting)
Tiny dancer
Candle in the wind
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
The bitch is back
I'm still standing
Take me to the pilot
Funeral for a friend / Love lies bleeding
Crocodile rock
Levon
Someone saved my life tonight
Goodbye yellow brick road
Honky cat

Top20 Eltonites
"The All-Time Favourite By Eltonites"
Your song
Don't let the sun go down on me
Candle in the wind
Rocket man
Bennie and the Jets
Crocodile rock
Daniel
Goodbye yellow brick road
Don't go breaking my heart
Sacrifice
Someone saved my life tonight
I'm still standing
Saturday night's alright (for fighting)
I guess that's why they call it the blues
Can you feel the love tonight
Sorry seems to be the hardest word
The one
Philadelphia freedom
Tiny dancer
Nikita

Paul Bacon, or when the difference is hard to find

Hello Eltonites!!! That's the end of the season and I thought about inviting someone very special. It's truly amazing to see him perform and he does it very well. You can close your eyes and listen: complicate to find a difference. I am so glad to invite him here, please, eltonites, a big applause for the fantastic and incredible: Paul Bacon!!!!!

Thanks so much for the acceptation, an honour to have you here, Paul. How much of a pressure is it imitating a celebrity of Elton’s status? Is it difficult to copy and why?

I am first and foremost a massive Elton John fan and have been since the early 1970’s. I have always loved his music and followed his career. This is just as well, because when I perform people do interact with me as though I am actually Elton! Of course 99% of people know I’m not really Elton, however I guess they like to enter into the spirit of the occasion!

It does give me a tiny insight into what it must be like to be celebrity of Elton’s stature, as everyone recognises Elton even if they are not necessary a fan of his music. So posing for photos with people and answering ‘Elton based questions’ has become a part of the job!

I’ve always looked a little like Elton, and I have a similar tone of voice, so I don’t have to alter my appearance too much to look like him and I talk and sing in my normal voice when performing, although of course I copy Elton’s style of singing to the best of my ability.

Having literally grown up listening to Elton’s music and watching him perform, I think I have ‘absorbed’ some of his on-stage persona. I don’t try to present a ‘caricature’ of Elton, or indeed send him up in any way. As well as being a fan, I have too much respect for him to do that. For me it’s about celebrating and sharing Elton’s music in the very best way that I can.

So when did you become an Eltonite, then? Remember the first time you heard Elton's music and what moves you to buy his music?

The first time Elton’s music had a major impact on me was when I first heard the Goodbye Yellow Brick Road album in late ’73 or early ’74, when I was 12 or 13 years old. I must have heard Elton on the radio before that (Crocodile Rock, Daniel, Rocket Man), but when I heard Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding for the first time I was completely mesmerized! GYBR became the first album I owned, and then I began collecting Elton’s earlier albums – Don’t Shoot Me, Madman, Honky Chateau, etc. I got hold of a tape of Tumbleweed Connection and practically wore it out!

From that point forward I bought Elton’s albums as they were released, with Captain Fantastic and The Brown Dirt Cowboy becoming my favourite, as it still is.

It’s very difficult to explain why a particular artist moves you. Elton is of course an incredible songwriter, great musician, wonderful singer and amazing performer, yet he also has that indefinable quality that very few artists possess.

Does he know about you, or don't you know?

I’ve no idea if Elton has heard about me. I’ve not received any flowers, so I guess not!

Hahahaha ;-)

Seriously, I would be very surprised if he has, as he is always incredibly busy and as we know he is not a fan of the internet.

Sure. Have you ever been mistaken for Elton? Some funny anecdote to share with us?

I recently went to see Elton and his band perform at Hatfield House as part of the Magic FM Summer Live Concert here in the UK. I was persuaded by friends to dress as Elton but didn’t anticipate how many people at the concert would want to have a photo taken with me! In fact I got so many requests that we quickly decided to raise money for the Magic FM Cash for Kids appeal that was featured at the event, by asking for a donation for a photo. I don’t know exactly how much we raised for the charity, but I’m sure it was easily over £200. Of course most of the people knew that I wasn’t the real Elton, however one or two thought I was and also asked for an autograph! I declined politely (I don’t sign autographs as Elton, that would be wrong!)

Although of course I am presenting myself as Elton when I perform, I do feel slightly uncomfortable when people believe I am actually Elton!

How do you choose the set list and which songs become a part of the set? Any obscure song, you play?

The set list is dependant upon the occasion and how long I’m asked to play for. If I’m only playing for thirty minutes or one hour, my problem is not what to play, but what to leave out! I guess just like when Elton performs there are certain songs that the audience want and expect to hear, for example Rocket Man, Candle in the Wind, Crocodile Rock, Your Song etc. However, if I am doing a two hour set I have the flexibility to add one or two lesser known songs (I mean lesser known to non Eltonites!). I love singing Someone Saved My Life Tonight, Original Sin or Sartorial Eloquence, and also songs like Empty Garden, Pinky, I Need You To Turn To, Captain Fantastic… You see the problem! It’s nice when I do get asked to play a certain song, for example I do sometimes get requests for Skyline Pigeon, Mona Lisas and Mad Hatters, Little Jeannie, Blues for Baby and Me, Cold as Christmas, and even recently, Chloe. I know these are not particularly obscure songs to ‘Eltonites’, but to a non Elton audiences they might be unfamiliar. No one has requested Regimental Sergeant Zippo yet!

Don’t give ideas, Paul hehe. And how do you manage to get your costumes?

I’ve had some of my costumes made for me, however I did buy three suits from Elton and David’s ‘Out the Closet’ sale in London in December 2009. In particular two beautiful silk Versace suits from I guess the 1990’s. I was pleasantly surprised to find that they were a perfect fit! I also bought several pairs of shoes at the same sale, including a wonderful pair of Versace boots.

It was a great way to get some authentic ‘Elton’ clothing and to support the EJAF at the same time. I hope they have another sale soon!

Time permitting, I try to make at least one costume change during a show.

Explain to us a bit about the Blue Moves band, the band you travel with. How many gigs do you play in a year?

I’m very lucky to know a group of great musicians who have totally got into the spirit of playing Elton’s music. They were not necessarily all dedicated Elton fans when we started, but through working on the songs and gigging they have now become big fans of his music.

For example when we began to rehearse Tiny Dancer, the band was not so familiar with it, however now if I suggest leaving it out of the set due to time restraints they complain!

I play far more gigs on my own than with the band, (seventeen over the past two months) but that is changing I’m delighted to say. Playing Elton’s music with a full live band is a fantastic experience.

As well as playing clubs and corporate events, we have also performed at music festivals and indeed will be appearing on the main stage at this year’s Tribfest in August in Yorkshire, England - which has become Europe’s largest tribute festival attracting some 5,000 people. So that should be fun!

Have you taken your act overseas yet?

Not yet, but we would certainly love to. There are opportunities in the pipeline to visit France, Spain, the US, and maybe even Barbados! With Elton being a global superstar, the world is our oyster!

What kind of place do you see for Elton John in the History of Rock Music?

As a fan I may be biased, but I really do see Elton John up there with Elvis and The Beatles. His record sales and popularity speak for themselves. After over 40 years in the music business he is still able to sell-out venues, including stadiums, all over the world.

Elton has produced some of the most recognised and best loved popular music ever written. His awards, including an Oscar, are too numerous to mention.

Although supremely talented as a songwriter, musician, singer and performer, Elton has also become a global figure not only respected for his music but also for his commitment to his aids foundation and other causes.

You have a highly recommended website on http://www.ultimateelton.com/ What could we find there?

My website is designed to give people an insight into what I do as an Elton John tribute artist. Visitors can see what I look and sound like. I have also recently added a diary to enable visitors to see where and when I am performing.

It is also a way for people to contact me or indeed leave messages and/or feedback.

Fantastic! Oh, finally, your favourite top 5 Elton John songs, in running order, please, for my all songs list?

Someone Saved My Life Tonight
Your Song
Tiny Dancer
I’m Still Standing
Don’t Let The Sun Go Down On Me

Would you want to add some observation or suggestion, or something you want to say to other eltonites?

I consider myself very lucky to be doing what I do. As well as the opportunity to sing all my favourite songs, I also get the chance to meet fellow Elton fans and share the love and appreciation that we all have for Elton and his music.

Let’s all hope that Elton keeps doing what he’s doing for many years to come, because nobody does it better!

Thanks so much, Paul, for sharin' your time with us. It's amazing to see one of us playin' Elton on stage with that success, and also it's an opportunity to listen songs live that Elton has no intention to do in his performances. Oh, but before you go, I have people here who kindly agree to send you their salutations. Please, Stuart, Tony, Will, it's your turn.

Stuart Epps, record producer: "I've known Elton for over 40 years and this guys is as close as you can get both in voice and in Looks"

Tony Wood, playmate: "Paul is a great Elton tribute. Looks and sounds like the man and I am pleased to be part of the band playing with him :)"

Will Howes, video producer: "Working with Paul Bacon is a joy. He is such a fun guy and is unbelievably similar to Elton, the way he speaks, sings and the small manorisms are spot on. Paul came to me in 2009 and we had a meeting in a local pub about his plans for 'Ultimate Elton'. I was happy to oblige and thought it would work perfectly. He knows the ins and outs of Elton and owns some of Elton's actual outfits (as seen in the video) so it was exciting to work on the video. We filmed the 'Im Still Standing' video in Bournemouth, England and tried to make it have that same feel of the original video but at the same time to create something fresh and original. It was a wonderful day and many people mistook him for being the real Elton. Since then Paul has been touring the UK with his act at events and festivals. I am also currently editing the second video for 'Ultimate Elton.'"

Thank you Stuart, Paul and Will. I truly recommend Will Howes' work, along with Greg Holgate, an up and coming student comedy duo producing video content for the world wide web, that's on:

http://www.youtube.com/user/HolgateAndHowes

Bye to all, have a good holidays the ones they have, and my best wishes for everybody. See you in September!!!

Pictures courtesy of Paul Bacon

Ultimate Elton: looking and sounding like his idol

"I just saw him live in Thame, brilliant !!! just like being with my old mate, great band too". When record producer Stuart Epps says words like these of a new talented artist, we must take a listen. And the listen is surprising: he has an extraordinarily similar singing voice to Elton’s. But more than this, his staging is fantastic, including all the costumes needed to reflect Elton’s flamboyant stage presence and style. Some tribute artists look like their idol, he sounds like his idol. Paul Bacon aka Ultimate Elton, is a lifelong Elton John fan. He first started singing and performing Elton’s songs whilst studying Performing Arts at University, in the early 1980’s. Having worked in the corporate events industry for almost 20 years, producing everything from sales conferences, product launches, awards ceremonies... he decided at the start of 2009, to do something completely different and invested his time and money in creating the Ultimate Elton John tribute. Since that time, the shows have got bigger, the costumes more spectacular and the platforms even higher. He is available for shows both large and small, including themed parties, corporate events, weddings and all family celebrations. Also, he has been delighted to help with Children in Need, Help for Heroes, and the London and Slough run for homeless people. He performs solo with backing tracks for a ‘full band’ sound, or with his four-piece band, Blue Moves, for a fully live sound with drums, bass guitar, keyboards and lead/rhythm guitar. The set list comprises an extensive repertoire from every period of Elton’s career: since hits like "Can You Feel The Love Tonight", "Philadelphia Freedom" or "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road" to tracks like "Teacher I Need You", "Made In England", "Blues For My Baby And Me" or "Cold As Christmas", for example. "It's an absolute joy to perform so many wonderful songs including Crocodile Rock, Rocket Man, Your Song and Candle in the Wind" he explains, while adding "as well as other classics such as Tiny Dancer, Honky Cat, Daniel, I’m Still Standing, Don’t let the Sun go Down on Me and Bennie and the Jets, and to share in the love and appreciation that audiences have towards Sir Elton and his music". His new music video "I'm Still Standing", created by Paul Bacon, Lucina Pearson & Will Howes, is available on:



Join us to the weekend of... Paul Bacon!!! We gonna have fun!!!

The Eltonites Day With... Andreas Moland Bendixen!!!

Hi Eltonites!! Today is a very special day. I've been so lucky to meet eltonites around the world, as I did with our guest today. The day he was born, Elton was delivering a succesful concert in Pittsbourgh, PA, as part of The Breaking Hearts Tour, with memorable pieces like "One More Arrow", "Who Wears These Shoes" or "Kiss The Bride". No Jack Rabbit, you didn't have to go to Scandinavia this time, our guest is living here, in our country. My God! Well as I've been saying, our guest is a very special person, an extraordinary man. Good sense of humour, loyalty until the end to Elton, and frank talk. So, while Old Rabbit is in Scandinavia, let's open the AllSongList doors open-wided to receive the one and only, the incredible... Andreas Moland Bendixen!!!

Hello, Andreas. Thanks so much for the acceptation and welcome to the blogsite. I am so proud to have you here and nice to see you again. Could you tell us, please more, who are you?

Thanks Miquel for letting me participate on your great webside! My name is Andreas and I was born in the south of Norway 27 years ago. I moved to Catalunya in 2008 after I met my Catalan girlfriend, Mariona.

Great! When did you became an Eltonite? Remember the first time you heard Elton's music and what moves you to buy his music?

The first time I heard, or at least remember hearing Elton’s music, I was making cookies with my mother! I was 10 years old and the songs from “The Lion King” were getting tremendous airplay in Norway, like everywhere else in the world. I had noticed “Can You Feel the Love Tonight” in particular, but had no idea who the artist was. That evening as I was helping my mum with cookies, she asked me to turn some music on the stereo. I asked what she would like to hear. “Elton John” she said. I put on the blue “Very Best of Elton John”, with that awesome picture, and I loved every single song. Later, from my mum again, I learned that the singer from “The Lion King” was the same person, and I realized the man was very, very special.

God bless your mum!

I suppose the central strength, or important talent of any artist is the voice. To me, that might be the strongest point about Elton. He has given us a spectrum of different voices over the years, just listen to an album such as “Jump Up!”. There are at least 3 different voices presented here, and all on one album!

Yes true. What was it like seeing Elton for the first time and how many concerts have you been?

It was more than I expected, for sure! It was in 1995 and I remember thinking that he ROCKED more than I thought he would. He delivered “The Last Song” which he used to do live, and I cried! I didn’t know that song at that point, but that may be the most vivid memory I have from that concert. And it was great to hear “Lies” as well. By next month, I will have seen 22 concerts.

And which could be a great set list, in your opinion? Is there any song that Elton hasn’t played yet, and you think that he should do it?

To me, this is almost impossible to answer. I totally enjoy his shows whatever songs he does. And there are some songs which probably don’t allow themselves being played live. I mean, they don’t go down very well live. Elton has outstanding songs like “Pinky”, “Whispers”, “Two Rooms at the End of the World” or “Princess”, but I’m not sure if they would work live. I suppose Elton and his powerhouse of musicians consider this. However, there are songs I think would work live, songs that he has never played before like “You Gotta Love Someone”, “Shoulder holster”, “Chameleon”, “Blues For Baby & Me”. There are many that he has played at one time or another, that would be nice to see back in the set list, like “I Don’t Wanna Go On With You Like That”, “The Last Song”, “Weight of the World”, “Captain & the Kid”, “All Quiet on the Western Front”, “Live Like Horses”, “This Town” or “Suzie (Dramas)”.

Great list, really! Do you prefer the Elton’s solo tours or better with band? And, for you, which member of the band is (or was) irreplaceable? Miss someone, now?

I like any kind of Elton show. They are different sides of Elton, and they complement each other, I think. Regarding Elton’s band… To be honest, I think Elton’s band is at its best now. Nigel would, however, be sorely missed if he was to leave (again)! To me, Charlie Morgan is a fantastic drummer, but Nigel is more unique, I think. He’s a vital part of the classic “Elton sound”.

Which people related to Elton you have met? Have you ever met Elton?

I have never met Elton. I met Clive Franks in Gothenburg in 2005, and he was very nice and funny. I asked him if he ever got nervous before shows, considering that he has a LOT of responsibility. He said “I’m too drunk be afraid”. He didn’t seem drunk to me though. He seemed like just one of the brilliant people working in the Elton world. I met Davey, and he was very down to earth and simple. He came walking down the street and I could recognize him a mile away! I also met “The Storys” a couple of times in 2007, and talked to the members in the band in a stadium in 2007. They told me that Elton had contacted them while in Las Vegas, but they didn’t really spend a lot of time with him, on or off the road. They also explained that life on the road is not as luxurious as we might think – they got from gig to gig in a private car.

I never asked for a signature or photo of neither Clive, Davey or from members of “The Storys”, but I wouldn’t want to. I chatted with them for some time, until I thought it was time to leave. I respect their privacy, and I respect Elton’s privacy. I try not to be one of those fans who constantly contact the management, or nag people around Elton to meet with Elton, or anything like that. My thinking is that I probably wouldn’t enjoy that pressure from fans too much if I were famous, so I try to see it from Elton’s side. I would never say “I’m Elton’s biggest fan”. There are, as we know very well, so many great fans out there.

As you, my friend. Which is your Elton´s item that you really appreciate, for being hard to get or for the happiness you´ve got to have it?

My girlfriend (who is also an Eltonite) and I have collected a number of things since we became fans. I really like our magazines, and LP singles, and the signatures from different concerts.

Fantastic! And your favourite Elton’s albums? Which are the songs that should have been singles but weren’t?

My favourite album has always been “Captain Fantastic”. It was, for some reason, always easier to decide than my favourite songs. As for songs that should have been singles but weren’t I think a lot of people would agree with me when I say “Harmony”. It might be on of my favourite songs of Elton, but again, favourites are pretty hard to decide. I think “Captain & the Kid” is a great song and should have been released as a single as well. To choose a third, I’d say “High Flying Bird”. There are, however, several songs that were released as a single but for some reason, never made it to the top.

What do you think about the “B” sides? Were they good songs, any in particular?

I think Elton always had a lot of great b-sides, but the best of them for me come from the late 70s and early 80s. Strangers, I Cry At Night, Conquer the Sun, The Retreat, Lovesick, etc. They should be put on several discs, it would be several! It's sometimes a temptation to say, why wasn't "So Sad the Renegade" on "Peachtree Road" or why didn't he put "The Retreat" on "21 at 33". Artistically, they are fabolous songs, but they probably didn't belong, or feel right on these albums. It would be nice, however, to see the official release of "Steal Away Child" and all the rest of the b-sides.

Andreas, what do you have done for Elton and, viceversa, what Elton has done for you?

I always like to mention Elton when the chance comes along. I don’t want to do it too much though, because people might think I’m a total fanatic and would always praise Elton. Spreading the good word, I like to call it! Elton introduced me to real music, since I was 10 years old. I really started appreciating music from that point on. It’s because of him that I started playing the piano, which I love so much. If it hadn’t been for Elton, I wouldn’t have met my girlfriend Mariona.

Nice! What kind of place do you see for Elton John in the History of Rock Music?

I see him at a higher position than what he has. I think Elton is underrated, regardless of all the success he has had. It bothers me sometimes that people see that he’s successful, but that’s it. He is actually a very, very talented musician and deserves to be thus considered. He deserves a position at the highest peak, up there with The Beatles and Wolfgang A. Mozart.

Finally, could you tell me your five favorite Elton's songs in running order, for my AllSongsList?

Yes, this is a difficult question. I’d say Bennie & the Jets, Empty Garden, We All Fall In Love Sometimes, The One and Cold.

Thank you. Apart from music, which are your interests? What you like to do with your off time?

I love music and I play the piano. As well as The Beatles, Billy Joel, Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen and many other artists, I’m a big fan of Woody Allen. I also love bicycling and spending time with my girlfriend.

Thanks so much for sharin' your time with us, Andreas, it has been a pleasure. Send me Old Rabbit when you come to Norway. Take care, all the best.

The Eltonite's Day: Wembley 75!!!

Jack Rabbit strikes back (again)! There’s no better way to start doin' an Eltonite’s Day. Now, this time, on The Bay of Plenty! God, what a nice place to start, Rabbit. Located at the entrance to one of the largest natural harbours in New Zealand and nestled beside the magnificent Mauao (Mount Maunganui), Tauranga shows its splendor. Old Rabbit is looking for someone who has as a favourite quotation as follows: “The world is changing, we're getting older, simple things are hard to find, hope they remember what we did here, the ones we leave behind”. Very nice words, Rabbit. Another clue? “I don't feel it, I don't act my age & I certainly don't look it (according to others lol)”. Today's guest is someone very special. The doors of AllSongsList are all wide-open to receive the fantastic: Wembley75!!!

I love your country, nice place, that's paradise. I am truly happy to have you here, thanks for your acceptation. But first.... Could you tell us more, please, who are you?

Thank you Miquel for an invitation to your wonderful Eltonite’s Day pages, it’s a real pleasure. Hi I’m Tracy (Stent), Eltonites might know me better as Wembley75. I was “Made In England” & moved with family to New Zealand in December 1975. I remember thinking that’s ok, Elton tours down under & I’d already heard about the February ’74 tour, fisticuffs & all !! Little did I know it would be 5 ½ years before I was able to see Elton live again. In fact my dad beat me to it in 1979 when he visited family in Perth, Australia & got tickets to Elton with Ray Cooper. I’ve never forgiven myself for not going over (too old to holiday with mum & dad haha) but Dad did bring me back the programme.

Upps!! Almost you had the programme. And when did you become an Eltonite? Remember the first time you heard Elton's music and what moves you to buy his music?

Growing up I listened to a variety of my parents records from The Beatles to Sinatra, Streisand, The Stones, Simon & Garfunkel, Diamond, Dusty, Peggy & Ella, stage shows like West Side Story & Carousel & classical pieces like Ravels Bolero & Tchaikovsky 1812 Overture. As a teen I loved the “glam” rock bands like Slade, Sweet, Wizzard, Gary Glitter, T-Rex, Suzi Quatro before I’d heard of Elton John. I should thank my parents as they bought Don’t Shoot Me for my 15th birthday in March ‘73 as I loved Crocodile Rock & I was hooked. Mum religiously bought Melody Maker newspaper & I would read it after her so I knew the GBYBR release date & still remember as if it were yesterday, Mum & I had a shopping trip to town just so I could buy the album. I had never seen such an amazing tri-fold sleeve & the illustrations were fabulous. I traced the front cover drawing, coloured it in & stuck it on my bedroom wall alongside my collection of Elton John posters & newspaper cuttings. My bedroom looked just like Mandy Moore’s one in the clip “Original Sin” with the white furniture, a turntable & many of the same posters !! By the end of 1973 I had all of Elton’s back catalogue LP’s & like many of us Eltonites have never missed a release date since.

Oh, great!!! Your first concert experience was the debut of the Rock Of The Westies band at Wembley Stadium, in 1975, where Elton played “Captain Fantastic” album in his entire order for the surprise of the public. What do you remember of that gig and how many concerts have you been after that?

Three friends from college & myself set off early travelling first by train then on two tube lines to Wembley, the journey took around two hours. London had put on one of it’s best days of summer & I remember the two white towers looked phenomenal glistening in the sun as we walked up to the main entrance, I’d only seen them on TV before then. We arrived around 11 in the morning, the gates had opened at 10 & there were already a number of people there, especially on the grass arena, we had purchased tickets in the stand for 3 pounds & 50 pence!! At midday the show got underway. We had a blast, the sound was fantastic & I could hardly believe I was amongst a crowd in a stadium supposedly holding 100,000 people. Later I believe that figure was revised down to 75,000. The Eagles were amazing & the first time I had heard their music. The Beach Boys definitely stole the show with hit after hit that everybody knew, playing in that late (hot) afternoon sun was perfect …just had to close your eyes & imagine surfing in Southern Cali-for-nia !!! CFATBDCB was released four weeks before Wembley & I had learnt every song but I don’t recall if I knew ahead of time that Elton would play the complete album. I was very happy to hear all the new songs live - thanks Elton !! I didn’t notice a mass walkout like the media reported because people were unfamiliar with Elton’s new album. The crowd seemed to come & go all day around us, for toilet breaks or for food & drink & sitting on the terraces wasn’t very comfortable for long periods. Sadly I did not take a camera & very few photos have emerged since but there is a black & white picture published in Caleb Quaye’s book A Voice Louder Than Rock & Roll. Taken by Roger Pope behind his drum kit of Caleb on stage & the crowd looks packed pretty tight & I recently found an awesome photo on Flickr which proves how tight & how hot from the number of topless guys (& gals?):

http://www.flickr.com/photos/8021817@N07/4446820605

Unlike many Eltonites I ’m still in single figures for EJ gigs I‘ve attended. Sadly I have only been to 8 concerts since Wembley, all in New Zealand: 1980/82/84, 1990/93/98, 2006/08. But I’m very excited to be going on my first “Elton roadtrip” in Australia later this year, by passing Dunedin for Hunter Valley & two shows in Melbourne which will bring my count to 12. Those eighties gigs were really something else, so fast paced. I loved Elton's energetic piano antics & jamming with the band.

So wonderful experience, Tracy. Which could be a great set list, in your opinion? Is there any song that Elton hasn’t played yet, and you think that he should do it?

I know how much we all crave the rarities but understand the reasons why we don’t get them often. I feel very blessed Elton is still touring & writing, playing so many different types of show adds variety. The setlist from Elton’s 60th Birthday is pretty amazing. If I could pick 2 songs I’d love to hear live they would be Pinky & Mandalay Again…. Davey, how about a surprise for your Aussie/NZ fans this year? Please !!

Hahaha Davey, you must listen. Precisely, which people related to Elton you have met? Have you ever met Elton?

I have never met Elton or any of the band in person. I do have a relative who whilst holidaying at an exclusive private island on Australia’s Great Barrier Reef discovered Elton was there. It was during one of his breaks from Renate & Elton was taking some R&R & catching up on the England/Australia cricket series. Elton had access to a piano in the bar & did spend time playing it & dining with the other guests. Of course everybody gave him the privacy he was seeking at this time too.

And your favourite Elton’s albums? Which are the songs that should have been singles but weren’t? What do you think about the “B” sides? Were they good songs, any in particular?

Captain Fantastic is my favourite album followed by 17/11/70. Love the B sides, it was magic flipping over a 45 to hear what didn’t make the album cut. I really like I Cry At Night, The Retreat & Conquer The Sun. My favourite is Tortured, an outstanding song that should have been a single. Thank goodness the modern equivalent of flipping it over is bonus tracks or deluxe editions. Mandalay Again should have been a single without question.

For sure! And which is your Elton´s item that you really appreciate, for being hard to get or for the happiness you´ve got to have it?

I am lucky enough to own a programme from the 1972 Royal Festival Hall concert, an Uncle attended. I had no idea it was rare, our friend Paul Purcell confirmed he had never seen one for sale. I have a scarf from Wembley. I recently acquired via a non Elton friend a signed B&W photograph of Elton wearing the Pierrot suit & hat he wore in the Chloe video clip. Photographs I received as a member of the original Elton John Fan Club in the UK are very special too.

Nice items really! And if Paul Purcell told you that, that’s pretty certain for sure. But how it was, and still is, the success of Elton in your country? Which have been his hits in sales terms? And which are New Zealanders's favorite Elton's albums or songs? And could you still hear Elton's music in the radio, nowadays?

Elton John & his music is quite popular in New Zealand but there was little promotion of The Union from what I saw & I didn’t hear any tracks played on the radio. In the past I would say his most successful period in terms of charting was from 1982-1984, a time when he toured often down under. Jump Up went to #1, the first album to do so since CFATBDCB and surprisingly Breaking Hearts peaked at #2. Sleeping With The Past also went to #1. For singles, apart from ‘97 Candle re-release & Don’t Go Breaking My Heart duet, Nikita was the most successful reaching #1 also.

Oh, once you said about some newspapers treating Elton: “No surprise that so far none of our comments have been published yet there is a collection of adverse ones appearing. Typical !! I don't normally like to write on such matters as it's Eltons private life & nothing to do with me but this constant attack that has worsened since Christmas Day needs to be stopped”. That was about the birth of Baby Zachary. Why do you think some journalists lose respect for him?

I actually don’t think it’s a matter of journalists losing respect for Elton, in my opinion they have little respect for those in the public eye to begin with. They lie low in the gutter (lol) ready to pounce on any story they can lay their hands on, no matter how bizarre or untruthful. I made the comment you quote on instinct, like any mother wanting to protect her child & assuming that Zachary will one day read about his birth, some of the comments were deplorable. Sadly nowadays people can type what they want whilst hidden behind their keyboards and in the case you mentioned only comments backing up the viewpoint of the journo were being published.

Finally, could you tell me your five favorite Elton's songs in running order, for my AllSongsList?

Varies according to my mood but nearly always in the top five are: Someone Saved My Life Tonight / High Flying Bird / Harmony / Live Like Horses / The One …….is that five already, I could go on?

Hahahaha Thank you. Apart from music, which are your interests? What you like to do with your off time?

I love reading especially non fiction, listening to music (Robbie Williams, Queen, Coldplay, EJ & Adele in the player this week) & we have two teenage boys which keep me very busy. My other passion is following motorsports (WRC, MotoGP, SBK, Indy, F1) & if I had the money I would like to travel the world to watch races & Elton concerts.

Oh, that would be a dream come true! Would you want to add some observation or suggestion, or something you want to say to other eltonites?

I love to correspond with Eltonites around the world & it’s fantastic to hear all their stories & share photos especially from the tours, almost as good as being there. Paul P. summed it up recently by saying there is not one person we know of that won’t be seeing Elton at some stage this year, long may it continue. Thank you Elton & Bernie for being my original sin !!

Thanks for all, Tracy, really a pleasure to chat with you. Doing this interview with you it was an enjoyable and worth experience. Thank you again and my best wishes for the future. Take care.

pictures courtesy of Tracy Stent

April Fool's Day

When the western world used the Julian calendar, the year began on March 25th because they celebrated the start of a new year with the start of spring. That all changed in the 1500s, when we switched to the Gregorian calendar, moving the New Year to the first of January, without realizing Elton was born precisely on the 25th (just joking). However, people who insisted on celebrating the “old” New Year became known as April fools, and it became common to play jokes and tricks on them. It has been very usual to see newpapers and websites trying to trick us, but... without success?

Hercules website announced that "Elton and David have decided to chose one huge Elton fan as godparent for their son Zachary", inviting to send an application and a picture of the interested making sure to persued the parents "why you should be the one to join their inner circle in being a godparent of their son". An april fools day joke, of course. That was not the first year they tried to trick the community, always with a good sense of humour and a brilliant well researched ideas. For example, in 2009, they talked about Elton's intention to do his New Year's Eve concert in the south Pacific Ocean, at the Tonga Islands. A dreamed concert, with four parts: Elton would start with a solo set (approx. 30 minutes) before being joined on stage by percussionist Ray Cooper for the second part of the show (approx. 45 minutes), then be completed by the Elton John Band for a third set of approx. one hour and, for the last part, which would begin shortly before midnight, Billy Joel would added to their grand finale, as they did on their "Face to Face" tour. Also, "some of the big cruise ships, including the Queen Mary 2, would planned to drop anchor at the time of the show, allowing their passengers to watch the concert from the comfort of their luxury cabins with balconies or from the deck of the ships". Another, in 2004, lots of fans called a faked phone number in Las Vegas and sang their heart out to meet Elton in Las Vegas. Only what they had to do, was "identify the two Elton John songs in which you can find "Caeasars Palace". In other words, there is one song with the term 'Caesar's' in the lyrics, and one Elton John song that contains the term 'palace'".

eltonjohnworld is another of the referenced websites we have. They made go crazy old rabbit in 2003 searching for a "new duet" Elton and Mick Jagger announced to record that same year. "Upbeat", the track, it would have been composed by the two artists plus Bernie's lyrics, with proceeds going to a "yet-to-be-announced" charity. Jagger compared it as "the sounds of Caribbean clubs he visits" explained the Stone with satisfaction. Another great one happened in 2004, when "Elton would have been meeting with Calvin Klein designer to promote the new red piano masculine fragance to include citrus and forest highlights", it sounded good afterall. Don't forget Elton would "do a song for a tv advert". In 2005, they announced Elton was thinking about his next album "he could deliver a rock and roll beat album learning to play a bit of guitar", for the ocasion, he could have a teacher, Burton Dale, recommended by BB King. Also, in 2006, Elton discussed "changing his red piano up on ebay to raise founds for a pink piano", the reason was "he believes is more soothing".