Unforgettable Video Guests: Remember Them? (& Part Three)

"To make a chain of fools / You need a matching pair" reads the lyrics of "Passengers" (1984). Not habitual to see Bernie Taupin on an Elton's video, but a cameo appearance was due this time. Directed by Simon Milne in St. Tropez, France, the success of the video meant the success of the single in music charts. Passengers where black people of South Africa who were literally passengers on a train, traveling from desolates homelands to their jobs. Bernie caught the idea and symbolized a route to the freedom. The anti-apartheid message of the song is well reflected on the video, where dancers in half-black/half-white faces are dancing along Elton, who's playing a kind of cross-cultural facilitator between different cultures. Also, it was funny to see Elton dangling from an helicopter.

Born in 1950, Bernie Taupin grew up in the Lincolnshire region of the north of England. Taupin is best known for his 40-year collaboration with Elton John, although he has released several solo albums and has written lyrics for others. Taupin's association with John has made him one of the most prolific lyricists of the 20th century. Also, he has expanded his artistic horizons and found it's way onto the canvas.

A word spoken in another language, on an imagined movie scene, brought a girl to tears. "A Word In Spanish", the multi-coloured video, directed by Russell Mulcahy, find Elton on the street, singing in the background, as two good-looking latino boys are fighting for the girl.

George Perez was born the seventh son of nine siblings in Tijuana, Mexico. He was accepted into the Los Angeles High School of the Performing Arts at 15 years old. While attending school, he was discovered by Kenny Ortega, Director and Choreographer of the "High School Musical" franchise. That same year he also appeared in his first break out role as the lead in Elton John’s music video “A Word in Spanish", and a string of guest starring roles followed on hit TV shows like "China Beach, "ER", "JAG", and "Walker Texas Ranger."

Born in Puerto Rico, Remmy Palacio is a multi-talented entertainer, mastering a variety of instruments and writing his own music. In 1986, Remmy and two other musicians created the group “Nice N Wild”, whose album "Energy, Love & Unity" produced two 1 radio hits: “Diamond Girl” and “Oh Baby”. He studied under choreographer Vince Patterson, who choreographed Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal”. Remmy also studied with Kenny Ortega, known for his choreography in “Dirty Dancing” and many other music videos. Remmy appeared in two of Ortega’s music videos: “A Word in Spanish” by Elton John, and Chayanne’s “Este Ritmo Se Baila Asi”. Remmy began his career as a soloist in the English market with “Another Lover” an original song of his, and one of the most important hits of his career.

Thomas Jane and Teri Hatcher made a cameo appearance on Elton's video"Turn The Lights Out When You Leave" (2005). The promotional video of the song was lensed by Sam Taylor Wood and reflected the disagreements of a young couple in their relationship. Elton unveiled Hatcher as his celebrity choice for the video because he was a massive fan of the hit show "Desperate Housewifes". Hatcher said she enjoyed every moment of it: "It was really surreal, very arty".

Thomas Jane was born in 1969 in Baltimore, Maryland, USA. He ended up in Hollywood and wound up working the streets, acting mentally disabled and asking for money. Working in local theater productions as well as a few commercials (although the commercials never aired on television) provided money for the bills. Jane first attracted the attention of audiences when he was cast in the starring role of real-life strike writer Neal Cassady in the Sundance-premiered The Last Time I Committed Suicide (1997). He's also best known for The Punisher, Deep Blue Sea, Boogie Nights and Original Sin.

Teri Hatcher was born in Palo Alto, California, USA, in 1964. She studied acting at the American Conservatory Theater in San Francisco while taking a degree course in mathematics and engineering at De Anza College in Cupertino, California. Hatcher went to Hollywood to lend moral support to a friend during a open casting call. She, however, auditioned and won the role of the singing and dancing mermaid for the television series, "Love Boat" (1977). Her portrayal of a divorced mother, "Susan Mayer", was consistently named as America's favorite "Desperate Housewife".

Unforgettable Video Guests: Remember Them? (Part Two)

"Healing Hands", Bernie's update of the Four Tops' "Reach Out I'll Be There", is an anthemic soul number about the redemptive power of love. More than anything, it's a song of resolve and positivity, of never giving up into the darkness. Elton, in need to getting sober and, Bernie, surviving the failure of his second marriage, decided to pay tribute to the black music they grew up with. The video, directed by Russell Mulcahy, features backing vocalists Marlena Jeter, Mortonette Jenkins and Natalie Jackson, in a black and white film. Musetta Vander makes her appearance near the end of the video.

Born Musetta van der Merwe, May 26, 1969, a South African actress and model who is best known for her roles in science fiction and fantasy films. Musetta first notable role was as 'Zander Tyler' in the action-adventure TV series Super Force. Also she's appearing as the "dream girl" in more than 20 music videos for such top recording artists as Rod Stewart, Tina Turner or Chris Isaak. In 1999, she had a supporting role in Barry Sonnenfeld's film 'Wild Wild West' in which she played an assistant to Kenneth Branagh's character, "Dr. Loveless". In 2000, Musetta played a seductive Siren in the critically acclaimed 'O Brother, Where Art Thou?' directed by the Coen brothers.

"Something About The Way You Look Tonight" (1997) featured Sophie Dahl alongside a host of other models including Kate Moss or Cameron Alborzian, and it was filmed during the summer of 1997. It was due to be released as the first single from Elton’s “The Big Picture” album, and promotional copies of the single were issued prior to a planned release in September. The picture to the left features the photo used on the promotional sleeve. The death Princess Diana, changed the course of history. Nonetheless, it remains one of Elton’s more obscure videos - even more bizarrely, the 1998 Japanese reissue of "The Big Picture" features an edited version of the video on the enhanced section of the CD, which fades out before Sophie even makes it on screen! All of Elton’s various Video and DVD collections have neglected to include the song.

Sophie Dahl has successfully transitioned from former model to actress and author. Dahl was born in 1979, the daughter of Tessa Dahl, a writer, and actor Julian Holloway. She was discovered in 1995 on a London Street at 18 by Isabella Blow, a stylist at Vogue; rebels against usual model standards with 38DD bra size. Isabella was awestruck by Sophie's beauty. Soon after, she referred Sophie to Sarah Doukas of the Storm modeling agency in London. Her most famous campaign was with Yves Saint Laurent which was contraversial for her poses. In addition to modeling & acting, Sophie also writes short stories, several of which have been published in various magazines. With Jamie Cullum, they celebrated their wedding at a country house in 2010 following a secretive marriage ceremony.

Paul Reubens appeared in the music video of Elton's single "This Train Doesn't Stop There Anymore", taken from "Songs From the West Coast" album (2001). In the video Paul plays the manager of a younger Elton, who in turn is played by Justin Timberlake. David LaChapelle and Elton created the concept of a nostalgic and moving journey, set in 'Elton world' during the Seventies, recreating a younger Elton in his wild and extravagance life on the road. Near the end of the music video, he is seen opening a door which reveals an implied orgy, white snow flying through the air, and a person in a rabbit suit (all a metaphor for cocaine use). Elton closes the door, and proceeds on to perform a song. The video was shot over two days at the famous Ambassador Hotel in Beverly Hills, Los Angeles, where Presidential candidate Robert Kennedy was murdered in 1968. Timberlake studied videos and archive footage about Elton for weeks to perfect the mannerisms.

Born Paul Rubenfeld on August 27, 1952 in Peekskill, New York, his acting career grew slowly and steadily with small roles in theater productions, gigs at local comedy clubs and four guest appearances on "The Gong Show" (1976). Paul is widely known as starring as Pee-wee Herman, an innocent man-boy who enjoyed playing tricks on his friends, in the CBS live-action children's program, Pee-wee's Playhouse, which lasted several seasons from 1986-1990. He also has appeared in such films as 1996's Matilda, 1999's Mystery Men and 2001's Blow.

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!!!