Saturday, October 4, 2008

Sir Elton John

I passed on an opportunity to see Sir Elton John last week. Elton John played two solo sold out shows within an earshot of here for a cool $150. The ticket price is not what kept me away. I would shell out that kind of money if it were someone I really wanted to see, but I never really considered myself a huge fan of Elton John.

Don't get me wrong, from a classic rock perspective he has recorded some great tracks. Well known songs such as Tiny Dancer, Rocket Man and Levon are just a few that make my favorites list. And being an 80's child, I can also tolerate songs like Sad Songs and Nikita. But now I find myself considering Elton a Disney recording Vegas diva. However, after some thought, maybe I have been too hard on the performer.

There is no denying his accomplishments, and from what I heard of his two performances in my home province, he did not disappoint. Apparently, Elton wowed the audience with his playing, vocals and stage presence. He was not stingy on time either, the total show lasted nearly three hours. Also, on the break before the encore, rather then head back stage, he walked out to the first several rows to sign autographs. This goes totally against my impression of the singer, who I assumed was one of those hands off kind of Diva personalities who you would never get near.

If I had my time back I think I may have shelled out the 150 and took the opportunity to see the legendary performer. I don't think the opportunity will ever come by again. It is unlikely he will come through Atlantic Canada a second time, and I still don't see myself making travel plans around him.

So what are your thoughts on Elton John?

1 comment:

Mr. Mike said...

I'm pretty much in the same boat in respecting Elton John's accomplishments but not necessarily being a huge fan. As a kid I was a big fan, I played Elton John's greatest hits a lot but by the 80's I lost interest other than a song here or there. I could probably list 20 or so songs I think are awesome from Elton John but I rarely go out of my way to play his music. Though if his songs pop up on my IPOD I always enjoy them.