Elton John has been in the music industry for five decades as he recently reached the milestone of 75 years of age, and his status as a singer and songwriter has made millions of people adore him for these years. Even more interestingly, this fame led to a recent film made about Elton John’s entire life. But there’s still more to learn and know about this individual and his successful career. What don’t we know about Elton John? Here are some interesting facts about Elton John for you all to learn today.
Switching Names
As with many other performers and celebrities, Elton John’s real name is a bit different from his chosen name for the stage. His name is actually Reginald Dwight. He wanted something more pronounced for his over-the-top performance persona.
Record Breaker
Breaking records has been a thing for his career, and he holds the most selling single in the UK and US of all time. This single was written originally for Marilyn Monroe then re recorded for Princess Diana’s tragedy and proceeds went to her charities.
Iconic Glasses
Most people wear corrective lenses from being forced, but Elton John wore his as a fashion choice to try to look similar to his idol Buddy Holly. Over time, the singer collected hundreds of pairs and now relies on them for vision needs as well.
Accomplished Pianist
Since age 7, Elton John has been playing piano and learning as much as he can. He even earned himself a scholarship from this at age 11. This led to his comfort in piano playing that assisted his career and nervousness as well as helped his fame.
Where Elton John Came From
At 15, the singer created a band called Bluesology. His legal name change in 1972 was to Elton Hercules John, Elton and John coming from inspiration of his band mates’ names. Hercules was just a flourished addition from him.
Partners By Chance
Bernie Taupin is the songwriter that has been close with Elton John for many years of his career, which actually happened by chance because of the both responding to a record company’s need for songwriters. They later wrote for other labels together.
Writing for Musicals
One of the first major debuts for Elton’s writing work in film was the 2005 musical Billy Elliot which won 10 Tony Awards for its excellence. The music was composed by Elton John himself, and the main character later had a role in Rocketman.
Genre Mix Ups
Hip hop is one genre that has welcomed and used the famous musician’s work in its songs. Elton John has worked with multiple different rappers including Eminem for performances as well as been featured in hip hop songs, grunge rock, and done covers.
Last Tour
Elton’s recent tour was his final goodbye to the music industry, a 300 performance extravaganza across the span of 3 years between 2018 and 2021. This was his way to have a big bang and leave the tour industry in style to spend more time with family.
There’s always something new to read about when it comes to your favorite celebrities and music makers out there, which is why today’s topic was all about some fun facts you may not know regarding the famous Elton John and his life thus far. Some of you out there may know at least a few of tidbits off of this list. But either way, we hope you found these facts about Elton John interesting for today’s discussion. And you can share them with family and friends too!