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Elton John Reveals His All-Time Favorite Song: A Classical Surprise
Sir Elton John, a global icon and celebrated figure in the music industry, is renowned for his extraordinary career spanning half a century, marked by numerous pop, rock, and blues hits. However, despite his pop culture superstardom and vast catalog of popular music, the Rocket Man’s most cherished song lies in the realm of classical music.
Early Musical Roots
Before achieving widespread fame, Elton John received formal musical training from the young age of seven. His innate talent was recognized early on by his family, after he began playing his grandmother’s piano.
A Career of Accolades and Collaborations
His illustrious career, now spanning almost sixty years, has cemented his status as one of the most recognizable personalities in contemporary music. He has garnered prestigious cultural awards and collaborated with music luminaries such as Aretha Franklin, George Michael, Kiki Dee, Dua Lipa, and Britney Spears.
Unveiling His Favorite Tune
Yet, away from the dazzling stage presence and lyrical brilliance associated with his pop anthems, Elton John has disclosed that his ultimate favorite piece of music is a classical composition.
In a 1986 interview on BBC Radio Four’s esteemed program, Desert Island Discs, Elton John selected his essential listening – the eight tracks he would hypothetically take if stranded on a desert island.
Embracing Classical Music
“During my time at the Academy, I didn’t particularly enjoy classical music that much. Except, as a pianist, Chopin is captivating to play because of its sheer beauty. But subsequently, I developed a deep appreciation for English classical music, becoming a devoted admirer of Elgar and Vaughan Williams,” he stated.
“And the Enigma Variations accompany me everywhere I travel globally. Whenever I go abroad, I ensure I have a cassette of the Nimrod Variations,” he shared, revealing his chosen piece: Edward Elgar’s ‘Enigma No IX – Nimrod’.
“I simply enjoy sitting, particularly when in the West Indies – where I frequently record – watching the sunset while listening with headphones, gazing out at the sea, and I often find myself moved to tears. I am incredibly emotional.”
Desert Island Playlist Highlights
The diverse selection of tracks that completed Elton John’s Desert Island Discs playlist included:
- Pink Floyd – ‘Shine On You Crazy Diamond’: Described as “a wonderful track” evoking “happy memories.”
- Nina Simone – ‘I Put A Spell on You’: Characterized as a “classic record.”
- The Rolling Stones – ‘Let It Rock’: Labelled a “good rock-and-roll” hit.
- Wham! – ‘Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go’: Deemed “astonishing.”
John Lennon’s Influence and Other Musical Choices
John Lennon’s ‘Stand By Me’ also featured, prompting Elton John to recall: “John possessed an extraordinary ability to connect with people from all walks of life, regardless of their background or musical inclinations. He could enter a room full of strangers and genuinely engage with everyone, showing sincere interest. I admired that quality immensely. He was incredibly kind to people. While he had a reputation for being eccentric and even unkind, I personally never witnessed that side of him.”
Rounding out his selections were two orchestral and less mainstream pieces: William Henry Monk/Massed Choirs’ ‘Abide With Me’ and Carla Bley Band’s ‘Misterioso’.
Elton John’s Desert Island Essentials: The Complete List
Here is the comprehensive list of Elton John’s Desert Island selections:
- Pink Floyd – ‘Shine On You Crazy Diamond’
- Nina Simone – ‘I Put A Spell On You’
- The Rolling Stones – ‘Let It Rock’
- William Henry Monk/Massed Choirs – ‘Abide With Me’
- Carla Bley Band – ‘Misterioso’
- John Lennon – ‘Stand By Me’
- Wham! – ‘Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go’
- Edward Elgar – ‘Enigma No IX – Nimrod’ (ultimate favourite)