Elton John's Reflections on David Bowie: A Lifetime of Complexity and Respect

Introduction

Elton John, the legendary British singer-songwriter, emerged as a poignant figure in the aftermath of David Bowie's death. Elton's views on Bowie, both during and after their time as friends, offer a fascinating insight into the personal and professional dynamics of two giants of rock music.

Elton John on Bowie: Death, Class, and Inspiration

Elton John's admiration for David Bowie didn't end with his life. In a touching public tribute, Elton praised Bowie's dignified handling of his passing. He expressed his gratitude, saying, 'Thank God. I knew he had a heart attack on stage in Berlin years ago, but not about the cancer. Everyone else take note: Bowie couldn’t have staged a better death. It was classy.'

Elton also highlighted Bowie's uniqueness as a performer and his inspiring musical talent. He paid tribute to Bowie by singing 'Space Oddity' before performing 'Rocket Man' at one of his concerts. This act not only honored Bowie's musical legacy but also underscored the enduring respect and admiration between the two artists.

Feud and Misunderstandings

Despite their mutual respect and fondness for each other's work, Elton John and David Bowie had their ups and downs. The primary source of tension between them was rooted in personal comments made during an interview with Rolling Stone magazine. Bowie, in a rather dismissive manner, referred to Elton as 'rock n’ roll’s token queen.'

Elton John's reaction to this comment was immediate and emphatic. He stated, 'He once called me "rock n’ roll's token queen" in an interview with Rolling Stone which I thought was a bit snooty. He wasn’t my cup of tea. No: I wasn’t his cup of tea.' This exchange reveals the competitive edge and mutual respect that sometimes resulted in slight clashes between the two.

Beyond the Feud: A Shared Legacy

While their brushes with each other might have been contentious, both Elton John and David Bowie left an indelible mark on the music industry. There are numerous instances where their music intersected, including Elton's cover of 'Space Oddity,' which later became a mark of honor and a sign of respect for Bowie's memory.

In conclusion, Elton John's reflections on David Bowie provide a compelling narrative of mutual respect, admiration, and a complex relationship between two icons. Through their feuds and tributes, both artists continue to inspire music lovers and those who appreciate the diversity and complexity of rock and roll.

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