since 1988

THE MAG

inside this issue: Elton hosts White Tie and Tiara Ball EXCLUSIVE! Interview with EJ sound engineer Clive Franks Elton speaks to press at Hylands House UK Tour review Elton visits Diana’s Grave

PLUS: News, Trivia, Quizzes, Your Elton’s sound engineer Clive Franks proudly points to his Letters & more! copy of Hercules The Mag, minutes before Elton takes the stage at Hylands House, UK September 2000 Issue No: 52 Fanzine of the T SHIRT AUCTION THE MAG Fan Club RESULTS TOUR DATES Issue No. 52 FAN CLUB INFORMATION SEPTEMBER 2000 EUROPEAN SOLO TOUR 16-Nov2000 ...... Antwerp, Belgium Annual membership fee for the UK is £14 if paid by HERCULES Chief Editor Sport Palais Standing Order/VISA/Mastercard. By Cheque/Postal Tammi Law 08-Sept...... Reggio Calabria 49 Horseshoe Crescent, 18-Nov ...... Rotterdam, Order it is £15. For the rest of Europe it is £14, and Peatmoor Italy for the USA it is 17£/US$30. Please note that your Swindon SN5 5AX, U.K. Netherlands, Ahoy Arena Tel. +44 (0)1793 881 264 10-Sept ...... Athens, Greece renewal date is printed on your address label in [email protected] Herodes Atticus Odeon 19-Nov ..Hannover, Germany European format day/month/year. Editorial Assistants: Hercules is a registered member George Matlock, Barbara Turner 13-Sept ...... Lisbon, Portugal Preussag Arena (Expo) of the National Association of Membership passes are available from your local Fan Clubs Design: Turnstyle Design Casino 21-Nov....Frankfurt, Germany HERCULES department: send a small photo of Translations: yourself when requesting your pass. Sabine Asenkirschbaumer Festhalle Mireille Mölbert 15-Sept ...... Marbella, Spain Please don't send enquiries or fan mail to the Elton For subscription details, please 22-Nov..Dortmund, Germany CONTENTS write to your local HERCULES John management, but to HERCULES Coordination. department or to HERCULES Westfalenhalle Letters will be passed on if necessary. Coordinaton: FEATURES 24-Nov....Zurich, Switzerland HERCULES is a quarterly publication released in HERCULES Coordination A Dog Named Johann c/o Stephan Heimbecher In the June issue of The Mag, ELTON & BAND Hallenstadion Sebastian Bach March, June, September and December. In event of Orleansstr. 59 we gave all readers the Kassel (Germany) D-81667 München, chance to send in a postal bid concert review ...... 23 circumstances beyond our control, there is no "GREATEST HITS LIVE" 25-Nov ...... Vienna, Austria GERMANY for two very rare Elton Tour T- Clive Franks interview guarantee for punctual shipment. It is published in Tel. +49 (0)89 48900369 Stadthalle Exclusive interview English and German. Fax +49 (0)89 48900370 shirts. All proceeds from this 18-Oct ...... Wilkes Barre, PA with Elton’s sound [email protected] Auction benefited the Elton 28-Nov ...... Milan, Italy engineer ...... 14 Printed articles do not necessarily reflect the editors' John Aids Foundation. Bids 20-Oct ...... New York, NY HERCULES Fan Adviser Forum Club at the End of opinions. All information is based on the best of c/o Mireille Mölbert were invited in German Madison Square Garden the Street knowledge and belief. Reproductions permitted only Zaunweg 11 currency, and the closing date Look-a-like Ray D-80805 München, was July 31st. 21-Oct ...... New York, NY Johnson recalls a by prior arrangement with HERCULES. GERMANY recent experience...... 18 Tel. +49 (0)89 3244146 Madison Square Garden Congratulations EltonJohn.com Member participation is always welcome. We are [email protected] to the two successful Website overview ...... 7 thankful for your submissions of any kind: reports, HERCULES USA/Canada US SOLO TOUR 2000 c/o Sharon Kalinoski bidders: In His Own Words... articles, photos, drawings, and suggestions. Please P.O. Box 398 Elton speaks to press send them to the Editor, Tammi Law. Please at Hylands House ...... 8 La Grange, IL 60525, USA (CONTINUED) understand that we cannot always publish all [email protected] 1. Sharon Kalinoski, USA Sir Elton 2. Jochen Loh, Germany EUROPEAN SOLO TOUR 2000 Philip Norman’s contributions. All photos will be returned. HERCULES U.K. 05-Dec ...... Johnson City, TN book reviewed ...... 13 c/o George Matlock P.O. Box 315 A T-Shirt has been posted (CONTINUED) Freedom Hall Ten ways to tell... UK Hotline 0906 888 20 20 (60p per minute) Richmond to each of you. ...if you’re too much Surrey TW9 3QX, UK 11-Nov ...... Paris, France of an Elton Fan...... 24 USA/Canada Hotline 815/293 3843 [email protected] All proceeds have been Olympia UK Tour Review ...... 10 Web site http://www.eltonfan.com HERCULES Benelux forwarded to the Elton White Tie and Tiara Ball c/o Arjen Buikstra 13-Nov ...... Oslo, Norway Elton and David COPYRIGHT: HERCULES Sav. Lohmannstr. 1 John Aids Foundation. Furnish host a lavish NL-3214 XA Zuidland Spectrum EUROPEAN TOUR 2001 ball in aid of EJAF ...... 20 Tel. +31 (0)1881 451511 Deadline for Issue No. 53 is 1 November 2000 [email protected] 14-Nov ...... Oslo, Norway 03-April ...... Paris, France REGULARS Assistant: Tim Blezer LYRIC QUIZ ANSWERS Spectrum Bercy Arena Between 17 and 20 No. 53 will be released HERCULES Italy Elton trivia & gossip ..18 December 2000 c/o Luca Zerbini Via Scheiwiller n.9/A 1. Shoulder Holster Club Information ...... 2 I-20139 Milano, ITALY 2. The Scaffold Kaleidoscope Eyes [email protected] 3. Valhalla Please note: This is not an official Tour Schedule, as it contains Part 6 - Elton’s TV HERCULES Francais 4. The Fox unconfirmed dates at time of going to press. and Video Francoise Linden-Gilles 5. Shoot Down The Moon appearances BP-22, B-4900 SPA (The 80s) ...... 17 Belgium 6. The Retreat Letters to the Editor...... 24 [email protected] 7. Made For 8. Tortured Lyric Quiz ...... 13 Front Cover: HERCULES Nordic Urpu Kallio 9. Love So Cold News Bullets ...... 4 Elton on stage earlier this year, with the large video c/o Maria Sjöholm 10. The Camera Never Lies Small ads ...... 26 screen wall behind him. Björkkullavägen 3 A 3 11. Made In England 07880 LILJENDAL 12. Passengers Tour Dates ...... 27 FINLAND 2000 2 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52. September 2000 27 These are free to Hercules members. Send yours to Tammi Law, Editor, 49 Horseshoe Crescent, Swindon SN5 5AX, UK., FROM THE EDITOR... SMALL ADS or e-mail her at [email protected]

ELTON MEMORABILIA: TICKING, TICKING, 'WRAP IT UP' PERMANENT Hercules brings you an offer For Sale: Various Elton HERCULES DISCOUNT Memorabilia. Vinyl, CDs, for the Millennium. Count down manage to see any of Elton's Videos, Books, Magazines, plus to the next Elton concert with Our retail outlet 'Wrap it Up' shows, I'm sure these reports huge archive collection. Danny superb original Elton singles and now gives a 10% discount on all will bring back happy memories made into quartz clocks purchases by 'Hercules' Hayes, 62 Swinley House, from The Original Vinyl Clock Co. of great concerts. Redhill Street, Regents Park, members, just quote your elcome to the We are all looking forward to 7-inch singles £10.99, and albums membership number. To obtain London NW1 4BB, UK. Tel: £14.99, inclusive of UK postage. WSeptember issue of The Elton's new studio , the 0207 387 0082 or e-mail: Overseas orders please add £3. their lists that contain 1000's of Mag. At the time of writing, first for a few years. It is being [email protected] for list. Special Hercules offer waives the Elton items for sale, just write to:- Elton is taking a well-deserved recorded in Atlanta this month normal £3 search fee for Elton 'Wrap it Up', PO Box 220, six week holiday at his villa in (September), but as yet, there is Lincoln, LN1 2RU, England, or e- records. Don't ask for anything the South of France. During the no word on a release date. GERMAN CONCERT PHOTOSobscure - or search fee may apply! mail '[email protected]'. last show before his holiday, at Alternately visit their web site:- We'll keep you informed, and as Other artists available. For more Edinburgh Castle in Scotland, soon as we know we'll put an Selling/trading photos of the info, email: [email protected], http://members.aol.com/eltonwrap concerts in Germany this website: www.vinylclock.co.uk. Elton told the crowd "This is my announcement on our website, summer (revenue will be 140th Solo show." Which is www.eltonfan.com. In fact, the Or write to: Original Vinyl Clock MORE PEN-PALS WANTED: donated to the EJAF). If you are Co, Land of Green Ginger, Hull why we think he deserves his news section of our website gets interested, write to Claudia HU1 2EA, England. Tel: +44 1482 I have been an Elton fan since holiday! updated daily, so it is a good Hochmuth, Otto-Braun- Str. 85, 229966. Please do not send your 1990 when Sacrifice got me In this issue, we are delighted place to keep up-to-date with D-10405 Berlin, Germany; e- orders to Hercules. hooked. I would like an EJ pen- to bring you the first part of an current Elton-related events. mail: [email protected] pal. mle or female. Write to me exclusive interview with Elton's Some of us may be worried ELTON VINYL SINGLES &at: ALBUMS? Liam Harrison, 10 Holdforth long-time sound engineer, Clive that Elton may be working too Close, Leeds, West Yorkshire, Franks. Clive spoke to Hercules hard, but as he told the press CDS LIVE Yes, there are still some LS12 1YD, England during Elton's UK Solo tour in around! Ask for free sales list during the UK leg of the Solo July; and be sure to check out For Sale: Double Cd : Live in from [email protected] or: Tour, he has never felt better. the next instalment of this Brescia 2000. From Elton’s solo Bruno Kohli, Roessliwiese, CH- COMPLETE EJ COLLECTION Read one of the interviews with tour, amazing sound quality. (20 8854 Siebnen, Switzerland interview in our December Elton on pages 8 and 9 of this For Sale - Picture discs, flexi issue. issue. GBP) and All Alone in Baltimora singles, maxi singles, scarfs, (25 GBP). I've many other Elton PEN-PALS WANTED: Many of us have been lucky I hope you enjoy reading this badges, rarities and all official enough to see Elton live this issue of The Mag, as it is my last items for sale. To receive my vinyl albums with original I’m looking for pen-pals from year - he has taken his Solo Tour issue as Editor for a while. I've complete list write to : anywhere in the world, covers. More than 100 items, [email protected] or to DM 1.500 plus postage. For across the USA, and then decided to take a break from the including the USA. Please write extensively into Europe. Some Alessandro Perfumo, str to me at: Melissa Hodges, 10815 more information, contact Peter demanding role as Chief Editor, Maggiora 65, 15011 Acqui Myrtice Drive, Dallas, Texas Kraus, Am Roland 2c, D-40883 of us are beginning to forget to spend some time doing other Terme, Italy. 75228-2623, USA Ratingen, Germany. what it's like to see Elton things. I will continue to perform with the band! contribute articles to The Mag However, there are two very though - I'm not disappearing PLEASE REMEMBER... special shows with the band altogether! I've asked Hercules scheduled to take place in New member and Watford Watch ALWAYS state your membership number York, in October. These will be reporter, David Wright, to take if you send a cheque to Hercules, or pay recorded for both a television over the role as Chief Editor into one of the Club accounts. broadcast, and also a live CD, to from the December issue, so ALWAYS let us know the expiry date of be released later this year. See you'll see a new face on this the card, and the cardholders name. our News section for more page. For now, please continue details. to send your contributions to me Please note that if you have paid your Membership Fee by Credit Card, your card Also, more Solo dates have (address at top of page 2) as will automatically be charged again for the been added for later this year. normal, but this will change renewal fee, at the end of your membership year. If your card has expired in the See our Tour Dates listing on from December onwards. meantime, or if you have switched page 27 for full details. Thank you for all your letters companies, please forward your new Credit Card details to Hercules Coordination in For those of you who missed and contributions over the past time for your next renewal. Elton's shows, there are several three years. reports in this issue - an Happy reading!

Photo: George Matlock Photo: George overview of the UK tour, a personal report by two fans who For up-to-the-minute news about Elton, callers in the UK can phone the handed Elton a special gift on stage in Germany, and some HERCULES Hotline on 0906 888 20 20 more comments on our Letters Calls cost 60p per minute anytime to Editor page. And if you DID Photo: Jimmie Collins

26 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52. September 2000. 3 A SMALL PRIZE TO THE EDITOR WILL BE SENT TO THE WRITER OF EACH LETTER Editor (address on page 2) or e.mail her at [email protected]. Full details of the following news items have appeared on our Website and Hotline PUBLISHED.

ELTON VISITS PRINCESS DIANA'S GRAVEof Diana's FOR dresses. FIRST David TIME looked irst of all I want to say that I love your mag! at the gowns in amazement and FI got my second issue today and I think it's hree years after his tribute to Princess Diana moved a nation said: "She certainly knew how to the best fan club magazine I've ever seen - and is Tto tears, Elton was close to them himself as he made his first wear a frock." But inside the certainly the best one for our Sir Elton that I've visit to Diana's grave, on July 23rd. exhibition Elton avoided the ever read! I've been an Elton fan attention of visitors, smiling and this will never do" and he went quietly moving away. And for 12 years and it never seems into his dressing room, brought outside, where nearly 100 like there's enough to read for onlookers burst into spontaneous Elton fans. out a photo of himself, signed it applause, he politely declined to I was very fortunate to obtain and gave it to Matt to give to me, sign autographs or chat, saying: Elton's autograph through a very along with the paper bag! I've "I'm sorry, this is a private visit." dear young friend of mine in since had both the picture and Two years ago any Elton visit 1992, named Matt Allen. Elton the bag framed. would have seemed improbable. read about him having AIDS and Matt, who was 8, has since Attacking the decision to bury asked him to his show here in died from AIDS, but I'll never Diana at Althorp, he said: "It's Dallas, and gave him a backstage forget the way he and Elton made none of my business, but if I was pass. Well, Elton signed some my life so very happy and I'll going to bury her anywhere I things for Matt, and Matt asked always love both of them for that. would have liked it to have been Elton is every bit the wonderful in Westminster Abbey. People Elton to sign something for me, could say prayers or whatever they and he signed a brown paper bag. and kind man we all thought he wanted. It would be very easy for Matt said "Honest Elton, she was. the boys to go and see her. I think worships the ground you walk Melissa Hodges, Texas, USA it is very hard on them to go and on!" Elton then said "Well then, Elton and Matt Allen visit their mother." Elton and David, accompanied by But a new era began in July It left Elton visibly emotional Diana’s brother, Earl Spencer when Elton and David arrived at am not a member of have wished for - thank you for where a few desperate girls from and often sombre - but upbeat, Althorp in their chauffeur-driven IHercules, but I do visit your those, it’s the nearest I’ve been the local promoter were waiting too. He said: "I'm so glad I came. car. They had lunch with the 36- Website on a very regular basis. to the stage at an EJ concert. for the guys with the tickets! It's very peaceful and lovely, year-old earl and his girlfriend I would just like to say that I also And what a concert! ‘Empty After a wait of about one hour, a restful and so optimistic." Elton, a Caroline Freud, before the visit eltonjohn.com, and that Garden’ and ‘The Greatest car finally arrived - inside: a box close friend of the princess, spent poignant pilgrimage. It left Elton your unofficial site is, in my Discovery’ nearly brought tears to with the awaited tickets! nearly three hours at her final singing the praises of Diana's last opinion, far superior to the my eyes. A superb performance Envelope ripped open: Yippee! resting place, during the weekend resting place at her ancestral official site. In terms of content, from a man who just gets better Front row!!! Into the venue - and of his nearby Castle Ashby shows home. He said: "It's wonderful every time you see him. Thank the seats were just in front of the what has been done here." options and presentation, in Northamptonshire. Hercules totally eclipses you for a great day. piano. It marked a final softening of eltonjohn.com in every way. I Mike Bibby, Stockport, UK. Meanwhile, it started raining - his once bitter view of her island PAVAROTTI AND GEORGE grave on the Althorp estate. Two especially enjoy your 'news' but we could not have cared years ago he said: "I just feel sad His friendship with Diana George Michael performed section which keeps me up to n Friday, 7th July, we less. The show started - Elton that she's on that island - it's as if dated from 1981, when they met "Don't Let the Sun..." duet with date with Elton happenings. Oheaded off to Künzelsau was in a good mood, and I she's all alone again." Elton and at Prince Andrew's 21st birthday tenor Luciano Pavarotti at the Please keep up the good work. at noon. Without tickets - they decided that I would give my gift his partner David were given a party. At her funeral Elton annual charity concert on June 6 Simon Owens, USA had been ordered and purchased to Elton today! If I dared to... tour of the estate by Diana's famously sang his reworked in Modena, Italy. through eltonjohn.com - said to And I did it. Bravely, I walked up brother Earl Spencer. In virtual version of Candle In The Wind. It be front row - but had nothing in to the stage halfway through the silence, they strolled together raised millions for good causes ust a short note to thank CHARTED SUCCESS hand. Could this turn out well? concert - Elton approached me, along a gravel path surrounding when he gave the profits from JHercules for an excellent After a three hour drive we smiled at me, shook my hand Diana's grave before visiting an record sales to the Diana, Princess Elton is among those 17 artists day at Chatsworth on 3rd June. reached a village in the and said "Thank you very much" exhibition dedicated to her. of Wales, Memorial Fund. with a minimum 1 chart entry per The pre-concert entertainment countryside, found the free with his cutest smile. Of course, And Elton allowed himself a As stunned visitors to the year in the German album charts was superb, and to meet all the parking lot and walked to the I was unable to articulate any estate looked on, Elton paused at smile when he caught sight of the between 1990 and 1999. Others other fans was really good. The a temple in her memory and score, signed by himself and include Chris Rea, , Joe event. On our way there, we sensible word, but happily tickets for the concert, bought passed the local soccer grounds floated back to my seat... If I stood for several minutes reading bought at auction last year for Cocker, Mike Oldfield, Queen, through Hercules, were on the messages and floral tributes left £25,300, in a converted Althorp and Mariah Carey. Elton is also - there was Elton's helicopter! At feel like 15 years old during his 3rd row, bang in the middle of the venue, we looked for the concerts (I will soon be 40) then for her. Then he briefly separated stable block now housing Diana among those 7 artists with a the stage, right in line with the from his partner and the earl in exhibits and film memories. minimum 1 chart entry per year in box-office where we were I felt like I was 10 at that great man himself. They were front of the monument and There were smiles too, when the German singles charts supposed to collect our tickets. moment with Elton! bowed his head as if in prayer. Elton and David viewed a gallery between 1990 and 1999. the best tickets anyone could No box-office, just half a tent Patricia Schmidt, GERMANY

4 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52. September 2000. 25 LETTERS 10 ways to tell... Send your letters to Tammi Law, A dog named Johann Sebastian Bach continued in front of greatly picturesque Top 10 ways to tell loved June issue of The HERCULES ON THE RADIOPUPPET ON A STRING? FILMS INSTEAD?! castle Ehrenhof had the if you're too much IMag. I have one question Elton told OK! Magazine why atmosphere of a funeral. It must of an Elton fan... Our UK manager, George Watford FC manager Graham however: on page 9 there is a Matlock, was on BBC Radio he decided to move into film- have been very depressing for Taylor proved more valuable than quiz, “Are You Sure?!” Q7: Northamptonshire, July 21, as his boss, club chairman Elton, in making - because making records Elton. No wonder he did not 10If you could buy a car with How many fish references are well as on BBC Radio Essex with an auction of Spitting Image and touring the world is write a single autograph. all the money you’ve spent there in the song "Solar Prestige Hercules Francais' Fran, July 15, becoming boring. In an interview puppets. Taylor was ridiculed at for the celebrity magazine in Although we - along with on Lalique Angels and A Gammon"? Adam Buckley ahead of the Hylands House the hands of the television another fan - managed to outrun June, Elton said producing his Slatkin candles. answers five. But he didn't show. Tour promoter Marshall satirical puppeteers in the 1990s the security people in order to first picture, Women Talking include Herring ("hair ring") in Arts were generous to provide 2 while England manager. His Dirty, for was like give Elton roses and to shake the front-row tickets to see Elton at 9 If you have ever traveled to his answer. Why not? Is this just puppet fetched £1,472 - more having a three-year pregnancy (!) "Rocket Man's" hand once more, 3 different countries in the Castle Ashby to radio listeners in a sad lack of English fish names than twice the expected price of Elton said he felt compelled to the concert was disappointing to same week to attend Elton a Hercules competition. Radio set up his film company: "You in my poor vocabulary? "Solar £600. “Elton” also sold for more us from the very beginning shows-and did not receive a Essex also attended a UK than his predicted £700, at a final know I'm 53, making records, Prestige" is on the set list of my because we were treated like paycheck for doing so. Convention, and broadcast price of £1,141. doing videos and going on tour, offenders being escorted back by dreams! Hercules members singing live "I which is very nice, but it gets a security guy (who later 8 If you think you have come up Wouldn't you just have Guess That's Why They Call it the boring," he said. "I've always admitted to us that he was not with a logical explanation to LOVED IT if Elton did "Solar Blues". ELTON & BAND loved film, and making them is extremely difficult. It's like having happy with the way things "Solar Prestige A Gammon". Prestige" instead of "Your Song" "THE GREATEST HITS - LIVE"a three-year pregnancy. I love the happened, too. He was merely in a concert? Front row would SATURDAY NIGHT'S challenge, I love creativity and I following his orders.). Mannheim 7 If Dennis and Bruce know you Elton will perform two historic have fainted!! NOT ALRIGHT FOR FIGHTIN' love the arts." Elton also said after was the perfect example of how by name - and are afraid of you. Signe Norbotten NORWAY concerts with the band at New giving up alcohol a decade ago, tight security can ruin a concert. A Canadian Elton fan was York's Madison Square Garden on he had to drop his "hot-headed" October 20/21, 2000. The shows Thank you, Elton, for all those 6 If you listen to Victim of Love any thanks for the "do" awarded $500,000 (£330,850) persona and become a different great concerts which we saw on a regular basis. after being assaulted as she will be entitled "The Greatest Hits person. He described his seven Mat the White Horse pub defended Elton’s honour during a - Live", and they will be recorded years with partner David as the and will surely see in the future. (Hylands House concert, 15 for both a television broadcast We take this for granted. You 5 If the number of emails you concert, reported the National first balanced relationship he has have received from John July). I think it's great to meet Post newspaper, July 5. Shelley and a live album which is been in, and he said: "I have know how happy you make your expected to be released everything I could possibly want fans with such shows and small Jorgenson now are in triple up with the other members Arthur was at a concert in digits. November 13, 2000. Apart from in life." gestures - especially since we before these shows, especially Vancouver when she told Jerry Elton and the band (including for those travelling quite a Wechlin to stop shouting abusive found out that our dog travelled , , OLD FRIENDS 4 If you can name all of Davey’s distance. With Elton in great comments at Elton. After a , , John along in the tour bus after the scuffle, Shelley suffered injuries to show in Kassel. children in chronological order. form in the evening it was an Jorgenson, Curt Bisquera and John Just six months after reuniting her shoulder that have prevented Mahon) fans should expect a few with drummer Nigel Olsson, It would be nice to be able to excellent day all round. her from working since the see more shows with such little 3 If you have ever had an Elton Now I'm home I can give you special guests on stage as well. Elton met and embraced former (or EJ Band member) autograph incident at the Sept 1995 concert. Note that these shows will mark distance to the stage. Elton surely all the info on a DANCE record drummer, Roger Pope, at his June tatooed on your body. Elton's 50th and 51st performance 7, concert at Broadlands, has no fun sitting lonely at his incorporating Song for Guy at world-famous Madison Square Hampshire, England. piano, hardly being able to spot 2 If Clive Franks dives under his which other fans may want to PARTY IN THE PARK Garden. Tickets went on sale on his fans. soundboard as soon as he spots know about. Details: Title August 21. :SUNSTORM featuring Song for The Backstreet Boys joined you in the audience of a show. Elton on stage at July 9, "Party in Guy. Re-recorded and remixed the Park" at London's Hyde Park THE RICH MAN SLEEPS. 1 If you know about appearances by HURLEY & TODD. Written in front of over 100, 000 music Elton will make with the band - by Elton John. Track 1 :Radio fans, and 43 different acts, to TIME WE PUT A FLAME TORCH... before the band does. edit (3:52), Track 2: Mike Koglin benefit the Prince's Trust Appeal. Owner of Raby Castle in Remix (8:12), Track 3:Club As he got down to play, there County Durham, Lord Barnard, by Brooke Murphy, Caviar Remix(5:28). An English was no sound! Elton gave up and revealed he had only heard a few Vice President/Co-Founder of the CD, on Multiply Records. Ref walked off stage. Rainwater was Official Nigel Olsson Fan Club to blame. After the technicians songs by Elton ahead of the no CDMULTY58. Taken from concert staged on July 29. He worked their magic, Elton Elton and Roger Pope If you would like to submit your the forthcoming album "Best of returned and performed with the said: "I've heard very little of his own Elton-related Top Ten List, or music but despite that I'm looking add to the above, then we’d love Multiply Records". Boys "Philadelphia Freedom", to hear from you. Please send all Released just recently, I’ve "Friends Never Say Goodbye", forward to this concert. Judging HERCULES WEBCAM contributions to Tammi Law, and two Boys' tracks: new song from the little I have listened to I only heard it on Capital Radio Hercules Webcam came to Chief Editor (see page 2 for 95.8 after 10.00pm in their "I'll be the One" and hit "I Want feel sure I will enjoy the Raby details). Castle event very much." our website on July 7, featuring Dance/club slot. I bought it in It That Way". "hardcore" Elton fans enjoying A small prize will be sent to each HMV in Kingston, London. themselves at Stephan person whose list is published. Mark Giles, UK Heimbecher's Munich apartment.

24 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 5 Full details of the following news items have appeared on our Website and Hotline A DOG NAMED Johann RECORD COMPANY RULINGNEW RECORDINGS CONTROVERSY umerous fans had turned Sebastian A federal judge at US District The cast recording album of Elton publicly accused Nup for the Hercules Court in San Francisco ruled in "" was released on June 15 Cardinal Thomas Winning, the convention in Kassel on 23 June favour of major record companies by Buena Vista Records. highest Catholic priest in Scotland 2000 - to get to know each Bach and issues a preliminary injunction and Archbishop of Glasgow, of other and talk about Elton "Aida" actress Sherie Rene ignorance over homosexuality on nonstop. Just before the concert against Napster, which allegedly Scott's debut album "Sherie Rene offers free downloads of ... Men I've Had" is out now June 15. Elton was responding to of the Rocket Man on that same copyrighted material. Protest featuring songs by Elton, Randy an article by the Cardinal in The day, we heard the great news website Camp Chaos attacks the Newman and Pete Townshend. Spectator in which he said "gay that the concert promoter had record labels with a cartoon titled Sherie, one of the performers sex is wrong, because such made it possible for Hercules during the "Broadway Cares" behaviour is not good for the members to stand in front of the "Napster Bad, Money Good,'' in human person". Elton in a letter which animated recording artists - concert April 3, selected: Mona stage and the historic flower bed Report about the Elton Lisas And Mad Hatters, Come in the next issue of the magazine one of them resembling Elton - wrote: "Cardinal Winning, and his which set the stage apart from concert in Kassel, Germany, Down In Time, Midnight Creeper, the audience's area. When the sing the lyrics "Sue All the World'' ignorance, is totally representative by Lena Kristin Spies and to the music from "We Are the and Honky Cat. fan club entourage finally set off of why people are turning away Jaqueline Theofel World". has written the from the Church. I am astonished for the strenuous 20 minute title track for the new album of to be told by Cardinal Winning uphill walk to the huge Herkules WRONG SPELLING! the Young Dubliners, titled "Red" that my sexuality is not good for monument we got some quite (Higher Octave Music). me. He argues that homosexuality funny looks from passers-by: Hercules has learned of a new Meanwhile, Elton fans await 'ensnares them in a lifestyle that Our huge stuffed Afghan toy release compilation available in Bernie teaming up with Elton can never respond to deepest dog, the banners, fan club Poland. "Elton John - Greatest again for a new studio album longings of the human heart'. jackets, Elton T-shirts, and last planned to be recorded in Hits" on Selles Records, is a CD From what practical perspective but not least the German Elton with selections from GYBR, September in Atlanta. does he form this point of view?" look-a-like Andreas Herr clearly Honky Chateau, and Don't Shoot According to Entertainment Elton said: "As a gay man I am Me. Duration 61 mins. Cat. SELL perfectly happy with my sexuality provoked interested and slightly Weekly, Shawn Mullins is in LA amused stares. At about 7pm, 1219. The item reputedly has a recording "Beneath the velvet and my life. Like the Cardinal I, couple of mistakes on the sleeve. too, have hope for our country. we received the longingly- Sun", a new album set for awaited passes, which would One song is called Edelberry October release. The "Lillaby" Over the years, Britain has proved Wine and another Saturday singer duets with Elton on a new itself to be a more tolerant and make it possible for us to be Night's Alright For Evening! version of "Border Song". open-minded place to live. Gone very close to Elton that evening. is the outdated and ill-informed We strolled to the stage while Elton on stage at Kassel. The dog can clearly be seen to the right of Elton’s piano stool The "Road to El Dorado" film notion that homosexuality is a the envious masses watched us - featuring Elton songs written with question of choice. The reality is tears from happiness, slightly a frenzied mass which even ELTON INSPIRES TENNIS PAIR among them the Hessian Sir was released in that homosexuals have no choice governor. dizzy - stepped back, Elton took pseudo-VIPs could not stand Wimbledon Tennis officials British cinemas on August 4, - and no amount of hectoring or our dog (which according to apart from. During the final song several months after the US hypnosis can make us change." To the sounds of the intervene twice to stop Alexandra "Orchestral Finale" the Master other Hercules members bore a of this totally successful show - Stevenson and her mother release. The soundtrack album A spokesman for the Cardinal was released in the UK on July 11. walked on stage, and we fans in striking resemblance to Davey "Candle In The Wind", the expanding on claims of racism in replied Elton's comments were Johnstone due to his long hair!). Herkules monument lit in the sport. The mother and "eminently predictable". the front row could even catch a glimpse of his limo's brake lights. He carried it to the piano and turquoise once again shone in daughter team say they were “THANK YOU FOR ELTON JOHN” told the guy who wanted to take the light of a sea of lighters. inspired to go public after the Elton seemed to be in a good way Elton counter-attacked a Jazz giant Jimmy Scott ELTON’S PHOTO IS THE BIGGEST!mood and played - perfectly as Johann Sebastian Bach After the show, we were Scottish priest over the morality entertained at London's the Jazz usual - the songs well-known to backstage, that he wanted to contemplating what might Elton accompanied Lulu to keep him for the show and to our happen to our stuffed toy dog. of homosexuality. Café, with rendition of "Sorry the celebrity unveiling of a giant us, but partly as new versions. Seems to be the Hardest Word", photo of himself, in London's After a great rendition of "Honky great surprise put it down right Meanwhile, the fan club met at on July 19. "Thank you, England, next to himself in the spotlight. the Hotel again to conclude the WHITE TIE & TIARA PHOTOS Oxford Street on June 12. The Cat", Elton accepted the first few for Elton John," said the Scott, in panoramic frieze by Sam Taylor- gifts. Now we thought the right During the next song "Rocket evening in a relaxed atmosphere. his reinterpretation, which the OK! Magazine published a Wood spans the entire facade of time had come for us to lift our Man", Johann Sebastian Bach At this point, we should note myriad of great photos of Elton UK press described as a "heart- Selfridges store and depicts 21 was to be spotted hugely that the friendly security people stopping soliloquy." huge stuffed animal - an Afghan and high society playing it up at famous celebrities. dog we had christened "Johann enlarged on the video screen. He were of great help to us. Elton's White Tie & Tiara Ball on Sebastian Bach" years before (he was allowed to remain there in Unfortunately, this is not always July 6, held at his Windsor SHORT TROUSERS! was bought in the composer's the first class position next to the the case: On 4 July 2000 in mansion. The editions are Elton wore shorts during his hometown) - onto the stage by piano stool until the encores. Mannheim, the security staff numbers 223, of July 28, and 224 Elton amazed the audience made it impossible for us to get of Aug. 4. encore at Margam Park, South his hind legs. Elton took it. He Wales, July 19 - but kept the was clearly moved and his eyes for more than two hours and to the stage until just before the show uncut! lit up. He thanked us with a finally during "Crocodile Rock", very end. They acted like some handshake. While we - close to the Kassel Wilhelmshöhe became kind of Military Troop. The show

6 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 23 HERCULES LAUNCHES THE 2001 CALENDAR

by David Wright are allocated depending on how and the Jets with the skillful ollowing our HOW TO ne of the most well the tickets have sold for that movement of your mouse! major success interesting developments venue - if they’ve got good ones All this may have been soured F O left, Rocket members can have by the chaos surrounding the with the Hercules ORDER for Elton John fans in recent times has been the launch of them - but if they’ve all sold, sale of tickets for the Greatest 2000 Calendar, Elton’s official website, then it’s tough. Hits Live shows at Madison Send details of eltonjohn.com. Tickets for some future shows Square Gardens. Many fans in we're keeping the may be made available to Rocket the US and elsewhere spent a your name, address As one would expect the wishes of fans to Emporium offers most CDs and Members before any other outlet, weekend trying to buy tickets in bring them the and membership videos you probably already something we must all welcome. vain. Too few tickets, only 200, have. Interestingly it offers most The happiest fans of all must and technical problems left many Hercules 2001 number to the postal tribute and compilation albums be the couples from Philadelphia people angry and frustrated. Calendar. This time, Elton has featured on, useful and Florida who won trips to Rocket have apologised but at OR internet address information for the completist. England to see Elton perform. the time of writing it remains to packed with photos Fans in Europe are still awaiting be seen how they will make below, together with With a mouse-mat, t-shirts, by the FANS. This is candles galore and a pair of their first chance to be amends, though tickets for a competition winners, as all warm-up show at Wilkes-Barre a rare collection of details of how many sunglasses for a mere $260 there is plenty for every credit card. competitions so far have been for may provide the answer. the finest photos by Calendars you A number of fans have had American members. We’ll keep you updated about the finest the previously undreamt of On top of all this is the joy of future happenings on require. playing a few chords of Benny eltonjohn.com.... photographers - his The Callendar opportunity of backstage TTThhheee CCCaaalllleeennndddaaarrr hospitality, with a few being fans. lucky enough to meet with the 2001 By Post: We're keeping 2222000000001111 Kolstein collage by Janet man himself. These events have Sterling cheque taken place at Woburn Abbey, the successful CD- Broadlands and Chatsworth case design, with specially- PRICES FOR orders, sterling bankers House in England plus Hamburg, HERCULES 2001 Cologne and Munich in commissioned graphic drafts (for non-UK fans), Germany. Whilst Elton was only artwork. A 13-card calendar, CALENDAR UK Postal Orders, US$ able to greet fans at Woburn and it covers each month Cologne in Europe, for the others Members: check orders, made the opportunity to meet Frank separately. Important dates in Presland, Clive Franks and see payable to "Hercules UK" Elton's and Hercules' diary UK/Europe: behind the scenes was a £8 for each item and mail us at: pleasure. EJ was also able to are also noted overleaf each make it into two of the card. A grid format lets you (includes postage). Stephan Heimbecher Hospitality Rooms in the USA, store important personal shortly after the launch of the USA/rest of world: Hercules Co-ordination Rocket. dates. £11 (or US$18) for each Orleansstr. 59 Recently the downloads Here, we're giving you section has been extended with item (includes postage). D-81667 Muenchen more and more photos, exclusive the chance to pre-order your PC wallpapers and concert calendar in time for the New GERMANY footage. Year. Hurry - it's a limited Non-Members: Fans have also been able to UK/Europe: secure premium tickets through edition so order yours before By Internet the Membership section of the stocks run out of this rare £9 for each item Website, which means an Visit our Website at excellent seat for the normal item! We cannot guarantee (includes postage). www.eltonfan.com and price, or promotional tickets, supply on orders received meaning seats as good as fourth USA/rest of world: follow the instructions. row for free. Some of these free after 1 December 2000. We £12 (or US$19) promotional tickets have not will despatch the Calendars for each item This is a secure Website for been so good though - it varies in December. your security. from venue to venue, and some (includes postage). members in the USA were disappointed when their Please note credit card payments will be debited in German currency, and the rate of exchange which promotional seats were way back applies at time of transaction will be effective. Hercules reserves the right to refuse orders. from the stage. We think they

22 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 7 In his own Tiara Ball words ... hosting the raffle, Elton then went As you may know, their control. However, we on to sing “Raindrops Keep eltonjohn.com had offered fans would like to congratulate Falling On My Head” the opportunity to bid for a pair of Hercules member Rob Cargill accompanied by Burt Bacharach tickets for the Ball. Unfortunately who very nearly made it - and on piano! The evening raised they were unable to invite the who handled the whole situation £575,000 for the Elton John Aids successful bidder to the Ball in the so well. Maybe next time lton spoke to the UK press at Hylands Foundation. end, due to circumstances beyond Cinderella! House, 15 July, just before going on stage to Eperform his Solo show. Here we bring you the best parts of the interview.

“ As Elton paces round a scared. Now I feel very healthy. I backstage dressing room, he casts even play tennis five times a week his eye over a choice of 30 for at least an hour at a time." Versace suits hanging from a rail Outside, around the stage, the and smiles: "I'm like a Duracell crowd is building. Elton is bunny these days - my unfazed. "My mother is 75 and pacemaker's working really well." going strong," he says, as he looks It is exactly a year since heart through dozens of pairs of shoes. surgeons fitted Elton with a "So maybe I'll reach 100 like the Elton with Elizabeth pacemaker after he was taken ill Queen Mum. The first time I Hurley Elton, Karen Sinclair and on a plane. "It's like a little performed for the Queen Mum I computer in there," he says. went to dinner at her Royal Lodge "There's only one problem - I in Windsor Great Park, sat at the can't walk through airport security piano and played," he says gates. I have to be frisked matter-of-factly. instead." His eyes twinkle. "A "Afterwards I danced with her really good old frisk. When I was and she said, 'I suppose you meet Kenny Goss, Elton and Geri ill last year there was no build-up. some unusual people in your line Halliwell It just suddenly happened. I felt of work'. I thought, 'My God! dizzy. Here I am dancing with the "It was the day before David Queen Mother. You could Beckham married Victoria. I was certainly say I meet people out of supposed to play in Italy that the ordinary!" night, but I got very giddy at the There is less than half an hour lunch table and had to cancel it. to go until he's on stage. "I've The doctor said I'd probably got been working non-stop all year sunstroke or something. and I'm looking forward to having "I came back to England and six weeks off," he says. "The only David Furnish and was going off to David and place I can relax is the house in Bob Geldof Victoria's wedding in Ireland Nice. It's a magical house, but I when I had a very bad attack on can't lie on a beach. I get too the plane. I had three days of tests restless. I do enjoy some quiet and eventually they found out nights in watching TV with David Elton and Dionne Warwick duet! what was wrong. I had the though." operation a couple of days later. "We'll have guests down while My grandmother had a we're there," Elton continues. "I'll Jeanne Marine (Bob Geldof’s girlfriend) ” with Elton pacemaker for a long time and get to see them for a whole week she was fine with it, so I wasn't at a time for a change." So now

8 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 21 White Tie & lton and David host a lavish annual party, which the press luxury marquee. Eparty at Elton’s UK country dubbed “The Party of The Year”. Guests, who included George home, Woodside, to benefit the The weather stayed kind, and Michael, , Jerry Hall, Elton John Aids Foundation. guests were able to stroll around Joan Collins, Duchess of York, In July, a host of international the grounds of Woodside and Geri Halliwell, Sean Connery, and celebrities and Royalty were admire Elton’s famous gardens, Liz Hurley, were also treated to an invited to the £1000-a-head before enjoying a banquet in a after dinner cabaret. With Lulu Photo: Andy Thorpe

that he and David have found confrontation were heightened by all scurrying for pac-a-macs. Then such stability, would they my drug-taking. Nowadays I the flexi-glass ceiling over the consider adopting children? "I'm won't even have a glass of stage gave way and it was like too old and too set in my ways to Chablis because I'm a very someone had thrown four buckets consider it," says Elton, now compulsive person. Still, it's of water over me. I was drenched narrowing his costume choice to terrific that Robbie is now in the for the whole show." a purple suit with emerald- peak of form." Elton is proud that he currently encrusted lapels or a fluorescent Asked about his Solo tour, has the Number One and Two Kate Hurley, Hugh Grant, orange jacket. "Kids are a huge Elton said "Just me and a piano. shows on New York's Broadway Elton, Elizabeth Hurley and Elton greets Ronan Keating David Furnish. responsibility. I could give a kid a It's great not to have the with Lion King and the newly- great home, but I don't think I restrictions of a band with you. opened Aida. "Tim Rice and I could give him or her the I've never played solo before, but wrote Aida from scratch," he says. attention they need." I love it because I can do what I "It was hammered by some critics, Elton is famous for throwing want without rehearsals. I sang to but I'm very proud of it and I've some of the social calendar's a backing tape at the Party In The seen it ten times." hottest parties, but when the Park, which was a nightmare. But "I'm also going to be doing a Sarah, Duchess of York with partying is over, Elton is once I can understand with all those 'one night only' at Madison Elton more the quiet man. "I don't hang acts why most of us had to do it. I Square Garden in New York," he out that much with really famous like to play live. It sharpens me says excitedly. "I'm hoping to people," he shrugs. "Though, artistically." As a lot of us know, have people like Ronan Keating having said that, Sting is probably the weather at most of his recent and Mary Jane Blige with me. It the person I love the most. I'd do European shows has been awful. will be a TV special which we'll anything for him. If he said I had "Playing in a tent in Liverpool record in October for transmission to get on a plane and fly to with an orchestra was the in November. We'll be doing it America now to do a charity warmest I've been on this tour," around the time of what would show I'd do it. he laughs. "It was the first time have been John Lennon's 60th "I also care about people in I'd sweated. Otherwise I've been birthday. It will also have been 25 pain - like Robbie Williams and freezing for my art. I've even had years since he and I played Elton with Sean Connery and Joan Collins . I'll have been chilblains. The worst weather was together there. That turned out to sober for ten years on July 29 but at Chatsworth and I was be his last performance." White Tie and Tiara addiction is a terrible thing and convinced no one would turn up. But Elton is also a believer in Ball menu you'll only get better when you're We went through hail and fog new talent. "I like Macy Gray," he ready. I've helped Robbie two or getting there - and so did the says. "She's like James Brown on three times - he's been to stay at audience. stage. I like Moby and Fatboy my house. "In Germany I was doing Your Slim too. I dance to them in the Elton and David with Mick Jagger and "Addiction is about running Song and the heavens opened up. shower." Jerri Hall away from things you can't face I started laughing because no one up to. My shyness and fear of was paying attention, they were

20 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 9 UK

TOUR Watford), and Bristol. A win for Saracens would see them secure a place in the REVIEW Heineken European League next year. And win they did, so it turned out to be a the UK Solo Tour 2000, fun festival. reviewed by Hercules Editor Tammi Law - it was At half time, I was asked only to pick out the Lottery chest- Draw on the centre of the high with no press/ pitch, which was also Club Elton look-a-like Ray Johnson filmed by the Big Screen in photographers section in front the corner of the stadium. of it, so when it thought you might like As I walked onto the pitch, came to the point to know about a I got a standing ovation; but in the set when we I at the recent appearance I made then my cover was blown were able to storm after the announcer told the the stage, it was easy at Watford Football Club, to shake hands with in my role as 'Elton'. I was crowd I was the EJ look-a- Elton. He did the booked to turn up and like as seen on TV. As I infamous autograph- End of mingle with the crowds on trudged off the pitch after sweep at every venue, and the touchlines and in the doing the deed, I still got often 'high-fived' the sections executive boxes, including another great reception of the crowd who had the Elton John Suite, and to from the 10,000 strong outstretched arms, as he ran crowd. past the front of the stage. The surprise the punters in our Apparently, these lower stages, midst. without the press-box in front of It was great fun and

Photo: Andy Andy Photo: Thorpe makes it all worthwhile for "...when them, were built at the request of Elton look-a-like and The match was the last Elton himself, who wanted more Hercules member Ray game of the season between me to don the wig and see access to the fans to be able to Street people smile. elcome to the British Johnson tells us about a Saracens (who share the I saw you "meet" us. recent experience.... "Wsummer" was Elton's Hercules organised a few Vicarage Road ground with first joke after he started with very much meeting places before some of the Your Song at Chatsworth House shows - it was really nice to meet on June 3, 2000. But the rain which threatened the entire UK alive, in the summer open-air Stately Homes BETWEEN 17 AND 20 • BETWEEN 17 AND 20 tour didn't dampen anyone's English rain spirits when Elton was on stage. Beforehand, yes maybe, and GOSSIP ABOUT ELTON - FOUND OF COURSE, BETWEEN PAGES 17 AND 20!! afterwards, as we all struggled again" through the mud and rain on our voice was stunning. It just seems way to the car-parks. But while to get better and stronger, and I Elton was performing on stage? noticed he held the notes for n a 1997 interview, EJ id you know that the bits lton recorded the vocals We couldn't have been happier. longer than last year. His mood claimed that he had never of the EJ recordings that for every song on the I was fortunate enough to changed noticeably from venue I D E attend 13 of the UK solo shows teamed up with Tim Rice to appear throughout the "" album to venue. Sometimes he was write and record a song for "Friends" movie are not the only to have to go back to this year. After the brilliant subdued and really "into" the Leeds Castle concerts in 1999, I music, other times he was having one of his own albums. He same renditions that appear the studio and record them couldn't wait to do it all again. an absolute party and messing claimed that they have only on the soundtrack album? all over again. Apparently I won't go into every show in about like a teenager. It was written "musicals" together. I The vocals are from an there was a mad rush to detail, but just tell you some of amazing how his mood guess EJ forgot all about earlier recording session. record the vocals for the the highlights of the tour which transferred itself onto the reaction "Legal Boys", which appeared album, which showed have stayed in my memory. of the audience. Firstly, Elton himself. Looking on his "Jump Up" album in through on the vocal tracks, The height of the purpose- 1982. so they had to be re-done. fit and well, the strength of his built stage was particularly good Photo: Jimmie Collins

10 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 19 MEMBERSHIP PASS RENEWAL you to include a self-addressed envelope and an International Response Coupon (which you up with old friends to have a chat climb up what is basically a metal Elton seemed pleased to see can buy in the post office). Send about "all things Elton". step-ladder! In hindsight, I the Hercules banners in the crowd everything to the following Entertainment was provided at suppose I'd always imagined every night, and made a point of relevant address, and you will Chatsworth in the form of live plush extravagancies, with red waving at the Hercules fans receive your new membership sound-a-like Dieter Graham, who carpet and everything that goes whenever he saw one. Personally, pass (valid through December was commissioned especially for with it. the best bits for me were 31, 2002) in the mail shortly the Hercules get-together. And in We learned some interesting when Elton obviously recognised afterwards: the pub before the show at facts too; it takes a large team of me. At the Hyde Park show (my Hylands House, BBC Radio Essex people three days to erect the last), when he saw me, he pointed USA/Canada members send to: sent their live reporter to stage - therefore there are basically and smiled, and said “Hello, Sharon Kalinoski broadcast the events leading up to TWO entire stages which leapfrog you!!” and several times during Hercules USA/Canada the concert - including a live each other from venue to venue. the tour I got a “thumbs up” when P O Box 398 rendition of "I Guess That's Why Elton has been using his Yamaha he saw me. I have yet to come La Grange, IL 60525, USA They Call It The Blues" performed grand piano for the European tour, down to earth....! by members of Hercules. Oh known as the 'A' piano. This is The Set List basically remained UK members send to: dear! the piano which he used for the same throughout the entire George Matlock An overview report of the tour Princess Diana's funeral, and is his tour. There were plenty of “crowd Hercules UK wouldn't be complete without favourite. There is another one, pleasers” for the casual fan, and a PO Box 315 mentioning the impact that exactly the same, known as the 'B' few less well-known songs, which The new Membership Pass for 2001 Richmond eltonjohn.com has had. The piano, which Elton doesn't like as I actually prefer to hear. It’s The current version of the Surrey TW9 3QX, UK Hospitality Rooms were organised much. This is used if he needs to difficult to say which song was the very well at three of the concerts, do a special appearance in best; I can only comment on the Hercules membership pass will All other members send to: Woburn Abbey, Broadlands and another country, and they can't ones which made a particular expire at the end of the year Castle Ashby. I attended all three, transport the 'A' piano quickly impact on me - I loved to hear (December 31, 2000). In order Stephan Heimbecher Hercules Co-ordination and the obvious highlight was enough. Harmony, and the ever-brilliant to renew your membership pass, meeting Elton (albeit VERY briefly) Frank Presland was in Bennie & The Jets. And oh dear, we need to ask you to send us a Orleansstr. 59 D-81667 Muenchen, GERMANY at Woburn, just minutes before attendance at most shows too, yes there were tears during the new passport photo (approx. 3.5 the show started. The other two and made the effort to meet and heavily nostalgic Someone Saved cm x 4.5 cm). It is not possible If you never ordered a events were interesting and speak to many of us. Before My Life Tonight, which was my to re-use the old photo in your membership pass before, you enjoyable too - with the chance several of the shows, he mingled favourite record during my teens. current membership pass as it can do so by following the to chat to Elton's 'team', including with the fans in front of the stage, Interestingly, Take Me To The will be destroyed by opening the instructions above. Please note the infamous Clive Franks. The and made a point of saying hello Pilot and Empty Garden were laminated pass. that resignation from the fan best part for me was the chance to the regulars. After the years of dropped a couple of times. There is no need to return club is only possible after the to see backstage in these open-air distant displeasure from previous Indeed, during the whole UK tour, your old pass (keep it as a expiration date or by return of venues - lorries and cabling management, it was nice to meet these were the only songs which Photo: Andy Thorpe souvenir), but we need to ask the membership pass. everywhere! I was struck by how such a genuine man, who seemed sometimes changed in the set. At basic a lot of it is - when he runs to be enjoying himself as much as Hylands House he left them out out on stage, Elton first has to we were. all together on the Saturday night, BETWEEN 17 AND 20 • BETWEEN 17 AND 20

ANOTHER VERSE OF OUR REGULAR COLUMN FEATURING TRIVIA AND

ennie and the Jets" on the lton was in one of his id you know that there is BGBYBR album is not live! E"moods" minutes before he Da third verse to "Holiday It was all recorded in the recorded the lead vocals for Inn"? For some reason, it was studio. EJ has always been "Don’t Let The Sun Go Down dropped during the final fascinated with making a On Me". In an angry fit, he recording of the song. It fit recording "sound" like it was recorded the vocal in one with the rest of the song and recorded live when it really take and then stormed out of didn’t make the song seem wasn’t. His first attempt at the studio. Apparently he "too" long. So it’s a mystery this was with "Rock And Roll didn’t want to record the why it was scrapped. Madonna". vocals for the album. Photo: D Houston Photo: Jimmie Collins Photo: Andy Thorpe

18 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 11 UK Tour Review Continued having a great time. She was UK Stately Homes singing, dancing and clapping and at the second night at Castle along with the Hercules members SOLO TOUR 2000 Ashby, he replaced them both in the audience. In fact, she was KaleidoscopeTheThe Eyes 80s80s (part 6) with Song For Guy. The first time the first person on her feet to Set List this happened, at Hylands House, applaud Elton at the end of Empty Part 6 of our Collector’s Series on [email protected], or write to: We provide the list for information record a crowd of us were down the Garden! It was great to see. Elton’s TV and Video appearances, by Hercules UK, PO Box 315, Richmond, only. The series is mainly a compilation front of the stage, and started Your Song George Matlock & Sharon Kalinoski Surrey, TW9 3QX, England of US and UK performances. However, FOR ME, THE BEST ASPECTS OF we welcome news of other broadcasts. shouting "Where's The Pilot?!" Should you be able to add or correct Please note that Hercules is unable to Thanks to Wayne Martin for his THE TOUR: The Greatest Discovery any details, please email: which made Elton laugh. He just The low stage (more please!!). offer for sale or exchange items listed. invaluable contribution to this series. looked at us, laughed and shook Elton’s strong performances. Skyline Pigeon his head. At the next venue, I took Shaking hands with Elton (1st leg of tour) (Month is stated program. Neon & Interview 1986 Night) interview & video the opportunity to ask Clive where known) However, in every night. (1 February: Elton & Jennifer Eric Clapton & Franks whether this sudden The fun and camaraderie of Someone Saved My Life Tonight subsoquent Song) Rush on Terry Friends in Tokyo 1980 repeated International BPI Wogan Show: (Candle, I change in the Set List was pre- being with other fans, who have (2nd leg of tour) Montreaux Rock Awards decided by Elton, and he said no, broadcast, 'Ball "Flames of Guess/Blues, I all become great friends. Jan: and Chain' came Festival (2 Songs) February: Wogan Paradise" & Don't Wanna, that Elton actually decides when Border Song American Music first, 'Empty BBC TV. "Cry to interview Daniel) FOR ME, THE WORST ASPECT Awards "Sorry Garden' second) Main Presenter of he's on stage, depending on how BBC Sports Heaven" and September: Washington, DC OF THE TOUR: Seems..." & May: interview tired his voice is. It certainly Security not letting us storm Daniel "Elton's Song" Personality of the MTV Special (Kennedy Center, keeps Clive on his toes! Entertainment Year Awards June: Recognition That's What the stage until the show’s nearly April: Tonight - (EJ's LA London, UK Award Friends Are For) The weather was good at Harmony Hollywood Nights home sale, shows Polish TV, meeting (Prince's Trust) over. Well, we could write a (Olivia Newton- US airdate of 2nd Steve Blame Show Hyde Park, the only London empty house) dissident Lech August: book on this one. We know they Honky Cat John Special). Walesa Annual Princes VH1 Story of Rock show, and stayed sunny the (4 songs) June: Kansas City Trust are only acting on instructions, Entertainment FA Cup Final at concert feature whole time Elton was on stage. As but WHO do these instructions Rocket Man September: Tonight (Ej 1987 Stand By Tomorrow with Wembley Stadium, October: Me:AIDS Benefit Elton himself commented, it come from? Elton himself? Over receives key to Watford v Everton U.S. TV Joan press conference certainly made a change from the Tiny Dancer Tom Snyder (3 city of L.A.) (Interview, Will recent years, I’ve heard rumours Live Songs, MTV Interview w. Rivers Late Nite (3 You Still Love Me, CBS This Morning rest of the tour! The main Interview) November: Live Songs, I Guess...) interview that it IS Elton who issues these Philadelphia Freedom Pebble Mill at Jools Holland Interview) difference between this show and orders prior to each show. But October: One, UK TV Jools Holland 1987 Jools US showing of Holland TV show 1989 the previous UK gigs was the size Phil Donohue Christmas Eve: interview then we hear from other sources Nikita Show (Your Song, Princes Trust January: and position of the stage itself. inside Elton’s team that he LOVES Elton John in Sassoon Advert US concert The Route of Kings venue in interview) Concert at the 1988 Ryan White Story it when we’re all down the front, Sacrifice November: TV commercial US Rock and Roll Hyde Park has been built to Hammersmith Evening News (3 January: May: partying along with him. So Tonight Show with Odeon BBC TV Top Of Good Morning accommodate several acts Johnny Carson 1985 Part interview & what’s the answer? This is my last Sorry Seems To Be Today Show clips of current The Pops: Candle Britain (TV AM) throughout the summer of 2000, The Hardest Word Sydney Rome In the Wind with Paul great burning question of being February: tour) Gambaccini from so it wasn't Elton's own purpose- Show "Sartorial 1983 Terry Wogan, November: March: an Elton fan. Elloquence" Totally Minnie LA built stage. It was therefore much I Guess That's Why They March: & U.K. TV BBC 2 As a final note, I’d like to Paul Gambacinni interview interview (Don't Go August: higher, and much further away thank Elton for a fantastic Call It The Blues interview from UK BBC TV Blue Breaking My Heart Los Angeles, CA than we have been used to. In Peter video clip of BBC TV and ITN December: w. Minnie Mouse) (Universal summer. We have had a truly Elton's UK Home "I Guess That's UK TV Sky fact, there was a black cage-type Ticking report on London May: Ampitheatre, 2 brilliant time, and we’re very Tonight Show. Why They Call..." High Court Channel interview Live Songs with barrier preventing us from getting Performs "Sorry & brief Elton UK TV Noel French TV "I Don't The Who). Pinball grateful that you put so much Carla/Etude Seems to Be..." interview copyright case Wanna Go On any closer than 20 feet (c. 7 effort into bringing us so much failure, w. Bernie Edmonds "Slow With You" Wizard metres) to Elton himself. Those of May: Rivers" Terry Wogan pleasure. More please!! Tonight 1981 Entertainment May: us who had got used to shaking Montreaux Golden Cliff from the Hip Show, Healing April: Tonight: Too Low "Leather Jackets & June: Hands & Whispers his hand, and receiving With special thanks to: Dave For Zero Promo Rose Festival. Act The Fox Telepress Slow Rivers" Wired "Japanese Elton John in autographs during the show were Wilson, Sharon Doran-Thorpe, conference Noel Edmunds Of War w. Millie Hands" & Jackson The Tube: This Concert, a bit disappointed - but then we Crispin Hunt of Marshall Arts, The One June: Show Town, Sad Songs, interview Meadowlands have been spoilt by the unusually Lynne Dicks and Andy Thorpe for Tomorrow With Today Show : Two July: Nikita, 2nd Annual New Jersey small stages of the recent tour. making the tour so enjoyable and Blue Eyes Tom Snyder Low For Zero : I'm Still Burn/Mission Prince's Trust- A Kansas City successful for me and other (Nobody Wins, Promo pt 1&2 Standing, Bennie, Cilla Black Show Royal Gala concert I was sitting near to Elton's Belgium, (Saturday Night's Hercules members. Empty Garden Top of the Pops: Rocket, Don't Go UK TV Good Morning mum, Sheila, who appeared to be Breaking/Barriers, Cold as Christmas Break, Don't/Sun & Candle) (not 15 or 23 July) Interview). Cadbury's July: America Ronnie Corbet. November: Chocolate Ad. UK October: Best of Brit: BBC TV. Cold as TV commercial LA Aids Benefit Take Me to the Pilot Captain Fantastic UK TV "The Tube", Concert Music Box: Christmas & 4 Songs and The Melbourne Germany TV (not 15 or 23 July) and the DJ (3 interview News AID Benefit Songs, Interview) interview Tapes. Interview Show "Healing from Australia Sept: Hands" Song For Guy Lip Syncs: Loving 1984 Good Morning concert. Australian VH1 Conversation You Is Sweeter (w. Britain: Making of with Elton John New Haven, CT. (23 July only) March: TV concert ) Act of War video Miami, FL (MTV Paul Gambaccini ABC TV In Crocodile Rock Other Side of The BBC Saturday 1987 Awards, Don't 1982 Superstore Wanna Go On... Concert (4 Live Track. Interview January: Songs) April: October: Don't Let The Sun July: Saturday Picture BBC1 & ITN News Sleeping with The Saturday Night Cinemax Album Show Pop Profile, on throat operation Yoruno Hit Studio Go Down On Me Live (Ball & Chain, London Past "Press Kit" Flash Breaking UK TV April: Empty Garden. Hearts USA Weekend Sky TV Verona, Note: The original UK Soul Train "Act Parkinson One to Italy Circle of Life September: One. Interview Interview 'live' broadcast Of War" Good Rock'n had EJ singing Elton John Live In June: MTV John Lennon Toronto Breaking BBC TV Blue Peter Remembered Tonite w. Bernie 'Empty Garden' from Elton's Home 2nd Annual first, then singing Hearts Tour Prince's Trust: (interview) Canadian TV Candle In The Wind 'Ball and Chain' Christmas Day: Jools Holland TV London, UK (Your November: interview EJ&BT Hercules members enjoying themselves at the front of the crowd at Chatsworth House later in the Terry Wogan: In show Song & Saturday Best Hit USA:

12 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 17 Book Review Ten years on - Philip Norman's latest book JUST FOR FUN LYRIC QUIZ

Clive Live - Marry a Music Man continued Have a go at our popular lyric quiz. SIR ELTON We give you a line - see if you can a little talk about whether were in a town square and no mix. So it was reflective sound, reviewed by Wayne Martin name the song!(Answers on page 27) Daniel should come before or seating. It was like a festival. very mushy. after some song? Should we do The atmosphere was the best or the casual fan, there is 1. They should have had a such song? That would go on for we've had the whole tour. GM: And Munich, where Fno better book on the life picture of Dolly’s face a couple of shows. And he very Everyone was up and with him Elton's throat was rough. What and career of Sir Elton John than As she drove across country rarely talks anyway. Sometimes from the very start. I'm sure happened there? this. However, for any serious we don't even say a thing after countless barrels of beer had CF: Things sometimes do go fan this "updated" re-issue is a 2. For open crypts to silence the shows. something to do with it too! A wrong, as you know. I checked waste. Mr. Norman never did Nylon knots to sway by prayer totally different, American vibe. appear to have his heart in GM: Talking of airports, we everything. Elton started to sing. They picked up on everything I could hear his voice coming writing the original and over heard Elton went back to the nine years later all he has 3. There’s long boats in South of France after most of his and went nuts. But when we got from the monitors but not the the harbour back to Germany, we had good managed to add is about a half German gigs. Is that true? mixed PA. I freaked out! The dozen pages of quotes from Which arrive there every hour. audiences, but the rain was first few lines didn't come out. I CF: Yes, on a private charter awful. Elton's stepmother Edna Dwight, use a limiter on Elton's voice with whom he secured an 4. Winter’s heavy and plane. GM: Most of the fans which keeps the volume interview, following the death of partly cloudy GM: And what of the other complained there were so many constant and controls any Elton's father Stanley. Mrs. And the snowfall leaves the ingredient that makes a show, shows this year, and they unexpected loud peaks. Dwight's reflections, including a tracks that catch a few the crowd? couldn't afford to go to all of Unfortunately, the damp picture and some letters between weather had caused moisture to father and son, are very them. 5. We can build a bridge CF: He works so hard to get get onto the jackplug which interesting. They shed a very the audience to their feet. These CF: What I don't understand then cut out Elton's voice from different light on her late between us shows are more of a challenge is why does anyone want to go the PA, so we had to carefully husband's relationship with Elton But the empty space remains because they're intimate shows, to all of them? pull the plug in and out a few from the version Elton has given particular, events pertaining to solo. If the audience isn't times to get it working, and through the years. But that's it. Elton's career in the U.S.) These 6. There were white sails moving, he works them. It's GM: You're right, he's then it was fine. Makes live Mr. Norman has come up on the water already bringing the music to errors were made known at the harder without the band, as he shows exciting and with NOTHING on Elton's time, to both author and For the crippled on the beach smaller venues, closer to the fans performs more ballads. He can't unpredictable! breakup with longtime manager publisher. As far as I can tell, do "Saturday Night's" or "The and accessing more territory. But John Reid. He merely includes NONE have been corrected. the fans still come again and 7. If I couldn’t hear your secrets Bitch is Back". So it's harder for The second part of this what has been reported in the As for Elton's quote "He's got My ears would both be sealed the crowd to get enthusiastic in again! I was at Germany's exclusive interview with Clive tabloid press. (Mr. Norman's idea me spot on", that the publisher is any part of the world - except Kassel, Hamburg and Cologne will appear in the December of research?) While this story is so fond of including in ads, well, 8. Although your friends could the USA. They seem go nuts at shows, but perhaps because I issue of The Mag. Part 2 will still evolving, as any industry Elton did say this. However, Elton see I’m dying everything! But I've noticed in hadn't heard Elton indoors for a focus on a flashback to concerts insider will tell you, it's was referring to what Mr. Slowly from the knife you left England and Europe they'll sit long time, the Cologne show and antics over the years. dynamite. A book in and of itself. Norman describes as "Elton's little and listen to him. Very was a disappointment. The An author with the ego of Philip moments", not the book as a in me appreciative and wonderful music all just merged. Norman's should be ashamed for whole. At the time he invited releasing an updated version audiences between songs, but CF: Acoustically, it's a very Philip Norman to his London 9. Due to natural causes she without including the REAL story residence for tea, Elton had not during songs they don't emote difficult room. It's cavernous. became despondent much. of what Reid has done. But then yet read the entire book. He said And she tried to leave We used our own sound system again, this is the same author at the time that he was only half GM: Except for that small and supplemented with theirs to who released the book in it's way through it. Elton is also on 10. I’ll take my wounded pride band of fans Hercules marshall fill up in the Gods. But that was original form without including record as being very angry that to the front! one of my favourite shows, any information on Elton's Mr. Norman took what was I’ll take it on the chin CF: He loves that. I would believe it or not. The fans were multiple addictions that nearly intended to be a private wish people would go up great and Elton loved that show cost him his life. Everyone in the discussion and included the 11. You had a scent for scandal sooner. because he could feel the business was fully aware of the transcript as an additional chapter Well here’s my middle finger feedback from the audience. I situation at the time, yet Mr. in the paperback editions that GM: We would, but security was pleased with the results. If Norman's reaction was one of followed. Ironically, it's the only won't let us! 12. Non commercial native you were at the front, you heard total shock, learning of the accurate chapter Mr. Norman's It’s tattooed in your veins. CF: Yeah, but you have to only his loud monitors, which condition when Elton went public tome has. realise that there are people are trained for him, and anyone after the books initial release. This is all truly disappointing. near the front who paid for slightly away from that distance, The book in it's first printing, At 581 pages, and as the title tickets and can't see a thing. We such as the crowds in the first while giving a good overview of itself promises, this should have were in Austria, in the show just six rows, will get a very strange Elton's life and career was riddled been "The Definitive" Sir Elton before Bregenz in June, and we sound. You would have heard with errors, including misquotes, John bio. Unfortunately, his monitors rather than my Bac. N photo: wrong dates and fabrications. (In it is not.

16 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 13 exclusive... Clive live Marry a Music Man

Clive Franks (right), with George Matlock at Hylands House, I think it was something to do CF: Early days, yes [he did]. that" and "turn this up". It was with Elton’s stage in the background. with the monitors. It wasn't our They wouldn't let you do it also difficult for me to focus monitors. We were jumping in otherwise! They couldn't because there were three on the venue's common system reproduce the sound, and so mixing consoles, and each for all the 30-odd acts many people didn't want to do alternated between acts. Of the performing that day. You're it live because they couldn't. three consoles, two are ones I busking it in a situation like And the record companies use on tours and the third is the that. Then when the monitors wanted the audience to hear type I dislike, and which shall came through it was so loud it exactly how the record remain nameless. That's the one took everyone's head off! It was sounded. But Elton would I had to use! So, I was embarrassing. Elton came on, always want to sing it live. And concentrating on their balance sat for a bit, couldn't hear where possible he did. But he's and level, rather than lyrically anything, went off, came back a brilliant lip syncher, so to what's going on. Elton's on again. Once they got going sometimes even for myself it reverb wasn't right. I didn't [with the Backstreet Boys] they was difficult to tell whether he actually see him after the show, were fine. was miming or live. He does it because he had interviews to do so well. But [on tour] I can tell backstage. Meanwhile, me, GM: When Kylie Minogue from the sound whether it's a Elton's assistant and the crew came on, there was a noticeable live recording or not without were taken out to a wonderful delay between movements and looking up at the stage. And I Indian restaurant. And I've not sound. Elton's sound engineer Clive on July 27, 2000, was an eye- PM4000 behemoth. can tell you he's never mimed seen Elton since. I asked his Franks talks to Hercules' George opener. I realised there were While most fans like to get CF: I noticed the video on tour. assistant Bob, who said Elton Matlock in the first of a three- two magical artists at work, two close to Elton in the front row - screens were out of time with was a little tense but he Clive was often to fill-in for enjoyed it. part exclusive interview. pairs of dexterous hands moving Clive is happy knowing he's got the vocals. This happens when missing band members on Top of to the beat of music. the best seat in the house. Mid- you're a long way from a video the Pops. He's seen himself on GM: For the final two songs, It's not every day this The soundboard looks like a way back is where the sound off screen, because sound travels Goodbye Yellow Brick Road in Elton seemed to really enjoy cultured and profound nuclear warhead arsenal, or a those awesome amplifier slower than light. There is no place of bassist . things. He was not seated at the technician provides an chess board. And yet, Clive speakers, or PAs in excuse for that on television piano, even gave a wiggle with interview opportunity. In fact, knows which knob to tweak, technospeak, finally optimises. [the programme was televised CF: On those early Top of his backside! His voice after 28 years on the road as and which fader to drive, and In a more relaxed by ]. A lot of people the Pops, some bands would projected better, he looked more Elton's tour sound engineer, and when. He fills in, singing the atmosphere between shows in complained to me about that. I record a version an hour before relaxed, as though the piano had producer of three Elton albums percussion sounds of the London, July 12, 2000, Clive can't answer that one. You see, the performance, then mime as been a ball and chain! Do you he's only ever given three original recording as he hears gave a 2 and a half hour I'm not sure everyone was the TV cameras recorded it all. have post mortems about interviews. the new, pared-down piano solo interview - that's the length of singing. I think there was some performances? miming going on. Some people GM: [at July 9 performance] So understand Hercules' versions on stage. Elton's recent shows! When Elton sang Friends Never pride that Clive Franks, who in Although not pre-recorded, Clive Franks: I'll just take aren't that good at lip synching. CF: No. He has to be the All this dance routine these days Say Goodbye, the first time he most consistent performer - his own words doesn't seek when Elton played his sell-out this nice Coke from the fridge sang "never say goodbye" it was fame and likes to stay in the summer 2000 tour, he did so (free publicity to a recent really annoys me. Some people ever. I've worked with him since are so focused on their dance, delivered very slowly. Did you 1972. And perhaps half a dozen shadows, agreed to shine and with the help of Clive's sponsor of the tour). I have a notice that? not fade away. By his own judicious offering of special sore throat after talking with a they can't deliver a good vocal gigs were below par - but that's admission the three albums he effects. Clive apologised the friend for four hours today. performance. Elton is not having CF: When we're on tour, we on HIS standard. If we're doing produced, A Single Man, 21 at sound system at Hyde Park was to dance, he's behind a piano. pick up on the little nuances a quick getaway to the airport Of course, he did get up after after a show, in the car, Elton 33, and The Fox, are "all the a hired item used by the series George Matlock: What went day after day. But this was got Philadelphia Freedom [to stand will rather focus on the one's that never sold!" He also of non-Elton shows that week at wrong at Hyde Park (Party in the together only at midday for and dance with the Boys]. But highlights. He might say, mixed The Thom Bell Sessions. the venue, rather than his Park, July 9, 2000)? rehearsals. We were at the Clive Franks has an preferred equipment. Those acts no, he's totally live. rehearsal studios for two and a beaming like a child: "Oooh, CF: Mainly the weather, for that was great wasn't it? What unassuming air, and a modesty included Steps, Five, and Buena GM: You can vouch for Elton half hours, minus one of the the crowds. Half an hour before about that little bit on Rocket that disguises his great talent Vista Social Club. But the mixer never miming? Backstreet Boys who was which Elton's biggest fans ever was his. A daunting console, Elton was to go on there was missing. Elton was concerned Man, or that solo bit." But it's attempt to quantify, while many with labels under faders like this massive downpour. There CF: Never mimed in a live lyrically not to mess up and rarely ever an inquest going the more will at least acknowledge. "ME", "X", "Spare", "EJ", "LO", was a 3-inch puddle outside his performance. ordered an auto-cue. Whether other way, because there's I was under the impression "HI", "Piano Yam", "Piano dressing room. Something got he got one I'm not sure. Elton's never anything negative to focus GM: How about the pre- on. Maybe at the start of a tour, Elton Solo was just that. Elton at Strings", "EFX", and "TC". Clive damp. There was chaos. The such a perfectionist. As you recorded BBC TV show Top of when we haven't locked in a set the keyboard. Checking out was keeping some 12 meters problem was that I was know, he's forever mouthing the Pops ? list he's happy with, we'll have Clive's box of tricks during the flicking at between -5 and -3 on receiving (sound) on everything, sideways "more of this, less of recent Hyde Park, London show his Yamaha Mixing Console so I assumed the piano was fine.

14 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 15 exclusive... Clive live Marry a Music Man

Clive Franks (right), with George Matlock at Hylands House, I think it was something to do CF: Early days, yes [he did]. that" and "turn this up". It was with Elton’s stage in the background. with the monitors. It wasn't our They wouldn't let you do it also difficult for me to focus monitors. We were jumping in otherwise! They couldn't because there were three on the venue's common system reproduce the sound, and so mixing consoles, and each for all the 30-odd acts many people didn't want to do alternated between acts. Of the performing that day. You're it live because they couldn't. three consoles, two are ones I busking it in a situation like And the record companies use on tours and the third is the that. Then when the monitors wanted the audience to hear type I dislike, and which shall came through it was so loud it exactly how the record remain nameless. That's the one took everyone's head off! It was sounded. But Elton would I had to use! So, I was embarrassing. Elton came on, always want to sing it live. And concentrating on their balance sat for a bit, couldn't hear where possible he did. But he's and level, rather than lyrically anything, went off, came back a brilliant lip syncher, so to what's going on. Elton's on again. Once they got going sometimes even for myself it reverb wasn't right. I didn't [with the Backstreet Boys] they was difficult to tell whether he actually see him after the show, were fine. was miming or live. He does it because he had interviews to do so well. But [on tour] I can tell backstage. Meanwhile, me, GM: When Kylie Minogue from the sound whether it's a Elton's assistant and the crew came on, there was a noticeable live recording or not without were taken out to a wonderful delay between movements and looking up at the stage. And I Indian restaurant. And I've not sound. Elton's sound engineer Clive on July 27, 2000, was an eye- PM4000 behemoth. can tell you he's never mimed seen Elton since. I asked his Franks talks to Hercules' George opener. I realised there were While most fans like to get CF: I noticed the video on tour. assistant Bob, who said Elton Matlock in the first of a three- two magical artists at work, two close to Elton in the front row - screens were out of time with was a little tense but he Clive was often to fill-in for enjoyed it. part exclusive interview. pairs of dexterous hands moving Clive is happy knowing he's got the vocals. This happens when missing band members on Top of to the beat of music. the best seat in the house. Mid- you're a long way from a video the Pops. He's seen himself on GM: For the final two songs, It's not every day this The soundboard looks like a way back is where the sound off screen, because sound travels Goodbye Yellow Brick Road in Elton seemed to really enjoy cultured and profound nuclear warhead arsenal, or a those awesome amplifier slower than light. There is no place of bassist Dee Murray. things. He was not seated at the technician provides an chess board. And yet, Clive speakers, or PAs in excuse for that on television piano, even gave a wiggle with interview opportunity. In fact, knows which knob to tweak, technospeak, finally optimises. [the programme was televised CF: On those early Top of his backside! His voice after 28 years on the road as and which fader to drive, and In a more relaxed by Channel 4]. A lot of people the Pops, some bands would projected better, he looked more Elton's tour sound engineer, and when. He fills in, singing the atmosphere between shows in complained to me about that. I record a version an hour before relaxed, as though the piano had producer of three Elton albums percussion sounds of the London, July 12, 2000, Clive can't answer that one. You see, the performance, then mime as been a ball and chain! Do you he's only ever given three original recording as he hears gave a 2 and a half hour I'm not sure everyone was the TV cameras recorded it all. have post mortems about interviews. the new, pared-down piano solo interview - that's the length of singing. I think there was some performances? miming going on. Some people GM: [at July 9 performance] So understand Hercules' versions on stage. Elton's recent shows! When Elton sang Friends Never pride that Clive Franks, who in Although not pre-recorded, Clive Franks: I'll just take aren't that good at lip synching. CF: No. He has to be the All this dance routine these days Say Goodbye, the first time he most consistent performer - his own words doesn't seek when Elton played his sell-out this nice Coke from the fridge sang "never say goodbye" it was fame and likes to stay in the summer 2000 tour, he did so (free publicity to a recent really annoys me. Some people ever. I've worked with him since are so focused on their dance, delivered very slowly. Did you 1972. And perhaps half a dozen shadows, agreed to shine and with the help of Clive's sponsor of the tour). I have a notice that? not fade away. By his own judicious offering of special sore throat after talking with a they can't deliver a good vocal gigs were below par - but that's admission the three albums he effects. Clive apologised the friend for four hours today. performance. Elton is not having CF: When we're on tour, we on HIS standard. If we're doing produced, A Single Man, 21 at sound system at Hyde Park was to dance, he's behind a piano. pick up on the little nuances a quick getaway to the airport Of course, he did get up after after a show, in the car, Elton 33, and The Fox, are "all the a hired item used by the series George Matlock: What went day after day. But this was got Philadelphia Freedom [to stand will rather focus on the one's that never sold!" He also of non-Elton shows that week at wrong at Hyde Park (Party in the together only at midday for and dance with the Boys]. But highlights. He might say, mixed The Thom Bell Sessions. the venue, rather than his Park, July 9, 2000)? rehearsals. We were at the Clive Franks has an preferred equipment. Those acts no, he's totally live. rehearsal studios for two and a beaming like a child: "Oooh, CF: Mainly the weather, for that was great wasn't it? What unassuming air, and a modesty included Steps, Five, and Buena GM: You can vouch for Elton half hours, minus one of the the crowds. Half an hour before about that little bit on Rocket that disguises his great talent Vista Social Club. But the mixer never miming? Backstreet Boys who was which Elton's biggest fans ever was his. A daunting console, Elton was to go on there was missing. Elton was concerned Man, or that solo bit." But it's attempt to quantify, while many with labels under faders like this massive downpour. There CF: Never mimed in a live lyrically not to mess up and rarely ever an inquest going the more will at least acknowledge. "ME", "X", "Spare", "EJ", "LO", was a 3-inch puddle outside his performance. ordered an auto-cue. Whether other way, because there's I was under the impression "HI", "Piano Yam", "Piano dressing room. Something got he got one I'm not sure. Elton's never anything negative to focus GM: How about the pre- on. Maybe at the start of a tour, Elton Solo was just that. Elton at Strings", "EFX", and "TC". Clive damp. There was chaos. The such a perfectionist. As you recorded BBC TV show Top of when we haven't locked in a set the keyboard. Checking out was keeping some 12 meters problem was that I was know, he's forever mouthing the Pops ? list he's happy with, we'll have Clive's box of tricks during the flicking at between -5 and -3 on receiving (sound) on everything, sideways "more of this, less of recent Hyde Park, London show his Yamaha Mixing Console so I assumed the piano was fine.

14 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 15 Book Review Ten years on - Philip Norman's latest book JUST FOR FUN LYRIC QUIZ

Clive Live - Marry a Music Man continued Have a go at our popular lyric quiz. SIR ELTON We give you a line - see if you can a little talk about whether were in a town square and no mix. So it was reflective sound, reviewed by Wayne Martin name the song!(Answers on page 27) Daniel should come before or seating. It was like a festival. very mushy. after some song? Should we do The atmosphere was the best or the casual fan, there is 1. They should have had a such song? That would go on for we've had the whole tour. GM: And Munich, where Fno better book on the life picture of Dolly’s face a couple of shows. And he very Everyone was up and with him Elton's throat was rough. What and career of Sir Elton John than As she drove across country rarely talks anyway. Sometimes from the very start. I'm sure happened there? this. However, for any serious we don't even say a thing after countless barrels of beer had CF: Things sometimes do go fan this "updated" re-issue is a 2. For open crypts to silence the shows. something to do with it too! A wrong, as you know. I checked waste. Mr. Norman never did Nylon knots to sway by prayer totally different, American vibe. appear to have his heart in GM: Talking of airports, we everything. Elton started to sing. They picked up on everything I could hear his voice coming writing the original and over heard Elton went back to the nine years later all he has 3. There’s long boats in South of France after most of his and went nuts. But when we got from the monitors but not the the harbour back to Germany, we had good managed to add is about a half German gigs. Is that true? mixed PA. I freaked out! The dozen pages of quotes from Which arrive there every hour. audiences, but the rain was first few lines didn't come out. I CF: Yes, on a private charter awful. Elton's stepmother Edna Dwight, use a limiter on Elton's voice with whom he secured an 4. Winter’s heavy and plane. GM: Most of the fans which keeps the volume interview, following the death of partly cloudy GM: And what of the other complained there were so many constant and controls any Elton's father Stanley. Mrs. And the snowfall leaves the ingredient that makes a show, shows this year, and they unexpected loud peaks. Dwight's reflections, including a tracks that catch a few the crowd? couldn't afford to go to all of Unfortunately, the damp picture and some letters between weather had caused moisture to father and son, are very them. 5. We can build a bridge CF: He works so hard to get get onto the jackplug which interesting. They shed a very the audience to their feet. These CF: What I don't understand then cut out Elton's voice from different light on her late between us shows are more of a challenge is why does anyone want to go the PA, so we had to carefully husband's relationship with Elton But the empty space remains because they're intimate shows, to all of them? pull the plug in and out a few from the version Elton has given particular, events pertaining to solo. If the audience isn't times to get it working, and through the years. But that's it. Elton's career in the U.S.) These 6. There were white sails moving, he works them. It's GM: You're right, he's then it was fine. Makes live Mr. Norman has come up on the water already bringing the music to errors were made known at the harder without the band, as he shows exciting and with NOTHING on Elton's time, to both author and For the crippled on the beach smaller venues, closer to the fans performs more ballads. He can't unpredictable! breakup with longtime manager publisher. As far as I can tell, do "Saturday Night's" or "The and accessing more territory. But John Reid. He merely includes NONE have been corrected. the fans still come again and 7. If I couldn’t hear your secrets Bitch is Back". So it's harder for The second part of this what has been reported in the As for Elton's quote "He's got My ears would both be sealed the crowd to get enthusiastic in again! I was at Germany's exclusive interview with Clive tabloid press. (Mr. Norman's idea me spot on", that the publisher is any part of the world - except Kassel, Hamburg and Cologne will appear in the December of research?) While this story is so fond of including in ads, well, 8. Although your friends could the USA. They seem go nuts at shows, but perhaps because I issue of The Mag. Part 2 will still evolving, as any industry Elton did say this. However, Elton see I’m dying everything! But I've noticed in hadn't heard Elton indoors for a focus on a flashback to concerts insider will tell you, it's was referring to what Mr. Slowly from the knife you left England and Europe they'll sit long time, the Cologne show and antics over the years. dynamite. A book in and of itself. Norman describes as "Elton's little and listen to him. Very was a disappointment. The An author with the ego of Philip moments", not the book as a in me appreciative and wonderful music all just merged. Norman's should be ashamed for whole. At the time he invited releasing an updated version audiences between songs, but CF: Acoustically, it's a very Philip Norman to his London 9. Due to natural causes she without including the REAL story residence for tea, Elton had not during songs they don't emote difficult room. It's cavernous. became despondent much. of what Reid has done. But then yet read the entire book. He said And she tried to leave We used our own sound system again, this is the same author at the time that he was only half GM: Except for that small and supplemented with theirs to who released the book in it's way through it. Elton is also on 10. I’ll take my wounded pride band of fans Hercules marshall fill up in the Gods. But that was original form without including record as being very angry that to the front! one of my favourite shows, any information on Elton's Mr. Norman took what was I’ll take it on the chin CF: He loves that. I would believe it or not. The fans were multiple addictions that nearly intended to be a private wish people would go up great and Elton loved that show cost him his life. Everyone in the discussion and included the 11. You had a scent for scandal sooner. because he could feel the business was fully aware of the transcript as an additional chapter Well here’s my middle finger feedback from the audience. I situation at the time, yet Mr. in the paperback editions that GM: We would, but security was pleased with the results. If Norman's reaction was one of followed. Ironically, it's the only won't let us! 12. Non commercial native you were at the front, you heard total shock, learning of the accurate chapter Mr. Norman's It’s tattooed in your veins. CF: Yeah, but you have to only his loud monitors, which condition when Elton went public tome has. realise that there are people are trained for him, and anyone after the books initial release. This is all truly disappointing. near the front who paid for slightly away from that distance, The book in it's first printing, At 581 pages, and as the title tickets and can't see a thing. We such as the crowds in the first while giving a good overview of itself promises, this should have were in Austria, in the show just six rows, will get a very strange Elton's life and career was riddled been "The Definitive" Sir Elton before Bregenz in June, and we sound. You would have heard with errors, including misquotes, John bio. Unfortunately, his monitors rather than my photo: N Bac. wrong dates and fabrications. (In it is not.

16 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 13 UK Tour Review Continued having a great time. She was UK Stately Homes singing, dancing and clapping and at the second night at Castle along with the Hercules members SOLO TOUR 2000 Ashby, he replaced them both in the audience. In fact, she was KaleidoscopeTheThe Eyes 80s80s (part 6) with Song For Guy. The first time the first person on her feet to Set List this happened, at Hylands House, applaud Elton at the end of Empty Part 6 of our Collector’s Series on [email protected], or write to: We provide the list for information record a crowd of us were down the Garden! It was great to see. Elton’s TV and Video appearances, by Hercules UK, PO Box 315, Richmond, only. The series is mainly a compilation front of the stage, and started Your Song George Matlock & Sharon Kalinoski Surrey, TW9 3QX, England of US and UK performances. However, FOR ME, THE BEST ASPECTS OF we welcome news of other broadcasts. shouting "Where's The Pilot?!" Should you be able to add or correct Please note that Hercules is unable to Thanks to Wayne Martin for his THE TOUR: The Greatest Discovery any details, please email: which made Elton laugh. He just The low stage (more please!!). offer for sale or exchange items listed. invaluable contribution to this series. looked at us, laughed and shook Elton’s strong performances. Skyline Pigeon his head. At the next venue, I took Shaking hands with Elton (1st leg of tour) (Month is stated program. Neon & Interview 1986 Night) interview & video the opportunity to ask Clive where known) However, in every night. Top of the Pops (1 February: Elton & Jennifer Eric Clapton & Franks whether this sudden The fun and camaraderie of Someone Saved My Life Tonight subsoquent Song) Rush on Terry Friends in Tokyo 1980 repeated International BPI Wogan Show: (Candle, I change in the Set List was pre- being with other fans, who have (2nd leg of tour) Montreaux Rock Awards decided by Elton, and he said no, broadcast, 'Ball "Flames of Guess/Blues, I all become great friends. Jan: and Chain' came Festival (2 Songs) February: Wogan Paradise" & Don't Wanna, that Elton actually decides when Border Song American Music first, 'Empty BBC TV. "Cry to interview Daniel) FOR ME, THE WORST ASPECT Awards "Sorry Garden' second) Main Presenter of he's on stage, depending on how BBC Sports Heaven" and September: Washington, DC OF THE TOUR: Seems..." & May: interview tired his voice is. It certainly Security not letting us storm Daniel "Elton's Song" Personality of the MTV Special (Kennedy Center, keeps Clive on his toes! Entertainment Year Awards June: Recognition That's What the stage until the show’s nearly April: Tonight - (EJ's LA London, UK Award Friends Are For) The weather was good at Harmony Hollywood Nights home sale, shows Polish TV, meeting (Prince's Trust) over. Well, we could write a (Olivia Newton- US airdate of 2nd Steve Blame Show Hyde Park, the only London empty house) dissident Lech August: book on this one. We know they Honky Cat John Special). Walesa Annual Princes VH1 Story of Rock show, and stayed sunny the (4 songs) June: Kansas City Trust are only acting on instructions, Entertainment FA Cup Final at concert feature whole time Elton was on stage. As but WHO do these instructions Rocket Man September: Tonight (Ej 1987 Stand By Reg Strikes Back Tomorrow with Wembley Stadium, October: Me:AIDS Benefit Elton himself commented, it come from? Elton himself? Over receives key to Watford v Everton U.S. TV Joan press conference certainly made a change from the Tiny Dancer Tom Snyder (3 city of L.A.) (Interview, Will recent years, I’ve heard rumours Live Songs, MTV Interview w. Rivers Late Nite (3 You Still Love Me, CBS This Morning rest of the tour! The main Interview) November: Live Songs, I Guess...) interview that it IS Elton who issues these Philadelphia Freedom Pebble Mill at Jools Holland Interview) difference between this show and orders prior to each show. But October: One, UK TV Jools Holland 1987 Jools US showing of Holland TV show 1989 the previous UK gigs was the size Phil Donohue Christmas Eve: interview then we hear from other sources Nikita Show (Your Song, Princes Trust January: and position of the stage itself. inside Elton’s team that he LOVES Elton John in Sassoon Advert US concert The Route of Kings venue in interview) Concert at the 1988 Ryan White Story it when we’re all down the front, Sacrifice November: TV commercial US Rock and Roll Hyde Park has been built to Hammersmith Evening News (3 January: May: partying along with him. So Tonight Show with Odeon BBC TV Top Of Good Morning accommodate several acts Johnny Carson 1985 Part interview & what’s the answer? This is my last Sorry Seems To Be Today Show clips of current The Pops: Candle Britain (TV AM) throughout the summer of 2000, The Hardest Word Sydney Rome In the Wind with Paul great burning question of being February: tour) Gambaccini from so it wasn't Elton's own purpose- Show "Sartorial 1983 Terry Wogan, November: March: an Elton fan. Elloquence" Totally Minnie LA built stage. It was therefore much I Guess That's Why They March: Breaking Hearts & U.K. TV BBC 2 As a final note, I’d like to Paul Gambacinni interview interview (Don't Go August: higher, and much further away thank Elton for a fantastic Call It The Blues interview from UK BBC TV Blue Breaking My Heart Los Angeles, CA than we have been used to. In Peter video clip of BBC TV and ITN December: w. Minnie Mouse) (Universal summer. We have had a truly Elton's UK Home "I Guess That's UK TV Sky fact, there was a black cage-type Ticking report on London May: Ampitheatre, 2 brilliant time, and we’re very Tonight Show. Why They Call..." High Court Channel interview Live Songs with barrier preventing us from getting Performs "Sorry & brief Elton UK TV Noel French TV "I Don't The Who). Pinball grateful that you put so much Carla/Etude Seems to Be..." interview copyright case Wanna Go On any closer than 20 feet (c. 7 effort into bringing us so much failure, w. Bernie Edmonds "Slow With You" Wizard metres) to Elton himself. Those of May: Rivers" Terry Wogan pleasure. More please!! Tonight 1981 Entertainment May: Jonathan Ross us who had got used to shaking Montreaux Golden Cliff from the Hip Show, Healing April: Tonight: Too Low "Leather Jackets & June: Hands & Whispers his hand, and receiving With special thanks to: Dave Burn Down The Mission For Zero Promo Rose Festival. Act The Fox Telepress Slow Rivers" Wired "Japanese Elton John in autographs during the show were Wilson, Sharon Doran-Thorpe, conference Noel Edmunds Of War w. Millie Hands" & Jackson The Tube: This Concert, a bit disappointed - but then we Crispin Hunt of Marshall Arts, The One June: Show Town, Sad Songs, interview Meadowlands have been spoilt by the unusually Lynne Dicks and Andy Thorpe for Tomorrow With Today Show : Two July: Nikita, 2nd Annual New Jersey small stages of the recent tour. making the tour so enjoyable and Blue Eyes Tom Snyder Low For Zero Live Aid: I'm Still Burn/Mission Prince's Trust- A Kansas City successful for me and other (Nobody Wins, Promo pt 1&2 Standing, Bennie, Cilla Black Show Royal Gala concert I was sitting near to Elton's Belgium, (Saturday Night's Hercules members. Empty Garden Top of the Pops: Rocket, Don't Go UK TV Good Morning mum, Sheila, who appeared to be Breaking/Barriers, Cold as Christmas Break, Don't/Sun & Candle) (not 15 or 23 July) Interview). Cadbury's July: America Ronnie Corbet. November: Chocolate Ad. UK October: Best of Brit: BBC TV. Cold as TV commercial LA Aids Benefit Take Me to the Pilot Captain Fantastic UK TV "The Tube", Concert Music Box: Christmas & 4 Songs and The Melbourne Germany TV (not 15 or 23 July) and the DJ (3 interview News AID Benefit Songs, Interview) interview Tapes. Interview Show "Healing from Australia Sept: Hands" Song For Guy Lip Syncs: Loving 1984 Good Morning concert. Australian VH1 Conversation You Is Sweeter (w. Britain: Making of with Elton John New Haven, CT. (23 July only) March: TV concert Kiki Dee) Act of War video Miami, FL (MTV Paul Gambaccini ABC TV In Crocodile Rock Other Side of The BBC Saturday 1987 Awards, Don't 1982 Superstore Wanna Go On... Concert (4 Live Track. Interview January: Songs) April: October: Don't Let The Sun July: Saturday Picture BBC1 & ITN News Sleeping with The Saturday Night Cinemax Album Show Pop Profile, on throat operation Yoruno Hit Studio Go Down On Me Live (Ball & Chain, London Past "Press Kit" Flash Breaking UK TV April: Empty Garden. Hearts USA Weekend Sky TV Verona, Note: The original UK Soul Train "Act Parkinson One to Italy Circle of Life September: One. Interview Interview 'live' broadcast Of War" Good Rock'n had EJ singing Elton John Live In June: MTV John Lennon Bennie And The Jets Toronto Breaking BBC TV Blue Peter Remembered Tonite w. Bernie 'Empty Garden' from Elton's Home 2nd Annual first, then singing Hearts Tour Prince's Trust: (interview) Canadian TV Candle In The Wind 'Ball and Chain' Christmas Day: Jools Holland TV London, UK (Your November: interview EJ&BT Hercules members enjoying themselves at the front of the crowd at Chatsworth House later in the Terry Wogan: In show Song & Saturday Best Hit USA:

12 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 17 MEMBERSHIP PASS RENEWAL

you to include a self-addressed envelope and an International Response Coupon (which you up with old friends to have a chat climb up what is basically a metal Elton seemed pleased to see can buy in the post office). Send about "all things Elton". step-ladder! In hindsight, I the Hercules banners in the crowd everything to the following Entertainment was provided at suppose I'd always imagined every night, and made a point of relevant address, and you will Chatsworth in the form of live plush extravagancies, with red waving at the Hercules fans receive your new membership sound-a-like Dieter Graham, who carpet and everything that goes whenever he saw one. Personally, pass (valid through December was commissioned especially for with it. the best bits for me were the times 31, 2002) in the mail shortly the Hercules get-together. And in We learned some interesting when Elton obviously recognised afterwards: the pub before the show at facts too; it takes a large team of me. At the Hyde Park show (my Hylands House, BBC Radio Essex people three days to erect the last), when he saw me, he pointed USA/Canada members send to: sent their live reporter to stage - therefore there are basically and smiled, and said “Hello, Sharon Kalinoski broadcast the events leading up to TWO entire stages which leapfrog you!!” and several times during Hercules USA/Canada the concert - including a live each other from venue to venue. the tour I got a “thumbs up” when P O Box 398 rendition of "I Guess That's Why Elton has been using his Yamaha he saw me. I have yet to come La Grange, IL 60525, USA They Call It The Blues" performed grand piano for the European tour, down to earth....! by members of Hercules. Oh known as the 'A' piano. This is The Set List basically remained UK members send to: dear! the piano which he used for the same throughout the entire George Matlock An overview report of the tour Princess Diana's funeral, and is his tour. There were plenty of “crowd Hercules UK wouldn't be complete without favourite. There is another one, pleasers” for the casual fan, and a PO Box 315 mentioning the impact that exactly the same, known as the 'B' few less well-known songs, which The new Membership Pass for 2001 Richmond eltonjohn.com has had. The piano, which Elton doesn't like as I actually prefer to hear. It’s The current version of the Surrey TW9 3QX, UK Hospitality Rooms were organised much. This is used if he needs to difficult to say which song was the very well at three of the concerts, do a special appearance in best; I can only comment on the Hercules membership pass will All other members send to: Woburn Abbey, Broadlands and another country, and they can't ones which made a particular expire at the end of the year Castle Ashby. I attended all three, transport the 'A' piano quickly impact on me - I loved to hear (December 31, 2000). In order Stephan Heimbecher Hercules Co-ordination and the obvious highlight was enough. Harmony, and the ever-brilliant to renew your membership pass, meeting Elton (albeit VERY briefly) Frank Presland was in Bennie & The Jets. And oh dear, we need to ask you to send us a Orleansstr. 59 D-81667 Muenchen, GERMANY at Woburn, just minutes before attendance at most shows too, yes there were tears during the new passport photo (approx. 3.5 the show started. The other two and made the effort to meet and heavily nostalgic Someone Saved cm x 4.5 cm). It is not possible If you never ordered a events were interesting and speak to many of us. Before My Life Tonight, which was my to re-use the old photo in your membership pass before, you enjoyable too - with the chance several of the shows, he mingled favourite record during my teens. current membership pass as it can do so by following the to chat to Elton's 'team', including with the fans in front of the stage, Interestingly, Take Me To The will be destroyed by opening the instructions above. Please note the infamous Clive Franks. The and made a point of saying hello Pilot and Empty Garden were laminated pass. that resignation from the fan best part for me was the chance to the regulars. After the years of dropped a couple of times. There is no need to return club is only possible after the to see backstage in these open-air distant displeasure from previous Indeed, during the whole UK tour, your old pass (keep it as a expiration date or by return of venues - lorries and cabling management, it was nice to meet these were the only songs which Photo: Andy Andy Photo: Thorpe souvenir), but we need to ask the membership pass. everywhere! I was struck by how such a genuine man, who seemed sometimes changed in the set. At basic a lot of it is - when he runs to be enjoying himself as much as Hylands House he left them out out on stage, Elton first has to we were. all together on the Saturday night, BETWEEN 17 AND 20 • BETWEEN 17 AND 20

ANOTHER VERSE OF OUR REGULAR COLUMN FEATURING TRIVIA AND

ennie and the Jets" on the lton was in one of his id you know that there is BGBYBR album is not live! E"moods" minutes before he Da third verse to "Holiday It was all recorded in the recorded the lead vocals for Inn"? For some reason, it was studio. EJ has always been "Don’t Let The Sun Go Down dropped during the final fascinated with making a On Me". In an angry fit, he recording of the song. It fit recording "sound" like it was recorded the vocal in one with the rest of the song and recorded live when it really take and then stormed out of didn’t make the song seem wasn’t. His first attempt at the studio. Apparently he "too" long. So it’s a mystery this was with "Rock And Roll didn’t want to record the why it was scrapped. Madonna". vocals for the album. Photo: D Houston Photo: Jimmie Collins Photo: Andy Thorpe

18 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 11 UK

TOUR Watford), and Bristol. A win for Saracens would see them secure a place in the REVIEW Heineken European League next year. And win they did, so it turned out to be a the UK Solo Tour 2000, fun festival. reviewed by Hercules Editor Tammi Law - it was At half time, I was asked only to pick out the Lottery chest- Draw on the centre of the high with no press/ pitch, which was also Club Elton look-a-like Ray Johnson filmed by the Big Screen in photographers section in front the corner of the stadium. of it, so when it thought you might like As I walked onto the pitch, came to the point to know about a I got a standing ovation; but in the set when we I at the recent appearance I made then my cover was blown were able to storm after the announcer told the the stage, it was easy at Watford Football Club, to shake hands with in my role as 'Elton'. I was crowd I was the EJ look-a- Elton. He did the booked to turn up and like as seen on TV. As I infamous autograph- End of mingle with the crowds on trudged off the pitch after sweep at every venue, and the touchlines and in the doing the deed, I still got often 'high-fived' the sections executive boxes, including another great reception of the crowd who had the Elton John Suite, and to from the 10,000 strong outstretched arms, as he ran crowd. past the front of the stage. The surprise the punters in our Apparently, these lower stages, midst. without the press-box in front of It was great fun and

Photo: Andy Thorpe makes it all worthwhile for "...when them, were built at the request of Elton look-a-like and The match was the last Elton himself, who wanted more Hercules member Ray game of the season between me to don the wig and see access to the fans to be able to Street people smile. elcome to the British Johnson tells us about a Saracens (who share the I saw you "meet" us. recent experience.... "Wsummer" was Elton's Hercules organised a few Vicarage Road ground with first joke after he started with very much meeting places before some of the Your Song at Chatsworth House shows - it was really nice to meet on June 3, 2000. But the rain which threatened the entire UK alive, in the summer open-air Stately Homes BETWEEN 17 AND 20 • BETWEEN 17 AND 20 tour didn't dampen anyone's English rain spirits when Elton was on stage. Beforehand, yes maybe, and GOSSIP ABOUT ELTON - FOUND OF COURSE, BETWEEN PAGES 17 AND 20!! afterwards, as we all struggled again" through the mud and rain on our voice was stunning. It just seems way to the car-parks. But while to get better and stronger, and I Elton was performing on stage? noticed he held the notes for n a 1997 interview, EJ id you know that the bits lton recorded the vocals We couldn't have been happier. longer than last year. His mood claimed that he had never of the EJ recordings that for every song on the I was fortunate enough to changed noticeably from venue I D E attend 13 of the UK solo shows teamed up with Tim Rice to appear throughout the "Rock Of The Westies" album to venue. Sometimes he was write and record a song for "Friends" movie are not the only to have to go back to this year. After the brilliant subdued and really "into" the Leeds Castle concerts in 1999, I music, other times he was having one of his own albums. He same renditions that appear the studio and record them couldn't wait to do it all again. an absolute party and messing claimed that they have only on the soundtrack album? all over again. Apparently I won't go into every show in about like a teenager. It was written "musicals" together. I The vocals are from an there was a mad rush to detail, but just tell you some of amazing how his mood guess EJ forgot all about earlier recording session. record the vocals for the the highlights of the tour which transferred itself onto the reaction "Legal Boys", which appeared album, which showed have stayed in my memory. of the audience. Firstly, Elton himself. Looking on his "Jump Up" album in through on the vocal tracks, The height of the purpose- 1982. so they had to be re-done. fit and well, the strength of his built stage was particularly good Collins Jimmie Photo:

10 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 19 White Tie & lton and David host a lavish annual party, which the press luxury marquee. Eparty at Elton’s UK country dubbed “The Party of The Year”. Guests, who included George home, Woodside, to benefit the The weather stayed kind, and Michael, Mick Jagger, Jerry Hall, Elton John Aids Foundation. guests were able to stroll around Joan Collins, Duchess of York, In July, a host of international the grounds of Woodside and Geri Halliwell, Sean Connery, and celebrities and Royalty were admire Elton’s famous gardens, Liz Hurley, were also treated to an invited to the £1000-a-head before enjoying a banquet in a after dinner cabaret. With Lulu Photo: Andy Thorpe

that he and David have found confrontation were heightened by all scurrying for pac-a-macs. Then such stability, would they my drug-taking. Nowadays I the flexi-glass ceiling over the consider adopting children? "I'm won't even have a glass of stage gave way and it was like too old and too set in my ways to Chablis because I'm a very someone had thrown four buckets consider it," says Elton, now compulsive person. Still, it's of water over me. I was drenched narrowing his costume choice to terrific that Robbie is now in the for the whole show." a purple suit with emerald- peak of form." Elton is proud that he currently encrusted lapels or a fluorescent Asked about his Solo tour, has the Number One and Two Kate Hurley, Hugh Grant, orange jacket. "Kids are a huge Elton said "Just me and a piano. shows on New York's Broadway Elton, Elizabeth Hurley and Elton greets Ronan Keating David Furnish. responsibility. I could give a kid a It's great not to have the with Lion King and the newly- great home, but I don't think I restrictions of a band with you. opened Aida. "Tim Rice and I could give him or her the I've never played solo before, but wrote Aida from scratch," he says. attention they need." I love it because I can do what I "It was hammered by some critics, Elton is famous for throwing want without rehearsals. I sang to but I'm very proud of it and I've some of the social calendar's a backing tape at the Party In The seen it ten times." hottest parties, but when the Park, which was a nightmare. But "I'm also going to be doing a Sarah, Duchess of York with partying is over, Elton is once I can understand with all those 'one night only' at Madison Elton more the quiet man. "I don't hang acts why most of us had to do it. I Square Garden in New York," he out that much with really famous like to play live. It sharpens me says excitedly. "I'm hoping to people," he shrugs. "Though, artistically." As a lot of us know, have people like Ronan Keating having said that, Sting is probably the weather at most of his recent and Mary Jane Blige with me. It the person I love the most. I'd do European shows has been awful. will be a TV special which we'll anything for him. If he said I had "Playing in a tent in Liverpool record in October for transmission to get on a plane and fly to with an orchestra was the in November. We'll be doing it America now to do a charity warmest I've been on this tour," around the time of what would show I'd do it. he laughs. "It was the first time have been John Lennon's 60th "I also care about people in I'd sweated. Otherwise I've been birthday. It will also have been 25 pain - like Robbie Williams and freezing for my art. I've even had years since he and I played Elton with Sean Connery and Joan Collins Whitney Houston. I'll have been chilblains. The worst weather was together there. That turned out to sober for ten years on July 29 but at Chatsworth and I was be his last performance." White Tie and Tiara addiction is a terrible thing and convinced no one would turn up. But Elton is also a believer in Ball menu you'll only get better when you're We went through hail and fog new talent. "I like Macy Gray," he ready. I've helped Robbie two or getting there - and so did the says. "She's like James Brown on three times - he's been to stay at audience. stage. I like Moby and Fatboy my house. "In Germany I was doing Your Slim too. I dance to them in the Elton and David with Mick Jagger and "Addiction is about running Song and the heavens opened up. shower." Jerri Hall away from things you can't face I started laughing because no one up to. My shyness and fear of was paying attention, they were

20 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 9 In his own Tiara Ball words ... hosting the raffle, Elton then went As you may know, their control. However, we on to sing “Raindrops Keep eltonjohn.com had offered fans would like to congratulate Falling On My Head” the opportunity to bid for a pair of Hercules member Rob Cargill accompanied by Burt Bacharach tickets for the Ball. Unfortunately who very nearly made it - and on piano! The evening raised they were unable to invite the who handled the whole situation £575,000 for the Elton John Aids successful bidder to the Ball in the so well. Maybe next time lton spoke to the UK press at Hylands Foundation. end, due to circumstances beyond Cinderella! House, 15 July, just before going on stage to Eperform his Solo show. Here we bring you the best parts of the interview.

“ As Elton paces round a scared. Now I feel very healthy. I backstage dressing room, he casts even play tennis five times a week his eye over a choice of 30 for at least an hour at a time." Versace suits hanging from a rail Outside, around the stage, the and smiles: "I'm like a Duracell crowd is building. Elton is bunny these days - my unfazed. "My mother is 75 and pacemaker's working really well." going strong," he says, as he looks It is exactly a year since heart through dozens of pairs of shoes. surgeons fitted Elton with a "So maybe I'll reach 100 like the Elton with Elizabeth pacemaker after he was taken ill Queen Mum. The first time I Hurley Elton, Karen Sinclair and on a plane. "It's like a little performed for the Queen Mum I David Furnish computer in there," he says. went to dinner at her Royal Lodge "There's only one problem - I in Windsor Great Park, sat at the can't walk through airport security piano and played," he says gates. I have to be frisked matter-of-factly. instead." His eyes twinkle. "A "Afterwards I danced with her really good old frisk. When I was and she said, 'I suppose you meet Kenny Goss, Elton and Geri ill last year there was no build-up. some unusual people in your line Halliwell It just suddenly happened. I felt of work'. I thought, 'My God! dizzy. Here I am dancing with the "It was the day before David Queen Mother. You could Beckham married Victoria. I was certainly say I meet people out of supposed to play in Italy that the ordinary!" night, but I got very giddy at the There is less than half an hour lunch table and had to cancel it. to go until he's on stage. "I've The doctor said I'd probably got been working non-stop all year sunstroke or something. and I'm looking forward to having "I came back to England and six weeks off," he says. "The only David Furnish and was going off to David and place I can relax is the house in Bob Geldof Victoria's wedding in Ireland Nice. It's a magical house, but I when I had a very bad attack on can't lie on a beach. I get too the plane. I had three days of tests restless. I do enjoy some quiet and eventually they found out nights in watching TV with David Elton and Dionne Warwick duet! what was wrong. I had the though." operation a couple of days later. "We'll have guests down while My grandmother had a we're there," Elton continues. "I'll Jeanne Marine (Bob Geldof’s girlfriend) ” with Elton pacemaker for a long time and get to see them for a whole week she was fine with it, so I wasn't at a time for a change." So now

8 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 21 HERCULES LAUNCHES THE 2001 CALENDAR

by David Wright are allocated depending on how and the Jets with the skillful ollowing our HOW TO ne of the most well the tickets have sold for that movement of your mouse! major success interesting developments venue - if they’ve got good ones All this may have been soured F O left, Rocket members can have by the chaos surrounding the with the Hercules ORDER for Elton John fans in recent times has been the launch of them - but if they’ve all sold, sale of tickets for the Greatest 2000 Calendar, Elton’s official website, then it’s tough. Hits Live shows at Madison Send details of eltonjohn.com. Tickets for some future shows Square Gardens. Many fans in we're keeping the may be made available to Rocket the US and elsewhere spent a your name, address As one would expect the wishes of fans to Emporium offers most CDs and Members before any other outlet, weekend trying to buy tickets in bring them the and membership videos you probably already something we must all welcome. vain. Too few tickets, only 200, have. Interestingly it offers most The happiest fans of all must and technical problems left many Hercules 2001 number to the postal tribute and compilation albums be the couples from Philadelphia people angry and frustrated. Calendar. This time, Elton has featured on, useful and Florida who won trips to Rocket have apologised but at OR internet address information for the completist. England to see Elton perform. the time of writing it remains to packed with photos Fans in Europe are still awaiting be seen how they will make below, together with With a mouse-mat, t-shirts, by the FANS. This is candles galore and a pair of their first chance to be amends, though tickets for a competition winners, as all warm-up show at Wilkes-Barre a rare collection of details of how many sunglasses for a mere $260 there is plenty for every credit card. competitions so far have been for may provide the answer. the finest photos by Calendars you A number of fans have had American members. We’ll keep you updated about the finest the previously undreamt of On top of all this is the joy of future happenings on require. playing a few chords of Benny eltonjohn.com.... photographers - his The Callendar opportunity of backstage TTThhheee CCCaaalllleeennndddaaarrr hospitality, with a few being fans. lucky enough to meet with the 2001 By Post: We're keeping 2222000000001111 collage by Janet Kolstein man himself. These events have Sterling cheque taken place at Woburn Abbey, the successful CD- Broadlands and Chatsworth case design, with specially- PRICES FOR orders, sterling bankers House in England plus Hamburg, HERCULES 2001 Cologne and Munich in commissioned graphic drafts (for non-UK fans), Germany. Whilst Elton was only artwork. A 13-card calendar, CALENDAR UK Postal Orders, US$ able to greet fans at Woburn and it covers each month Cologne in Europe, for the others Members: check orders, made the opportunity to meet Frank separately. Important dates in Presland, Clive Franks and see payable to "Hercules UK" Elton's and Hercules' diary UK/Europe: behind the scenes was a £8 for each item and mail us at: pleasure. EJ was also able to are also noted overleaf each make it into two of the card. A grid format lets you (includes postage). Stephan Heimbecher Hospitality Rooms in the USA, store important personal shortly after the launch of the USA/rest of world: Hercules Co-ordination Rocket. dates. £11 (or US$18) for each Orleansstr. 59 Recently the downloads Here, we're giving you section has been extended with item (includes postage). D-81667 Muenchen more and more photos, exclusive the chance to pre-order your PC wallpapers and concert calendar in time for the New GERMANY footage. Year. Hurry - it's a limited Non-Members: Fans have also been able to UK/Europe: secure premium tickets through edition so order yours before By Internet the Membership section of the stocks run out of this rare £9 for each item Website, which means an Visit our Website at excellent seat for the normal item! We cannot guarantee (includes postage). www.eltonfan.com and price, or promotional tickets, supply on orders received meaning seats as good as fourth USA/rest of world: follow the instructions. row for free. Some of these free after 1 December 2000. We £12 (or US$19) promotional tickets have not will despatch the Calendars for each item This is a secure Website for been so good though - it varies in December. your security. from venue to venue, and some (includes postage). members in the USA were disappointed when their Please note credit card payments will be debited in German currency, and the rate of exchange which promotional seats were way back applies at time of transaction will be effective. Hercules reserves the right to refuse orders. from the stage. We think they

22 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 7 Full details of the following news items have appeared on our Website and Hotline A DOG NAMED Johann RECORD COMPANY RULINGNEW RECORDINGS CONTROVERSY umerous fans had turned Sebastian A federal judge at US District The cast recording album of Elton publicly accused Nup for the Hercules Court in San Francisco ruled in "Aida" was released on June 15 Cardinal Thomas Winning, the convention in Kassel on 23 June favour of major record companies by Buena Vista Records. highest Catholic priest in Scotland 2000 - to get to know each Bach and issues a preliminary injunction and Archbishop of Glasgow, of other and talk about Elton "Aida" actress Sherie Rene ignorance over homosexuality on nonstop. Just before the concert against Napster, which allegedly Scott's debut album "Sherie Rene offers free downloads of ... Men I've Had" is out now June 15. Elton was responding to of the Rocket Man on that same copyrighted material. Protest featuring songs by Elton, Randy an article by the Cardinal in The day, we heard the great news website Camp Chaos attacks the Newman and Pete Townshend. Spectator in which he said "gay that the concert promoter had record labels with a cartoon titled Sherie, one of the performers sex is wrong, because such made it possible for Hercules during the "Broadway Cares" behaviour is not good for the members to stand in front of the "Napster Bad, Money Good,'' in human person". Elton in a letter which animated recording artists - concert April 3, selected: Mona stage and the historic flower bed Report about the Elton Lisas And Mad Hatters, Come in the next issue of the magazine one of them resembling Elton - wrote: "Cardinal Winning, and his which set the stage apart from concert in Kassel, Germany, Down In Time, Midnight Creeper, the audience's area. When the sing the lyrics "Sue All the World'' ignorance, is totally representative by Lena Kristin Spies and to the music from "We Are the and Honky Cat. fan club entourage finally set off of why people are turning away Jaqueline Theofel World". Bernie Taupin has written the from the Church. I am astonished for the strenuous 20 minute title track for the new album of to be told by Cardinal Winning uphill walk to the huge Herkules WRONG SPELLING! the Young Dubliners, titled "Red" that my sexuality is not good for monument we got some quite (Higher Octave Music). me. He argues that homosexuality funny looks from passers-by: Hercules has learned of a new Meanwhile, Elton fans await 'ensnares them in a lifestyle that Our huge stuffed Afghan toy release compilation available in Bernie teaming up with Elton can never respond to deepest dog, the banners, fan club Poland. "Elton John - Greatest again for a new studio album longings of the human heart'. jackets, Elton T-shirts, and last planned to be recorded in Hits" on Selles Records, is a CD From what practical perspective but not least the German Elton with selections from GYBR, September in Atlanta. does he form this point of view?" look-a-like Andreas Herr clearly Honky Chateau, and Don't Shoot According to Entertainment Elton said: "As a gay man I am Me. Duration 61 mins. Cat. SELL perfectly happy with my sexuality provoked interested and slightly Weekly, Shawn Mullins is in LA amused stares. At about 7pm, 1219. The item reputedly has a recording "Beneath the velvet and my life. Like the Cardinal I, couple of mistakes on the sleeve. too, have hope for our country. we received the longingly- Sun", a new album set for awaited passes, which would One song is called Edelberry October release. The "Lillaby" Over the years, Britain has proved Wine and another Saturday singer duets with Elton on a new itself to be a more tolerant and make it possible for us to be Night's Alright For Evening! version of "Border Song". open-minded place to live. Gone very close to Elton that evening. is the outdated and ill-informed We strolled to the stage while Elton on stage at Kassel. The dog can clearly be seen to the right of Elton’s piano stool The "Road to El Dorado" film notion that homosexuality is a the envious masses watched us - featuring Elton songs written with question of choice. The reality is tears from happiness, slightly a frenzied mass which even ELTON INSPIRES TENNIS PAIR among them the Hessian Sir Tim Rice was released in that homosexuals have no choice governor. dizzy - stepped back, Elton took pseudo-VIPs could not stand Wimbledon Tennis officials British cinemas on August 4, - and no amount of hectoring or our dog (which according to apart from. During the final song several months after the US hypnosis can make us change." To the sounds of the intervene twice to stop Alexandra "Orchestral Finale" the Master other Hercules members bore a of this totally successful show - Stevenson and her mother release. The soundtrack album A spokesman for the Cardinal was released in the UK on July 11. walked on stage, and we fans in striking resemblance to Davey "Candle In The Wind", the expanding on claims of racism in replied Elton's comments were Johnstone due to his long hair!). Herkules monument lit in the sport. The mother and "eminently predictable". the front row could even catch a glimpse of his limo's brake lights. He carried it to the piano and turquoise once again shone in daughter team say they were “THANK YOU FOR ELTON JOHN” told the guy who wanted to take the light of a sea of lighters. inspired to go public after the Elton seemed to be in a good way Elton counter-attacked a Jazz giant Jimmy Scott ELTON’S PHOTO IS THE BIGGEST!mood and played - perfectly as Johann Sebastian Bach After the show, we were Scottish priest over the morality entertained at London's the Jazz usual - the songs well-known to backstage, that he wanted to contemplating what might Elton accompanied Lulu to keep him for the show and to our happen to our stuffed toy dog. of homosexuality. Café, with rendition of "Sorry the celebrity unveiling of a giant us, but partly as new versions. Seems to be the Hardest Word", photo of himself, in London's After a great rendition of "Honky great surprise put it down right Meanwhile, the fan club met at on July 19. "Thank you, England, next to himself in the spotlight. the Hotel again to conclude the WHITE TIE & TIARA PHOTOS Oxford Street on June 12. The Cat", Elton accepted the first few for Elton John," said the Scott, in panoramic frieze by Sam Taylor- gifts. Now we thought the right During the next song "Rocket evening in a relaxed atmosphere. his reinterpretation, which the OK! Magazine published a Wood spans the entire facade of time had come for us to lift our Man", Johann Sebastian Bach At this point, we should note myriad of great photos of Elton UK press described as a "heart- Selfridges store and depicts 21 was to be spotted hugely that the friendly security people stopping soliloquy." huge stuffed animal - an Afghan and high society playing it up at famous celebrities. dog we had christened "Johann enlarged on the video screen. He were of great help to us. Elton's White Tie & Tiara Ball on Sebastian Bach" years before (he was allowed to remain there in Unfortunately, this is not always July 6, held at his Windsor SHORT TROUSERS! was bought in the composer's the first class position next to the the case: On 4 July 2000 in mansion. The editions are Elton wore shorts during his hometown) - onto the stage by piano stool until the encores. Mannheim, the security staff numbers 223, of July 28, and 224 Elton amazed the audience made it impossible for us to get of Aug. 4. encore at Margam Park, South his hind legs. Elton took it. He Wales, July 19 - but kept the was clearly moved and his eyes for more than two hours and to the stage until just before the show uncut! lit up. He thanked us with a finally during "Crocodile Rock", very end. They acted like some handshake. While we - close to the Kassel Wilhelmshöhe became kind of Military Troop. The show

6 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 23 LETTERS 10 ways to tell... Send your letters to Tammi Law, A dog named Johann Sebastian Bach continued in front of greatly picturesque Top 10 ways to tell loved June issue of The HERCULES ON THE RADIOPUPPET ON A STRING? FILMS INSTEAD?! castle Ehrenhof had the if you're too much IMag. I have one question Elton told OK! Magazine why atmosphere of a funeral. It must of an Elton fan... Our UK manager, George Watford FC manager Graham however: on page 9 there is a Matlock, was on BBC Radio he decided to move into film- have been very depressing for Taylor proved more valuable than quiz, “Are You Sure?!” Q7: Northamptonshire, July 21, as his boss, club chairman Elton, in making - because making records Elton. No wonder he did not 10If you could buy a car with How many fish references are well as on BBC Radio Essex with an auction of Spitting Image and touring the world is write a single autograph. all the money you’ve spent there in the song "Solar Prestige Hercules Francais' Fran, July 15, becoming boring. In an interview puppets. Taylor was ridiculed at for the celebrity magazine in Although we - along with on Lalique Angels and A Gammon"? Adam Buckley ahead of the Hylands House the hands of the television another fan - managed to outrun June, Elton said producing his Slatkin candles. answers five. But he didn't show. Tour promoter Marshall satirical puppeteers in the 1990s the security people in order to first picture, Women Talking include Herring ("hair ring") in Arts were generous to provide 2 while England manager. His Dirty, for Rocket Pictures was like give Elton roses and to shake the front-row tickets to see Elton at 9 If you have ever traveled to his answer. Why not? Is this just puppet fetched £1,472 - more having a three-year pregnancy (!) "Rocket Man's" hand once more, 3 different countries in the Castle Ashby to radio listeners in a sad lack of English fish names than twice the expected price of Elton said he felt compelled to the concert was disappointing to same week to attend Elton a Hercules competition. Radio set up his film company: "You in my poor vocabulary? "Solar £600. “Elton” also sold for more us from the very beginning shows-and did not receive a Essex also attended a UK than his predicted £700, at a final know I'm 53, making records, Prestige" is on the set list of my because we were treated like paycheck for doing so. Convention, and broadcast price of £1,141. doing videos and going on tour, offenders being escorted back by dreams! Hercules members singing live "I which is very nice, but it gets a security guy (who later 8 If you think you have come up Wouldn't you just have Guess That's Why They Call it the boring," he said. "I've always admitted to us that he was not with a logical explanation to LOVED IT if Elton did "Solar Blues". ELTON & BAND loved film, and making them is extremely difficult. It's like having happy with the way things "Solar Prestige A Gammon". Prestige" instead of "Your Song" "THE GREATEST HITS - LIVE"a three-year pregnancy. I love the happened, too. He was merely in a concert? Front row would SATURDAY NIGHT'S challenge, I love creativity and I following his orders.). Mannheim 7 If Dennis and Bruce know you Elton will perform two historic have fainted!! NOT ALRIGHT FOR FIGHTIN' love the arts." Elton also said after was the perfect example of how by name - and are afraid of you. Signe Norbotten NORWAY concerts with the band at New giving up alcohol a decade ago, tight security can ruin a concert. A Canadian Elton fan was York's Madison Square Garden on he had to drop his "hot-headed" October 20/21, 2000. The shows Thank you, Elton, for all those 6 If you listen to Victim of Love any thanks for the "do" awarded $500,000 (£330,850) persona and become a different great concerts which we saw on a regular basis. after being assaulted as she will be entitled "The Greatest Hits person. He described his seven Mat the White Horse pub defended Elton’s honour during a - Live", and they will be recorded years with partner David as the and will surely see in the future. (Hylands House concert, 15 for both a television broadcast We take this for granted. You 5 If the number of emails you concert, reported the National first balanced relationship he has have received from John July). I think it's great to meet Post newspaper, July 5. Shelley and a live album which is been in, and he said: "I have know how happy you make your expected to be released everything I could possibly want fans with such shows and small Jorgenson now are in triple up with the other members Arthur was at a concert in digits. November 13, 2000. Apart from in life." gestures - especially since we before these shows, especially Vancouver when she told Jerry Elton and the band (including for those travelling quite a Wechlin to stop shouting abusive found out that our dog travelled Davey Johnstone, Guy Babylon, OLD FRIENDS 4 If you can name all of Davey’s distance. With Elton in great comments at Elton. After a Bob Birch, Nigel Olsson, John along in the tour bus after the scuffle, Shelley suffered injuries to show in Kassel. children in chronological order. form in the evening it was an Jorgenson, Curt Bisquera and John Just six months after reuniting her shoulder that have prevented Mahon) fans should expect a few with drummer Nigel Olsson, It would be nice to be able to excellent day all round. her from working since the see more shows with such little 3 If you have ever had an Elton Now I'm home I can give you special guests on stage as well. Elton met and embraced former (or EJ Band member) autograph incident at the Sept 1995 concert. Note that these shows will mark distance to the stage. Elton surely all the info on a DANCE record drummer, Roger Pope, at his June tatooed on your body. Elton's 50th and 51st performance 7, concert at Broadlands, has no fun sitting lonely at his incorporating Song for Guy at world-famous Madison Square Hampshire, England. piano, hardly being able to spot 2 If Clive Franks dives under his which other fans may want to PARTY IN THE PARK Garden. Tickets went on sale on his fans. soundboard as soon as he spots know about. Details: Title August 21. :SUNSTORM featuring Song for The Backstreet Boys joined you in the audience of a show. Elton on stage at July 9, "Party in Guy. Re-recorded and remixed the Park" at London's Hyde Park THE RICH MAN SLEEPS. 1 If you know about appearances by HURLEY & TODD. Written in front of over 100, 000 music Elton will make with the band - by Elton John. Track 1 :Radio fans, and 43 different acts, to TIME WE PUT A FLAME TORCH... before the band does. edit (3:52), Track 2: Mike Koglin benefit the Prince's Trust Appeal. Owner of Raby Castle in Remix (8:12), Track 3:Club As he got down to play, there County Durham, Lord Barnard, by Brooke Murphy, Caviar Remix(5:28). An English was no sound! Elton gave up and revealed he had only heard a few Vice President/Co-Founder of the CD, on Multiply Records. Ref walked off stage. Rainwater was Official Nigel Olsson Fan Club to blame. After the technicians songs by Elton ahead of the no CDMULTY58. Taken from concert staged on July 29. He worked their magic, Elton Elton and Roger Pope If you would like to submit your the forthcoming album "Best of returned and performed with the said: "I've heard very little of his own Elton-related Top Ten List, or music but despite that I'm looking add to the above, then we’d love Multiply Records". Boys "Philadelphia Freedom", to hear from you. Please send all Released just recently, I’ve "Friends Never Say Goodbye", forward to this concert. Judging HERCULES WEBCAM contributions to Tammi Law, and two Boys' tracks: new song from the little I have listened to I only heard it on Capital Radio Hercules Webcam came to Chief Editor (see page 2 for 95.8 after 10.00pm in their "I'll be the One" and hit "I Want feel sure I will enjoy the Raby details). Castle event very much." our website on July 7, featuring Dance/club slot. I bought it in It That Way". "hardcore" Elton fans enjoying A small prize will be sent to each HMV in Kingston, London. themselves at Stephan person whose list is published. Mark Giles, UK Heimbecher's Munich apartment.

24 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52, September 2000. 5 A SMALL PRIZE TO THE EDITOR WILL BE SENT TO THE WRITER OF EACH LETTER Editor (address on page 2) or e.mail her at [email protected]. Full details of the following news items have appeared on our Website and Hotline PUBLISHED.

ELTON VISITS PRINCESS DIANA'S GRAVEof Diana's FOR dresses. FIRST David TIME looked irst of all I want to say that I love your mag! at the gowns in amazement and FI got my second issue today and I think it's hree years after his tribute to Princess Diana moved a nation said: "She certainly knew how to the best fan club magazine I've ever seen - and is Tto tears, Elton was close to them himself as he made his first wear a frock." But inside the certainly the best one for our Sir Elton that I've visit to Diana's grave, on July 23rd. exhibition Elton avoided the ever read! I've been an Elton fan attention of visitors, smiling and this will never do" and he went quietly moving away. And for 12 years and it never seems into his dressing room, brought outside, where nearly 100 like there's enough to read for onlookers burst into spontaneous Elton fans. out a photo of himself, signed it applause, he politely declined to I was very fortunate to obtain and gave it to Matt to give to me, sign autographs or chat, saying: Elton's autograph through a very along with the paper bag! I've "I'm sorry, this is a private visit." dear young friend of mine in since had both the picture and Two years ago any Elton visit 1992, named Matt Allen. Elton the bag framed. would have seemed improbable. read about him having AIDS and Matt, who was 8, has since Attacking the decision to bury asked him to his show here in died from AIDS, but I'll never Diana at Althorp, he said: "It's Dallas, and gave him a backstage forget the way he and Elton made none of my business, but if I was pass. Well, Elton signed some my life so very happy and I'll going to bury her anywhere I things for Matt, and Matt asked always love both of them for that. would have liked it to have been Elton is every bit the wonderful in Westminster Abbey. People Elton to sign something for me, could say prayers or whatever they and he signed a brown paper bag. and kind man we all thought he wanted. It would be very easy for Matt said "Honest Elton, she was. the boys to go and see her. I think worships the ground you walk Melissa Hodges, Texas, USA it is very hard on them to go and on!" Elton then said "Well then, Elton and Matt Allen visit their mother." Elton and David, accompanied by But a new era began in July It left Elton visibly emotional Diana’s brother, Earl Spencer when Elton and David arrived at am not a member of have wished for - thank you for where a few desperate girls from and often sombre - but upbeat, Althorp in their chauffeur-driven IHercules, but I do visit your those, it’s the nearest I’ve been the local promoter were waiting too. He said: "I'm so glad I came. car. They had lunch with the 36- Website on a very regular basis. to the stage at an EJ concert. for the guys with the tickets! It's very peaceful and lovely, year-old earl and his girlfriend I would just like to say that I also And what a concert! ‘Empty After a wait of about one hour, a restful and so optimistic." Elton, a Caroline Freud, before the visit eltonjohn.com, and that Garden’ and ‘The Greatest car finally arrived - inside: a box close friend of the princess, spent poignant pilgrimage. It left Elton your unofficial site is, in my Discovery’ nearly brought tears to with the awaited tickets! nearly three hours at her final singing the praises of Diana's last opinion, far superior to the my eyes. A superb performance Envelope ripped open: Yippee! resting place, during the weekend resting place at her ancestral official site. In terms of content, from a man who just gets better Front row!!! Into the venue - and of his nearby Castle Ashby shows home. He said: "It's wonderful every time you see him. Thank the seats were just in front of the what has been done here." options and presentation, in Northamptonshire. Hercules totally eclipses you for a great day. piano. It marked a final softening of eltonjohn.com in every way. I Mike Bibby, Stockport, UK. Meanwhile, it started raining - his once bitter view of her island PAVAROTTI AND GEORGE grave on the Althorp estate. Two especially enjoy your 'news' but we could not have cared years ago he said: "I just feel sad His friendship with Diana George Michael performed section which keeps me up to n Friday, 7th July, we less. The show started - Elton that she's on that island - it's as if dated from 1981, when they met "Don't Let the Sun..." duet with date with Elton happenings. Oheaded off to Künzelsau was in a good mood, and I she's all alone again." Elton and at Prince Andrew's 21st birthday tenor Luciano Pavarotti at the Please keep up the good work. at noon. Without tickets - they decided that I would give my gift his partner David were given a party. At her funeral Elton annual charity concert on June 6 Simon Owens, USA had been ordered and purchased to Elton today! If I dared to... tour of the estate by Diana's famously sang his reworked in Modena, Italy. through eltonjohn.com - said to And I did it. Bravely, I walked up brother Earl Spencer. In virtual version of Candle In The Wind. It be front row - but had nothing in to the stage halfway through the silence, they strolled together raised millions for good causes ust a short note to thank CHARTED SUCCESS hand. Could this turn out well? concert - Elton approached me, along a gravel path surrounding when he gave the profits from JHercules for an excellent After a three hour drive we smiled at me, shook my hand Diana's grave before visiting an record sales to the Diana, Princess Elton is among those 17 artists day at Chatsworth on 3rd June. reached a village in the and said "Thank you very much" exhibition dedicated to her. of Wales, Memorial Fund. with a minimum 1 chart entry per The pre-concert entertainment countryside, found the free with his cutest smile. Of course, And Elton allowed himself a As stunned visitors to the year in the German album charts was superb, and to meet all the parking lot and walked to the I was unable to articulate any estate looked on, Elton paused at smile when he caught sight of the between 1990 and 1999. Others other fans was really good. The a temple in her memory and score, signed by himself and include Chris Rea, Madonna, Joe event. On our way there, we sensible word, but happily tickets for the concert, bought passed the local soccer grounds floated back to my seat... If I stood for several minutes reading bought at auction last year for Cocker, Mike Oldfield, Queen, through Hercules, were on the messages and floral tributes left £25,300, in a converted Althorp and Mariah Carey. Elton is also - there was Elton's helicopter! At feel like 15 years old during his 3rd row, bang in the middle of the venue, we looked for the concerts (I will soon be 40) then for her. Then he briefly separated stable block now housing Diana among those 7 artists with a the stage, right in line with the from his partner and the earl in exhibits and film memories. minimum 1 chart entry per year in box-office where we were I felt like I was 10 at that great man himself. They were front of the monument and There were smiles too, when the German singles charts supposed to collect our tickets. moment with Elton! bowed his head as if in prayer. Elton and David viewed a gallery between 1990 and 1999. the best tickets anyone could No box-office, just half a tent Patricia Schmidt, GERMANY

4 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52. September 2000. 25 These are free to Hercules members. Send yours to Tammi Law, Editor, 49 Horseshoe Crescent, Swindon SN5 5AX, UK., FROM THE EDITOR... SMALL ADS or e-mail her at [email protected]

ELTON MEMORABILIA: TICKING, TICKING, 'WRAP IT UP' PERMANENT Hercules brings you an offer For Sale: Various Elton HERCULES DISCOUNT Memorabilia. Vinyl, CDs, for the Millennium. Count down manage to see any of Elton's Videos, Books, Magazines, plus to the next Elton concert with Our retail outlet 'Wrap it Up' shows, I'm sure these reports huge archive collection. Danny superb original Elton singles and now gives a 10% discount on all will bring back happy memories albums made into quartz clocks purchases by 'Hercules' Hayes, 62 Swinley House, from The Original Vinyl Clock Co. of great concerts. Redhill Street, Regents Park, members, just quote your elcome to the We are all looking forward to 7-inch singles £10.99, and albums membership number. To obtain London NW1 4BB, UK. Tel: £14.99, inclusive of UK postage. WSeptember issue of The Elton's new studio album, the 0207 387 0082 or e-mail: Overseas orders please add £3. their lists that contain 1000's of Mag. At the time of writing, first for a few years. It is being [email protected] for list. Special Hercules offer waives the Elton items for sale, just write to:- Elton is taking a well-deserved recorded in Atlanta this month normal £3 search fee for Elton 'Wrap it Up', PO Box 220, six week holiday at his villa in (September), but as yet, there is Lincoln, LN1 2RU, England, or e- records. Don't ask for anything the South of France. During the no word on a release date. GERMAN CONCERT PHOTOSobscure - or search fee may apply! mail '[email protected]'. last show before his holiday, at Alternately visit their web site:- We'll keep you informed, and as Other artists available. For more Edinburgh Castle in Scotland, soon as we know we'll put an Selling/trading photos of the info, email: [email protected], http://members.aol.com/eltonwrap concerts in Germany this website: www.vinylclock.co.uk. Elton told the crowd "This is my announcement on our website, summer (revenue will be 140th Solo show." Which is www.eltonfan.com. In fact, the Or write to: Original Vinyl Clock MORE PEN-PALS WANTED: donated to the EJAF). If you are Co, Land of Green Ginger, Hull why we think he deserves his news section of our website gets interested, write to Claudia HU1 2EA, England. Tel: +44 1482 I have been an Elton fan since holiday! updated daily, so it is a good Hochmuth, Otto-Braun- Str. 85, 229966. Please do not send your 1990 when Sacrifice got me In this issue, we are delighted place to keep up-to-date with D-10405 Berlin, Germany; e- orders to Hercules. hooked. I would like an EJ pen- to bring you the first part of an current Elton-related events. mail: [email protected] pal. mle or female. Write to me exclusive interview with Elton's Some of us may be worried ELTON VINYL SINGLES &at: ALBUMS? Liam Harrison, 10 Holdforth long-time sound engineer, Clive that Elton may be working too Close, Leeds, West Yorkshire, Franks. Clive spoke to Hercules hard, but as he told the press CDS LIVE Yes, there are still some LS12 1YD, England during Elton's UK Solo tour in around! Ask for free sales list during the UK leg of the Solo July; and be sure to check out For Sale: Double Cd : Live in from [email protected] or: Tour, he has never felt better. the next instalment of this Brescia 2000. From Elton’s solo Bruno Kohli, Roessliwiese, CH- COMPLETE EJ COLLECTION Read one of the interviews with tour, amazing sound quality. (20 8854 Siebnen, Switzerland interview in our December Elton on pages 8 and 9 of this For Sale - Picture discs, flexi issue. issue. GBP) and All Alone in Baltimora singles, maxi singles, scarfs, (25 GBP). I've many other Elton PEN-PALS WANTED: Many of us have been lucky I hope you enjoy reading this badges, rarities and all official enough to see Elton live this issue of The Mag, as it is my last items for sale. To receive my vinyl albums with original I’m looking for pen-pals from year - he has taken his Solo Tour issue as Editor for a while. I've complete list write to : anywhere in the world, covers. More than 100 items, [email protected] or to DM 1.500 plus postage. For across the USA, and then decided to take a break from the including the USA. Please write extensively into Europe. Some Alessandro Perfumo, str to me at: Melissa Hodges, 10815 more information, contact Peter demanding role as Chief Editor, Maggiora 65, 15011 Acqui Myrtice Drive, Dallas, Texas Kraus, Am Roland 2c, D-40883 of us are beginning to forget to spend some time doing other Terme, Italy. 75228-2623, USA Ratingen, Germany. what it's like to see Elton things. I will continue to perform with the band! contribute articles to The Mag However, there are two very though - I'm not disappearing PLEASE REMEMBER... special shows with the band altogether! I've asked Hercules scheduled to take place in New member and Watford Watch ALWAYS state your membership number York, in October. These will be reporter, David Wright, to take if you send a cheque to Hercules, or pay recorded for both a television over the role as Chief Editor into one of the Club accounts. broadcast, and also a live CD, to from the December issue, so ALWAYS let us know the expiry date of be released later this year. See you'll see a new face on this the card, and the cardholders name. our News section for more page. For now, please continue details. to send your contributions to me Please note that if you have paid your Membership Fee by Credit Card, your card Also, more Solo dates have (address at top of page 2) as will automatically be charged again for the been added for later this year. normal, but this will change renewal fee, at the end of your membership year. If your card has expired in the See our Tour Dates listing on from December onwards. meantime, or if you have switched page 27 for full details. Thank you for all your letters companies, please forward your new Credit Card details to Hercules Coordination in For those of you who missed and contributions over the past time for your next renewal. Elton's shows, there are several three years. reports in this issue - an Happy reading!

Photo: George Matlock George Photo: overview of the UK tour, a personal report by two fans who For up-to-the-minute news about Elton, callers in the UK can phone the handed Elton a special gift on stage in Germany, and some HERCULES Hotline on 0906 888 20 20 more comments on our Letters Calls cost 60p per minute anytime to Editor page. And if you DID Photo: Jimmie Collins

26 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52. September 2000. 3 Fanzine of the Elton John T SHIRT AUCTION THE MAG Fan Club RESULTS TOUR DATES Issue No. 52 FAN CLUB INFORMATION SEPTEMBER 2000 EUROPEAN SOLO TOUR 16-Nov2000 ...... Antwerp, Belgium Annual membership fee for the UK is £14 if paid by HERCULES Chief Editor Sport Palais Standing Order/VISA/Mastercard. By Cheque/Postal Tammi Law 08-Sept...... Reggio Calabria 49 Horseshoe Crescent, 18-Nov ...... Rotterdam, Order it is £15. For the rest of Europe it is £14, and Peatmoor Italy for the USA it is 17£/US$30. Please note that your Swindon SN5 5AX, U.K. Netherlands, Ahoy Arena Tel. +44 (0)1793 881 264 10-Sept ...... Athens, Greece renewal date is printed on your address label in [email protected] Herodes Atticus Odeon 19-Nov ..Hannover, Germany European format day/month/year. Editorial Assistants: Hercules is a registered member George Matlock, Barbara Turner 13-Sept ...... Lisbon, Portugal Preussag Arena (Expo) of the National Association of Membership passes are available from your local Fan Clubs Design: Turnstyle Design Casino 21-Nov....Frankfurt, Germany HERCULES department: send a small photo of Translations: yourself when requesting your pass. Sabine Asenkirschbaumer Festhalle Mireille Mölbert 15-Sept ...... Marbella, Spain Please don't send enquiries or fan mail to the Elton For subscription details, please 22-Nov..Dortmund, Germany CONTENTS write to your local HERCULES John management, but to HERCULES Coordination. department or to HERCULES Westfalenhalle Letters will be passed on if necessary. Coordinaton: FEATURES 24-Nov....Zurich, Switzerland HERCULES is a quarterly publication released in HERCULES Coordination A Dog Named Johann c/o Stephan Heimbecher In the June issue of The Mag, ELTON & BAND Hallenstadion Sebastian Bach March, June, September and December. In event of Orleansstr. 59 we gave all readers the Kassel (Germany) D-81667 München, chance to send in a postal bid concert review ...... 23 circumstances beyond our control, there is no "GREATEST HITS LIVE" 25-Nov ...... Vienna, Austria GERMANY for two very rare Elton Tour T- Clive Franks interview guarantee for punctual shipment. It is published in Tel. +49 (0)89 48900369 Stadthalle Exclusive interview English and German. Fax +49 (0)89 48900370 shirts. All proceeds from this 18-Oct ...... Wilkes Barre, PA with Elton’s sound [email protected] Auction benefited the Elton 28-Nov ...... Milan, Italy engineer ...... 14 Printed articles do not necessarily reflect the editors' John Aids Foundation. Bids 20-Oct ...... New York, NY HERCULES Fan Adviser Forum Club at the End of opinions. All information is based on the best of c/o Mireille Mölbert were invited in German Madison Square Garden the Street knowledge and belief. Reproductions permitted only Zaunweg 11 currency, and the closing date Look-a-like Ray D-80805 München, was July 31st. 21-Oct ...... New York, NY Johnson recalls a by prior arrangement with HERCULES. GERMANY recent experience...... 18 Tel. +49 (0)89 3244146 Madison Square Garden Congratulations EltonJohn.com Member participation is always welcome. We are [email protected] to the two successful Website overview ...... 7 thankful for your submissions of any kind: reports, HERCULES USA/Canada US SOLO TOUR 2000 c/o Sharon Kalinoski bidders: In His Own Words... articles, photos, drawings, and suggestions. Please P.O. Box 398 Elton speaks to press send them to the Editor, Tammi Law. Please at Hylands House ...... 8 La Grange, IL 60525, USA (CONTINUED) understand that we cannot always publish all [email protected] 1. Sharon Kalinoski, USA Sir Elton 2. Jochen Loh, Germany EUROPEAN SOLO TOUR 2000 Philip Norman’s contributions. All photos will be returned. HERCULES U.K. 05-Dec ...... Johnson City, TN book reviewed ...... 13 c/o George Matlock P.O. Box 315 A T-Shirt has been posted (CONTINUED) Freedom Hall Ten ways to tell... UK Hotline 0906 888 20 20 (60p per minute) Richmond to each of you. ...if you’re too much Surrey TW9 3QX, UK 11-Nov ...... Paris, France of an Elton Fan...... 24 USA/Canada Hotline 815/293 3843 [email protected] All proceeds have been Olympia UK Tour Review ...... 10 Web site http://www.eltonfan.com HERCULES Benelux forwarded to the Elton White Tie and Tiara Ball c/o Arjen Buikstra 13-Nov ...... Oslo, Norway Elton and David COPYRIGHT: HERCULES Sav. Lohmannstr. 1 John Aids Foundation. Furnish host a lavish NL-3214 XA Zuidland Spectrum EUROPEAN TOUR 2001 ball in aid of EJAF ...... 20 Tel. +31 (0)1881 451511 Deadline for Issue No. 53 is 1 November 2000 [email protected] 14-Nov ...... Oslo, Norway 03-April ...... Paris, France REGULARS Assistant: Tim Blezer LYRIC QUIZ ANSWERS Spectrum Bercy Arena Between 17 and 20 No. 53 will be released HERCULES Italy Elton trivia & gossip ..18 December 2000 c/o Luca Zerbini Via Scheiwiller n.9/A 1. Shoulder Holster Club Information ...... 2 I-20139 Milano, ITALY 2. The Scaffold Kaleidoscope Eyes [email protected] 3. Valhalla Please note: This is not an official Tour Schedule, as it contains Part 6 - Elton’s TV HERCULES Francais 4. The Fox unconfirmed dates at time of going to press. and Video Francoise Linden-Gilles 5. Shoot Down The Moon appearances BP-22, B-4900 SPA (The 80s) ...... 17 Belgium 6. The Retreat Letters to the Editor...... 24 [email protected] 7. Made For Me 8. Tortured Lyric Quiz ...... 13 Front Cover: HERCULES Nordic Urpu Kallio 9. Love So Cold News Bullets ...... 4 Elton on stage earlier this year, with the large video c/o Maria Sjöholm 10. The Camera Never Lies Small ads ...... 26 screen wall behind him. Björkkullavägen 3 A 3 11. Made In England 07880 LILJENDAL 12. Passengers Tour Dates ...... 27 FINLAND 2000 2 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 52. September 2000 27 since 1988

THE MAG

inside this issue: Elton hosts White Tie and Tiara Ball EXCLUSIVE! Interview with EJ sound engineer Clive Franks Elton speaks to press at Hylands House UK Tour review Elton visits Diana’s Grave

PLUS: News, Trivia, Quizzes, Your Elton’s sound engineer Clive Franks proudly points to his Letters & more! copy of Hercules The Mag, minutes before Elton takes the stage at Hylands House, UK September 2000 Issue No: 52