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Hercules Fanzine No. 50

Hercules Fanzine No. 50

since 1988

UE ISS THE MAG 0TH UE • 5 ISS 0TH UE • 5 ISS 0TH • 5 SUE H IS 50T

inside this issue:

Exclusive! talks to

New News Your chance to win rare T-shirt! News & Tour Dates - show review

PLUS: YOUR LETTERS, SMALL ADS, For up-to-the-minute news about Elton, LYRIC QUIZ, callers in the UK can phone the callers in the UK can phone the AND MORE! HERCULESHERCULES HotlineHotline onon 09060906 888888 2020 2020 Calls cost 60p per minute anytime March 2000 Issue No: 50 Fanzine of the THE MAG Fan Club TOURPlans & Rumours DATES Issue No. 50 FAN CLUB INFORMATION MARCH 2000 US SOLO TOUR 2000 Annual membership fee is £14 in the UK/Europe HERCULES Chief Editor 17-March-2000...... Lakeland, FL Lakeland Civic Center and £17/US$30 for the USA and Rest of the World. Tammi Law 49 Horseshoe Crescent, 18-March-2000 ...... Albany, GA Albany Civic Center Please note that your renewal date is printed on Peatmoor Swindon SN5 5AX, U.K. 05-April-2000 ...... Binghamton, NY Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena your address label in European format Tel. +44 (0)1793 881 264 day/month/year. [email protected] 07-April-2000 ...... Portland, Cumberland County Civic Center Editorial Assistants: 08-April-2000 ...... Bingintom, NY t.b.a. Membership passes are available from your local George Matlock, Barbara Turner 09-April-2000 ...... Erie, PA Erie Civic Center HERCULES department: send a small photo of Design: Turnstyle Design yourself when requesting your pass. Translations: 14-April-2000 ...... Evainsville, IN Roberts Stadium Sabine Asenkirschbaumer 15-April-2000 ...... , IN Conseco Please don't send enquiries or fan mail to the Elton Mireille Mölbert John management, but to HERCULES Coordination. For subscription details, please 18-April-2000 ...... Syracuse, NY War Memorial write to your local HERCULES 19-April-2000 ...... Trenton, NJ Sovereign Bank Arena Letters will be passed on if necessary. department or to HERCULES Coordinaton: 21-April-2000 ...... Wilkes-Barre, PA First Union Arena HERCULES is a quarterly publication released in 22-April-2000 March, June, September and December. In event of HERCULES Coordination ...... Hershey, PA Hershey Arena circumstances beyond our control, there is no c/o Stephan Heimbecher Orleansstr. 59 guarantee for punctual shipment. It is published in D-81667 München, MISCELLANEOUS CONTENTS English and German. GERMANY Tel. +49 (0)89 48900369 13-April-2000...... New York, NY Carnegie Hall Rainforest Benefit show Fax +49 (0)89 48900370 Printed articles do not necessarily reflect the editors' [email protected] FEATURES EUROPEAN SOLO TOUR 2000 opinions. All information is based on the best of HERCULES Fan Adviser Aida in knowledge and belief. Reproductions permitted only c/o Mireille Mölbert review ...... 8 03-June-2000...... Derbyshire, UK Chatsworth House by prior with HERCULES. Zaunweg 11 Healing Hands. D-80805 München, 06-June-2000 ...... Hampshire, UK Broadlands GERMANY Nigel Olsson talks Member participation is always welcome. We are 13-June-2000 exclusively to Tel. +49 (0)89 3244146 ...... Lincolnshire, UK Burghley Park Hercules ...... 10 thankful for your submissions of any kind: reports, [email protected] 17-June-2000 ...... Loeben, Austria t.b.a articles, photos, drawings, and suggestions. Please HERCULES USA/Canada David Furnish 18-June-2000 ...... Bad Ischl, Austria Kaiserpark talks about his life send them to the Editor, Tammi Law. Please c/o Sharon Kalinoski and relationship P.O. Box 398 23-June-2000 ...... Kassel, Germany Wilhelmshöhe (open air) understand that we cannot always publish all La Grange, IL 60525, USA with Elton ...... 14 contributions. All photos will be returned. [email protected] 24-June-2000 ...... , Germany Derbypark (open air) Nobody Wins HERCULES U.K. in French...... 16 27-June-2000 ...... Cologne, Germany KölnArena UK Hotline 0906 888 20 20 (60p per minute) P.O. Box 315 Life in the USA Richmond 28-June-2000 ...... Coburg, Germany Schlossplatz (open air) TW9 3QX, UK a personal account by USA/Canada Hotline 815/293 3843 30-June-2000 ...... Leipzig, Germany Völkerschlachtdenkmal (open air) Charlie Morgan ...... 17 [email protected] Web site http://www.eltonfan.com HERCULES Benelux 01-July-2000 ...... Stuttgart, Germany Schlossplatz (open air) SPECIAL OFFERS c/o Arjen Buikstra 04-July-2000 COPYRIGHT: HERCULES Sav. Lohmannstr. 1 ...... Mannheim, Germany Schloss Ehrenhof Tour T-Shirt prize draw..24 NL-3214 XA Zuidland 05-July-2000 ...... Koblenz, Germany Schlosshof (open air) Deadline for Issue No. 51 is 1 May 2000 Tel. +31 (0)1881 451511 REGULARS [email protected] 07-July-2000 ...... Künzelsau, Germany Schlosspark (open air) Assistant: Tim Blezer Between 17 and 20 No. 51 will be released 08-July-2000 ...... Munich, Germany Königsplatz (open air) HERCULES Italy Elton trivia & gossip ..18 June 2000 c/o Luca Zerbini 19-July-2000 ...... S. Wales, UK Margam Park Club Information ...... 2 Via Scheiwiller n.9/A I-20139 Milano, ITALY 22-July-2000 ...... Northants, UK Castle Ashby Convention Reports...... 19 [email protected] Letters to the Editor...... 22 HERCULES Francais Francoise Linden-Gilles Lyric Quiz ...... 13 Front cover: BP-22, B-4900 SPA News Bullets ...... 4 Elton Performing live in Las Belgium Vegas, 30 December 1999 [email protected] Small ads ...... 26 HERCULES Nordic Kaleidescope Eyes - Back cover: Urpu Kallio 2000This is not an official tour schedule, EJ TV/Video c/o Maria Sjöholm as it also includes rumoured and unconfirmed dates. Appearances...... 21 Chicago - 12 November 1999 Björkkullavägen 3 A 3 (Photo: S Kalinoski) 07880 LILJENDAL Tour Dates ...... 27 FINLAND

2 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000 27 SMALL ADS FROM THE EDITOR...

These are free to Hercules members. Send yours to Tammi Law, Editor, 49 Horseshoe Crescent, Swindon SN5 5AX, UK., or e-mail her at [email protected] WANTED EJ CELS As part of the service which we offer to fans, Hercules have I am looking for the following again been able to secure group Elton John music videos: allocation premium tickets to "Something About The Way You many of Elton’s shows this year. Look Tonight", "Recover Your elcome to the 50th We make NO profit on the Soul", "If The River Can Bend" issue of the Hercules tickets which fans buy through and "Written In The Stars". Please fanzine! Originally write to: Jochen Loh, W Hercules, it’s purely a way of called Rocket Fan back in 1988, ensuring that great seats are Hammerweg 29, D - 52074 and now called The Mag, Aachen, Germany. available for real fans. In fact readership has grown Hercules is not about making tremendously over the last 12 FOR SALE OR TRADE profit at all - the Team here are Arise Sir Elton! The moment EJ was years. Its a reflection of the fact all volunteers, and we aren’t paid Updated 7 page list includes, knighted by the Queen. that Elton himself continues to for what we do. Which is what 7", 12" vinyl, CDs, Videos, go from strength to strength. makes it YOUR Elton John Fan Books, Photos, T- Shirts and PLEASE REMEMBER... Elton continues to be really Club; it’s run by the fans, for the more. Please write to Steven busy, and his hugely successful fans. Betts 75A Coillesdene Avenue, Solo Tour shows no signs of EH15 2LN, Scotland ALWAYS state your That’s also why your membership number if you stopping. Building on the success contributions are always U.K. or e-mail of last year, EJ kicked off his [email protected] send a cheque to Hercules, welcome. Write and tell us about or pay into one of the Club schedule for 2000 by performing why you became a fan, and Similar to the way accounts. 3 shows in Hawaii, before HERCULES MEMBER other EJ-related incidents along Cels are made. Matted and returning to the USA for more the way! Photos and pics are DISCOUNTS AT WRAP ITpresented UP! in shadow box frames. ALWAYS let us know the shows throughout the Spring. always welcome too. 16 titles available. Some in expiry date of the card, and And more have been And if you loved the Hercules Hercules has negotiated a limited edition! SPECIAL FREE the cardholders name. announced across Europe for the 2000 Calendar, we want you to permanent discount package for summer. See the Tour Date listing Club Members buying goods OFFER! Write to: Cartoon Please note that if you have share the glory for 2001! We Creations, PO Box 396, on page 27 for full details. want to emphasise that, not only from our retail outlet Wrap It paid your Membership Fee by In between all of this activity, Up! Quote your member Dunedin, FL 34697 USA or visit Credit Card, your card will is it Elton, but also the fans that number (on your passes) to Wrap our website at automatically be charged Elton has also found time to write make Hercules great. Have a It Up!, PO Box 220, Lincoln, www.angelfire.com/biz/celebrity again for the renewal fee, at and perform the for the end of your membership look through your pictures of LN1 2RZ, . cel Our home since 1996! another animated movie, Elton and select photos you have year. If your card has expired Dreamworks The Road to El Tel/fax +44-1522-529275 or in the meantime, or if you taken over the years; if your pic email: [email protected] have switched companies, Dorado. Details of the on is used in the 2001 Calendar, please forward your new the resulting album, and when you will have your name printed Credit Card details to Hercules you can get hold of your copy, next to the photo, and receive a Coordination in time for your can be found in the News next renewal. free calendar as thanks. Please idol section. send all contributions to me - We are very excited that address at top of page 2. Nigel Olsson chose to speak LYRIC QUIZ ANSWERS All that’s left is for us to wish exclusively to Hercules from his Elton a very Happy Birthday in home in California, giving us an 1) Billy Bones and the White Bird March. And if you can’t make it insight into life with EJ in the 2) Holiday Inn to any of our "Celebrate EJ’s "early days". The first part of the 3) Sick City Birthday" Conventions (see page 4) Where’s the Shoorah? interview is later in this issue, 19 for details), then I’ll look 5) Honey Roll with part 2 continuing in June. forward to seeing as many of you 6) Satellite And we were pleased to hear as possible at Elton’s Solo shows 7) Understanding Women that Nigel has subsequently in the summer! 8) Slave returned to work with Elton, for 9) Teacher I Need You the first time in 16 years, 10) Someone’s Final providing backing vocals on 11) Elderberry Wine promotion work for the El 12) White Lady White Powder Dorado project. - 1998 (Photos: J Keßing)

26 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 3 NEWS BULLETS...

Full details of the following news items have appeared on our Hotline and Web-site HOLIDAY INN: the lost lyric NEW ALBUM NEWS and ); 16th ELTON AND TIM ASSIGNED By Reggie Zippo Century Man; Trust Me; and The latest collaboration from Queen Of Cities (all written for, Elton and will sit at hile listening to the the team of Elton, Tim Rice and but not included, in the film); The Tower Records on 8801 Sunset album version of , stems from Panic In Me and My Heart Blvd., LA, on March 14th 2000 DreamWorks Pictures' upcoming at 7pm, to sign copies of The W"Holiday Inn", I often Dances (written specifically for wonder how many fans know animated adventure The Road To the album). The first single, Road to El Dorado when the El Dorado, which is in cinemas album hits the street. It's been 5 that they are only listening to Someday Out Of The Blue about 75% of the original lyrics. from March 31. However, the (Theme from El Dorado) will be years since Elton and Bernie album 'Elton John's The Road To did their last autograph After nearly 30 years of hearing a released April 4. song that sounds so complete as El Dorado', scheduled for release The album also includes party at Tower Records in LA. on March 14, is more than just excerpts from the score to the After 4 hours and 1,300 fans, the is, it may surprise even the most the soundtrack. film. Elton says of his partnership evening became a segment of avid of EJ's fans that "Holiday Elton explained "Instead of just with Rice and Zimmer: “Tim likes history for both Elton and Tower. Inn" had a third verse, a having the usual five songs on a what I do with the melody, I like Fans must buy their CD March slightly different chorus, and a and the rest of what Tim does with the lyric, and 13, and receive a special entry meaning that painted a much it being score, I said, 'Let's make we love what Hans does. So it's bracelet. darker picture about life on the an album out of this and include not a really complicated thing, road. songs we wrote that didn't make primarily because we have so HI HAWAII! the movie.'" He went on to talk much respect for each other.” Tim Most of us have heard Elton of the chorus reads in part: Well, the building's as big and about how the film, and the EJ kicked off the new year and Bernie tell the tale of how "You ain't seen nothing till the room's just the same. Rice, sole lyricist on the project, with 3 concerts in , music, changed along the way, remarks: “Hans is one of the great the song "Daniel" was originally you been in a motel, baby, like a Oh, the TV don't work and "The plot changes, the jokes Hawaii, January 7, 8, and 9. written with a third verse and Holiday Inn." the French fries are cold, film . And Elton, of Although it is a US state, it is very change, the songs change scenes, course, is a legend in every way. how it had to be deleted before That sounds all well and fine, and room service closed but that's par for the course.'' far away from the the final recording was made. but the replacement of just one about an hour ago." So I feel quite privileged.'' mainland....about halfway The album features the DreamWorks Records Time and time again, they have word changed the whole tone It must have been a last original, full-length versions of the between California and !!!! executive Michael Ostin says of We have a Hercules member in said that the missing verse had and meaning of the song. The minute choice to dramatically five songs Elton performs in the the album: ``It's so great to be part explained the whole meaning of word "baby" replaced the word alter the lyrics because I have film: El Dorado; Without Honolulu: he was very helpful to of a musical event like this. I still some mainland USA and some the song, but it would have been "prison"! heard EJ perform it live in 1971 Question; Friends Never Say can't believe I'm working with Goodbye; The Trail We Blaze; Japanese members of Hercules on too long to be a pop tune. This "You ain't seen nothing till with the third verse intact, but Elton John, Tim Rice and Hans this occasion.....thanks Brian! was, however, not the first you been in a motel prison, like without "prison" in the chorus. and Someday Out Of The Blue Zimmer. These guys are at their (Theme From El Dorado). Elton used basically the same set incident in which one of Bernie's a Holiday Inn." There was a great story to be told creative peaks, and we're really list as the USA shows from the lyrics had had the third verse With "prison" now deleted and here, just imagine performing for In addition, the album has lucky to be able to bring their Elton singing a duet with Randy fall of 1999. He commented that removed and the meaning "baby" inserted, the song ended several hours then traveling to the combined talents to so many it was a great city, and that he Newman It's Tough To Be A God people with this amazing record.'' changed before the master up sounding like a commercial next destination for an overnight (sung in the film by Kevin Kline was really enjoying his stay there. recording was made. advertisement for the Holiday stay in a motel room that seemed EJ got many flowered leis and In all of the interviews I have Inn. For those of you who do not unacceptable for human comfort. Hawaiian shirts as gifts from the encountered, EJ and BT have know, Holiday Inn is a motel With nowhere to go, the audience.....the last time he had never mentioned how or why chain in the USA. I am quite countless number of motel rooms done a in Honolulu was "Holiday Inn" was reduced to a surprised that the has begins to feel like a sort of prison. 1982! Over the 3 nights, he syrupy tribute to a motel chain, not yet tried to use this song to Solution? Write about it. Why dedicated songs to friends in the rather than the dark confines of a their advantage. Once the word we were deprived of this original audience such as "Janet from England", Lulu, and singer Diane prison that Bernie had originally "prison" was eliminated and thought may never be known. Krall. Elton will continue to tour envisioned. Did the company "baby" penciled in, verse one and Perhaps Elton will one day until April, that owned the Holiday Inn motel two seemed to fit better with the reinstate the original lyrics and bringing the solo tour to Europe chain threaten to sue? Or did chorus. Verse three, however, perhaps he won't. For now, I can in the summer. they simply feel that the public was now terribly out of place. If only rely on the unreleased demo would enjoy a much shorter it had been left intact, it would version to capture my CAN I PUT YOU ON? happier version in the long run? not have worked well with the imagination about staying "in a Listening to the original demo rest of the lyrics. "Prison" motel prison, like a Holiday Inn". Many of you will still recording, I honestly feel that it supported that third verse. (Please note: Feelings remember the Elton John postage would have stood the test of time. Without it, there would have expressed in this article about the stamps Hercules commissioned for The first notable change came been no connection to the Holiday Inns of the early 1970s his 50th birthday in 1997. There during the chorus. Everything chorus. Consider the words: are in no way a reflection of their are more Elton stamps around, was the same between the demo "Don't even know if it's current reputation of quality and visit www.coolstamps.com Stamps come from Komi, and the final master. All except Cleveland or Maine. good service) Gagauzia, Buriatia, and Tanzania! one little word. The final version

4 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 25 exclusive...exclusive... NEWS BULLETS... TOUR T-SHIRT FREE PRIZE-DRAW! WALLACE TRUSTEE o celebrate our 50th issue address, and membership The -based museum, of the Hercules Fanzine, number to: Tammi Law, Chief the Wallace Collection has hired Twe are giving away two Editor, Hercules Elton John Fan Elton to its board of trustees. "Sir rare Elton Tour T-Shirts! These Club, 49 Horseshoe Crescent, Elton dresses normal when he shirts were produced as a very Peatmoor, Swindon, SN5 5AX, comes to see us," said one insider. limited edition by the German UK. Mark your cards “Tour shirt "Nothing outrageous. No spangles. Prize-Draw”. Winners will be You wouldn't say he was famous Tour of EJ’s shows in at all. He loves this place and has 1999, exclusively for the crew. notified by post, and names will been here several times." They are NOT available in the be published in the next issue. shops, and here’s YOUR chance And don’t worry if you aren’t 42ND ANNUAL GRAMMY John Aids Foundation. There will to own one. successful with this free prize- AWARD Two lucky readers of The draw. We will be holding an also be chance to bid for two of Mag will each receive one of auction in the forthcoming June these rare shirts on the Auction Elton was presented with the these shirts for free! All you issue, giving you a chance to bid section of the new Hercules Grammy Legend Award during have to do to enter the draw, is for 2 more shirts, with all Web-site, with proceeds also the 42nd Annual Grammy Awards. The CBS-televised event JOHN AND DAVEY IN SNOOKEROO send a postcard with your name, proceeds benefiting The Elton benefiting EJAF. was held at the new Staples Center in downtown CONCERT A man described by New York on February 23, 2000. As well as police as a professional party receiving his award, EJ also Elton band members John My friend was on the dole crasher was arrested on fraud He talked about performed at the ceremony. Jorgenson and charges for allegedly posing as a wedding in They lived with his mum performed a show at McCabe's Elton's manager to get into a $750- Long ago he had a dream ELTON THANKS HERCULESGuitar Store in Santa Monica on a-plate celebrity-studded gala, easteast angliaanglia We all dreamt long ago Jan 30, at 7.00 pm. About 150 reported the New York Daily News A poem by I asked him if he remembered MEMBERS He asked me if I was having fun fans braved the rain. Also in the Jan 16. Peter Gianquinto, 50, During a meeting with audience were wives and family called up organisers of the I went to a wedding The Gents was crowded She wanted lots of babies Volunteers of America's annual The wedding of an old friend Everyone told dirty jokes He’d be a great dad Hercules in London Jan 18, the members of both Davey and I was a long gone lad There was one about the Pope I pretended not to hear Cheif Executive Officer of Elton's John, was well as band member Christmas gala at Seasons We drank brown ale The vicar wasn’t listening The sausage rolls were all gone new management company, John Mahon. Hotel posing as Elton's manager Brown ale from the bottle The sausage rolls were good There was lots of cake left Frank Presland delivered Elton's and asked for 7 tickets. He claimed He seemed very happy Everyone had babies Nobody ate much cake Elton and Donatella Versace I recall I was sad The kids all drank warm coke They just sent out for more beerthanks for fans' loyalty and ELTON'S HALF-BROTHER support - especially in 1999. wanted to attend the Dec 12 event It was a promise I made There was a girl called Sylv His brother impersonated Elvis Elton was impressed by the IN COURT to meet with two friends who were He had been a good pal She had tall hair He had a pee stain on his crotch leading the event, police said. He was glad that I came She asked me for a fag He was drinking white rum number of Christmas cards and We drank straight gin All she said was ‘Yea’ There were lots more babies gifts, and says he’ll not forget the The half-brother of Elton has Party planners were so snookered Straight gin with no ice ‘Yea’ and ‘Like ya know’ Some people threw up "Get Well Soon" project been banned from driving and they changed the seating His bride was a blonde She spilled her Babycham My friend passed out organised by Hercules following convicted of possessing cannabis at the last minute to I don’t remember her name Someone called her a slag What’s-her-name chewed gum Elton's heart surgery last July. by magistrates in north Wales. accommodate the request. They got several toasters The reception was fab I got very drunk But 33-year-old Geoffrey Dwight, He always liked toast That’s what his sister said Drunk it all looked better PRIVATE DANCER from Ruthin, was late for court in INTERVIEWING'S NOT MY His mother didn’t cry I tried hard to fit Sylv looked better drunk His Auntie Rose drank stout His dad sang ‘Edelwies’ I wanted to hear ‘Danny Boy’ Wrexham after the exhaust fell Elton performed a private off his battered Ford Escort car. STRONGEST SUIT She talked about babies He sang the wrong words Bagpipes and ‘Danny Boy’ concert Saturday, Jan 29, in his He wore a purple shirt Everybody laughed at him Sad bitter songs Mr. Dwight, an unemployed harp "Victoria's Secrets: Mrs A purple shirt with a green tie He said he felt a right tit Yea! Sylv looked better drunk adopted hometown of , Georgia. Elton was singing to maker, told the court he declined Beckham's Celebrity Odyssey" He said it was a grand day My friend had a brother I stood outside the Workin’ Mansbenefit Elton John AIDS a breathalyser test because police (Channel 4 ) shown on She giggled and thumped him His brother was a policeman Inside everyone was singing Foundation, as well as Gridiron officers had seen him driving on UK television early January, was She worked at ‘Boots’ He wore hot pink socks I was thinking about sex something of an enigma. Posh Everyone smoked cigarettes I don’t think he liked me Saturday felt like Sunday Glamour, a travelling fashion a car park, not a public road. He The girls wore white lipstick He ate little sausages Sunday when you have school Mondayshow that benefits the HollyRod said he had been out drinking Spice aka Victoria Adams spent Their frocks had red spots He pinched them in his fingers I went to a wedding Foundation, which raises money and playing the harp in pubs in an hour interviewing big names The lads smelled of ‘Brut’ He made jokes about cocks The christening comes next. to fight breast cancer. He played Llangollen one night in last July like Elton John. Elton, who was a 2-hour show at the local Fox when he was arrested. Mr. interviewed as he shopped for Theater and dedicated Tiny Dwight told the court the harp, CDs, suddenly asked her what Dancer to Muhammad Ali and which he had made for his she thought of former Spice Girl Freedom to Billie Geri Halliwell's new songs. Posh elderly mother, was damaged by was speechless. The Hercules Jean King both of whom were in a police constable who put his Taken from the book ‘The Devil at High Noon’. Written by Bernie Taupin. Supplied by Jimmie Collins the audience. refrain: "I'm speechless, and I foot on it as he was arrested. don't know where to start"!

24 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 5 It was nineteen seventy two strangers we When I heard you on AM radio NEWS BULLETS... Strutting with my friends along Grand Avenue Just a kid, silly little city boy haven’t been Manhattan's castles sparkled just ahead I recall that first song Full details of the following news items have appeared on our Hotline and Web-site A soft melancholy whispered "Daniel my brother" (A poem to From that moment and infinite more ON JUDIE GREATEST ROCK'N'ROLL SONGSGERMAN SINGLE CHARTS Elton & Bernie) Your pain gripped me Your tears filled me Elton has returned the Your rhythm raised me The 100 greatest rock 'n' roll OF THE 90S by Hercules Members copyrights of three of Judie songs, as determined by a panel Elton John was present in the George & Ellen Pappas, Let me tell you how I feel Tzuke's early from his of 700 voters assembled by the Cherry Hill, NJ, USA Your music spiked like a tapestry Rocket back to the German Top 100 Singles Charts Dancing wild like cool Kentucky gin music network VH1, have Elton Holy Moses that ain't no sin UK singer/. The albums for 294 weeks in the Nineties. Your words a prism, hues of life's were recorded between 1979 at number 70 with . That makes him number five harmony Your music tap dancing along concert and 1981 and include her right behind Michael Jackson hall balconies worldwide hit Stay With Me Till RAYMOND ON TV (302 weeks), (309 Dawn, and For You, her first weeks), Madonna (330 weeks) Twenty seven years I've sung back Many fans have contacted us In the car on a two lane motorway single for Rocket. "As the albums and Sweden's Roxette with a Round Norfolks Byway had been deleted for some time, I to ask when will the show total of 377 weeks. On average Alone in London Town called Elton's office. Elton kindly featuring Elton look-a-like Walking down the Old Kent Road there was an Elton John single Your music great company at three a.m. called me and said that he would Raymond Johnson and the listed in the German Top 100 As I found my way back to my flat of course be prepared to let me Hercules fan club at Leeds Castle every second week between have them back," says Judie. Listening to your sound in September 1999 be screened 1990 and 1999. I thought then like I do now Judie plans a UK tour "Phoenix on British TV. The Look-A-Likes What grace between your lines 2000" in April and May. Your fingers gliding Agency, first due out over Your harmony so alive Christmas 1999, will be shown CANDY BY THE POUND Your voice like a high blue note ‘NEW’ HIDDEN RECORDINGS Deep from the Delta on ITV, likely early March. It is Elton was the biggest solo Not bad for a "Sheffield Man" Hercules regularly hears of being screened as a five- or six- earner in 1999 according to Just a fan no way unearthed hidden Elton part prime-time show, with rock account Cliff Dane. Elton, Soul mates in time and space recordings. But the latest out of segments of Hercules in most taking £25m, was also number Though never face to face the closet comes from a Scottish Your notes fantastic left their grace episodes. two overall, behind the almost radio station, reports the UK Still today Independent Jan 24. predictable Rolling Stones band The songs you sing Scottish Radio Holdings, owner MAYFIELD DIES which creamed £35m. The The lyrics you weave figures follow December news My heart lifts of Radio Clyde, plans to raise Old friends thank you! £75m through a placing and Soul legend , from Pollstar about top concert You two so gifted. whose stylings influenced artists earners in 1999, which placed aims to exploit previously If my message finds you unreleased recordings of Elton. of all musical genres, died on Elton eighth with $32.5m. Know my soul has cherished your art "This isn't the usual call for cash Dec 26. He was 57. Mayfield Number one were - again - the Like a diamond in the rough "Between a Father & Son" and "" for acquisitions," one of the suffered a serious accident in Rolling Stones on $64.7m. But You made England proud bankers to the placing said. August 1990. In 1994, Elton, remember, the Stones have to Your compassion with no bounds "Some of SRH's stations have Bernie's eyes glisten Whitney , The Isley split their earnings between He knows you well some great Elton recordings stuck them. in the archives, which really Brothers and Aretha Franklin We've travelled far ought to be commercialised." recorded his compositions in a From Cities, Commons to Hills ELTON TO FACE COURT When you sing we come together special tribute called, All Men Your music, your lyrics OFFICIAL ELTON JOHN WEBSITEAre Brothers: A Tribute to Curtis Elton is to give evidence at Roll Elton, Roll on like the mighty Mississippi Mayfield. A remake of a Bernie spin that magic without kin Following a meeting with London's High Court in his All together now Mayfield song will feature as an £20m damages claim against a Strangers we haven't been Frank Presland, the CEO of anthem for the State of Georgia. Twenty-First Artist (Elton's new former agent and accountants, management company), in The record producers want Elton reported the Western Daily London on January 18, 2000, to be included on the recording. Press newspaper Dec. 15. Mr Hercules can say that the official Justice Jacob heard the first Elton John website legal skirmishes between the http://www.eltonjohn.com, is ELTON AT THE MET parties involved at a preliminary going to be worth waiting for. The New York’s Metropolitan hearing in Dec. The judge said basic website is launched March it was being claimed that 1, but might take a few weeks for Museum of Art is showing Andrew Haydon, an agent all features to be operational. Elton exhibition "Rock Style" (runs employed by Elton's former is expected to be highly involved until March 19) and spotlights manager John Reid's company, in the website project - with classic rock-'n'-roll performers JRE Ltd., was negligent in personal contributions regularly. and their pervasive influence Hercules hopes to be involved allowing JRE to charge U.S. tour with this exciting new project. A on fashion. The exhibition expenses to Elton. The trial in review of the new web site will features some of Elton's October is expected to last eight follow in June's The Mag. costumes and shoes. weeks.

6 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 23 Send your letters to Tammi Law, Editor (address on page 2) or NEWS BULLETS... e.mail her at [email protected]. first became an Elton John fan when the ‘Elton was reading the December fanzine and realized PERFECT DAY John’ album was released, I was about 15 a very good point was made in the Summer of According to unconfirmed Iyears old then and myself and a group of four IFun article. I also felt for a very long time that sources, Elton has signed up to friends used to listen to the album and were no one could possibly understand my love and appear in 'Perfect Day', the completely bowled over by it. My boyfriend at affection for our dear Sir Elton. And then I finale concert to National Music the time got tickets to see Elton singing at "The discovered the fan club. I may not be in the Day in the UK. The concert Country Club" in Hampstead, I believe in 1969 group that goes to just about every concert takes place at Somerset House, or 1970, and it was the first pop concert I had possible, but I do get a sense of connection from London on June 29, 2000, and ever been to. The Club was full and heaving reading about others' love and appreciation for will be broadcast live by UK TV when we arrived - I remember that Elton was him. Thank God for both the man and you BBC 1 and 2, and UK Radio 1 & very exciting - we all had a great evening. The people that care as much about him as I do and 2. Elton will break from his next time I saw him live was at the Shaw enough to do such a wonderful job paying him German Tour to appear. about 1 year later, and this concert is still one of tribute the way you do. I greatly appreciate not the most memorable for me. I believe Roger feeling like an outcast. NIGEL STRIKES BACK! Moore and Princess Margaret were in the Keep up the great work! According to the Nigel audience and Elton was just electrifying. I was in Wendy Rohn, Greenfield, WI, USA a daze for days afterwards, and after that I was Olsson Fan Club, Nigel completely hooked on seeing Elton live. provided backing vocals on the hen I opened my heart to Elton and upcoming sound-track album The next concert after that was the one at the his music in 1997, nothing about his . Royal Festival Hall in 1974 when Princess Wprevious drug and alcohol addictions Margaret was again in the audience - I remember - which he had suffered for so long - could be MUSICARES AWARD her dancing in the Royal Box! It was a fantastic felt. So, it is even harder for me to understand that concert; I had queued for hours early one he had once fallen to these addictions. Since I am morning outside the Royal Festival Hall - the quite a recent fan - as you can see - I cannot say queue went round and round the outside! anything about the past, what concerts were like By this time of course, Tumbleweed in those times. I experienced my first concert in Connection was out and this same group of friends June 1999, and I was absolutely fascinated by his used to listen to it together in someone’s bedroom. artistry and his voice. We are lucky that After that I saw Elton perform whenever he you are here Elton! was in London, and of course, bought all his LPs. Ines Dießl, Germany When he decided to stop touring (was it around 1978?), I was devastated - I remember phoning Brian Hayes on LBC one morning when the announcement had been made - Brian Hayes was saying "Did anyone care?", and of course I Elton and share a joke phoned in to say plenty of us did! after Elton was presented with I feel I’ve been so lucky to have been able to the Musicares Person of the Year enjoy Elton’s music for so long - I play The One, Award in Los Angeles, Feb 21. Made in England and of course The Big Picture all the time, and continue to see him live NEW BOOK whenever I can, with children in tow now. I have never met Elton personally although my husband Author Philip Norman has Colin met him in 1969, just after Elton had made completed writing Sir Elton: The his first album. Colin was at a pub in Surrey and Definitive Biography of Elton was sitting next to Elton at the bar. Elton was very John. It will be published in shy, and proudly told Colin about the album he March by London publishers had just made. Of course Colin loves telling me Sidgwick & Jackson. Apparently, this story, as he has met Elton, and I haven’t! Elton thinks the book is well- researched and accurate. Jane Bradley, Herts, UK Norman famously penned Elton in 1991, which was an insightful book on Elton and o Hercules, I hope I speak on behalf of all included a fascinating and Elton fans... We thank the Lord, there's comprehensive discography, or people out there like you!! as our sales manager Alan at LETTERS TO THE EDITOR TO LETTERS T Wrap It Up! correctly pointed I hope the 21st century is Hercules', and of course, EJ's best time yet! out, "songography" as it didn't Best wishes, detail disc catalogue codes! Southbend, IN, USA October 1999 (Photo: L - Sykes) Adam Buckley, UK L (Photo: - 1999 Garden Square Madison Sykes)

22 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 7 Elton John and Tim Rice's THE NEW HERCULES WEBSITE

night of Aida on December 9, and he made the front page of the Chicago Sun-Times eltonfan.net newspaper. Before discussing the details of the show, a few interesting dmittedly, we had The basic idea of the new Message Board, the Hercules comparisons of Chicago's "Aida" planned to launch the Hercules website is for it to Chat Room, and of course the new Hercules website a to the Atlanta version. First, most A be your Elton John portal on news pages and archives. lot earlier, but keeping in AidaI had not seen the first of the cast was replaced, except the world wide web. As such, However, all of these services IN CHICAGO incarnation in Atlanta in 1998 mind that all Hercules work the basic navigation of the have been re-designed and for Headley as Aida and Sherie is done in the so-called spare Review by Sharon Kalinoski ("Elaborate Lives: The Legend of new site is very similar to improved in speed and Scott as Amneris and one of the time of the Hercules team Yahoo! for example, or other performance, bringing you an Aida"), so I did not know what ensemble (background/dancer) members, things have taken a internet portals. However, in even better service. Fortunately for me and to expect. The first Aida actors, Phineas Newborn. little longer than we planned. contrast to the big search In addition, there are lots other Chicago area performance in Chicago that I Although many of the behind- And even now that the engines, the Hercules website of new services such as the residents the pre- was supposed to see was the-scenes people were new Hercules website will only features Elton John Hercules Online Shop, an related content. Online Auction Room, Virtual Broadway run of "Aida" cancelled due to an on-stage replaced, many were also soon be officially launched at http://www.eltonfan.net, there If you are familiar with Hercules eCards, and the new took place at the accident on the second night of retained. previews. Near the end of the are still a few construction Hercules' current website at Hercules eNewsletter. As Cadillac Palace Theater Three of the "Elaborate Lives" http://www.eltonfan.com you already stated above, even Nov 13 show, the two lead areas that hopefully will in Chicago from Nov songs were dropped from the disappear in the very near will notice more features will be added actors, as Aida 12 1999 to Jan 9, 2000. revamped "Aida", most notably future. Still we think that that all of shortly. So make sure to come and Adam Pascal as Radames, The convenient "The Messenger", which was on there are already lots of it's back often to check it all out. fell 15 feet to the stage when features There will also be new location allowed me to the officially released CD and great features and the "tomb" plummeted. Both services for every have services for Hercules Web see the musical 7 demo CD. "Not Me" was re- were only slightly injured, and Elton fan on the been Members, such as your own times. And I would inserted into the musical, along transferred personal e-mail address were able to resume their roles web. have liked to see more. with the renamed "Radames' to the new [email protected] for the November 18 show. But The music, of course, Letter". There are a few songs site, such as (coming soon), the news there's an old saying that "any was written by Elton, that were not included on the the Elton archive, and multimedia publicity is good publicity": the various artists CD, which were Trivia, the library. And again, more Web with lyrics by Hercules Member services will be show received more local news in the musical: "Every Story is a Tim Rice. coverage due to the mishap. added over the months to Love Story", "Our Nation Holds come. As it was, a lot of local news Sway", "The Past is Another reports focused on the grand re- Land", and "Dance of the Robe." So don't wait, but opening of the theater itself. The Plus, they are not performed in bookmark the new page original vaudeville theater’s the order they appear on either today. At the time this issue chandeliers, marble, gold-leaf, Aida CD. went to press, we were still and intricate decorative figures I can't possibly convey the planning to launch the new have been refurbished full story, atmosphere, and website by the end of throughout, at an estimated $20 emotions of Aida well enough. March. Don't shoot us million. You need to see it for yourself. I if it takes a little longer ... we are Elton was in Chicago for the will provide a basic outline of final week of Aida rehearsals, only the the story, but this does not do it webmasters. and performed 3 solo concerts justice. Critics universally agreed in the city that week. But he that the musical's costumes and never once mentioned the scenery were stunning. musical during his concerts! My One long time theatergoer I Aida T-shirt did not even trigger know said that it was the best a comment. He did return to the scenery she had ever seen. A big city for the official press opening favorite of many was the THE NEW HERCULES WEBSITE Atlanta, USA 24 September 1999 (Photo: L - Sykes)

8 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 21 kaleidoscopeKALEIDOSCOPEKALEIDOSCOPEKALEIDOSCOPEkaleidoscopekaleidoscopekaleidoscopekaleidoscopekaleidoscopekaleidoscopekaleidoscopekaleidoscopekaleidoscopekaleidoscope eyes eyes eyes eyes eyes eyes eyes eyes EYESEYESEYESeyes eyeseyes Part 5 of our collectors series on Elton's TV & Video Appearances by George Matlock and Sharon Kalinoski

VIDEO SINGLES (contd.) TV SHOWS etc. 1975 geometric patterned silhouette- seriousness of the story, and it is find her again, even if it takes Videos made for promotion of a Interviews, TV specials, "Soul Train" (Bennie and filled and backlit "prison scene" - rumoured that it may be 100 lifetimes. This "future" single, continuing where we left concerts, news clips, the Jets, Philidalphia awesome. Most others also eliminated during the Broadway meeting is portrayed in the the list in The Mag issue 48. commercials featuring Elton Freedom,) enjoyed the breathtaking vertical run. However, it was a very show's opening and closing 1996: "Cher Show" (Lucy in the swimming pool scene, complete entertaining crowd pleaser. Too scenes: the show begins and Sky, Bennie, medley) Believe The 70s with mist and "swimmers" in a bad the detractors could not ends in a setting of a modern day Dodger Stadium from 8mm Made in England 1970 great illusion. The frequent appreciate the balance that this museum with ancient Egyptian camera, private recording, scenery changes all moved so fun scene provided....they need artifacts in glass cases. The Blessed Midnight Special no sound smoothly that one hardly noticed to realize that real life is not all "ancient" lovers, supposedly Please Andy Williams Show "" From the when it was happening: there serious, nor all fun. reincarnated, catch each other's BBC:The sounds of Elton Movie "" You Can Make History were no awkward moments at Tim Rice, for those of you eyes and feel an attraction. Young Again John & Bernie Taupin "Midnight Special" tribute any time. who don't know, is a veteran During the nearly 9 week run Live Like Horses "Tommy” Movie Premiere Critics all lauded Headley's lyric writer of many famous in Chicago there were frequent Perfect Day 1971 TV Special, hosted by "Your Song" on BBC TV David Frost portrayal of the lead role, and musicals such as Jesus Christ minor dialog and song lyric "Top of the Pops", in agreed that she is destined to be Superstar and . He changes. Some made sense, 1997: January 1976 a big star. But a target of critics collaborated with Elton for a few such as Radames' father (Zoser) Something About The Way were the seemingly "out of songs in the 1980s, and is also asking "....what do we do if they Elton John Live in You Look Tonight Album played live place/time" (anachronistic) well know as co-writer with Elton take up arms again?" instead of (DIRECTOR: Edinburgh Playhouse, TIM ROYES) "Get It On" [T. Rex] Elton Scotland, 17 September scenes. For example, one took of the "Lion King" soundtrack. the former "...... what do we do if on Keyboards, BBC TV BBC TV "Top of The Pops" issue with a painted woman (Hard to believe that was nearly they take up arms against us?". "Top of the Pops" "Tom Snyder Show" figure wearing a bikini swimsuit, 5 years ago!!!) He has been One very clever scene right BBC Sounds For Saturday which she felt was not "correct" widely quoted as saying that he before "Like Father, Like Son" has 1998: "Morecome and Wise", (8 Live Songs) for ancient Egypt. Unfortunately, does not care what the critics a humourous little "Lion King" Recover Your Soul - BBC TV. Plays "Sorry Seems...Hardest Word" someone working on the show think about Aida, and that they reference. While plotting to kill (DIRECTOR: 1972 solo heard the comment and will probably hate it. He says that the pharaoh, Zoser reflects, "first MARCUS NISPEL) London with Orchestra If the River Can Bend agreed.....so the figure got a what matters is that the audience a wedding, then a funeral...... ah, BBC: interview, "Tiny 1977 painted-on towel for the rest of likes it, and I agree. If the average now that's what I call the Circle Dancer", "All the Nasties" "The Muppets": Croc'Rock, the show's run! person enjoys it, as of Life." The audience chuckles. 1999: "Holiday Inn" from BBC Bennie, GBYBrRd, Don't What the reviewers did not entertainment, then it is a There were other minor Written in the Stars Go Breaking.. w Miss understand was that the show's success. dialog conflicts I realized after (DIRECTOR: 1973 Piggy THE NEW RENASSANCE) writers were intentionally A brief summary of the story: my sixth show; hopefully this will In the Hot Seat "The Thom Sessions" blending old and new, using An Egyptian captain falls in love be revised for Broadway, for Movie: "" London, UK (Wembley- modern devices to tell a timeless with a slave he captured, Aida. example Aida asks Mereb not to with . Elton on Empire Pool), concert, story in an "ancient" setting. I feel Unknown to him, she is a tell anyone that she is a Nubian keyboards on "Get It On" November that the story was not intended to Nubian princess. He, Radames, is princess, because she fears the and "Children of the "Morecome & Wise". Plays Revolution" "Shine on Through" solo be solely about a drama taking engaged to marry Amneris, the Egyptians will kill her. But since Should you be able to add place in ancient Egypt: it is a Pharaoh's daughter. Against his at the very beginning there were the missing Directors of the Goodbye Norma Jean and "Mike Douglas Show" Other Things. AKA "The story that could take place will he is forced to marry other Nubian women captured video-singles, or know of "David Frost Show" other video-singles or TV Elton John Story". Also a anywhere, anytime, with Amneris, but his heart forces him along with her, the Nubians appearances by Elton during laserdisc release universal themes of power to betray Egypt to help Aida. For would have already known that the 70s, please email: 1978 struggles, love, and death. this crime, Radames and Aida are Aida was enslaved. [email protected] 1974 "Parkinson Show" BBC TV: Critics also dismissed the sentenced to be buried alive. Those who have not already BBC "Old Grey Whistle Live duet w. Dame Edna or write to: Everidge & "" modern "fashion show" scene, a Although she loves them both, seen it, I highly recommend that Hercules UK, Test": Ticking, Grimsby futuristic runway sequence Amneris must, as the future you go to see Aida in New York Merv Griffin Interview PO Box 315, Richmond, Hammersmith Odeon backed by loud , leader of Egypt, allow the death if you get the chance. I Surrey TW9 4JF, England. Christmas Show, 24 saying that it caused the show to sentence to be carried out. guarantee that you will enjoy it December 1979 Thanks to Wayne Martin for have a "split personality." They As the lovers await death, immensely. Elton with at "Top of the Pops" BBC TV, his invaluable contribution felt it detracted from the Radames tells Aida that he will to this series. Caribou Ranch (Brief) live "Part Time Love"

20 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 9 HEALING conventionally speaking...

HANDS s previously announced in convention on the day of the concert, 23 June 2000, from 12 George Matlock: Thank you very our December issue of The Mag, here’s a quick to 6pm, at the Hotel Schweizer much for participating in this A reminder of the forthcoming fan Hof, Wilhelmshoher Allee 288, interview. The whole thing conventions we have organised: in Kassel, Germany. nigel olsson snowballed following an nigel olsson interview we did with Charlie EJ’s Birthday Conventions: All fans are welcome to any of TALKS EXCLUSIVELY TO HERCULESMorgan earlier this year. That Hercules UK and the events. If you require further generated a lot of interest, and Hercules USA/Canada information, please refer to FROM CALIFORNIA, 13 NOVEMBER 1999 here we are. Do you long to are both hosting fan December issue of The Mag, or come back to the UK for a while? conventions on March the relevant department. 25th to celebrate We look forward to seeing you! Nigel Olsson: I'd love to come Elton’s birthday. is friends call Nigel’s full-time back to record. Basically, I'd love The UK convention is at ANNA him the stint started with to record with producers I HOTEL, Queensborough Terrace, "Drop-Out "Honky Chateau" in haven't before, or those I have, London, noon to 5 pm as always. H 1972, and among his on a big record. I'd love to Drummer", the fans Special guests are expected. call him a legend. classics are "Rocket record again with . idol We’re talking about Man" and of course our We have actually discussed many In the US, the convention will Nigel Olsson - one of the anthem "Hercules". on the phone. Want to do take place in Chicago. For first drummers of Elton's drums stopped rolling in 1976, it the old-fashioned way. With those who cannot remarkable career. when "" was released real drums, in a real studio, with attend our 5th annual Why drop out? Nigel was without Nigel. Nigel and Dee a real microphone. These days EJ fan party in asked to leave the Elton John Band reappeared in 1980 at the biggest you just post a disk and you have Chicago, Hercules is - twice - but what's earned him crowd-puller of the era...the sounds. Me and Gus were also hosting a birthday party that title? In his own words: "It's infamous Central Park, New York probably the first in and the last in Orlando, Florida, for the first what I leave out that makes people show in September. Nigel out at the studio, perfecting the time, also on March 25. If you appreciate my playing style." Like reappeared on the album "21 at drums. These days I think it takes would like an invitation or more successor Charlie Morgan, the life- 33", and on the 1981 album The away from the energy and the information, span of an Elton drummer doesn’t Fox, he was drummer for heart of the record. e-mail Barb Meadows-Crowley at: appear to exceed 13 years. That's "Breaking Down The Barriers", [email protected] "Heels of the Wind", and the title GM: You mean it's a good thing what Charlie and Nigel each to suffer a little for your craft. And to celebrate the fact survived when they were full-time track. that EJ will be drummers for Elton. In a further twist of confusion NO: Absolutely. That's what we performing in front of And why is Nigel a legend? for the record-buying public, Nigel did in the old days, and it the Hercules Statue Well, for those of you unsure of was again off the 1982 album worked very well. when he brings his "Jump Up!" but Dee was still on. Nigel’s history here's a quick GM: Is it that your and Gus's Solo Tour to Germany reminder... He's played drums Jeffrey Porcaro was the drummer. Southbend, IN, USA October 1999 (Photo: L - Sykes) in the summer, there will be a Nigel made a full return on 1983 time schedules don't permit, or and sung backing vocals on most are there any other anxieties? of Elton's repertoire 1970 through and 1984 hit albums "Too Low For 1984. He was briefly out of the Zero" and "." And NO: It costs a lot of money to do BETWEEN 17 AND 20 • BETWEEN 17 AND 20 band with colleague and bass despite all the ins-and-outs, Nigel it the old-fashioned way. And guitarist in 1975, and is probably the best remembered with the names I'd like, the then returned. He was again Elton drummer. record company would have to GOSSIP ABOUT ELTON - FOUND OF COURSE, BETWEEN PAGES 17 AND 20!! released - along with Dee - in Nigel was born in , come up with a lot of 1985. north east England and emigrated smackeroos (money). His first successful recording to California in 1972, before moving to Nashville for 7 years. GM: Ideally, who would you like for Elton was "Lady What's to bring in? I understand among ernie did not meet Reggie f it not had been for Caleb id you know that.... Tomorrow" on 1969 album Empty Old pal Dee was with him there. They did backing vocals for local names are Lee Sklar on bass, until after Reggie had Quaye, Elton's career at ...When Sky, while Roger Pope provided with whom you worked in your B I D the fills on all that album's other hero Earl Thomas Connelly. More already composed the music Music would married Rachel Hunter, Elton early California session days. And tracks. Nigel's next appearance importantly, Nigel met his wife you are chasing and for ten of Bernie's poetic have never been a reality. It John teased the singer by was on "", Schanda in Nashville. Nigel for their drumming on "" as well became disillusioned with the lyrics. was Caleb who persuaded sending the couple a 10 as backing vocals with Dee on a music scene for a while, when he collaboration. Dick James to listen to the pounds ($16) gift voucher number of other tracks. Then took up a hobby in racing cars, NO: Production-wise, Gus, Jeff lton and Bernie signed now famous Dick James with the instruction to "buy which continues. Nigel moved came the legendary live radio Lynne. Also on with Dick James Music on Demos. something nice for the show "17-11-70", with Elton's back to California four years ago. keyboards, with whom I've been E sound stripped down to piano, That's the history lesson over close friends since the mid-70s November 7, 1967. home." Dee on bass and Nigel on drums. with. Now what's Nigel up to?

10 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 19 A personal account of

certainly coming out into the compassion, generosity and when I moved here. Playing-wise, GM: Now turning to events one Little do they know its buried on WORKINGharsh reality taught me a dedication. This is genius material I still love the way Davey year old! Charlie suffered a "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road". BEHIND LIFE IN tremendous amount. I am talking about. Sure, he had Johnstone plays. In fact, there is a similar experience to you. At the Nigel says he's hopeful of a project in the air from a small time of his departure, there was a THE USA POSSIBLY I am ready for less touring, and his (well documented) ups and return (and since this THE more studio work. When I first downs, but this has only made company in Japan who want me lot of speculation that Nigel interview was conducted he's met Elton, I was probably one of him more human in my eyes. to put together an album with Olsson might come back. It ..continued GREATEST been drafted in to provide the top 3 studio musicians in the Well, this will make Davey, and Bob wasn't to be. But would you have backing vocals on new album SINGER-SONGWRITER UK. I was working all the hours Elton squirm with embarrassment, Birch. come back? And was the "The Road to El Dorado") OF THE CENTURY that I wanted, I had recorded as he has never been one to take GM: We look forward to plugging invitation made? extensively, and my discography praise well. I learnt that early on! NO: So I would have loved the that at the appropriate time. Is NO: I wasn't invited, but my invite, and I may be invited back. included such people as Nik In my dreams, I have a hope that happening in 2000? name was put forward by a Kershaw, Gary Moore, Tina Turner, that he also came out of our But to learn he (Elton) would be NO: We're discussing it now, we couple of people involved with 'going backwards' was another , , collaboration having gained from Elton. But I can't tell you by I also have a large number of should know the deal is there in kick in the face. It would never Matt Bianco & Air Supply - quite it. I would like to think that he whom. It was put forward to His friends here. Some of them Ex- the next couple of weeks. But it's be the same without Dee, but I apart from the endless list of regarded me as more than just a Majesty [laughter]. They were Pat Brits themselves, but mostly movie and hired hand. But many people have in the 'hurry up and wait' just want to play with the lads. situation [laughter]. We'll cut that told by Elton 'no, I don't want to of American origin. I have been jingles. I had also composed and come and gone during Elton's 30- go backwards'. Whatever that GM: Well, your enthusiasm is steadily letting people know I recorded several albums of theme year career, and Elton is the only (record) probably in Los Angeles. registered loud and clear. This I've been talking to a lot of people means. I'd have loved to have am here, willing and able. This tune music (one of which became one who can judge their effect on appears to be a gestation period about this Internet deal you gone back and do small tours. is not as easy as I first thought, the theme for the British TV series, him personally. Certainly he wrote You know when Reidie was for the band, however. It seems and it has certainly been a mentioned. Several people have most of the 2000 gigs may well The Bill). It was a huge decision to of me in glowing terms to the US phoned me to say I should put involved (John Reid) we'd get a lesson in humility. Having been burn my bridges and go on the Immigration & Naturalization call that we're doing a tour of 32 be solo shows anyway. Do you at the top of my profession in recording out on the Internet. But feel Elton's trying to keep road with Elton. As it turns out, it Service - for which I am forever being not yet Internet-friendly, it's cities. Then when you get on the the UK for over 15 years, it has was a decision that I have never grateful. tour, it becomes 2 years! So, I'd overheads low? come as something of a shock way above my head. But it would regretted. Working behind Onwards and Upwards... to cut the middle man out. In ten like to do small tours. And do NO: Probably so. You know I to start again over here. I must possibly the greatest singer- new horizons and new those early songs, like "Better Off say straight away, though, that I years there'll only be one record don't know how correct the press songwriter of the century (and challenges (with, perhaps, a few company who owns everybody, Dead" and "Danny Bailey", and has been about millions owing by have unceasing support from beyond) has been an honour and old ones thrown in for good "Tower of Babel". In fact, I'm fans everywhere, and I was run by lawyers and doctors! Reidie. But I'm sure (Elton's) got a privilege. I was already a huge measure). That just about wraps doing a Drum Clinic tour at the enough money to see him most gratified to discover the fan of his music, and I shall up my "Letter from America". A GM: So do you think this is the moment where I play in music esteem in which I was held. through the weekend [laughter]. remain so. Since our first meeting I Happy and prosperous New Year way you'll go, down the world stores and feature two of the early The tour's selling out everywhere. Maybe it was a result of being have become a fan of his to you all! wide web? CDs. I'm playing "Roy Rogers", And in discussion with many protected by the the Elton John magnetic personality, his Charlie Morgan NO: It could be. You know, it's and it's going down a storm. people over the years, they say organisation for so long, but seemingly never ending wit, his still very, very new. I've just got People are coming up and asking 'what do you need a band for, this set of electric drums. After 'where did you find that song?'. when it's selling out anyway?' But years of swearing at electric drums, I just got sponsored by a BETWEEN 17 AND 20 • BETWEEN 17 AND 20 drum company in Los Angeles, called Drum Tech. They sent me ANOTHER VERSE OF OUR REGULAR COLUMN FEATURING TRIVIA AND all these electric drum pads, so that I can rehearse in the house without blowing the neighbours. So the (Internet) is still new. I just want to get into the studio again. efore his membership hile in , his efore teaming up with I have a 17-year-old son who's Binto the Bluesology Wband mates nicknamed BReggie Dwight, Bernie into all that Internet. group, Reggie and Bluesology him "Little Bunter", after a Taupin earned a living GM: Good luck with the record. member Stuart Brown had comic strip character named chasing and crating chickens Hercules keeps in touch with the band members, and I think we previously formed a group Billy Bunter. on a farm. feel a big debt to you all. I should called Corvettes, which ask your age. played at local Boy Scout NO: I'm 50 years. gatherings. GM: I can't tell that from your voice. You don't sound like Nigel then... ! [laughter]

18 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 11 HEALING HANDSHANDS A personal continued account of fans like the band atmosphere. put a band together to promote ...and Nigel now ear Hercules Members, by but wiped out by the first settlers. Although Elton's very exciting to that record. And they were the time you read this, we But I digress. It is the sheer depth watch solo, the band adds an auditioning lots of people. And in will have all survived of history in Europe that is extra attraction, and you can get this business it's all about who D amazing. For example, where in whatever "glitches" the Y2K bug up to more antics on stage." you know and where you are. A felt inclined to throw at us, so I the USA can you leave your GM: I understand you have a talent scout guy in Sunderland, house and drive 5 miles to an where I lived, was looking for a would like to take this special request Nigel. opportunity to wish you ALL a aqueduct that was built by the player and drummer for Romans in the first century AD? NO: Yes, I'd like you to stick in happy Year 2000. I will NOT this band. At that stage, I was In some respects, I believe it here. We as a band always took playing with local bands in succumb to wishing you a Happy is this lack of "roots" that drives care of our people. We opened Sunderland. He said 'would you New Millennium YET... as that many Americans to seek their the door for a lot of the road guys like to come down to will not be until the 1st January origins in Europe. In addition, crews. We realised that without London and audition?' We said 2001 (George Matlock and I them we wouldn't be able to out 'give us the (train) ticket and America has become a country have talked about this topic, and of restless travellers: forever the gig on. I think we were the we're there.' We went to the being perfectionists, came to the first band to put washing moving on, looking for studio at Dick James in Oxford same conclusion - Arthur C. machines on the truck. The crew Street, and got the gig. The record LIFE IN something, never happy to stay would always have clean clothes made position 6 on the UK charts Clarke is right!). We still have in one place. It seems that if and clean sheets on their bunk (Jan. 3, 1968). We made two the last year of the old THE USA things don't go right in one town, beds. They had three meals a day. albums, but nothing ever came of millennium to survive yet!! I you move on and try elsewhere, They had a full breakfast when them. We were one of the would also like to thank you all by Elton’s ex-drummer leaving your past behind you. I they arrived in the morning. We original one-hit wonders did jingles who was forming a for your continuing support Charlie Morgan suppose if your roots aren't deep, came up with things which [laughter]. band called Uriah Heep. I during the past 18 months. it is easier to pull them up and nowadays is there in the crew's auditioned with them, and written especially replant them. contracts everywhere. We GM: Not so much a as a bad penny. played about dates with Having uprooted my to readers of The Mag As for my own existence here, pioneered this. Now they're them, and two tracks on the homebase midway through it has certainly taken on a making so much money. In old NO: Yes, but it put me in the record. Elton called again. He 1999, and moved to the USA, nomadic flavour. Having bought days, you had to have at least right circle. We were handled by said he had this gig to do at the the past 8 months have certainly a house in Central Florida, I have two major records and wouldn't the Dick James organisation. Roundhouse in London. At that THERE ARE driven the 700 miles between make any money until the third Elton and Bernie were staff been eventful. Despite having stage he was just trying to get his toured the USA extensively since THINGS I MISS there and Nashville, in search of record. Likewise, touring you . On the books were songs cut. He and Bernie were never broke even on the first two , my first visit in 1979 (with Tom work, at least a dozen times in basically writing for the Robinson), actually LIVING in ABOUT EUROPE the past 8 months. I can honestly tours. It cost the record company Group, and The or whoever to put you out there. Beatles. Elton would come in to the USA is quite different from say that I know the routes I-75 [laughter]. So he said he had this and I-24 like the back of my Nowadays, it's mega money, and do demos, and if I was available touring here. On tour, much of Being "in between" two stools, album produced by Gus hand! I know most of the speed the ticket prices are unbelievable. I'd do drumming on them. Dudgeon and . the more mundane, everyday so to speak, for the past year or traps, and a large number of the He asked 'would you come and things are take care of. We only so has allowed me a unique GM: Well, that's a moot point Nigel, who'd met Dee playing gas stations, where to buy the with Elton fans, who have paid in a band called The Mirage, do this one-off gig with Dee?' have to concern ourselves with vantage point on the UK and US cheapest fuel (Georgia has the £55 for solo shows recently. But then got a phone call from And I said, yes, let's go and see the immediate job at hand: societies. I have to say first of all I guess they're paying for an Dee, who by then had been what happens. performing. Not that life is easy. that there are wonderful things best prices), and I have now established name. But let's go elevated to Spencer Davis Living out of a suitcase from one about BOTH sides of the Atlantic, honed the trip into a little over That's when Nigel found his 10 hours, with 2 fuel stops. back to when things were less Group. Dee said the band was musical destiny. hotel to the next, via buses, and while I am (and always will established. Run us through doing a US tour and would planes and taxis has its own be) a "Limey-Brit" at heart, I do Why Nashville, you may ask? Well, I have tasted the madness the CV. Nigel like to come over. Nigel NO: We went into Dick James's drawbacks. Believe me, I always not find it hard to settle into the studio and within the first 16 bars that is LA, and I have some small had no problem uttering 'yes'! relished the chance to get back American way of life. I suppose NO: I was with a band called of music, then I knew that's what experience of New York's hectic home and lead a relatively that has everything to do with the Plastic Penny since the mid- It was the last tour Spencer I wanted to do. It hit me in the music scene, and I found 1960s. They were put together by Davis Group ever did, and a amount of touring I have done heart, in the head, everywhere. It normal life for a while! While Nashville's "small-town" feel to the record company. Page One very small tour. "But it was a this might sound like a case of here. was very original. Before then, I But there are things I miss be more to my liking. This Records, which was a subsidiary great chance to get to hadn't had any direction. Until "the grass is always greener", I of Dick James Music, had got this America, in about 1967," about Europe. The one tangible doesn't mean I don't work then, it had been Keith Moon-ish, have always accepted the thing that has not been created in elsewhere - in fact I have been to song "Everything I am" and they Nigel says. get a lot of drums and bash negative side of my job went into studio with session the USA is history. I am talking the West Coast no fewer than 3 NO: After eight weeks the tour anything in sight! wholeheartedly! Such are the guys, cut the song, and put it out. about real depth to the history. times this past year, to work for ended, I returned to England and GM: Well it worked for Keith potential rewards from doing After all, the only race that HAD , promoting his And it started going on the charts. the band disbanded. Then Elton So they were madly scrambling to Moon [laughter]! what I do, that they far outweigh any real history on the North latest solo album: Emotional rang me. He had a friend who the less palatable aspects. American continent was sadly all Savant.

12 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 17 JUST FOR FUN LYRIC QUIZ Have a go at our popular lyric quiz. We give you a line - see if you ’ll try to speak comes to music. For the last three NO: Yes it worked very well for GM: Anyone who's recorded can name the song! French, but I’ll years, music has got a lot better. Keith. I became quite friendly with Elton since 1985 has (Answers on page 26) have to use a In the States and with Keith in the latter stages of probably met with a different I are very popular, but nothing new little bit of his life. kind of Elton. By then someone 1) Take the wheel I hear the English too, as I happens; they haven’t invented who was in auto-pilot, under anything. It’s the same with radio GM: So what happened next? timbers creaking only learnt this the influence of certain vices, Take the wheel I think this language at stations there too. People always Did Elton say 'come on board' love the same singers, there is a or did you say 'I want to come drink, drugs. Presumably when ship is sinking school and you were first recording, none haven’t used it uniformity in radio. With me, for on board'? for 10 years! example, they always play "Your of this was present. Weren't 2) Slow down Joe A young-looking EJ with France Gall “ NO: He said 'this is great. Let's Song" which is now ten years old! these the Golden Years? Now that I’m call this the band and go out I’m a rock ‘n’ roll man trying to speak it again, I realise As far as I’m concerned I prefer to that I do like to speak French, in listen to new records. I believe and do a couple of dates.' So we NO: They were the Golden Do you fact it’s my favourite language. more and more in melodies, in did a couple of college dates. Years. There were a couple of 3) ‘Hey Man I’m English, but I even prefer your classic music. Chopin is always We went to Leeds and York times when he'd go in and do a How’s about a handout?’ language to mine. It’s more very strong! It’s also a matter of (England). And every time we vocal and he couldn't quite sing remember the difficult to sing, certainly to start age. I don’t think I’ll be able to went on stage it was amazing. in tune for some reason. I don't 4) She’s had my children off with. The first time I sang in sing rock ‘n’ roll for ever. I’ll have know whether the phonos or the And she’s been my lover to do something else. When I’m GM: How about Dee? My French, it was at the Champs biggest disappointment is going monitors were out. There was a French Elysées theatre, where I sang a older, I’ll compose some classical music. I’ll always use my piano, to be that we didn't get around time - it's quite funny - when he 5) Insisting that I pay my alimony Charles Trennet song. I know the got so frustrated that he couldn't country quite well too; when I because I don’t have the ability to to interviewing Dee. As far as Each and every day is the version of was sixteen I came to France, play lots of other instruments. you can comment on his behalf, get this one line, he screamed to same old scene Saint Tropez to be precise, and I I’d be interested to make a what was going through his Gus Dudgeon 'screw this. Send Nobody Wins, went to sing at the Papagayo. record on my own, like Stevie mind at that time. Was he it to Lulu, and if she doesn't like 6) If you want a miracle Wonder’s done, but I’m too lazy. similarly struck by all this? it, send it to Englebert After that things got worse for me! Call up a superman I remember my first show in If I generally do two albums a (Humperdinck)' [laughter]. But NO: Exactly the same. There which Elton France at the Champs Elysées year, it’s because I don’t like to let was never a time when we five minutes later it was fine. theatre. I was singing in front of things lag behind. I always And we had our differences on 7) Just let me be the final word compose at the last moment in asked are we doing the right Sergio Mendes and right from the the long tours, especially when In the book we haven’t recorded as a beginning of the show the public studios. I always find that the thing. written lyrics are more important than the we did those bus tours. They threw coins and fruit at us, GM: That's always the sense the were Greyhound buses, and no ...a lot of fruit! music, because they come first. duet with I’m suffering a bit at the moment, fans have had. That you both telly or catering on board. A bus 8) Most nights I have to watch Things have changed a bit enjoyed being in the band. since then, and that’s why I really not having a piano with me, but with seats in, and a long, long my woman cry, France Gall wanted to sing in that theatre it’s not always easy to carry a NO: In those days the money drive. We were very worn out, Every day I have to watch the again. The idea to work with piano in a hotel room! wasn't that good. It was just that and tempers get frayed. We all colonel smile, French people isn’t a new one, I Talking about The Fox, Elton surge everytime you went on travelled together. It was a at the have already recorded in your went on to say "My next album stage. Amazing. Especially when 'touring circus'! But they were will have a classical feel - I’ve 9) I’ve got Erroll Flynn advances country. Last summer when I was we went into the studio as a the Golden Years. At the on holiday in Saint Tropez, I been working with the London And it doesn’t mean a beginning of Symphony Orchestra. We can do band. The way we recorded was chateau in France, for "Honky doggone thing listened to the France Gall song to go away and stay at the Chateau" that's where Davey "Il jouait du piano debout" and a superb mixture using classical studio. We heard the songs (Johnstone) came on board for immediately bought the album. instruments and a rock band. For 10) I’d let nobody - I’d let nobody the Eighties? being created. There was never a good. He'd always, with Ray After that a friend of mine lent me this album we have mixed Stand inside my shoes all her records. I then thought it French, English and American time when Elton would say Cooper, been on the records as Elton gave this interview would be a good idea to record musicians; it’s very international. I 'Nigel I want you to play this session musicians. But when to promote the song, something with her, as I love think this record is very like this, and Dee I want you to Davey joined the band, it took 11) Those were the days, we’d lay J’veux de la Tendresse. duets, especially with women. I’m successful, I don’t know if the play this like that.' We were on off. Elton John was the whole in the haze, EJ’s comments are now really pleased with the two public will react in the same way, the same wavelength before we band, it wasn't just one guy. I Forget depressive times French songs (lyrics by Bernie but I had a great pleasure in sat down to cut the songs. And guess the people in the twenty years old, but it’s doing it. interesting to see that Taupin and Michel Berger, music that's why those early songs hierarchy then told Elton 'listen, 12) I feel I’m dry-docked and by Elton), Paul Robinson has some extracts could have sound so fresh. Because we these guys are sidemen, you've tongue-tied adapted the lyrics of the song "Les never really did more than three got to be the front man. That's been written yesterday! aveux" in English. I had some Heaven sends a stretcher for or four takes of any song. If it how that changed. the kids to ride. problems pronouncing the words, wasn't there in the first four or but it’s only the very first time, and next time it will get better. five takes, we'd go on to the (Part 2 of this interview will be next song! featured in the June issue.) Original translation supplied by Europe, and France, are JUST FOR FUN Francoise Linden-Giles. important especially when it 16 Hercules.” The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 13 Elton’s new single, from the soundtrack album The Road to El Dorado Elton’s partner of the last 7 years efore I met Elton, I had a In terms of what I can offer David big career. I was the him, it’s true love, which is hard Some Day Out Of The Blue youngest guy on the board for someone in Elton’s situation B Some day out of the blue of the ad agency Ogilvy & to find, plus real stability. And In a crowded street Furnish Mather, but it became so I’m totally honest with him. The or a deserted square difficult, flying to the States to hardest adjustment to make has I'll turn and I'll see you see Elton at weekends. been the fact that sometimes it’s As if our love were new like being in a relationship with Some day we can start again talks here about Now, I’m primarily a film a corporation. Elton’s a massive Some day soon maker, but I’m also a fund raiser. industry, responsible for many Here comes the night his life and When you live with someone livelihoods, and you have to Here come the memories relationship with like Elton it really inspires you, accept that you’re not always Lost in your arms but I can’t imagine anything the priority. Down in the foreign fields Elton more boring than following him The celebrity side wasn’t Not so long ago around like a spare part. I need difficult because he doesn’t Seems like eternity to keep my own identity. Film is enjoy it that much. He craves Those sweet afternoons Still capture me my real ; I studied it at normality. But that’s rather hard university. I’ve produced to achieve because he is so Some day out of the blue Rocket’s first move, Women recognisable. Part of me finds it In a crowded street Talking Dirty, but haven’t dared sweet that people like him so or a deserted square direct since Tantrums & Tiaras. much, part of me wishes they’d I'll turn and I'll see you As if our love were new Tantrums & Tiaras didn’t put leave you alone to push your Some day we can start again a strain on our relationship. trolley around the supermarket. Some day soon When Elton watched it he It was a terrifying moment howled with laughter, cried at when Elton had his heart scare. I still believe the scenes of his grandmother’s He’s pacing himself - or rather, I still put faith in us We had it all and watched it slip away funeral, and went very quiet his pacemaker’s pacing him - a Where are we now when his mother talked about little more than he used to. Both Not where we want to be his difficult relationship with his of us have a much greater Those hot afternoons father. appreciation for every day of Still follow me Spookily enough, the first LP our lives. We don’t take I ever bought was one of his - anything for granted. Some day out of the blue Maybe years from now Caribou, I think. But then I sort It was hard last Christmas, Or tomorrow night of "checked-out" on his career in when I told my parents that not I'll turn and I'll see you the mid-80s. only was I gay, but that I was As if we always knew Elton and I met when a going out with Elton. I come Some day we would live again friend of mine was going for from a very middle-class Some day soon dinner at his house and asked Canadian family. They’re very I still believe, I still put faith in us me to come along. I was much in love - ideal role models I still believe, I still put faith in us inclined to say no - I just for heterosexuality, and I felt I’d I still believe, I still put faith in us pictured a self-obsessed guy let them down. I ended up holding court on the sofa. But crying my eyes out, Here comes the night when we arrived he opened the unburdening all the years of Here come the memories Lost in your arms door himself, took our coats, guilt. Although their initial Down in the foreign fields brought us drinks and was response was "Oh God, he’s Not so long ago remarkably open. The attraction with a rock star", Elton did a lot Seems like eternity was pretty quick - we to assure them. Those sweet afternoons exchanged phone numbers that The most surprising thing that Still capture me night - which was surprising for people might learn about me is Some day out of the blue both of us. The next night he that I was learning the cello, Maybe years from now invited me over for a Chinese although I’ve actually just Or tomorrow night takeaway and it went from abandoned it. Now I’ve turned Adapted by Tammi Law from an I'll turn and I'll see you Written By Elton John and Tim Rice, As if we always knew interview with The Mail on Sunday, there. But, being Elton, it was no to horse riding. I gallop through ordinary Chinese - it came from Windsor Great Park every Some day we would live again for SKG Dreamworks film Road to El Dorado. Nov 99. Mr Chow’s. weekend. Some day soon Recorded by Elton John

14 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 15 Elton’s new single, from the soundtrack album The Road to El Dorado Elton’s partner of the last 7 years efore I met Elton, I had a In terms of what I can offer David big career. I was the him, it’s true love, which is hard Some Day Out Of The Blue youngest guy on the board for someone in Elton’s situation B Some day out of the blue of the ad agency Ogilvy & to find, plus real stability. And In a crowded street Furnish Mather, but it became so I’m totally honest with him. The or a deserted square difficult, flying to the States to hardest adjustment to make has I'll turn and I'll see you see Elton at weekends. been the fact that sometimes it’s As if our love were new like being in a relationship with Some day we can start again talks here about Now, I’m primarily a film a corporation. Elton’s a massive Some day soon maker, but I’m also a fund raiser. industry, responsible for many Here comes the night his life and When you live with someone livelihoods, and you have to Here come the memories relationship with like Elton it really inspires you, accept that you’re not always Lost in your arms but I can’t imagine anything the priority. Down in the foreign fields Elton more boring than following him The celebrity side wasn’t Not so long ago around like a spare part. I need difficult because he doesn’t Seems like eternity to keep my own identity. Film is enjoy it that much. He craves Those sweet afternoons Still capture me my real passion; I studied it at normality. But that’s rather hard university. I’ve produced to achieve because he is so Some day out of the blue Rocket’s first move, Women recognisable. Part of me finds it In a crowded street Talking Dirty, but haven’t dared sweet that people like him so or a deserted square direct since Tantrums & Tiaras. much, part of me wishes they’d I'll turn and I'll see you As if our love were new Tantrums & Tiaras didn’t put leave you alone to push your Some day we can start again a strain on our relationship. trolley around the supermarket. Some day soon When Elton watched it he It was a terrifying moment howled with laughter, cried at when Elton had his heart scare. I still believe the scenes of his grandmother’s He’s pacing himself - or rather, I still put faith in us We had it all and watched it slip away funeral, and went very quiet his pacemaker’s pacing him - a Where are we now when his mother talked about little more than he used to. Both Not where we want to be his difficult relationship with his of us have a much greater Those hot afternoons father. appreciation for every day of Still follow me Spookily enough, the first LP our lives. We don’t take I ever bought was one of his - anything for granted. Some day out of the blue Maybe years from now Caribou, I think. But then I sort It was hard last Christmas, Or tomorrow night of "checked-out" on his career in when I told my parents that not I'll turn and I'll see you the mid-80s. only was I gay, but that I was As if we always knew Elton and I met when a going out with Elton. I come Some day we would live again friend of mine was going for from a very middle-class Some day soon dinner at his house and asked Canadian family. They’re very I still believe, I still put faith in us me to come along. I was much in love - ideal role models I still believe, I still put faith in us inclined to say no - I just for heterosexuality, and I felt I’d I still believe, I still put faith in us pictured a self-obsessed guy let them down. I ended up holding court on the sofa. But crying my eyes out, Here comes the night when we arrived he opened the unburdening all the years of Here come the memories Lost in your arms door himself, took our coats, guilt. Although their initial Down in the foreign fields brought us drinks and was response was "Oh God, he’s Not so long ago remarkably open. The attraction with a rock star", Elton did a lot Seems like eternity was pretty quick - we to assure them. Those sweet afternoons exchanged phone numbers that The most surprising thing that Still capture me night - which was surprising for people might learn about me is Some day out of the blue both of us. The next night he that I was learning the cello, Maybe years from now invited me over for a Chinese although I’ve actually just Or tomorrow night takeaway and it went from abandoned it. Now I’ve turned Adapted by Tammi Law from an I'll turn and I'll see you Written By Elton John and Tim Rice, As if we always knew interview with The Mail on Sunday, there. But, being Elton, it was no to horse riding. I gallop through ordinary Chinese - it came from Windsor Great Park every Some day we would live again for SKG Dreamworks film Road to El Dorado. Nov 99. Mr Chow’s. weekend. Some day soon Recorded by Elton John

14 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 15 JUST FOR FUN LYRIC QUIZ Have a go at our popular lyric quiz. We give you a line - see if you ’ll try to speak comes to music. For the last three NO: Yes it worked very well for GM: Anyone who's recorded can name the song! French, but I’ll years, music has got a lot better. Keith. I became quite friendly with Elton since 1985 has (Answers on page 26) have to use a In the States disco and soul music with Keith in the latter stages of probably met with a different I are very popular, but nothing new little bit of his life. kind of Elton. By then someone 1) Take the wheel I hear the English too, as I happens; they haven’t invented who was in auto-pilot, under anything. It’s the same with radio GM: So what happened next? timbers creaking only learnt this the influence of certain vices, Take the wheel I think this language at stations there too. People always Did Elton say 'come on board' love the same singers, there is a or did you say 'I want to come drink, drugs. Presumably when ship is sinking school and you were first recording, none haven’t used it uniformity in radio. With me, for on board'? for 10 years! example, they always play "Your of this was present. Weren't 2) Slow down Joe AGall with France EJ young-looking “ NO: He said 'this is great. Let's Song" which is now ten years old! these the Golden Years? Now that I’m call this the band and go out I’m a rock ‘n’ roll man trying to speak it again, I realise As far as I’m concerned I prefer to that I do like to speak French, in listen to new records. I believe and do a couple of dates.' So we NO: They were the Golden Do you fact it’s my favourite language. more and more in melodies, in did a couple of college dates. Years. There were a couple of 3) ‘Hey Man I’m English, but I even prefer your classic music. Chopin is always We went to Leeds and York times when he'd go in and do a How’s about a handout?’ language to mine. It’s more very strong! It’s also a matter of (England). And every time we vocal and he couldn't quite sing remember the difficult to sing, certainly to start age. I don’t think I’ll be able to went on stage it was amazing. in tune for some reason. I don't 4) She’s had my children off with. The first time I sang in sing rock ‘n’ roll for ever. I’ll have know whether the phonos or the And she’s been my lover to do something else. When I’m GM: How about Dee? My French, it was at the Champs biggest disappointment is going monitors were out. There was a French Elysées theatre, where I sang a older, I’ll compose some classical music. I’ll always use my piano, to be that we didn't get around time - it's quite funny - when he 5) Insisting that I pay my alimony Charles Trennet song. I know the got so frustrated that he couldn't country quite well too; when I because I don’t have the ability to to interviewing Dee. As far as Each and every day is the version of was sixteen I came to France, play lots of other instruments. you can comment on his behalf, get this one line, he screamed to same old scene Saint Tropez to be precise, and I I’d be interested to make a what was going through his Gus Dudgeon 'screw this. Send Nobody Wins, went to sing at the Papagayo. record on my own, like Stevie mind at that time. Was he it to Lulu, and if she doesn't like 6) If you want a miracle Wonder’s done, but I’m too lazy. similarly struck by all this? it, send it to Englebert After that things got worse for me! Call up a superman I remember my first show in If I generally do two albums a (Humperdinck)' [laughter]. But NO: Exactly the same. There which Elton France at the Champs Elysées year, it’s because I don’t like to let was never a time when we five minutes later it was fine. theatre. I was singing in front of things lag behind. I always And we had our differences on 7) Just let me be the final word compose at the last moment in asked are we doing the right Sergio Mendes and right from the the long tours, especially when In the book we haven’t recorded as a beginning of the show the public studios. I always find that the thing. written lyrics are more important than the we did those bus tours. They threw coins and fruit at us, GM: That's always the sense the were Greyhound buses, and no ...a lot of fruit! music, because they come first. duet with I’m suffering a bit at the moment, fans have had. That you both telly or catering on board. A bus 8) Most nights I have to watch Things have changed a bit enjoyed being in the band. since then, and that’s why I really not having a piano with me, but with seats in, and a long, long my woman cry, France Gall wanted to sing in that theatre it’s not always easy to carry a NO: In those days the money drive. We were very worn out, Every day I have to watch the again. The idea to work with piano in a hotel room! wasn't that good. It was just that and tempers get frayed. We all colonel smile, French people isn’t a new one, I Talking about The Fox, Elton surge everytime you went on travelled together. It was a at the have already recorded in your went on to say "My next album stage. Amazing. Especially when 'touring circus'! But they were will have a classical feel - I’ve 9) I’ve got Erroll Flynn advances country. Last summer when I was we went into the studio as a the Golden Years. At the on holiday in Saint Tropez, I been working with the London And it doesn’t mean a beginning of Symphony Orchestra. We can do band. The way we recorded was chateau in France, for "Honky doggone thing listened to the France Gall song to go away and stay at the Chateau" that's where Davey "Il jouait du piano debout" and a superb mixture using classical studio. We heard the songs (Johnstone) came on board for immediately bought the album. instruments and a rock band. For 10) I’d let nobody - I’d let nobody the Eighties? being created. There was never a good. He'd always, with Ray After that a friend of mine lent me this album we have mixed Stand inside my shoes all her records. I then thought it French, English and American time when Elton would say Cooper, been on the records as Elton gave this interview would be a good idea to record musicians; it’s very international. I 'Nigel I want you to play this session musicians. But when to promote the song, something with her, as I love think this record is very like this, and Dee I want you to Davey joined the band, it took 11) Those were the days, we’d lay J’veux de la Tendresse. duets, especially with women. I’m successful, I don’t know if the play this like that.' We were on off. Elton John was the whole in the haze, EJ’s comments are now really pleased with the two public will react in the same way, the same wavelength before we band, it wasn't just one guy. I Forget depressive times French songs (lyrics by Bernie but I had a great pleasure in sat down to cut the songs. And guess the people in the twenty years old, but it’s doing it. interesting to see that Taupin and Michel Berger, music that's why those early songs hierarchy then told Elton 'listen, 12) I feel I’m dry-docked and by Elton), Paul Robinson has some extracts could have sound so fresh. Because we these guys are sidemen, you've tongue-tied adapted the lyrics of the song "Les never really did more than three got to be the front man. That's been written yesterday! aveux" in English. I had some Heaven sends a stretcher for or four takes of any song. If it how that changed. the kids to ride. problems pronouncing the words, wasn't there in the first four or but it’s only the very first time, and next time it will get better. five takes, we'd go on to the (Part 2 of this interview will be next song! featured in the June issue.) Original translation supplied by Europe, and France, are JUST FOR FUN Francoise Linden-Giles. important especially when it 16 Hercules.” The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 13 HEALING HANDSHANDS A personal continued account of fans like the band atmosphere. put a band together to promote ...and Nigel now ear Hercules Members, by but wiped out by the first settlers. Although Elton's very exciting to that record. And they were the time you read this, we But I digress. It is the sheer depth watch solo, the band adds an auditioning lots of people. And in will have all survived of history in Europe that is extra attraction, and you can get this business it's all about who D amazing. For example, where in whatever "glitches" the Y2K bug up to more antics on stage." you know and where you are. A felt inclined to throw at us, so I the USA can you leave your GM: I understand you have a talent scout guy in Sunderland, house and drive 5 miles to an where I lived, was looking for a would like to take this special request Nigel. opportunity to wish you ALL a aqueduct that was built by the guitar player and drummer for Romans in the first century AD? NO: Yes, I'd like you to stick in happy Year 2000. I will NOT this band. At that stage, I was In some respects, I believe it here. We as a band always took playing with local bands in succumb to wishing you a Happy is this lack of "roots" that drives care of our people. We opened Sunderland. He said 'would you New Millennium YET... as that many Americans to seek their the door for a lot of the road guys like to come down to will not be until the 1st January origins in Europe. In addition, crews. We realised that without London and audition?' We said 2001 (George Matlock and I them we wouldn't be able to out 'give us the (train) ticket and America has become a country have talked about this topic, and of restless travellers: forever the gig on. I think we were the we're there.' We went to the being perfectionists, came to the first band to put washing moving on, looking for studio at Dick James in Oxford same conclusion - Arthur C. machines on the truck. The crew Street, and got the gig. The record LIFE IN something, never happy to stay would always have clean clothes made position 6 on the UK charts Clarke is right!). We still have in one place. It seems that if and clean sheets on their bunk (Jan. 3, 1968). We made two the last year of the old THE USA things don't go right in one town, beds. They had three meals a day. albums, but nothing ever came of millennium to survive yet!! I you move on and try elsewhere, They had a full breakfast when them. We were one of the would also like to thank you all by Elton’s ex-drummer leaving your past behind you. I they arrived in the morning. We original one-hit wonders did jingles who was forming a for your continuing support Charlie Morgan suppose if your roots aren't deep, came up with things which [laughter]. band called Uriah Heep. I during the past 18 months. it is easier to pull them up and nowadays is there in the crew's auditioned with them, and written especially replant them. contracts everywhere. We GM: Not so much a Plastic Penny as a bad penny. played about nine dates with Having uprooted my to readers of The Mag As for my own existence here, pioneered this. Now they're them, and two tracks on the homebase midway through it has certainly taken on a making so much money. In old NO: Yes, but it put me in the record. Elton called again. He 1999, and moved to the USA, nomadic flavour. Having bought days, you had to have at least right circle. We were handled by said he had this gig to do at the the past 8 months have certainly a house in Central Florida, I have two major records and wouldn't the Dick James organisation. Roundhouse in London. At that THERE ARE driven the 700 miles between make any money until the third Elton and Bernie were staff been eventful. Despite having stage he was just trying to get his toured the USA extensively since THINGS I MISS there and Nashville, in search of record. Likewise, touring you songwriters. On the books were songs cut. He and Bernie were never broke even on the first two Gerry and the Pacemakers, my first visit in 1979 (with Tom work, at least a dozen times in basically writing for the Robinson), actually LIVING in ABOUT EUROPE the past 8 months. I can honestly tours. It cost the record company Spencer Davis Group, and The Eurovision Song Contest or whoever to put you out there. Beatles. Elton would come in to the USA is quite different from say that I know the routes I-75 [laughter]. So he said he had this and I-24 like the back of my Nowadays, it's mega money, and do demos, and if I was available touring here. On tour, much of Being "in between" two stools, album produced by Gus hand! I know most of the speed the ticket prices are unbelievable. I'd do drumming on them. Dudgeon and Paul Buckmaster. the more mundane, everyday so to speak, for the past year or traps, and a large number of the He asked 'would you come and things are take care of. We only so has allowed me a unique GM: Well, that's a moot point Nigel, who'd met Dee playing gas stations, where to buy the with Elton fans, who have paid in a band called The Mirage, do this one-off gig with Dee?' have to concern ourselves with vantage point on the UK and US cheapest fuel (Georgia has the £55 for solo shows recently. But then got a phone call from And I said, yes, let's go and see the immediate job at hand: societies. I have to say first of all I guess they're paying for an Dee, who by then had been what happens. performing. Not that life is easy. that there are wonderful things best prices), and I have now established name. But let's go elevated to Spencer Davis Living out of a suitcase from one about BOTH sides of the Atlantic, honed the trip into a little over That's when Nigel found his 10 hours, with 2 fuel stops. back to when things were less Group. Dee said the band was musical destiny. hotel to the next, via buses, and while I am (and always will established. Run us through doing a US tour and would planes and taxis has its own be) a "Limey-Brit" at heart, I do Why Nashville, you may ask? Well, I have tasted the madness the CV. Nigel like to come over. Nigel NO: We went into Dick James's drawbacks. Believe me, I always not find it hard to settle into the studio and within the first 16 bars that is LA, and I have some small had no problem uttering 'yes'! relished the chance to get back American way of life. I suppose NO: I was with a band called of music, then I knew that's what experience of New York's hectic home and lead a relatively that has everything to do with the Plastic Penny since the mid- It was the last tour Spencer I wanted to do. It hit me in the music scene, and I found 1960s. They were put together by Davis Group ever did, and a amount of touring I have done heart, in the head, everywhere. It normal life for a while! While Nashville's "small-town" feel to the record company. Page One very small tour. "But it was a this might sound like a case of here. was very original. Before then, I But there are things I miss be more to my liking. This Records, which was a subsidiary great chance to get to hadn't had any direction. Until "the grass is always greener", I of Dick James Music, had got this America, in about 1967," about Europe. The one tangible doesn't mean I don't work then, it had been Keith Moon-ish, have always accepted the thing that has not been created in elsewhere - in fact I have been to song "Everything I am" and they Nigel says. get a lot of drums and bash negative side of my job went into studio with session the USA is history. I am talking the West Coast no fewer than 3 NO: After eight weeks the tour anything in sight! wholeheartedly! Such are the guys, cut the song, and put it out. about real depth to the history. times this past year, to work for ended, I returned to England and GM: Well it worked for Keith potential rewards from doing After all, the only race that HAD John Jorgenson, promoting his And it started going on the charts. the band disbanded. Then Elton So they were madly scrambling to Moon [laughter]! what I do, that they far outweigh any real history on the North latest solo album: Emotional rang me. He had a friend who the less palatable aspects. American continent was sadly all Savant.

12 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 17 A personal account of

certainly coming out into the compassion, generosity and when I moved here. Playing-wise, GM: Now turning to events one Little do they know its buried on WORKINGharsh reality taught me a dedication. This is genius material I still love the way Davey year old! Charlie suffered a "Goodbye Yellow Brick Road". BEHIND LIFE IN tremendous amount. I am talking about. Sure, he had Johnstone plays. In fact, there is a similar experience to you. At the Nigel says he's hopeful of a project in the air from a small time of his departure, there was a THE USA POSSIBLY I am ready for less touring, and his (well documented) ups and return (and since this THE more studio work. When I first downs, but this has only made company in Japan who want me lot of speculation that Nigel interview was conducted he's met Elton, I was probably one of him more human in my eyes. to put together an album with Olsson might come back. It ..continued GREATEST been drafted in to provide the top 3 studio musicians in the Well, no doubt this will make Davey, Guy Babylon and Bob wasn't to be. But would you have backing vocals on new album SINGER-SONGWRITER UK. I was working all the hours Elton squirm with embarrassment, Birch. come back? And was the "The Road to El Dorado") OF THE CENTURY that I wanted, I had recorded as he has never been one to take GM: We look forward to plugging invitation made? extensively, and my discography praise well. I learnt that early on! NO: So I would have loved the that at the appropriate time. Is NO: I wasn't invited, but my invite, and I may be invited back. included such people as Nik In my dreams, I have a hope that happening in 2000? name was put forward by a Kershaw, Gary Moore, Tina Turner, that he also came out of our But to learn he (Elton) would be NO: We're discussing it now, we couple of people involved with 'going backwards' was another Tom Robinson, Tracey Ullman, collaboration having gained from Elton. But I can't tell you by I also have a large number of should know the deal is there in kick in the face. It would never Matt Bianco & Air Supply - quite it. I would like to think that he whom. It was put forward to His friends here. Some of them Ex- the next couple of weeks. But it's be the same without Dee, but I apart from the endless list of regarded me as more than just a Majesty [laughter]. They were Pat Brits themselves, but mostly movie soundtracks and advertising hired hand. But many people have in the 'hurry up and wait' just want to play with the lads. situation [laughter]. We'll cut that told by Elton 'no, I don't want to of American origin. I have been jingles. I had also composed and come and gone during Elton's 30- go backwards'. Whatever that GM: Well, your enthusiasm is steadily letting people know I recorded several albums of theme year career, and Elton is the only (record) probably in Los Angeles. registered loud and clear. This I've been talking to a lot of people means. I'd have loved to have am here, willing and able. This tune music (one of which became one who can judge their effect on appears to be a gestation period about this Internet deal you gone back and do small tours. is not as easy as I first thought, the theme for the British TV series, him personally. Certainly he wrote You know when Reidie was for the band, however. It seems and it has certainly been a mentioned. Several people have most of the 2000 gigs may well The Bill). It was a huge decision to of me in glowing terms to the US phoned me to say I should put involved (John Reid) we'd get a lesson in humility. Having been burn my bridges and go on the Immigration & Naturalization call that we're doing a tour of 32 be solo shows anyway. Do you at the top of my profession in recording out on the Internet. But feel Elton's trying to keep road with Elton. As it turns out, it Service - for which I am forever being not yet Internet-friendly, it's cities. Then when you get on the the UK for over 15 years, it has was a decision that I have never grateful. tour, it becomes 2 years! So, I'd overheads low? come as something of a shock way above my head. But it would regretted. Working behind Onwards and Upwards... to cut the middle man out. In ten like to do small tours. And do NO: Probably so. You know I to start again over here. I must possibly the greatest singer- new horizons and new those early songs, like "Better Off say straight away, though, that I years there'll only be one record don't know how correct the press songwriter of the century (and challenges (with, perhaps, a few company who owns everybody, Dead" and "Danny Bailey", and has been about millions owing by have unceasing support from beyond) has been an honour and old ones thrown in for good "Tower of Babel". In fact, I'm fans everywhere, and I was run by lawyers and doctors! Reidie. But I'm sure (Elton's) got a privilege. I was already a huge measure). That just about wraps doing a Drum Clinic tour at the enough money to see him most gratified to discover the fan of his music, and I shall up my "Letter from America". A GM: So do you think this is the moment where I play in music esteem in which I was held. through the weekend [laughter]. remain so. Since our first meeting I Happy and prosperous New Year way you'll go, down the world stores and feature two of the early The tour's selling out everywhere. Maybe it was a result of being have become a fan of his to you all! wide web? CDs. I'm playing "Roy Rogers", And in discussion with many protected by the the Elton John magnetic personality, his Charlie Morgan NO: It could be. You know, it's and it's going down a storm. people over the years, they say organisation for so long, but seemingly never ending wit, his still very, very new. I've just got People are coming up and asking 'what do you need a band for, this set of electric drums. After 'where did you find that song?'. when it's selling out anyway?' But years of swearing at electric drums, I just got sponsored by a BETWEEN 17 AND 20 • BETWEEN 17 AND 20 drum company in Los Angeles, called Drum Tech. They sent me ANOTHER VERSE OF OUR REGULAR COLUMN FEATURING TRIVIA AND all these electric drum pads, so that I can rehearse in the house without blowing the neighbours. So the (Internet) is still new. I just want to get into the studio again. efore his membership hile in Bluesology, his efore teaming up with I have a 17-year-old son who's Binto the Bluesology Wband mates nicknamed BReggie Dwight, Bernie into all that Internet. group, Reggie and Bluesology him "Little Bunter", after a Taupin earned a living GM: Good luck with the record. member Stuart Brown had comic strip character named chasing and crating chickens Hercules keeps in touch with the band members, and I think we previously formed a group Billy Bunter. on a farm. feel a big debt to you all. I should called Corvettes, which ask your age. played at local Boy Scout NO: I'm 50 years. gatherings. GM: I can't tell that from your voice. You don't sound like Nigel then... Leonard Cohen! [laughter]

18 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 11 HEALING conventionally speaking...

HANDS s previously announced in convention on the day of the concert, 23 June 2000, from 12 George Matlock: Thank you very our December issue of The Mag, here’s a quick to 6pm, at the Hotel Schweizer much for participating in this A reminder of the forthcoming fan Hof, Wilhelmshoher Allee 288, interview. The whole thing conventions we have organised: in Kassel, Germany. nigel olsson snowballed following an nigel olsson interview we did with Charlie EJ’s Birthday Conventions: All fans are welcome to any of TALKS EXCLUSIVELY TO HERCULESMorgan earlier this year. That Hercules UK and the events. If you require further generated a lot of interest, and Hercules USA/Canada information, please refer to FROM CALIFORNIA, 13 NOVEMBER 1999 here we are. Do you long to are both hosting fan December issue of The Mag, or come back to the UK for a while? conventions on March contact the relevant department. 25th to celebrate We look forward to seeing you! Nigel Olsson: I'd love to come Elton’s birthday. is friends call Nigel’s full-time back to record. Basically, I'd love The UK convention is at ANNA him the stint started with to record with producers I HOTEL, Queensborough Terrace, "Drop-Out "Honky Chateau" in haven't before, or those I have, London, noon to 5 pm as always. H 1972, and among his on a big record. I'd love to Drummer", the fans Special guests are expected. call him a legend. classics are "Rocket record again with Gus Dudgeon. idol We’re talking about Man" and of course our We have actually discussed many In the US, the convention will Nigel Olsson - one of the anthem "Hercules". The times on the phone. Want to do take place in Chicago. For first drummers of Elton's drums stopped rolling in 1976, it the old-fashioned way. With those who cannot remarkable career. when "Blue Moves" was released real drums, in a real studio, with attend our 5th annual Why drop out? Nigel was without Nigel. Nigel and Dee a real microphone. These days EJ fan party in asked to leave the Elton John Band reappeared in 1980 at the biggest you just post a disk and you have Chicago, Hercules is - twice - but what's earned him crowd-puller of the era...the sounds. Me and Gus were also hosting a birthday party that title? In his own words: "It's infamous Central Park, New York probably the first in and the last in Orlando, Florida, for the first what I leave out that makes people show in September. Nigel out at the studio, perfecting the time, also on March 25. If you appreciate my playing style." Like reappeared on the album "21 at drums. These days I think it takes would like an invitation or more successor Charlie Morgan, the life- 33", and on the 1981 album The away from the energy and the information, span of an Elton drummer doesn’t Fox, he was drummer for heart of the record. e-mail Barb Meadows-Crowley at: appear to exceed 13 years. That's "Breaking Down The Barriers", [email protected] "Heels of the Wind", and the title GM: You mean it's a good thing what Charlie and Nigel each to suffer a little for your craft. And to celebrate the fact survived when they were full-time track. that EJ will be drummers for Elton. In a further twist of confusion NO: Absolutely. That's what we performing in front of And why is Nigel a legend? for the record-buying public, Nigel did in the old days, and it the Hercules Statue Well, for those of you unsure of was again off the 1982 album worked very well. when he brings his "Jump Up!" but Dee was still on. Nigel’s history here's a quick GM: Is it that your and Gus's Solo Tour to Germany reminder... He's played drums Jeffrey Porcaro was the drummer. USA IN, Southbend, L (Photo: 1999 October - Sykes) in the summer, there will be a Nigel made a full return on 1983 time schedules don't permit, or and sung backing vocals on most are there any other anxieties? of Elton's repertoire 1970 through and 1984 hit albums "Too Low For 1984. He was briefly out of the Zero" and "Breaking Hearts." And NO: It costs a lot of money to do BETWEEN 17 AND 20 • BETWEEN 17 AND 20 band with colleague and bass despite all the ins-and-outs, Nigel it the old-fashioned way. And guitarist Dee Murray in 1975, and is probably the best remembered with the names I'd like, the then returned. He was again Elton drummer. record company would have to GOSSIP ABOUT ELTON - FOUND OF COURSE, BETWEEN PAGES 17 AND 20!! released - along with Dee - in Nigel was born in Sunderland, come up with a lot of 1985. north east England and emigrated smackeroos (money). His first successful recording to California in 1972, before moving to Nashville for 7 years. GM: Ideally, who would you like for Elton was "Lady What's to bring in? I understand among ernie did not meet Reggie f it not had been for Caleb id you know that.... Tomorrow" on 1969 album Empty Old pal Dee was with him there. They did backing vocals for local names are Lee Sklar on bass, until after Reggie had Quaye, Elton's career at ...When Rod Stewart Sky, while Roger Pope provided with whom you worked in your B I D the fills on all that album's other hero Earl Thomas Connelly. More already composed the music Dick James Music would married Rachel Hunter, Elton early California session days. And tracks. Nigel's next appearance importantly, Nigel met his wife you are chasing Kiki Dee and for ten of Bernie's poetic have never been a reality. It John teased the singer by was on "Tumbleweed Connection", Schanda in Nashville. Nigel Ray Cooper for their drumming on "Amoreena" as well became disillusioned with the lyrics. was Caleb who persuaded sending the couple a 10 as backing vocals with Dee on a music scene for a while, when he collaboration. Dick James to listen to the pounds ($16) gift voucher number of other tracks. Then took up a hobby in racing cars, NO: Production-wise, Gus, Jeff lton and Bernie signed now famous Dick James with the instruction to "buy which continues. Nigel moved came the legendary live radio Lynne. Also David Foster on with Dick James Music on Demos. something nice for the show "17-11-70", with Elton's back to California four years ago. keyboards, with whom I've been E sound stripped down to piano, That's the history lesson over close friends since the mid-70s November 7, 1967. home." Dee on bass and Nigel on drums. with. Now what's Nigel up to?

10 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 19 kaleidoscopeKALEIDOSCOPEKALEIDOSCOPEKALEIDOSCOPEkaleidoscopekaleidoscopekaleidoscopekaleidoscopekaleidoscopekaleidoscopekaleidoscopekaleidoscopekaleidoscopekaleidoscope eyes eyes eyes eyes eyes eyes eyes eyes EYESEYESEYESeyes eyeseyes Part 5 of our collectors series on Elton's TV & Video Appearances by George Matlock and Sharon Kalinoski

VIDEO SINGLES (contd.) TV SHOWS etc. 1975 geometric patterned silhouette- seriousness of the story, and it is find her again, even if it takes Videos made for promotion of a Interviews, TV specials, "Soul Train" (Bennie and filled and backlit "prison scene" - rumoured that it may be 100 lifetimes. This "future" single, continuing where we left concerts, news clips, the Jets, Philidalphia awesome. Most others also eliminated during the Broadway meeting is portrayed in the the list in The Mag issue 48. commercials featuring Elton Freedom,) enjoyed the breathtaking vertical run. However, it was a very show's opening and closing 1996: "Cher Show" (Lucy in the swimming pool scene, complete entertaining crowd pleaser. Too scenes: the show begins and Sky, Bennie, medley) Believe The 70s with mist and "swimmers" in a bad the detractors could not ends in a setting of a modern day Dodger Stadium from 8mm Made in England 1970 great illusion. The frequent appreciate the balance that this museum with ancient Egyptian camera, private recording, scenery changes all moved so fun scene provided....they need artifacts in glass cases. The Blessed Midnight Special no sound smoothly that one hardly noticed to realize that real life is not all "ancient" lovers, supposedly Please Andy Williams Show "Pinball Wizard" From the when it was happening: there serious, nor all fun. reincarnated, catch each other's BBC:The sounds of Elton Movie "Tommy" You Can Make History were no awkward moments at Tim Rice, for those of you eyes and feel an attraction. Young Again John & Bernie Taupin "Midnight Special" tribute any time. who don't know, is a veteran During the nearly 9 week run Live Like Horses "Tommy” Movie Premiere Critics all lauded Headley's lyric writer of many famous in Chicago there were frequent Perfect Day 1971 TV Special, hosted by "Your Song" on BBC TV David Frost portrayal of the lead role, and musicals such as Jesus Christ minor dialog and song lyric "Top of the Pops", in agreed that she is destined to be Superstar and Evita. He changes. Some made sense, 1997: January 1976 a big star. But a target of critics collaborated with Elton for a few such as Radames' father (Zoser) Something About The Way were the seemingly "out of songs in the 1980s, and is also asking "....what do we do if they Madman Across the Water Elton John Live in You Look Tonight Album played live place/time" (anachronistic) well know as co-writer with Elton take up arms again?" instead of (DIRECTOR: Edinburgh Playhouse, TIM ROYES) "Get It On" [T. Rex] Elton Scotland, 17 September scenes. For example, one took of the "Lion King" soundtrack. the former "...... what do we do if on Keyboards, BBC TV BBC TV "Top of The Pops" issue with a painted woman (Hard to believe that was nearly they take up arms against us?". Candle in The Wind 1997 "Top of the Pops" "Tom Snyder Show" figure wearing a bikini swimsuit, 5 years ago!!!) He has been One very clever scene right BBC Sounds For Saturday which she felt was not "correct" widely quoted as saying that he before "Like Father, Like Son" has 1998: "Morecome and Wise", (8 Live Songs) for ancient Egypt. Unfortunately, does not care what the critics a humourous little "Lion King" Recover Your Soul - BBC TV. Plays "Sorry Seems...Hardest Word" someone working on the show think about Aida, and that they reference. While plotting to kill (DIRECTOR: 1972 solo heard the comment and will probably hate it. He says that the pharaoh, Zoser reflects, "first MARCUS NISPEL) London with Orchestra If the River Can Bend agreed.....so the figure got a what matters is that the audience a wedding, then a funeral...... ah, BBC: interview, "Tiny 1977 painted-on towel for the rest of likes it, and I agree. If the average now that's what I call the Circle Dancer", "All the Nasties" "The Muppets": Croc'Rock, the show's run! person enjoys it, as of Life." The audience chuckles. 1999: "Holiday Inn" from BBC Bennie, GBYBrRd, Don't What the reviewers did not entertainment, then it is a There were other minor Written in the Stars Go Breaking.. w Miss understand was that the show's success. dialog conflicts I realized after (DIRECTOR: 1973 Piggy THE NEW RENASSANCE) writers were intentionally A brief summary of the story: my sixth show; hopefully this will In the Hot Seat "The Thom Bell Sessions" blending old and new, using An Egyptian captain falls in love be revised for Broadway, for Movie: "Born to Boogie" London, UK (Wembley- modern devices to tell a timeless with a slave he captured, Aida. example Aida asks Mereb not to with Marc Bolan. Elton on Empire Pool), concert, story in an "ancient" setting. I feel Unknown to him, she is a tell anyone that she is a Nubian keyboards on "Get It On" November that the story was not intended to Nubian princess. He, Radames, is princess, because she fears the and "Children of the "Morecome & Wise". Plays Revolution" "Shine on Through" solo be solely about a drama taking engaged to marry Amneris, the Egyptians will kill her. But since Should you be able to add place in ancient Egypt: it is a Pharaoh's daughter. Against his at the very beginning there were the missing Directors of the Goodbye Norma Jean and "Mike Douglas Show" Other Things. AKA "The story that could take place will he is forced to marry other Nubian women captured video-singles, or know of "David Frost Show" other video-singles or TV Elton John Story". Also a anywhere, anytime, with Amneris, but his heart forces him along with her, the Nubians appearances by Elton during laserdisc release universal themes of power to betray Egypt to help Aida. For would have already known that the 70s, please email: 1978 struggles, love, and death. this crime, Radames and Aida are Aida was enslaved. [email protected] 1974 "Parkinson Show" BBC TV: Critics also dismissed the sentenced to be buried alive. Those who have not already BBC "Old Grey Whistle Live duet w. Dame Edna or write to: Everidge & "Song For Guy" modern "fashion show" scene, a Although she loves them both, seen it, I highly recommend that Hercules UK, Test": Ticking, Grimsby futuristic runway sequence Amneris must, as the future you go to see Aida in New York Merv Griffin Interview PO Box 315, Richmond, Hammersmith Odeon backed by loud rock music, leader of Egypt, allow the death if you get the chance. I Surrey TW9 4JF, England. Christmas Show, 24 saying that it caused the show to sentence to be carried out. guarantee that you will enjoy it December 1979 Thanks to Wayne Martin for have a "split personality." They As the lovers await death, immensely. Elton with John Lennon at "Top of the Pops" BBC TV, his invaluable contribution felt it detracted from the Radames tells Aida that he will to this series. Caribou Ranch (Brief) live "Part Time Love"

20 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 9 Elton John and Tim Rice's THE NEW HERCULES WEBSITE night of Aida on December 9, and he made the front page of the Chicago Sun-Times eltonfan.net newspaper. Before discussing the details of the show, a few interesting dmittedly, we had The basic idea of the new Message Board, the Hercules comparisons of Chicago's "Aida" planned to launch the Hercules website is for it to Chat Room, and of course the new Hercules website a to the Atlanta version. First, most A be your Elton John portal on news pages and archives. lot earlier, but keeping in AidaI had not seen the first of the cast was replaced, except the world wide web. As such, However, all of these services IN CHICAGO incarnation in Atlanta in 1998 mind that all Hercules work the basic navigation of the have been re-designed and for Headley as Aida and Sherie is done in the so-called spare Review by Sharon Kalinoski ("Elaborate Lives: The Legend of new site is very similar to improved in speed and Scott as Amneris and one of the time of the Hercules team Yahoo! for example, or other performance, bringing you an Aida"), so I did not know what ensemble (background/dancer) members, things have taken a internet portals. However, in even better service. Fortunately for me and to expect. The first Aida actors, Phineas Newborn. little longer than we planned. contrast to the big search In addition, there are lots other Chicago area performance in Chicago that I Although many of the behind- And even now that the engines, the Hercules website of new services such as the residents the pre- was supposed to see was the-scenes people were new Hercules website will only features Elton John Hercules Online Shop, an related content. Online Auction Room, Virtual Broadway run of "Aida" cancelled due to an on-stage replaced, many were also soon be officially launched at http://www.eltonfan.net, there If you are familiar with Hercules eCards, and the new took place at the accident on the second night of retained. previews. Near the end of the are still a few construction Hercules' current website at Hercules eNewsletter. As Cadillac Palace Theater Three of the "Elaborate Lives" http://www.eltonfan.com you already stated above, even Nov 13 show, the two lead areas that hopefully will in Chicago from Nov songs were dropped from the disappear in the very near will notice more features will be added actors, Heather Headley as Aida 12 1999 to Jan 9, 2000. revamped "Aida", most notably future. Still we think that that all of shortly. So make sure to come and Adam Pascal as Radames, The convenient "The Messenger", which was on there are already lots of it's back often to check it all out. fell 15 feet to the stage when features There will also be new location allowed me to the officially released CD and great features and the "tomb" plummeted. Both services for every have services for Hercules Web see the musical 7 demo CD. "Not Me" was re- were only slightly injured, and Elton fan on the been Members, such as your own times. And I would inserted into the musical, along transferred personal e-mail address were able to resume their roles web. have liked to see more. with the renamed "Radames' to the new [email protected] for the November 18 show. But The music, of course, Letter". There are a few songs site, such as (coming soon), the news there's an old saying that "any was written by Elton, that were not included on the the Elton archive, and multimedia publicity is good publicity": the various artists CD, which were Trivia, the library. And again, more Web with lyrics by Hercules Member services will be show received more local news in the musical: "Every Story is a Tim Rice. coverage due to the mishap. added over the months to Love Story", "Our Nation Holds come. As it was, a lot of local news Sway", "The Past is Another reports focused on the grand re- Land", and "Dance of the Robe." So don't wait, but opening of the theater itself. The Plus, they are not performed in bookmark the new page original vaudeville theater’s the order they appear on either today. At the time this issue chandeliers, marble, gold-leaf, Aida CD. went to press, we were still and intricate decorative figures I can't possibly convey the planning to launch the new have been refurbished full story, atmosphere, and website by the end of throughout, at an estimated $20 emotions of Aida well enough. March. Don't shoot us million. You need to see it for yourself. I if it takes a little longer ... we are Elton was in Chicago for the will provide a basic outline of final week of Aida rehearsals, only the the story, but this does not do it webmasters. and performed 3 solo concerts justice. Critics universally agreed in the city that week. But he that the musical's costumes and never once mentioned the scenery were stunning. musical during his concerts! My One long time theatergoer I Aida T-shirt did not even trigger know said that it was the best a comment. He did return to the scenery she had ever seen. A big city for the official press opening favorite of many was the THE NEW HERCULES WEBSITE Atlanta, USA Atlanta, L (Photo: 1999 September 24 - Sykes)

8 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 21 Send your letters to Tammi Law, Editor (address on page 2) or NEWS BULLETS... e.mail her at [email protected].

first became an Elton John fan when the ‘Elton was reading the December fanzine and realized PERFECT DAY John’ album was released, I was about 15 a very good point was made in the Summer of According to unconfirmed Iyears old then and myself and a group of four IFun article. I also felt for a very long time that sources, Elton has signed up to friends used to listen to the album and were no one could possibly understand my love and appear in 'Perfect Day', the completely bowled over by it. My boyfriend at affection for our dear Sir Elton. And then I finale concert to National Music the time got tickets to see Elton singing at "The discovered the fan club. I may not be in the Day in the UK. The concert Country Club" in Hampstead, I believe in 1969 group that goes to just about every concert takes place at Somerset House, or 1970, and it was the first pop concert I had possible, but I do get a sense of connection from London on June 29, 2000, and ever been to. The Club was full and heaving reading about others' love and appreciation for will be broadcast live by UK TV when we arrived - I remember that Elton was him. Thank God for both the man and you BBC 1 and 2, and UK Radio 1 & very exciting - we all had a great evening. The people that care as much about him as I do and 2. Elton will break from his next time I saw him live was at the Shaw Theatre enough to do such a wonderful job paying him German Tour to appear. about 1 year later, and this concert is still one of tribute the way you do. I greatly appreciate not the most memorable for me. I believe Roger feeling like an outcast. NIGEL STRIKES BACK! Moore and Princess Margaret were in the Keep up the great work! According to the Nigel audience and Elton was just electrifying. I was in Wendy Rohn, Greenfield, WI, USA a daze for days afterwards, and after that I was Olsson Fan Club, Nigel completely hooked on seeing Elton live. provided backing vocals on the hen I opened my heart to Elton and upcoming sound-track album The next concert after that was the one at the his music in 1997, nothing about his The Road to El Dorado. Royal Festival Hall in 1974 when Princess Wprevious drug and alcohol addictions Margaret was again in the audience - I remember - which he had suffered for so long - could be MUSICARES AWARD her dancing in the Royal Box! It was a fantastic felt. So, it is even harder for me to understand that concert; I had queued for hours early one he had once fallen to these addictions. Since I am morning outside the Royal Festival Hall - the quite a recent fan - as you can see - I cannot say queue went round and round the outside! anything about the past, what concerts were like By this time of course, Tumbleweed in those times. I experienced my first concert in Connection was out and this same group of friends June 1999, and I was absolutely fascinated by his used to listen to it together in someone’s bedroom. piano artistry and his voice. We are lucky that After that I saw Elton perform whenever he you are here Elton! was in London, and of course, bought all his LPs. Ines Dießl, Germany When he decided to stop touring (was it around 1978?), I was devastated - I remember phoning Brian Hayes on LBC one morning when the announcement had been made - Brian Hayes was saying "Did anyone care?", and of course I Elton and Sting share a joke phoned in to say plenty of us did! after Elton was presented with I feel I’ve been so lucky to have been able to the Musicares Person of the Year enjoy Elton’s music for so long - I play The One, Award in Los Angeles, Feb 21. Made in England and of course The Big Picture all the time, and continue to see him live NEW BOOK whenever I can, with children in tow now. I have never met Elton personally although my husband Author Philip Norman has Colin met him in 1969, just after Elton had made completed writing Sir Elton: The his first album. Colin was at a pub in Surrey and Definitive Biography of Elton was sitting next to Elton at the bar. Elton was very John. It will be published in shy, and proudly told Colin about the album he March by London publishers had just made. Of course Colin loves telling me Sidgwick & Jackson. Apparently, this story, as he has met Elton, and I haven’t! Elton thinks the book is well- researched and accurate. Jane Bradley, Herts, UK Norman famously penned Elton in 1991, which was an insightful book on Elton and o Hercules, I hope I speak on behalf of all included a fascinating and Elton fans... We thank the Lord, there's comprehensive discography, or people out there like you!! as our sales manager Alan at LETTERS TO THE EDITOR THE TO LETTERS T Wrap It Up! correctly pointed I hope the 21st century is Hercules', and of course, EJ's best time yet! out, "songography" as it didn't Best wishes, detail disc catalogue codes! Southbend, IN, USA October 1999 (Photo: L - Sykes) Adam Buckley, UK Madison Square Garden - 1999 (Photo: L Sykes)

22 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 7 It was nineteen seventy two strangers we When I heard you on AM radio NEWS BULLETS... Strutting with my friends along Grand Avenue Just a kid, silly little city boy haven’t been Manhattan's castles sparkled just ahead I recall that first song Full details of the following news items have appeared on our Hotline and Web-site A soft melancholy whispered "Daniel my brother" (A poem to From that moment and infinite more NO STRINGS ON JUDIE GREATEST ROCK'N'ROLL SONGSGERMAN SINGLE CHARTS Elton & Bernie) Your pain gripped me Your tears filled me Elton has returned the Your rhythm raised me The 100 greatest rock 'n' roll OF THE 90S by Hercules Members copyrights of three of Judie songs, as determined by a panel Elton John was present in the George & Ellen Pappas, Let me tell you how I feel Tzuke's early albums from his of 700 voters assembled by the Cherry Hill, NJ, USA Your music spiked like a gypsy tapestry Rocket Record label back to the German Top 100 Singles Charts Dancing wild like cool Kentucky gin music network VH1, have Elton Holy Moses that ain't no sin UK singer/songwriter. The albums for 294 weeks in the Nineties. Your words a prism, hues of life's were recorded between 1979 at number 70 with Your Song. That makes him number five harmony Your music tap dancing along concert and 1981 and include her right behind Michael Jackson hall balconies worldwide hit Stay With Me Till RAYMOND ON TV (302 weeks), Mariah Carey (309 Dawn, and For You, her first weeks), Madonna (330 weeks) Twenty seven years I've sung back Many fans have contacted us In the car on a two lane motorway single for Rocket. "As the albums and Sweden's Roxette with a Round Norfolks Byway had been deleted for some time, I to ask when will the show total of 377 weeks. On average Alone in London Town called Elton's office. Elton kindly featuring Elton look-a-like Walking down the Old Kent Road there was an Elton John single Your music great company at three a.m. called me and said that he would Raymond Johnson and the listed in the German Top 100 As I found my way back to my flat of course be prepared to let me Hercules fan club at Leeds Castle every second week between have them back," says Judie. Listening to your sound in September 1999 be screened 1990 and 1999. I thought then like I do now Judie plans a UK tour "Phoenix on British TV. The Look-A-Likes What grace between your lines 2000" in April and May. Your fingers gliding Agency, first due out over Your harmony so alive Christmas 1999, will be shown CANDY BY THE POUND Your voice like a high blue note ‘NEW’ HIDDEN RECORDINGS Deep from the Delta on ITV, likely early March. It is Elton was the biggest solo Not bad for a "Sheffield Man" Hercules regularly hears of being screened as a five- or six- earner in 1999 according to Just a fan no way unearthed hidden Elton part prime-time show, with rock account Cliff Dane. Elton, Soul mates in time and space recordings. But the latest out of segments of Hercules in most taking £25m, was also number Though never face to face the closet comes from a Scottish Your notes fantastic left their grace episodes. two overall, behind the almost radio station, reports the UK Still today Independent newspaper Jan 24. predictable Rolling Stones band The songs you sing Scottish Radio Holdings, owner MAYFIELD DIES which creamed £35m. The The lyrics you weave figures follow December news My heart lifts of Radio Clyde, plans to raise Old friends thank you! £75m through a placing and Soul legend Curtis Mayfield, from Pollstar about top concert You two so gifted. whose stylings influenced artists earners in 1999, which placed aims to exploit previously If my message finds you unreleased recordings of Elton. of all musical genres, died on Elton eighth with $32.5m. Know my soul has cherished your art "This isn't the usual call for cash Dec 26. He was 57. Mayfield Number one were - again - the Like a diamond in the rough "Between a Father & Son" and "Candle in the Wind" for acquisitions," one of the suffered a serious accident in Rolling Stones on $64.7m. But You made England proud bankers to the placing said. August 1990. In 1994, Elton, remember, the Stones have to Your compassion with no bounds "Some of SRH's stations have Bernie's eyes glisten , The Isley split their earnings between He knows you well some great Elton recordings stuck them. in the archives, which really Brothers and Aretha Franklin We've travelled far ought to be commercialised." recorded his compositions in a From Cities, Commons to Hills ELTON TO FACE COURT When you sing we come together special tribute called, All Men Your music, your lyrics OFFICIAL ELTON JOHN WEBSITEAre Brothers: A Tribute to Curtis Elton is to give evidence at Roll Elton, Roll on like the mighty Mississippi Mayfield. A remake of a Bernie spin that magic without kin Following a meeting with London's High Court in his All together now Mayfield song will feature as an £20m damages claim against a Strangers we haven't been Frank Presland, the CEO of anthem for the State of Georgia. Twenty-First Artist (Elton's new former agent and accountants, management company), in The record producers want Elton reported the Western Daily London on January 18, 2000, to be included on the recording. Press newspaper Dec. 15. Mr Hercules can say that the official Justice Jacob heard the first Elton John website legal skirmishes between the http://www.eltonjohn.com, is ELTON AT THE MET parties involved at a preliminary going to be worth waiting for. The New York’s Metropolitan hearing in Dec. The judge said basic website is launched March it was being claimed that 1, but might take a few weeks for Museum of Art is showing Andrew Haydon, an agent all features to be operational. Elton exhibition "Rock Style" (runs employed by Elton's former is expected to be highly involved until March 19) and spotlights manager John Reid's company, in the website project - with classic rock-'n'-roll performers JRE Ltd., was negligent in personal contributions regularly. and their pervasive influence Hercules hopes to be involved allowing JRE to charge U.S. tour with this exciting new project. A on fashion. The exhibition expenses to Elton. The trial in review of the new web site will features some of Elton's October is expected to last eight follow in June's The Mag. costumes and shoes. weeks.

6 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 23 exclusive...exclusive... NEWS BULLETS... TOUR T-SHIRT FREE PRIZE-DRAW! WALLACE TRUSTEE o celebrate our 50th issue address, and membership The London-based museum, of the Hercules Fanzine, number to: Tammi Law, Chief the Wallace Collection has hired Twe are giving away two Editor, Hercules Elton John Fan Elton to its board of trustees. "Sir rare Elton Tour T-Shirts! These Club, 49 Horseshoe Crescent, Elton dresses normal when he shirts were produced as a very Peatmoor, Swindon, SN5 5AX, comes to see us," said one insider. limited edition by the German UK. Mark your cards “Tour shirt "Nothing outrageous. No spangles. Prize-Draw”. Winners will be You wouldn't say he was famous Tour Promoter of EJ’s shows in at all. He loves this place and has 1999, exclusively for the crew. notified by post, and names will been here several times." They are NOT available in the be published in the next issue. shops, and here’s YOUR chance And don’t worry if you aren’t 42ND ANNUAL GRAMMY John Aids Foundation. There will to own one. successful with this free prize- AWARD Two lucky readers of The draw. We will be holding an also be chance to bid for two of Mag will each receive one of auction in the forthcoming June these rare shirts on the Auction Elton was presented with the these shirts for free! All you issue, giving you a chance to bid section of the new Hercules Grammy Legend Award during have to do to enter the draw, is for 2 more shirts, with all Web-site, with proceeds also the 42nd Annual Grammy Awards. The CBS-televised event JOHN AND DAVEY IN SNOOKEROO send a postcard with your name, proceeds benefiting The Elton benefiting EJAF. was held at the new Staples Center in downtown Los Angeles CONCERT A man described by New York on February 23, 2000. As well as police as a professional party receiving his award, EJ also Elton band members John My friend was on the dole crasher was arrested on fraud He talked about Australia performed at the ceremony. Jorgenson and Davey Johnstone charges for allegedly posing as a wedding in They lived with his mum performed a show at McCabe's Elton's manager to get into a $750- Long ago he had a dream ELTON THANKS HERCULESGuitar Store in Santa Monica on a-plate celebrity-studded gala, easteast angliaanglia We all dreamt long ago Jan 30, at 7.00 pm. About 150 reported the New York Daily News A poem by Bernie Taupin I asked him if he remembered MEMBERS He asked me if I was having fun fans braved the rain. Also in the Jan 16. Peter Gianquinto, 50, During a meeting with audience were wives and family called up organisers of the I went to a wedding The Gents was crowded She wanted lots of babies Volunteers of America's annual The wedding of an old friend Everyone told dirty jokes He’d be a great dad Hercules in London Jan 18, the members of both Davey and I was a long gone lad There was one about the Pope I pretended not to hear Cheif Executive Officer of Elton's John, was well as band member Christmas gala at the Four Seasons We drank brown ale The vicar wasn’t listening The sausage rolls were all gone new management company, John Mahon. Hotel posing as Elton's manager Brown ale from the bottle The sausage rolls were good There was lots of cake left Frank Presland delivered Elton's and asked for 7 tickets. He claimed He seemed very happy Everyone had babies Nobody ate much cake Elton and Donatella Versace I recall I was sad The kids all drank warm coke They just sent out for more beerthanks for fans' loyalty and ELTON'S HALF-BROTHER support - especially in 1999. wanted to attend the Dec 12 event It was a promise I made There was a girl called Sylv His brother impersonated Elvis Elton was impressed by the IN COURT to meet with two friends who were He had been a good pal She had tall hair He had a pee stain on his crotch leading the event, police said. He was glad that I came She asked me for a fag He was drinking white rum number of Christmas cards and We drank straight gin All she said was ‘Yea’ There were lots more babies gifts, and says he’ll not forget the The half-brother of Elton has Party planners were so snookered Straight gin with no ice ‘Yea’ and ‘Like ya know’ Some people threw up "Get Well Soon" project been banned from driving and they changed the seating His bride was a blonde She spilled her Babycham My friend passed out organised by Hercules following convicted of possessing cannabis arrangements at the last minute to I don’t remember her name Someone called her a slag What’s-her-name chewed gum Elton's heart surgery last July. by magistrates in north Wales. accommodate the request. They got several toasters The reception was fab I got very drunk But 33-year-old Geoffrey Dwight, He always liked toast That’s what his sister said Drunk it all looked better PRIVATE DANCER from Ruthin, was late for court in INTERVIEWING'S NOT MY His mother didn’t cry I tried hard to fit Sylv looked better drunk His Auntie Rose drank stout His dad sang ‘Edelwies’ I wanted to hear ‘Danny Boy’ Wrexham after the exhaust fell Elton performed a private off his battered Ford Escort car. STRONGEST SUIT She talked about babies He sang the wrong words Bagpipes and ‘Danny Boy’ concert Saturday, Jan 29, in his He wore a purple shirt Everybody laughed at him Sad bitter songs Mr. Dwight, an unemployed harp "Victoria's Secrets: Mrs A purple shirt with a green tie He said he felt a right tit Yea! Sylv looked better drunk adopted hometown of Atlanta, Georgia. Elton was singing to maker, told the court he declined Beckham's Celebrity Odyssey" He said it was a grand day My friend had a brother I stood outside the Workin’ Mansbenefit Elton John AIDS a breathalyser test because police (Channel 4 Television) shown on She giggled and thumped him His brother was a policeman Inside everyone was singing Foundation, as well as Gridiron officers had seen him driving on UK television early January, was She worked at ‘Boots’ He wore hot pink socks I was thinking about sex something of an enigma. Posh Everyone smoked cigarettes I don’t think he liked me Saturday felt like Sunday Glamour, a travelling fashion a car park, not a public road. He The girls wore white lipstick He ate little sausages Sunday when you have school Mondayshow that benefits the HollyRod said he had been out drinking Spice aka Victoria Adams spent Their frocks had red spots He pinched them in his fingers I went to a wedding Foundation, which raises money and playing the harp in pubs in an hour interviewing big names The lads smelled of ‘Brut’ He made jokes about cocks The christening comes next. to fight breast cancer. He played Llangollen one night in last July like Elton John. Elton, who was a 2-hour show at the local Fox when he was arrested. Mr. interviewed as he shopped for Theater and dedicated Tiny Dwight told the court the harp, CDs, suddenly asked her what Dancer to Muhammad Ali and which he had made for his she thought of former Spice Girl Philadelphia Freedom to Billie Geri Halliwell's new songs. Posh elderly mother, was damaged by was speechless. The Hercules Jean King both of whom were in a police constable who put his Taken from the book ‘The Devil at High Noon’. Written by Bernie Taupin. Supplied by Jimmie Collins the audience. refrain: "I'm speechless, and I foot on it as he was arrested. don't know where to start"!

24 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 5 NEWS BULLETS...

Full details of the following news items have appeared on our Hotline and Web-site HOLIDAY INN: the lost lyric NEW ALBUM NEWS and Kenneth Branagh); 16th ELTON AND TIM ASSIGNED By Reggie Zippo Century Man; Trust Me; and The latest collaboration from Queen Of Cities (all written for, Elton and Tim Rice will sit at hile listening to the the team of Elton, Tim Rice and but not included, in the film); The Tower Records on 8801 Sunset album version of Hans Zimmer, stems from Panic In Me and My Heart Blvd., LA, on March 14th 2000 DreamWorks Pictures' upcoming at 7pm, to sign copies of The W"Holiday Inn", I often Dances (written specifically for wonder how many fans know animated adventure The Road To the album). The first single, Road to El Dorado when the El Dorado, which is in cinemas album hits the street. It's been 5 that they are only listening to Someday Out Of The Blue about 75% of the original lyrics. from March 31. However, the (Theme from El Dorado) will be years since Elton and Bernie album 'Elton John's The Road To Taupin did their last autograph After nearly 30 years of hearing a released April 4. song that sounds so complete as El Dorado', scheduled for release The album also includes party at Tower Records in LA. on March 14, is more than just excerpts from the score to the After 4 hours and 1,300 fans, the is, it may surprise even the most the soundtrack. film. Elton says of his partnership evening became a segment of avid of EJ's fans that "Holiday Elton explained "Instead of just with Rice and Zimmer: “Tim likes history for both Elton and Tower. Inn" once had a third verse, a having the usual five songs on a what I do with the melody, I like Fans must buy their CD March slightly different chorus, and a soundtrack album and the rest of what Tim does with the lyric, and 13, and receive a special entry meaning that painted a much it being score, I said, 'Let's make we love what Hans does. So it's bracelet. darker picture about life on the an album out of this and include not a really complicated thing, road. songs we wrote that didn't make primarily because we have so HI HAWAII! the movie.'" He went on to talk much respect for each other.” Tim Most of us have heard Elton of the chorus reads in part: Well, the building's as big and about how the film, and the EJ kicked off the new year and Bernie tell the tale of how "You ain't seen nothing till the room's just the same. Rice, sole lyricist on the project, with 3 concerts in Honolulu, music, changed along the way, remarks: “Hans is one of the great the song "Daniel" was originally you been in a motel, baby, like a Oh, the TV don't work and "The plot changes, the jokes Hawaii, January 7, 8, and 9. written with a third verse and Holiday Inn." the French fries are cold, film composers. And Elton, of Although it is a US state, it is very change, the songs change scenes, course, is a legend in every way. how it had to be deleted before That sounds all well and fine, and room service closed but that's par for the course.'' far away from the the final recording was made. but the replacement of just one about an hour ago." So I feel quite privileged.'' mainland....about halfway The album features the DreamWorks Records Time and time again, they have word changed the whole tone It must have been a last original, full-length versions of the between California and Japan !!!! executive Michael Ostin says of We have a Hercules member in said that the missing verse had and meaning of the song. The minute choice to dramatically five songs Elton performs in the the album: ``It's so great to be part explained the whole meaning of word "baby" replaced the word alter the lyrics because I have film: El Dorado; Without Honolulu: he was very helpful to of a musical event like this. I still some mainland USA and some the song, but it would have been "prison"! heard EJ perform it live in 1971 Question; Friends Never Say can't believe I'm working with Goodbye; The Trail We Blaze; Japanese members of Hercules on too long to be a pop tune. This "You ain't seen nothing till with the third verse intact, but Elton John, Tim Rice and Hans this occasion.....thanks Brian! was, however, not the first you been in a motel prison, like without "prison" in the chorus. and Someday Out Of The Blue Zimmer. These guys are at their (Theme From El Dorado). Elton used basically the same set incident in which one of Bernie's a Holiday Inn." There was a great story to be told creative peaks, and we're really list as the USA shows from the lyrics had had the third verse With "prison" now deleted and here, just imagine performing for In addition, the album has lucky to be able to bring their Elton singing a duet with Randy fall of 1999. He commented that removed and the meaning "baby" inserted, the song ended several hours then traveling to the combined talents to so many it was a great city, and that he Newman It's Tough To Be A God people with this amazing record.'' changed before the master up sounding like a commercial next destination for an overnight (sung in the film by Kevin Kline was really enjoying his stay there. recording was made. advertisement for the Holiday stay in a motel room that seemed EJ got many flowered leis and In all of the interviews I have Inn. For those of you who do not unacceptable for human comfort. Hawaiian shirts as gifts from the encountered, EJ and BT have know, Holiday Inn is a motel With nowhere to go, the audience.....the last time he had never mentioned how or why chain in the USA. I am quite countless number of motel rooms done a concert in Honolulu was "Holiday Inn" was reduced to a surprised that the company has begins to feel like a sort of prison. 1982! Over the 3 nights, he syrupy tribute to a motel chain, not yet tried to use this song to Solution? Write about it. Why dedicated songs to friends in the rather than the dark confines of a their advantage. Once the word we were deprived of this original audience such as "Janet from England", Lulu, and singer Diane prison that Bernie had originally "prison" was eliminated and thought may never be known. Krall. Elton will continue to tour envisioned. Did the company "baby" penciled in, verse one and Perhaps Elton will one day North America until April, that owned the Holiday Inn motel two seemed to fit better with the reinstate the original lyrics and bringing the solo tour to Europe chain threaten to sue? Or did chorus. Verse three, however, perhaps he won't. For now, I can in the summer. they simply feel that the public was now terribly out of place. If only rely on the unreleased demo would enjoy a much shorter it had been left intact, it would version to capture my CAN I PUT YOU ON? happier version in the long run? not have worked well with the imagination about staying "in a Listening to the original demo rest of the lyrics. "Prison" motel prison, like a Holiday Inn". Many of you will still recording, I honestly feel that it supported that third verse. (Please note: Feelings remember the Elton John postage would have stood the test of time. Without it, there would have expressed in this article about the stamps Hercules commissioned for The first notable change came been no connection to the Holiday Inns of the early 1970s his 50th birthday in 1997. There during the chorus. Everything chorus. Consider the words: are in no way a reflection of their are more Elton stamps around, was the same between the demo "Don't even know if it's current reputation of quality and visit www.coolstamps.com Stamps come from Komi, and the final master. All except Cleveland or Maine. good service) Gagauzia, Buriatia, and Tanzania! one little word. The final version

4 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 25 SMALL ADS FROM THE EDITOR...

These are free to Hercules members. Send yours to Tammi Law, Editor, 49 Horseshoe Crescent, Swindon SN5 5AX, UK., or e-mail her at [email protected] WANTED EJ CELS As part of the service which we offer to fans, Hercules have I am looking for the following again been able to secure group Elton John music videos: allocation premium tickets to "Something About The Way You many of Elton’s shows this year. Look Tonight", "Recover Your elcome to the 50th We make NO profit on the Soul", "If The River Can Bend" issue of the Hercules tickets which fans buy through and "Written In The Stars". Please fanzine! Originally write to: Jochen Loh, W Hercules, it’s purely a way of called Rocket Fan back in 1988, ensuring that great seats are Hammerweg 29, D - 52074 and now called The Mag, Aachen, Germany. available for real fans. In fact readership has grown Hercules is not about making tremendously over the last 12 FOR SALE OR TRADE profit at all - the Team here are Arise Sir Elton! The moment EJ was years. Its a reflection of the fact all volunteers, and we aren’t paid Updated 7 page list includes, knighted by the Queen. that Elton himself continues to for what we do. Which is what 7", 12" vinyl, CDs, Videos, go from strength to strength. makes it YOUR Elton John Fan Books, Photos, T- Shirts and PLEASE REMEMBER... Elton continues to be really Club; it’s run by the fans, for the more. Please write to Steven busy, and his hugely successful fans. Betts 75A Coillesdene Avenue, Solo Tour shows no signs of Edinburgh EH15 2LN, Scotland ALWAYS state your That’s also why your membership number if you stopping. Building on the success contributions are always U.K. or e-mail of last year, EJ kicked off his [email protected] send a cheque to Hercules, welcome. Write and tell us about or pay into one of the Club schedule for 2000 by performing why you became a fan, and Similar to the way animation accounts. 3 shows in Hawaii, before HERCULES MEMBER other EJ-related incidents along Cels are made. Matted and returning to the USA for more the way! Photos and pics are DISCOUNTS AT WRAP ITpresented UP! in shadow box frames. ALWAYS let us know the shows throughout the Spring. always welcome too. 16 titles available. Some in expiry date of the card, and And more concerts have been And if you loved the Hercules Hercules has negotiated a limited edition! SPECIAL FREE the cardholders name. announced across Europe for the 2000 Calendar, we want you to permanent discount package for summer. See the Tour Date listing Club Members buying goods OFFER! Write to: Cartoon Please note that if you have share the glory for 2001! We Creations, PO Box 396, on page 27 for full details. want to emphasise that, not only from our retail outlet Wrap It paid your Membership Fee by In between all of this activity, Up! Quote your member Dunedin, FL 34697 USA or visit Credit Card, your card will is it Elton, but also the fans that number (on your passes) to Wrap our website at automatically be charged Elton has also found time to write make Hercules great. Have a It Up!, PO Box 220, Lincoln, www.angelfire.com/biz/celebrity again for the renewal fee, at and perform the soundtrack for the end of your membership look through your pictures of LN1 2RZ, England. cel Our home since 1996! another animated movie, Elton and select photos you have year. If your card has expired Dreamworks The Road to El Tel/fax +44-1522-529275 or in the meantime, or if you taken over the years; if your pic email: [email protected] have switched companies, Dorado. Details of the songs on is used in the 2001 Calendar, please forward your new the resulting album, and when you will have your name printed Credit Card details to Hercules you can get hold of your copy, next to the photo, and receive a Coordination in time for your can be found in the News next renewal. free calendar as thanks. Please idol section. send all contributions to me - We are very excited that address at top of page 2. Nigel Olsson chose to speak LYRIC QUIZ ANSWERS All that’s left is for us to wish exclusively to Hercules from his Elton a very Happy Birthday in home in California, giving us an 1) Billy Bones and the White Bird March. And if you can’t make it insight into life with EJ in the 2) Holiday Inn to any of our "Celebrate EJ’s "early days". The first part of the 3) Sick City Birthday" Conventions (see page 4) Where’s the Shoorah? interview is later in this issue, 19 for details), then I’ll look 5) Honey Roll with part 2 continuing in June. forward to seeing as many of you 6) Satellite And we were pleased to hear as possible at Elton’s Solo shows 7) Understanding Women that Nigel has subsequently in the summer! 8) Slave returned to work with Elton, for 9) Teacher I Need You the first time in 16 years, 10) Someone’s Final Song providing backing vocals on 11) Elderberry Wine promotion work for the El 12) White Lady White Powder Dorado project. Madison Square Garden - 1998 (Photos: J Keßing)

26 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000. 3 Fanzine of the Elton John THE MAG Fan Club TOURPlans & Rumours DATES Issue No. 50 FAN CLUB INFORMATION MARCH 2000 US SOLO TOUR 2000 Annual membership fee is £14 in the UK/Europe HERCULES Chief Editor 17-March-2000...... Lakeland, FL Lakeland Civic Center and £17/US$30 for the USA and Rest of the World. Tammi Law 49 Horseshoe Crescent, 18-March-2000 ...... Albany, GA Albany Civic Center Please note that your renewal date is printed on Peatmoor Swindon SN5 5AX, U.K. 05-April-2000 ...... Binghamton, NY Broome County Veterans Memorial Arena your address label in European format Tel. +44 (0)1793 881 264 day/month/year. [email protected] 07-April-2000 ...... Portland, ME Cumberland County Civic Center Editorial Assistants: 08-April-2000 ...... Bingintom, NY t.b.a. Membership passes are available from your local George Matlock, Barbara Turner 09-April-2000 ...... Erie, PA Erie Civic Center HERCULES department: send a small photo of Design: Turnstyle Design yourself when requesting your pass. Translations: 14-April-2000 ...... Evainsville, IN Roberts Stadium Sabine Asenkirschbaumer 15-April-2000 ...... Indianapolis, IN Conseco Please don't send enquiries or fan mail to the Elton Mireille Mölbert John management, but to HERCULES Coordination. For subscription details, please 18-April-2000 ...... Syracuse, NY War Memorial write to your local HERCULES 19-April-2000 ...... Trenton, NJ Sovereign Bank Arena Letters will be passed on if necessary. department or to HERCULES Coordinaton: 21-April-2000 ...... Wilkes-Barre, PA First Union Arena HERCULES is a quarterly publication released in 22-April-2000 March, June, September and December. In event of HERCULES Coordination ...... Hershey, PA Hershey Arena circumstances beyond our control, there is no c/o Stephan Heimbecher Orleansstr. 59 guarantee for punctual shipment. It is published in D-81667 München, MISCELLANEOUS CONTENTS English and German. GERMANY Tel. +49 (0)89 48900369 13-April-2000...... New York, NY Carnegie Hall Rainforest Benefit show Fax +49 (0)89 48900370 Printed articles do not necessarily reflect the editors' [email protected] FEATURES EUROPEAN SOLO TOUR 2000 opinions. All information is based on the best of HERCULES Fan Adviser Aida in Chicago knowledge and belief. Reproductions permitted only c/o Mireille Mölbert review ...... 8 03-June-2000...... Derbyshire, UK Chatsworth House by prior arrangement with HERCULES. Zaunweg 11 Healing Hands. D-80805 München, 06-June-2000 ...... Hampshire, UK Broadlands GERMANY Nigel Olsson talks Member participation is always welcome. We are 13-June-2000 exclusively to Tel. +49 (0)89 3244146 ...... Lincolnshire, UK Burghley Park Hercules ...... 10 thankful for your submissions of any kind: reports, [email protected] 17-June-2000 ...... Loeben, Austria t.b.a articles, photos, drawings, and suggestions. Please HERCULES USA/Canada David Furnish 18-June-2000 ...... Bad Ischl, Austria Kaiserpark talks about his life send them to the Editor, Tammi Law. Please c/o Sharon Kalinoski and relationship P.O. Box 398 23-June-2000 ...... Kassel, Germany Wilhelmshöhe (open air) understand that we cannot always publish all La Grange, IL 60525, USA with Elton ...... 14 contributions. All photos will be returned. [email protected] 24-June-2000 ...... Hamburg, Germany Derbypark (open air) Nobody Wins HERCULES U.K. in French...... 16 27-June-2000 ...... Cologne, Germany KölnArena UK Hotline 0906 888 20 20 (60p per minute) P.O. Box 315 Life in the USA Richmond 28-June-2000 ...... Coburg, Germany Schlossplatz (open air) Surrey TW9 3QX, UK a personal account by USA/Canada Hotline 815/293 3843 30-June-2000 ...... Leipzig, Germany Völkerschlachtdenkmal (open air) Charlie Morgan ...... 17 [email protected] Web site http://www.eltonfan.com HERCULES Benelux 01-July-2000 ...... Stuttgart, Germany Schlossplatz (open air) SPECIAL OFFERS c/o Arjen Buikstra 04-July-2000 COPYRIGHT: HERCULES Sav. Lohmannstr. 1 ...... Mannheim, Germany Schloss Ehrenhof Tour T-Shirt prize draw..24 NL-3214 XA Zuidland 05-July-2000 ...... Koblenz, Germany Schlosshof (open air) Deadline for Issue No. 51 is 1 May 2000 Tel. +31 (0)1881 451511 REGULARS [email protected] 07-July-2000 ...... Künzelsau, Germany Schlosspark (open air) Assistant: Tim Blezer Between 17 and 20 No. 51 will be released 08-July-2000 ...... Munich, Germany Königsplatz (open air) HERCULES Italy Elton trivia & gossip ..18 June 2000 c/o Luca Zerbini 19-July-2000 ...... S. Wales, UK Margam Park Club Information ...... 2 Via Scheiwiller n.9/A I-20139 Milano, ITALY 22-July-2000 ...... Northants, UK Castle Ashby Convention Reports...... 19 [email protected] Letters to the Editor...... 22 HERCULES Francais Francoise Linden-Gilles Lyric Quiz ...... 13 Front cover: BP-22, B-4900 SPA News Bullets ...... 4 Elton Performing live in Las Belgium Vegas, 30 December 1999 [email protected] Small ads ...... 26 HERCULES Nordic Kaleidescope Eyes - Back cover: Urpu Kallio 2000This is not an official tour schedule, EJ TV/Video c/o Maria Sjöholm as it also includes rumoured and unconfirmed dates. Appearances...... 21 Chicago - 12 November 1999 Björkkullavägen 3 A 3 (Photo: S Kalinoski) 07880 LILJENDAL Tour Dates ...... 27 FINLAND

2 Hercules. The Elton John Fan Club Quarterly Fanzine. Issue 50. March 2000 27 since 1988

UE ISS THE MAG 0TH UE • 5 ISS 0TH UE • 5 ISS 0TH • 5 SUE H IS 50T

inside this issue:

Exclusive! Nigel Olsson talks to Hercules

New Album News Your chance to win rare T-shirt! News & Tour Dates Aida - show review

PLUS: YOUR LETTERS, SMALL ADS, For up-to-the-minute news about Elton, LYRIC QUIZ, callers in the UK can phone the DAVID FURNISH callers in the UK can phone the AND MORE! HERCULESHERCULES HotlineHotline onon 09060906 888888 2020 2020 Calls cost 60p per minute anytime March 2000 Issue No: 50

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