Some Boomers sometimes remark that today’s music just isn’t as good as the music from the good ol’ days and those Boomers are in good company because Sir Elton, aka Elton John, recently complained to the British press that today’s music doesn’t stand up to songs from the past, and that “even the cheesiest songs of the 50’s & 60’s… are better…”
Some songs do stand the test of time, specifically, songs written by Sir Elton and his long-time lyricist, Bernie Taupin.
Confirmation that the John/Taupin collaborations have stood the test of time, and are not cheesy, and that some hit songs are more equal than other hit songs, there are two recently released albums that are covers of John’s classics, sung by today’s crème de la crème, with selections spanning nearly 50 years of hits.
“As songwriters, Bernie and myself are thrilled when singers we admire and respect as much as those on “Revamp” and “Restoration” choose to add their own unique twist in the process. It means that our music is still relevant and ultimately that our songs continue to reach new audiences.”
In “Revamp,” the songs are covered by pop and rock mega stars (Demi Lovato, Mary J Blige); “Restoration” features some of the top names in Country and Americana (Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson).
Here is Lady Gaga belting out “Your Song,” Elton’s and Bernie’s first major hit (1970). Without getting too gushy, she soars with it.
Elton Update: This is his final tour. It kicks off Sept. 2018, and continues into 2021