Elton John in China, the classic music man

Elton John, the classic music man

http://www.china.org.cn/arts/2012-11/26/content_27227149.htm

By Zhang Rui
November 26, 2012



We should feel honored and blessed to have Sir Elton John performing in China. It presents us with the rare opportunity to witness the live music from a global icon.

The 65-year-old veteran singer pulled off a concert in Beijing on Sunday, his second time greeting his Chinese fans since 2004. He had just performed another concert the Friday night before in Shanghai.

"Bennie and the Jets," "Rocket Man," "Sorry Seems to Be the Hardest Word," "Candle in the Wind," "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me," "Crocodile Rock," etc., John belted out one classic after another inside Beijing's former Olympic basketball venue, now renamed the MasterCard Center. There are simply too many hits in his 50-year-spanning career and 30 album-filling repertoire for him to pick and choose from.

Elton John has never in his concert wasted a single minute to bring the cheering crowds to pure ecstasy. The drum beats are heavy, the piano is overwhelming, the guitar is strumming wildly, the vocals are stunning and the vibe is just trembling. Although Elton John no longer wears his over-the-top 1970s and 1980s pomp and circumstance costumes any more, the music speaks for itself.

He and his old band members, including Scottish guitarist Davey Johnstone and longtime drummer Nigel Olsson, as well as his new friends and opening act 2Cellos, gave a profoundly powerful and ravishing performance.

It is worth to notice that not one, but two of his backup singers were actually Rose Stone, co-founder of the 1970s soul group Sly and the Family Stone, and Lisa Stone, Rose's daughter - though most Chinese audiences may not know who they are.



The encores were routine but touching: "Your Song" and "The Lion King"- theme "Circle of Life," with the accompanying Disney classic's footage showing on the stage's massive screens. The grand African intro took the beautiful remix of song to its next level. On the other hand, many Chinese were still left disappointed because they thought he would opt to sing another "The Lion King" hit: "Can You Feel the Love Tonight," the Oscar-winning song that once captured the hearts of many in China. But he didn't.

Yet the classics were never absent this night. Elton John, at his age, with such energy, reassured everyone that he is the one and only, the classic icon, the classic man.

Elton John dedicates show to Chinese artist Ai

Elton John dedicates show to Chinese artist Ai

http://dawn.com/2012/11/26/elton-john-dedicates-show-to-chinese-artist-ai/

BEIJING:Pop icon Elton John publicly dedicated his only concert in Beijing to Chinese artist and political critic Ai Weiwei, sending a murmur of shock through an audience accustomed to tight censorship of entertainment.    

Minutes into a more than two-hour show Sunday night, John told the audience that the performance was dedicated ”to the spirit and talent of Ai Weiwei,” according to several audience members.

They said the crowd rumbled in recognition that Ai remains a touchy subject for the Chinese government.

An internationally acclaimed sculptor and installation artist, Ai has used his art and his renown to draw attention to social injustice. He was detained for nearly three months last year, and he remains barred from leaving China.

Ai and John met each other briefly on Sunday before the concert. ”I super like him,” Ai said on his feed on Twitter, which is banned in China but on which he has 180,000 followers.

China-based online media sites reported on John’s Beijing show, as they did on a Friday night performance in Shanghai, but they did not report John’s remark about Ai.

The Chinese government exercises tight control of live performances, requiring artists to submit detailed lists of songs, casts and crew members before approval is given. Censors further tightened scrutiny after singer Bjork shouted ”Tibet, Tibet” at the close of a song titled ”Declare Independence” at a Shanghai performance in 2008.

Malaysian Islamic party urges Elton John show ban

Malaysian Islamic party urges Elton John show ban

http://www.france24.com/en/20121127-malaysian-islamic-party-urges-elton-john-show-ban

Elton John performs during his concert in Beijing on November 25. An Islamic political party on Tuesday urged the government of predominantly Muslim Malaysia to ban a concert by John, saying the openly gay British pop icon promotes "immoral" values.
AFP - An Islamic political party on Tuesday urged the government of predominantly Muslim Malaysia to ban a concert by Elton John, saying the openly gay British pop icon promotes "immoral" values.

John, who is popular in Malaysia, is scheduled to perform on Thursday at a resort outside the capital Kuala Lumpur.

"This concert must be cancelled. Artists who are involved in gay and lesbian activities must not be allowed to perform in Malaysia as they will promote the wrong values," Nasrudin Hassan Tantawi, chief of the youth wing of the opposition Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), told AFP.

The legendary singer-songwriter, who is on the Asian leg of a worldwide tour, performed in Malaysia last November to a sell-out crowd despite a similar protest from the Islamic party.

The 65-year-old singer was married to his Canadian partner David Furnish, 49, in a civil ceremony in England in 2005. On Christmas Day 2010 they became parents to a child conceived using a donor egg and born to a surrogate mother.

Nasrudin said PAS did not plan any street protests to oppose the concert, but "will instead demand that authorities cancel the immoral performance to protect our society from social degradation".

On Monday, John courted controversy during a performance in China by dedicating his Beijing show to Chinese dissident artist Ai Weiwei.

PAS often protests concerts by Western acts, saying they promote promiscuity and corrupt the minds of youngsters.

The party is a key member of an opposition alliance led by Anwar Ibrahim that hopes to unseat Malaysia's long-ruling coalition in elections that must be called by mid-2013.

Homosexuality has long been taboo in Malaysia, where 60 percent of the population is Muslim and sodomy is a crime punishable by up to 20 years in prison.

Elton John´s Diary 1969

The Illustrated Cornflakes & Classics A musical history of Elton John
by Paul Maclauchlan


Copyright 1989, 2006 Paul Maclauchlan

Permission granted to copy this information if credit is given


1969

Jan 7 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Stayed at home. Wrote: Empty Sky, Flowers Will Never Die."
Jan 11 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Eurovision songs start. Are You Ready For Love. Not bad."
Jan 12 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Went to LJB's birthday party had row with Bernie." (LJB: Long John Baldry)

Jan 17 1969

UK 45
Phillips BF1739 (did not chart)

Lady Samantha (3:03)
*All Across The Havens (2:54)

Elton John's second (and last) single for Phillips. Elton John plays organ, piano & electric piano. A newspaper article quotes Reg Dwight: "I want recognition as an artist and a songwriter."

Reviews

Disc & Music Echo: "Elton John's Lady Samantha is nice thought it's much as we've heard before. Semi-Elizabethan feel but lyrically interesting."

New Musical Express: "Co-written by Elton, this is typically professional and musicianly - Elton has written several big numbers for others. Lyrics are sensible and worthwhile - not part of the underground-type scene. A promising talent."

Melody Maker: "1969 is going to be the year of Elton John, say those anxious promoters introducing this pianist - organist - harpsichordist - celeste playing singer in our midst. I don't want to appear a prophet of gloom, but I distinctly remember 1943 was going to be the year of Ezekial Sludgegulper - and look what happened to him! Nevertheless, Elton has a sturdy voice, and this is an interesting guitar-ridden sound that could well create waves of interest. V. good and a gold star."

Jan 17 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Lady Samantha released. Stayed home. Saw: Lady In Cement - Good; Secret Life Of An American Wife - Lousy."
Jan 1969

US 45
DJM 7008 (did not chart)

Lady Samantha
*All Across The Havens
Jan 1969

ENGLAND AUDITION

Elton John auditions for the position of lead singer with King Crimson, Robert Fripp's new group. Elton is turned down.


Feb 1 1969

UK TV - Lulu's TV Show

I Can't Go On Living Without You - Lulu
The Elton John & Bernie Taupin song is one of six songs selected as a British entry in the Eurovision Song Contest. Lulu was chosen as the performer to represent Britain, and she performed the song on her Saturday pop TV show.



Reviews

Excerpts from reviews in the Daily Express, where one credit reads "Bernie Paupin" and the other "Bernie Taublin":

"It would be hard to get this title on a postcard when voting. A very unimaginative title for what is just a dull and uninteresting song."
"Elton John is undoubtedly a promising talent of the future... listen to his record Lady Samantha. But Saturday's song has little chance of representing Britain in the contest.
After a promising introduction I strained my ears to hear a non-existent melody coupled with a pathetic lyric which consisted of the title phrase and very little else."
Feb 3 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Went in to the office. General reaction to Lulu - not very good. Slated in the Daily Express by Bill Martin and Phil Coulter."
Feb 1969

UK 45 - The Bread And Beer Band
DECCA

*The Dick Barton Theme (The Devil's Gallup)
*Breakdown Blues
Elton John played piano in the band. Other members: Bernie Calver (bass); Caleb Quaye (quitar), Roger Pope (drums) and two Jamaican percussionists Rolfo and Lennox.

Hookfoot 1970 Roger Pope, Caleb Quaye, Ian Duck and Dave Glover

Elton John (Reg Dwight) was the keyboardist for The Bread and Beer Band in the late 1960s - at the same time he was attempting to launch his solo career as Elton John. "Dick Barton Theme (The Devil's Gallop)" was the band's only official release. The Bread and Beer Band was Reg Dwight, Caleb Quaye on guitar, Roger Pope on drums, Bernie Calvert on bass, and Lennox Jackson on percussion. They were produced by Tony King. The song, written by Charles Williams, had been a radio theme song on the BBC in the 1940s. Fortunately for all of us music-loving humans, The Bread & Beer Band was not a success, but young Elton John managed to keep his carrer going for the next 40 years!!!! And still going strong!



Feb 1969

UK LP - THE BREAD AND BEER BAND
Unreleased

Wooly Bully
Mellow Yellow
If I Were A Carpenter
Zorba's Dance
The Letter
Quick Joey Small
Needles And Pins
God Knows (A Bit Of Freedom)
Billy's Bag
Last Night
An instrumental album, recorded in February 1969 at EMI Studio, Abbey Road, planned for release in June 1969, but cancelled. Only exists as test pressings and sample covers. Produced by Chris Thomas.

Elton John played piano in the band. Other members: Bernie Calver (bass); Caleb Quaye (quitar), Roger Pope (drums) and two Jamaican percussionists Rolfo and Lennox.

Tony King, the producer that founded The Bread And Beer Band, discusses this unreleased album in an article in the December 1975 issue of the US magazine Circus Raves.

Feb 1969

UK 45 - Ayshea
Polydor 56502

[Another Night]
Taking The Sun From My Eyes (Elton John / Bernie Taupin)
The A-side has no connection with Elton John.
Feb 1969

UK LP - Currency - Plastic Penny
Page One POLS 014

Turn To Me (Elton John / Bernie Taupin)
The group Plastic Penny included drummer Nigel Olsson and bassist Tony Murray.
Feb 1969

UK COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION

Child
This song has not been released by any artist.

Mar 28 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Lunch with Tony Brandon 12:30. Going to Bernie's 2:20. Just caught the train. Went out tonight with Ralf and Pete."
Mar 29 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Watched the Grand National and then went to see Owmby United win 2-1. Went to R.A.F. Waddington tonight."
Mar 30 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Got up early to play football, but Pete didn't come. Pete - Dave came round in the afternoon."
Mar 1969

ENGLAND RECORDING SESSION - The Scaffold

Elton Johnsession work.
Apr 10 1969

ELTON'S DIARY / RECORDING SESSION - Olympic Studios, Barnes

It's Me That You Need
"Recording at Olympic It's Me That You Need 7:00 - 10:00 P.M. Session was great. Helped in Musicland today."
Apr 11 1969

ELTON'S DIARY / RECORDING SESSION - Olympic Studios, Barnes

It's Me That You Need
"Going to Steve's for weekend. Heard the tapes today, decided to do the vocal again. Helped in Musicland. Saw The Party and Hannibal Brooks again with Steve, Gill and Dave."
Apr 12 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Caught the 9:30 train and went into Musicland. Got "duffed up" on the way home. Went straight to bed."
Apr 12 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Got up and went to play football and took photos."
Apr 22 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Went into Musicland today. Got home tonight to find that Auntie Win and Mum had bought me a car - Hillman Husky Estate - Superb!!"


Apr 30 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Tony King - 12:30. Got up at 11:30!! But made it O.K. Went to the office - offer to open a carwash in Cricklewood - what!! Stayed in tonight. My glasses broke."
Apr 1969

UK COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION

Last To Arrive
This song has not been released by any artist.

Apr 1969

ENGLAND RECORDING - Dick James Studios, London

Just Like Strange Rain

May 16 1969

UK 45
DJM DJS8205 (did not chart)

It's Me That You Need (4:01)
Just Like Strange Rain (3:47)
May 28 1969

UK 45 - The Family Dogg $
Bell BLL 1055 (UK: #6; 14 weeks)

#A Way Of Life
[Elton John: piano]
Albert Hammond featured in the group The Family Dogg.
May 28 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Pinner Fair. Went up to get paid. Went to the fair with Mick and Pat. I won a coconut and two goldfish!! - John and Yoko."
May 29 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"My goldfish died tonight - very upset!!"
May 30 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Went to get some more goldfish. Got a tank and four fish. Played tennis with Tony's friend Mark - won 6-2 6-4 2-6 4-6 6-0."
Jun 3 1969

UK LP - EMPTY SKY
DJM DJLPS 403

Empty Sky
Val-Hala
Western Ford Gateway
Hymn 2000
Lady What's Tomorrow
Sails
The Scaffold
Skyline Pigeon
Gulliver / Hay Chewed


Elton John: piano, organ, electric piano, harpsichord; Caleb Quaye: electric & acoustic guitars, conga drums; Tony Murray: bass guitar; Roger Pope: drums, percussion; Don Fay: tenor saxophone, flute; Graham Vickery: harmonica. Nigel Ollson: drums on Lady What's Tomorrow.
All compositions by Elton John and Bernie Taupin
Recorded at the studios of Dick James Music Limited. Steve Brown: producer; Frank Owen: engineer; Clive Franks: tape operator & whistling; Dave Larkham: sleeve design & illustration; Jim Goff: sleeve production & lunch.

Liner notes

On the scene comes a refreshing new talent, ELTON JOHN, if he has any gimmick at all it is his warmth, sincerity and total involvement in music, so listen closely to this his first album, and like me you'll be saying "I can't wait to hear the next one". - Tony Brandon

When I was a small boy there was a man who used to sing to an even smaller guitar, and his name was Elton Hayes. Nice little runcible songs that helped to make the summers longer than they ever seem to be now.
Elton John plays and sings and pleases on this album but unlike his namesake he does not confine himself exclusively to the brighter side of life. The runcible has since changed to the smouldering crucible of a million injustices. It's a sign of the times. I too want to hear the pealing bells of distant churches sing. When it does happen it will be a sign of tomorrow. And Elton will have a song about that as well. - David Symonds

A great deal of hard work and late nights have been caused in making this album. Special thanks to Stewart and Jeff for guarding the studio with complete devotion.
Bernie and I would also like to thank John and Ian for providing many hours of inspiration and also to everyone at "Auntie" for encouragement and good wishes. - Elton John

Elton John:

"Making the Empty Sky album still holds the nicest memories for me, because it was the first I suppose. We used to walk back from the sessions at about four in the morning and stay at the Salvation Army headquarters in Oxford Street. Steve Brown's dad used to run the place, and he used to live above it."

"I used to sleep on the sofa. It's difficult to explain the amazement we felt as the album began to take shape, but I remember when we finished work on the title track... it just floored me. I thought it was the best thing I'd ever heard in my life."

Reviews

Evening Standard

I have aways held that the best of pop music is closely related to the culture and tempo of the moment. Pop is, I believe, only a poetic and musical illustration of the times and it's for this reason that the blues have always held such enormous potency, and why the Beatles with their songs about meter maids, old age, spinsters, etc. have found such a huge appreciation.
This record by Elton John, nicely recorded though it may be, is, to my mind, practically unrelated to anything I experience. While the melodies are sweet, it is unadventurous, the lyrics seem to be a bit self-consiously cultured and "poetic" in a highly fanciful style.
The last track is the best one. Called Gulliver, it is about the death of a dog, but it is evenually spoiled by a musical montage of no great significance. To be fair though I think we'd do well to watch out for Elton John. He has a talent. When he gets less fanciful, and less pretentious, he will I'm sure have a more worthwhile contribution to make.
Unknown (from a clipping)

This is a sort of folk-rock album. When I first saw it, before I heard it, I couldn't believe that the record could be as bad as the cover design and I was right. The record is excellent. All the numbers are original and make very pleasant listening. If you have an hour to spare, give the album a spin and "turn on."




Elton John - Empty Sky
CD
Jun 25 1969

ENGLAND SESSION - Abbey Road Studios, London

#He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother - The Hollies
Elton John plays piano on the session.




Jun 1969

FILM RECORDING SESSION - For The Games






From Denver To LA
The film soundtrack contains this song by Elton John. See the Internet Movie Database listing.

Jul 11 1969

ENGLAND RECORDING SESSION - Aeolian Hall, BBC London Studio 2

+Son Of Your Father
+Lady Samantha
+Sails
+Rock And Roll Madonna
Elton John: piano; Roger Pope: drums; David Glover: bass; Caleb Quaye: guitar. Unknown Producer.

Broadcast July 20 1969 on the Symonds On Sunday show.

Jul 20 1969

UK RADIO - BBC - Symonds On Sunday
David Symonds, 10am to noon.

+Son Of Your Father
+Lady Samantha
+Sails
+Rock And Roll Madonna
Elton John: piano; Roger Pope: drums; David Glover: bass; Caleb Quaye: guitar.

Recorded July 11, 1969, Aeolian Hall, BBC London Studio 2. Produced by: ? (commissioned by Paul Williams)

Jul 28 1969

ENGLAND RECORDING SESSION - The Camden Theatre, London

+Rock And Roll Madonna
+Empty Sky
+Son Of Your Father
+Sails
Elton John: piano; Roger Pope: drums; David Glover: bass; Caleb Quaye: guitar. Unknown Producer.

Broadcast August 9 1969 on the Johnnie Walker show

Jul 1969

UK COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION

I'm Going Home (Elton John / Bernie Taupin)
[Elton John: piano]
This song had not been released by any artist, until it cropped up on a Simon Dupree collection on April 27 2004.

Part Of My Past - Simon Dupree & The Big Sound
2 CD set

Aug 9 1969

UK RADIO - BBC - Johnnie Walker
Saturdays 2 to 3:55pm.

+Rock And Roll Madonna
+Empty Sky
+Son Of Your Father
+Sails
Elton John: piano; Roger Pope: drums; David Glover: bass; Caleb Quaye: guitar.

Recorded July 28, 1969, The Camden Theatre, London. Produced by: ? (commissioned by John Bussell)

Aug 14 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Didn't wake up until 3:00. Bernie went to the dentist. Steve came over tonight. Got drunk on Merrydown. Bernie very ill."
Aug 15 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Went to the office with Steve. Bernie not feeling too good stayed behind. Lunch with Lionel. Helped Ian out this afternoon. Rita Bateman left today."
Aug 15 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Going to Bournemouth. We (Bern, Sal, Cathy, Stevie and I) left at 9:30. Got there at 2:00. Accom OK. Went for a swim tonight - superb."
Aug 23 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Going on holiday to Ilfracombe. Got up at 3:30. Got to Mulacott Cross at 11:00. Got tents up O.K. Went to W. And Il."
Aug 24 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Went to beach today. Rained tonight."
Aug 31 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Going to the I.O.W. to see "Bob". Too much!!"
Along with "Bob" (aka Bob Dylan), Elton John sees The Band at the Isle Of Wight Festival.
Aug 1969

UK COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION

Big Circle Of Stone (Elton John / Bernie Taupin / Caleb Quaye)
This song has not been released by any artist.

Aug 1969 to Aug 1970

UK LPs & EPs - various anonymous cover versions of hit songs
Albums include:
Charbusters Again (Marble Arch), Hits '70 (Music For Pleasure MFP 1383), Top Hits Of 1970 (unknown label), Pick Of The Pops (Deacon 1010) & other titles and labels (Gallery, Hallmark, Boulevard, Avenue) $

Song Title ("Original" Artist) - shown in alphabetic order
All Right Now (Free)
Back Home (1970 England World Cup Squad)
The Best Of Both Worlds (Lulu)
Come And Get It (Badfinger)
Cotton Fields (The Beach Boys)
Don't Forget To Remember (Bee Gees)
Down The Dustpipe (Status Quo)
Early In The Morning (Vanity Fare)
Everybody Get Together (Dave Clark Five)
Good Morning Freedom (Blue Mink)
Goodbye Sam, Hello Samantha (Cliff Richard)
I Can't Tell The Bottom From The Top (Hollies)
I Will Survive (Arrival)
I'll Say Forever My Love (Jimmy Ruffin)
It's All In The Game (Four Tops)
In The Summertime (Mungo Jerry)
(I'll Be Your) Jack In The Box (Clodagh Rodgers)
Jingle Jangle (Archies)
Knock, Knock, Who's There? (Mary Hopkin)
Lady D'Arbanville (Cat Stevens)
Lola (Kinks)
Love Grows (Where My Rosemary Goes) (Edison Lighthouse)
Love Of The Common People (Nicky Thomas)
My Baby Loves Lovin' (White Plains)
Natural Sinner (Fair Weather)
Neanderthal Man (Hotlegs)
Rainbow (Marmalade)
Saved By The Bell (Robin Gibb)
She Sold Me Magic (Lou Christie)
Si Tu Dois Partir (Fairport Convention)
Signed, Sealed, Delivered (I'm Yours) (Stevie Wonder)
Snake In The Grass (Dave Dee, Dozy, Beaky, Mick & Tich)
Soul Deep (Box Tops)
Spirit In The Sky (Norman Greenbaum)
Sugar Sugar (Archies)
Too Busy Thinking 'Bout My Baby (Marvin Gaye)
Travellin' Band (Creedence Clearwater Revival)
United We Stand (Brotherhood Of Man)
Up Around The Bend (Creedence Clearwater Revival)
What Does It Take (To Win Your Love) (Junior Walker and the All Stars)
The Wonder Of You (Elvis Presley)
Yellow River (Christie)
Young, Gifted And Black (Bob & Marcia)
Elton John recorded (played piano, sang lead or backup) many cover versions of popular songs. These were released on sound-alike albums & EPs that were sold at stores like Woolworths. The musicians on these albums were uncredited... in fact, some of the cover copy challenged the listener: "Can you tell the difference between these and the original sounds?" These "copycat cover" sessions continued after the release of Empty Sky and even after the Elton John album. The artist being mimicked is shown in brackets.

20 of these songs were collected on CD titled Reg Dwight's Piano Goes Pop in October 1994 by RPM International. Tim Joseph wrote this essay for that release's liner notes.

Sep 1 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Got back home at 6:30. Tonight Bernie and I went to Putney to see his mum and dad."
Sep 2 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Went into the office - being decorated. Bought a new jacket. Bernie bought new suit. Went to Cathy's tonight (picked her up) and she came over to us."
Sep 21 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Going to see The Who at "Croydon". Took Catherine. They were excellent."
Croydon: Croydon Fairfield Hall
Sep 30 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Derf's birthday. Went up to the office all day. The units didn't come. Very fed up. Caleb's group signed - will nothing go right!!"
Sep 30 1969

ENGLAND RECORDING SESSION - BBC London Maida Vale 5 Studio

+Border Song
+Rock And Roll Madonna
Produced by Jeff Griffin. Broadcast October 11 1969 on the Speakeasy show.
Oct 4 1969

UK 45 - The Hollies
Parlophone R 5806 (UK: #3, 15 weeks; 1988 re-issue EMI EM 74: #1, 11 weeks)

#He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother
[Elton John: piano]
Oct 11 1969

UK RADIO - BBC - Speakeasy
Saturdays 5 to 5:45pm, presented by Jimmy Savile.

+Border Song
+Rock And Roll Madonna
Recorded September 30, 1969, BBC London Maida Vale 5 studio. Produced by: Jeff Griffin.

Oct 27 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Session De Lane Lea 9:00 Bobby Bruce. Stayed home today. Went to South Harrow market. The session was hilarious. Didn't do anything in the end. Wrote Your Song."
Oct 1969

UK COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION

She Sings Rock And Roll
In The Morning
None of these songs have been released by any artist.

Oct 1969

UK SINGLE - Guy Darrell

Sing Me No Sad Songs - Guy Darrell
Elton John and Bernie Taupin composition. The single was immediately withdrawn. The song remained unreleased until October 1974.


Nov 12 1969

ELTON'S DIARY
"Stayed home today. Had a phone call from Danny Hutton all the way from L.A. We've got some tracks on their next album. I'm so knocked out. Phoned Dick, Steve, Bernie. Watched the football tonight."

Nov 14 1969

UK 45 - Simon Dupreee And The Big Sound
Parlophone R 5816

[The Eagle Flies Tonight]
#Give It All Back
[Elton John: piano]
This track was released on CD on April 27 2004.
Dec 9 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Went into Musicland all day. Left at 5:00 because Dick wanted to see Bernie and I about writing a film song. Went for a meal with John and Iain."
Dec 20 1969

US 45 - The Hollies
Epic 10532 (US: #7, 18 weeks)

#He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother
[Elton John: piano]

Dec 29 1969

ELTON'S DIARY

"Went into Musicland all day. In the evening went to Muff and Zena's. Played football and watched TV. Muff in great gallactic form tonight!!"


Dec 1969

UK COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION

All The Way Down To El Paso
Thank You Mama
None of these songs have been released by any artist.

1969

ENGLAND STUDIO SESSION - Simon Dupreee And The Big Sound

#Laughing Boy From Nowhere
[Elton John: piano]
Recorded for the unreleased second album Once More Into The Breach Dear Friends, this tracks was eventually released on April 27 2004.



Chapter Menu
1947 to 1965
1966
1967
1968
1969

Elton John´s Diary 1968

The Illustrated Cornflakes & Classics A musical history of Elton John
by Paul Maclauchlan


Copyright 1989, 2006 Paul Maclauchlan

Permission granted to copy this information if credit is given






1968

Jan 1968
UK COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION

The Angel Tree 
This song has not been released by any artist.



Feb 1968
UK COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION

Tartan Coloured Lady 
This song has not been released by any artist.




Mar 1 1968
UK 45
Philips BF 1643 (did not chart)

I've Been Loving You (3:19) 
Here's To The Next Time (3:11) 
The first Elton John record release.




Top Pops No. 17, dated March 2 1968, contained a brief article under the headline: Problem: Who's The Star? 

Another puzzler. This ... is Elton John, whose record is called I've Been Loving You, on Phillips. But the publicity gives equal credit to the writer, Bernard Taupin, and the producer, Caleb Quaye, all experienced and highly competent pop men. come to think of it, it's about time the men behind the discs had more credit. So good for Bernard and Caleb, as well as Elton.

Apr 1968
UK COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION

And The Clock Goes Round 
I'll Stop Living When You Stop Loving Me 
Reminds Me Of You 
Trying To Hold On To A Love That's Dying 
When I Was Tealby Abbey 
None of these songs have been released by any artist.

Apr 1968
Elton John begins recording demo versions of songs for music publisher Dick James Music. This includes some Roger Cook-Roger Greenaway songs.

DICK JAMES

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dick_James

Dick James (12 December 1920 – 1 February 1986), born Leon Isaac Vapnick in the East End of London, was a music publisher and together with his son Stephen founded the DJM record label and recording studios, as well as (with Brian Epstein) The Beatles' publisher Northern Songs.

Early days

James sang with North London dance bands in his early teens, and was a regular vocalist at the Cricklewood Palais by the age of seventeen. He joined the Henry Hall band, and made first radio broadcast in 1940. Joining the Army in 1942, after World War II he continued to sing with top post-war bands, including Geraldo's. Later still, James was also a part-time member of The Stargazers, a popular early 1950s vocal group.

He was the singer of the theme songs of The Adventures of Robin Hood and The Buccaneers, from British television in the 1950s, and was a friend and associate of renowned record producer George Martin.

Switch to publishing

James entered the music publishing business as his singing career tapered off. In 1958 he joined Sidney Bron Music as a song-plugger but decided to leave and open Dick James Music in 1961. In early 1963 he was contacted by Brian Epstein who was looking for a publisher for the second Beatles single "Please Please Me" and agreed an appointment for 11 o'clock the following morning. Having arranged a previous meeting at 10.00, Epstein left in disgust at 10.25 when the executive he was due to meet failed to appear and arrived at James's office at 10.40. Epstein apologised to the receptionist for being early and offered to wait until 11.00; nevertheless, the receptionist contacted James who promptly ushered Epstein into his office. Having heard the record and telling Epstein it was a number one James was invited by Epstein to publish and promote it. James then called Philip Jones, producer of the TV show Thank Your Lucky Stars, played the record down the phone to him and secured the band's first nationwide television appearance.[3] The pair subsequently established Northern Songs Ltd., with Beatles John Lennon and Paul McCartney, to publish Lennon and McCartney's original songs. (Fellow Beatles George Harrison and Ringo Starr were also signed to Northern Songs as songwriters, but did not renew their contracts in 1968). James's company, Dick James Music, administered Northern Songs.

What initially began as an amicable working relationship between the Beatles and James disintegrated by the late 1960s: the Beatles considered that James had betrayed and taken advantage of them when he sold Northern Songs in 1969 without offering the band an opportunity to buy control of the publishing company. James profited handsomely from the sale of Northern Songs, but the Beatles never again had the rights to their own songs.

During the 1960s he also handled Billy J. Kramer and Gerry and the Pacemakers.

Later days

James signed Elton John and his lyricist Bernie Taupin as untried unknowns in 1967 after his son Stephen, who had been working with his father since 1963, found Elton John using their recording studios late at night without permission. Stephen who had started the recording studios and opened a record production company called This Productions formed DJM Records in 1969. Indeed, all of John's early releases (up to 1976) were issued on the DJM record label. The label also carried Jasper Carrott, RAH Band and John Inman.

John formed his own Rocket label in 1976, but in 1982, John was involved in a long court case with James about royalties. In June 1985, the British music magazine NME reported that John was suing James over the rights to his earlier material.

Death

James died in London of a heart attack in early 1986, at the age of 65. Dick James Music was acquired by PolyGram which was in turn acquired by Universal Music Group.

British chart hits

"Robin Hood"/"The Ballad of Davy Crockett" (1956) - number 14

"Garden of Eden" (1957) - number 18

May 7 1968
SCOTLAND CONCERT - Bluesology

Elton John's last Bluesology show.

May 1968
UK COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION

Regimental Sgt Zippo 
You'll Be Sorry To See Me Go (Elton John / Caleb Quaye) 
None of these songs have been released by any artist.





Jun 1968
UK COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION

Cry Willow Cry 
If I Asked You 
There Is Still A Little Love 
None of these songs have been released by any artist.

Jul 1968
UK 45 - Dukes Noblemen
Philips 326899

Thank You For Your Loving (Elton John and Caleb Quaye) 
aka Thank You For All Your Loving.
Aug 1968
UK 45 - Guy Darrell

According to Tim Joseph's liner notes, Guy Darrell released a cover of an Elton John and Bernie Taupin song.
Sep 1968
UK COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION

Baby I Miss You 
Smokestack Children 
The Girl On Angle Pavement 
Two Of A Kind 
None of these songs have been released by any artist.

Oct 23 1968
UK 45 - The Barron Knights
Columbia DB 8485 (UK: #35; 4 weeks)

#An Olympic Record
[Elton John: piano] 


Oct 28 1968
ENGLAND RECORDING SESSION - Aeolian Hall, BBC London Studio 2

+All Across The Havens 
+Lady Samantha 
+Skyline Pigeon 
Elton John: piano, organ, vocals; Caleb Quaye: guitar; Boots Slade: bass; Malcolm Tomlinson: drums. Produced by: Aidan Day; Engineered by: Pat Whelan & Mike Robinson

Broadcast November 3 1968 on The Stuart Henry Show

Oct 1968
UK COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION

Bonnie's Gone Away 
Going Home 
Just An Ordinary Man 
There's Still Time For Me 
None of these songs have been released by any artist.

Nov 3 1968
UK RADIO - BBC - Stuart Henry Show
Sundays 10am to noon, from Paris. $

+All Across The Havens 
+Lady Samantha 
+Skyline Pigeon 
Elton John: piano, organ, vocals; Caleb Quaye: guitar; Boots Slade: bass; Malcolm Tomlinson: drums.

Recorded October 28, 1968, Aeolian Hall, BBC London Studio 2. Produced by: Aidan Day; Engineered by: Pat Whelan & Mike Robinson

Audition panel notes (December 12): 'Male vocal in the 1968 feeling - thin, piercing voice with no emotional appeal... dreary songs... one key singer... pretentious material'





Nov 27 1968
UK RADIO - BBC - John Peel's Night Ride
Wednesday nights midnight to 1am.

+Lady What's Tomorrow 
+Val-Hala 
+Digging My Grave 
This is the only known performance / recording of this song. Ray Coleman identifies it as a November 1968 Bernie Taupin and Elton John composition, but that date may be based on this performance. 
+First Episode At Hienton 
+The Scaffold 
Elton John, solo.

Recorded November 27, 1968, BBC London Maida Vale 4 studio. Produced by: Pete Carr

The BBC performer contract says: 'sings and plays guitar'

Dec 2 1968
UK RECORDING SESSION - EMI Studio, Abbey Road The Bread And Beer Band

The Dick Barton Theme (The Devil's Gallup) 
Elton John played piano in the band. Other members: Bernie Calver (bass); Caleb Quaye (quitar), Roger Pope (drums) and two Jamaican percussionists Rolfo and Lennox.



Dec 1968
ENGLAND RECORDING SESSIONS - Dick James Studios, London

Lady Samantha 
All Across The Havens 
Recording of songs for January 17 1969 release.
Dec 1968
UK COPYRIGHT REGISTRATION

Digging My Grave 
This song was performed once by Elton John, on the November 27 1968 broadcast of John Peel's Night Ride.

Late 1968
PORTUGAL EP $

I'VE BEEN LOVING YOU (Elton John) 
HERE'S TO THE NEXT TIME (Elton John) 
The Angel Tree 
Thank You For All Of Your Loving (Elton John / Caleb Quaye) 
First release of an Elton John / Bernie Taupin song.

Late 1968
UK DEMO - Eurovision Song Contest Entry

I Can't Go On Living Without You 
The tune eventually places sixth in a six song competition.

1968
UK LP - I'VE BEEN LOVING YOU
Philips label (no number)

I Get A Little Bit Lonely 
The Flowers Will Never Die 
Rock Me When I'm Gone 
Tartan Coloured Lady 
I've Been Loving You 
Sitting Doing Nothing (Elton John and Caleb Quaye) 
Sing Me No Sad Songs 
I Love You And That's All That Matters 
The Tide Will Turn For Rebecca 
A Dandelion Dies In The Wind 
Hour Glass (Tony Collacott, Jack Mowbray and Breen Leoeuf 
Baby I Miss You 
Reminds Me Of You 
When The First Tear Shows 
Early tracks. Track listing is from the 1976 Appy Records LP I Get A Little Bit Lonely.
Reports of this album are probably false. There is an unreleased album that Elton John appeared on, see the February 1969 entry for The Bread And Beer Band.

1968?
UK DEMOS / SONGS
Other songs written by Elton John & Bernie Taupin, and others, prior to the recording of Empty Sky, but with no specific dates attached. These have been mentioned in interviews, articles or are part of the packaging included with the Captain Fantastic And The Brown Dirt Cowboy album.

Mirrors Of My Mind 
Lemonade Lake 
Sarah's Coming (Back) (Paul Raymond and Tony Murray) 
Not The Man I Used To Be 
I'll Never Let You Go 
S.O.S. 

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