Elton John as Master of Eccentric Reincarnations

Elton John has revealed that he is unable to watch the musical he created due to vision loss. Previously, the singer mentioned that his eyesight had significantly deteriorated following an infection contracted in the south of France, though he remains hopeful for a speedy recovery. Currently, Elton John is unable to read lyrics or compose music, which has led to the postponement of an album collaboration with Bernie Taupin. Along with the artist and his fans, we hope the world will soon hear new masterpieces. In the meantime, let’s revisit the best performances and iconic looks of the king of glam and rock.

Early Career and Breakthrough Performances

As widely known, Elton began his career as a teenager, playing in the band Bluesology. In 1967, fate introduced him to his lifelong friend and primary collaborator, lyricist Bernie Taupin. Two years later, his first studio album, Empty Sky, was released, and by 1970, it had already captivated America. On August 25 of the following year, Los Angeles witnessed Elton’s first live performance at the legendary bar, The Troubadour. Opening the concert with his major hit Your Song, Elton not only won over Neil Diamond—who saw a quiet, modest young man transform into his favorite rock performer—but also captured the hearts of the audience with his virtuoso piano skills. Above all, he left an unforgettable impression with his unique style: a denim jumpsuit, a star-printed long-sleeve shirt, low-heeled boots, and, of course, his signature sunglasses.

Touring and Evolution of Style

Before the iconic 1975 concert at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, Elton managed to embark on several world tours. During the “Madman Across the Water” tour, he developed a fondness for near-pioneer-inspired outfits, often choosing knee-length overalls or shorts paired with contrasting tops. A distinctive feature of this era was striped knee-high socks and his favorite bulldog boots, adorned with golden wing decorations.

In the following tour, spanning 1972 and 1973, Elton became fascinated with suits. Many performances from that time showcase jackets embroidered with natural patterns or crafted from shiny fabrics, often paired with matching trousers. His outfits were frequently elevated by an even bolder accessory, drawing attention to itself—this could be an entirely mismatched tie or a headpiece that, instead of clashing with the ensemble, harmonized with it. A prime example of this was his famous British flag costume worn during the concert at Hollywood Bowl, symbolizing his national heritage. This look, in some ways, evoked the image of Uncle Sam—but as if reimagined for the United Kingdom. 

Extravagance and the Peak of His Career

In 1974, Elton John entered a prolonged period of drug addiction, and his stage appearances became even more extravagant. This was the peak of his career and the immense popularity of the “Goodbye Yellow Brick Road” album, which blended pop rock, soul, glam rock, and the charm of feathers with portrayals of iconic characters.

Iconic Dodger Stadium Performance

At the legendary 1975 concert at Dodger Stadium, the home of the Los Angeles Dodgers baseball team, Elton stepped onto the stage wearing an iconic costume inspired by the team’s uniform: a glittering outfit covered in rhinestones, with the Dodgers logo on the chest and the number "1" on the back. This costume was a vibrant tribute to American culture and its iconic sport.

The Muppet Show and Boston Garden Looks

In 1977, on The Muppet Show, Elton appeared dressed as an exotic bird. While it’s hard to pinpoint a resemblance to any specific real-life bird (if only a rooster), the costume seemed to reflect the theatricality of the performance, presenting Elton as someone who could seamlessly blend fashion, music, and visual spectacle. A similar feathered look was showcased at the Boston Garden, where Elton also wore a platinum blonde wig, a hat, and a sparkling suit, embodying Harpo Marx, one of the famous Marx Brothers—beloved American comedic performers.

Creative Costumes and Tributes in Later Years

Elton later portrayed a typical cabaret or vaudeville master of ceremonies in 1984 and a military marshal in 1982, even channeling David Bowie during his performance at the Sydney Entertainment Centre in December 1986.

Quirky Concert Outfits

At an open-air concert in Watford in May 1974, Elton appeared in a bee costume with signature insect-style glasses. Later, in 1980, he stunned audiences at Central Park in New York City by taking the stage dressed as Donald Duck.

Legacy of Unparalleled Spectacle

Elton John’s career is a testament to his unparalleled ability to turn music into a full-scale spectacle. In any case, it's hard to imagine anyone with such unrivaled flair and talent being able to be so creative in designing the costumes for each concert, whether it be a simpler Boy Scout-like outfit or a more detailed Musketeer.