Elton John turned 75 on March 25, 2022, and as he continues his Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour, he’ll be celebrated with a new career-spanning book. Elton John at 75 arrived Sept. 20 via Motorbooks.
From the publisher’s announcement: Few rock artists continue to gather more and more adulation with age. Sir Elton Hercules John is an exception who proves the rule. In Elton John at 75, veteran rock journalist Gillian Gaar examines the music icon through the lens of 75 career accomplishments and life events. Key studio albums are featured, of course, as are a curated selection of his earworm singles. But Gaar delves deeper to reveal the events that helped chart the course of Elton’s career. They include:
A photo of a 1976 concert poster featured in Elton John at 75
Key performances such as his breakthrough performance at LA’s Troubadour, and the historic Soviet Union and Dodger Stadium concerts;
Legendary collaborations with the likes of George Michael, Billy Joel, and Kate Bush;
Film and television roles, including Tommy and The Muppet Show;
Tireless work on behalf of AIDS research;
Notable awards and honors, including knighthood;
His collaboration with longtime co-writer Bernie Taupin.
Beginning with his 1969 debut LP, Elton John is regarded as one of the most influential musicians and performers of the past five decades. In examining 75 touchstones, Gaar provides a unique presentation of John’s career arc, from his first steps as a solo artist to the breakthrough album Goodbye Yellow Brick Road to his flamboyant stage presence, and beyond.
Every page is illustrated with concert and candid offstage photography, as well as concert posters, 7-inch picture sleeves, and more. Its 200-page slipcase package also includes a gatefold timeline, a previously unpublished gatefold artwork, and a pullout poster.
Part of the timeline featured in Elton John at 75 (Photo used with permission)
Author Gaar has written for numerous publications, including Rolling Stone and Goldmine. Previous books include She’s a Rebel: The History of Women in Rock & Roll; Return of the King: Elvis Presley’s Great Comeback; The Doors: The Complete Illustrated History; and Boss: Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band—The Illustrated History.
Tickets to see John’s farewell tour are available here and here.
1 Comment so far
Jump into a conversationIn the mid 70s Elton John was at the forefront of million selling albums, singles, concerts and radio play. He had number one singles right after another. From 1973 to 1976 there were few if any artists as great as Elton John. He stilled churned out some good songs after 1976 but his mid 70s music was his best.