On Elton John: An Opinionated Guide

Sir Elton John’s music has become an endearing soundtrack to his fans’ lives. Historian Restall (Edwin Erie Sparks Professor of History, Anthropology, and Women’s, Gender, and Sexuality Studies, Penn State Univ.; Ghosts: Journeys to Post Pop) takes a lively look at John’s discography through the lens of noted figures adjacent to him. Several songs written by John’s longtime lyricist Bernie Taupin, such as “I’m Still Standing,” receive new interpretations about his life. A cover of “Border Song” by Aretha Franklin introduces a chapter on how John inadvertently gained an R&B audience with “Bennie and the Jets.” John’s ever-changing career and his initial decision (eventually reversed) to not be out as a gay man are juxtaposed with David Bowie’s chameleon personas and his Ziggy Stardust–era announcement of his bisexuality. Restall enthusiastically critiques John’s songs and albums, supporting arguments using archived interviews and biographies. Almost every comprehensive piece combines to declare John one of the best performers ever. However, Restall attempts to reduce Bowie in comparison by frequently remarking how John did something first (performed on Soul Train) or better (“Rocket Man” vs. “Starman”).