It’s hard to imagine that before all the accolades, his many unexpected collaborations, and generations of youth growing up on his soundtracks, Sir Elton John was at one time just a young lad, in modest platform boots, with idols all his own. Prior to hitting the Ed Sullivan stage last night, John opened up about his first encounter with an idol only 5 years his senior, Leon Russell. In 1970, one year after releasing his debut, Empty Sky, and about to make his live US debut, John found himself at Los Angeles’ Troubadour nightclub with the intent of meeting Russell, his hero at the ivories, and in fashion. After a series of performances together, including a stop at the legendary Fillmore East where John met Bob Dylan for the first time, the two would separate in 1972 and not reunite until the sessions leading to their 2010 release of The Union.
During the project, John was intent on putting Russell back on the map: mission complete. Not only is the album nominated for a Grammy, but Russell will be inducted into the Hall of Fame this March. As the duo broke into “Hey, Ahab”, it was obvious why both legends deserve their individual enshrinement. The song’s roll-in is unmistakeably Russell, even at 68 the guy has a subtle, effortless way behind the keys, while John, with the support of three back-up singers and a full-band, was explosive, delivering enough energy for both gentlemen.