Elton John, an iconic figure in music history, has often expressed his admiration for The Beatles. The influence of the legendary band shaped many artists, including the Grammy-winning “Rocket Man” singer. The tragic murder of former Beatle John Lennon on December 8, 1980, left a profound mark on the music world, causing widespread grief among fans and fellow musicians alike.
Elton John’s Connection to John Lennon
Elton John and John Lennon shared a unique friendship that began in the early 1970s. Their bond developed while they were both powerhouse performers. In 1974, they famously performed together at John’s Madison Square Garden concert, a moment that showcased their camaraderie.
In a 2020 interview commemorating the 40th anniversary of Lennon’s death, John described their friendship as a “whirlwind of romance.” He recalled how deeply their connection impacted his life, stating, “Your dad was as kind and as generous and sweet.” The two artists collaborated on several occasions, notably with John providing vocals on Lennon’s song “Whatever Gets You Thru The Night,” which became Lennon’s first solo number-one hit.
After Lennon’s Death
Following Lennon’s shocking death, John was among those most affected. Many institutions and artists, including former bandmates Paul McCartney and George Harrison, paid tribute to Lennon’s legacy. John reflected on the pain of losing his friend, saying, “I was very, very much affected by the death of your father.”
This devastation inspired John to write “Empty Garden (Hey, Hey Johnny),” a tribute that appeared on his sixteenth album, “Jump Up!” Released in 1982, nearly two years after Lennon’s murder, the song reached number 13 on the Billboard Hot 100. John collaborated with his longtime songwriter, Bernie Taupin, to create this heartfelt piece.
The Impact of “Empty Garden”
John’s songwriting process for “Empty Garden” involved a collaborative effort, initiated by Taupin’s suggestion to write lyrics honoring Lennon. John’s emotional connection to the song made performing it challenging. He has only sung it a few times since its release, citing the emotional toll it takes on him.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| December 8, 1980 | John Lennon murdered |
| 1982 | Release of “Empty Garden (Hey, Hey Johnny)” |
Legacy of John Lennon
The impact of John Lennon continues to resonate within the music community. His untimely death robbed the world of more contributions he could have made. The presence of surviving Beatles members also serves as a reminder of Loss, with Harrison passing away in 2001 after battling cancer.
Elton John’s tribute illustrates the deep void left in the music industry. The emotional resonance of “Empty Garden (Hey, Hey Johnny)” captures the essence of grief and respect for a legendary artist gone too soon.
