Yungblud recently made an appearance on Billy Corgan’s podcast, “The Magnificent Others,” where he expressed surprise at being compared to Elton John. The singer, born Dominic Harrison, discussed his musical evolution alongside Corgan, focusing on his transition from pop to rock music.
Yungblud’s Musical Journey
During their conversation, Corgan noted the similarities between Yungblud’s growth and that of Elton John, famously known as the Rocket Man. He highlighted Yungblud’s versatility, stating, “You can sing pop, you can sing a ballad, and that crowd will go with you.” Corgan pointed out that this ability contributed significantly to both artists’ rising popularity.
Yungblud reflected on his experience performing at Black Sabbath’s farewell show, which left a lasting impact. He performed the classic song “Changes” to a sold-out Villa Park, showcasing his connection to rock music.
Gratitude for the Comparison
Grateful for Corgan’s comments, Yungblud admitted that they caught him off guard. He acknowledged the increase in fans since embracing a rock sound, emphasizing the deeper connection he’s found with his audience. He shared how his early introduction to rock music, shaped by his father’s guitar shop, influenced his career.
- Yungblud’s early influences included T. Rex, David Bowie, and the Sex Pistols.
- His journey reflects a blend of diverse musical genres from rock to hip-hop.
- The guitar shop was a significant part of his musical education and creativity.
Inspiration from Billy Corgan
Yungblud credited Corgan as a key inspiration for his rock journey. He mentioned that hearing Corgan’s encouragement to pursue a rock album motivated him to embrace that direction fully.
Recent Collaborations and Controversies
Since his performance at the Black Sabbath show in July, Yungblud has joined forces with Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, and Extreme’s Nuno Bettencourt for a new EP. This collaboration aims to honor the late Ozzy Osbourne at the upcoming 2025 VMAs.
While Yungblud’s appearance garnered excitement, it did elicit criticism from some musicians. Justin Hawkins, of the band The Darkness, commented that it represented “another nail in the coffin of rock n roll.” He referred to the performance as “cynical” and “nauseating.”
Reflection on Ozzy Osbourne
Beyond the criticisms, Yungblud spoke about the influence of Ozzy Osbourne throughout his life. He reflected on how Osbourne embodied a sense of hope and provided a role model for those who felt out of place.
- Yungblud praised Ozzy for being true to himself and his unique persona.
- He expressed gratitude for knowing Ozzy and his family, which shaped his understanding of authenticity.
As Yungblud continues to evolve in his musical journey, the comparison to Elton John made during his conversation with Billy Corgan highlights the blend of pop and rock that defines his artistry. The road ahead looks promising, with new collaborations and a growing fanbase eager to see where his music takes him next.
