Elton John – September 20th – Pepsi Center

Estimated read time 4 min read

Elton John 2014-09-20-21-6176Photos by Jim Mimna

The Scene: This past Saturday at the Pepsi Center played host to an epic evening for many as Sir Elton John graced Denver with his royal presence. The venue rumbled with chatter of moms telling their daughters of the first time they saw Sir Elton; husbands waited outside smoking their cigars and cheersing their Scotch & waters; dapper young gents were giddy with excitement. John still brings a sense of comradery and joy to his fans and will do so until the end of time. That’s the beauty of timeless classics like Elton John–he’s everlasting.

Elton John: Sir Elton has stories. He’s been around the block a time or two with legends, hall of famers and just plain ‘ole great people and he is kind enough to share so many of his stories with each and every audience with whom he shares a moment. John made sure his moment of celebrating the 40th anniversary of Goodbye Yellow Brick Road was shared with the world and we were happy to experience it. The English singer/composer/pianist told us of his friends and loved ones, his fervor for Blues music and his appreciation of the men and women who fight for their countries. He was openly gracious to his band and thanked his fans in between almost every song. Clad in a glistening blue suit with multi-colored glasses, John took us on a journey of tales and hits. The first song was a lengthy one, “Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding,” which followed with a vivacious rendition of the barroom favorite, “Bennie and the Jets.” Classics continued with “Candle in the Wind” followed by “Grey Seal”and then the moment when John informed us that Goodbye Yellow Brick Road has been around for 40 glorious years. He thanked the audience once again.

Next up was “Tiny Dancer” which drew tears from many and sent chills through everyone. A lit chandelier slowly descended above John and his band and he told another story of life on tour which led to “Holiday Inn.” A few songs later, as Sir Elton laid into a mean solo, a single light shown down upon him. The solo slowed and he gently sang into the mic, “She packed my bags last night…preflight…” and the crowd roared. The lyrics to “Rocketman” were sung by all and the venue rattled. The moms and pops of the audience were certainly shaken up at this point.

To bring some sanity back into the crowd, John busted out a blustering “I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues.” The wonderful “Your Song” followed soon after with a few more uptempo wonders taking it to “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me” and “The Bitch Is Back.” John introduced his highly talented band, revealing two long-time bandmates Davey Johnstone (vocals, guitar, mandolin) and drummer Nigel Olsson.

Those fortunate enough to sit in the first few rows were allowed to approach the stage for his final song of the main set, “Saturday’s Alright for Fighting,” which was incredibly appropriate for this fiery Saturday evening. John signed autographs, shook hands and thanked all of those who greeted him at the stage. He left for a moment, only to return for two final songs. He chose the fun singalong “Crocodile Rock,” which seemed to reinstate the lively vibrance of the night. The catchy hook of this song was ringing on long after the show ended.

The final song of the night was the Disney classic, “Circle of Life.” Sir Elton, alone on stage with his piano, reminded us of our childhood. He revealed the purpose of its resurgance was in light of his children; its nostalgic beauty shown throughout the entirity of the song.  All in all, his voice somehow sounds even better. It’s like he continues to mature and grow into his artistry. His tenacity, paired with a fascinating history, makes for a momentous performance. Thanks for all of the stories, Elton. And thanks for all of the memories.

Setlist: Funeral for a Friend/Love Lies Bleeding, Bennie and the Jets, Candle in the Wind, Grey Seal, Levon, Tiny Dancer, Holiday Inn, Philadelphia Freedom, Goodbye Yellow Brick Road, Rocket Man, Hey Ahab, I Guess That’s Why They Call It The Blues, Oceans Away, Your Song, Burn Down the Mission, All the Girls Love Alice, Home Again, Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me, The Bitch is Back, I’m Still Standing, Your Sister Can’t Twist, Saturday’s Alright for Fighting

Encore: Crocodile Rock, Circle of Life 

Energy: A+
Musicianship: A+
Sound: A-
Stage Presence: A+
Set/Light Show: A-

Overall: A

Lindsay Lynch

Lindsay was born in Georgia, raised in Florida, and moved to Colorado when she turned 18. All Lindsay asks for in life is music, hoppy beer, and the written word. The necessities of family, friends, water, and food naturally follow.

More From Author

1 Comment

Add yours
  1. 1
    Jeff Van Devender

    Great review, Lindsay! Having seen Elton at least 20 times, I would rank this particular show among the better ones, but I don’t think I am ever disappointed when I see him.

    And, learning recently that Elton does read these reviews, please humor me by allowing me to post this note. 🙂

    Thank-you, Elton, for once again proving why you are worthy of sustaining a 45-plus year career that is virtually unmatched in the industry. Having seen you live at least 20 times, your shows never disappoint and this most recent Denver visit was no exception.

    Without trying to sound narcissistic, I am the Jeff who called you out through a comment on a review of an earlier show regarding your usage of Lion King for the encore. You seemed to respond with a beautiful explanation and hit, what I could only interpret as, ME back with a dedication to Circle of Life.. “This one is for Jeff.” If I was your intended target with that dedication (and I am guessing I was), you more than made your case, thereby obliterating my case for otherwise, while making this fan the happiest guy in town that night! (Sadly, there was no corresponding Grammy-winning Can You Feel The Love Tonight to follow.)

    I fear that this current run is a kind of swan song for you with your recent threat of retirement and boys who are closing in on school-age. While I selfishly hope such is not the case, I fully understand if you do wind up cutting back. You have given us fans an excellent run and I for one am truly thankful. I dream of the day that I could meet you and share what your music has meant to me, but alas am resigned to the realization that (to quote another Disney lyric) “a dream is a wish your heart makes.”

    One more thing before I go, while I have your attention.. I secretly hope the day will come when you record an album of piano instrumentals in the vein of your present Rocket Man and recent Take Me To The Pilot preludes. Give us something that truly showcases once and for all your amazing talent to set those keys on fire!
    Thank you for all you do, Sir Elton.

    Sincerely, with much love and respect,
    Jeff Van Devender

Leave a Reply to Jeff Van Devender Cancel reply