“A LITTLE BIT OF HISTORY IN THE MAKING ”
I CAN still vividly remember the first time I went on stage with Elton John. It was in Glasgow, in 1972, and it was extraordinary. It always has been! With Elton and I, it’s never been business as usual, because this is not an occupation for either of us – it’s a preoccupation. We really can’t do anything else.
I was a classically trained percussionist turned session musician. I was also playing in Blue Mink, a sweet, dear band featuring myself, Herbie Flowers, Alan Parker and Barry Morgan. Elton had asked me to join his live band a couple of times. I was very happy in Blue Mink, but when he asked me again I said, “I’ll come and see a show.” It was in Bristol. Everyone had the long hair and platform boots, and I never really looked much different than how I do now, sort of old-ish and weird-looking! I couldn’t envisage myself on that stage.
There was Nigel [Olsson] on drums with his leather gloves and guitar player Davey Johnstone with his flowing locks and Elton with his platform shoes. After the show he said, “Are you going to come and join us?” I said, “Well, the show is fantastic, but I don’t know what I can bring to it. When are you playing next?” “In two days’ time we’re in Glasgow.” “OK, would you let me come on stage with you without any rehearsals and just do it and see what happens? And if it doesn’t work, I’ll have loved the evening and we’ll still be friends.”
“A two-man show was very brave. It was Elton’s idea”
It says a lot for Elton that he was up for
