"Elton John: Never Too Late" not only delves into John's illustrious music career but also highlights his deep-seated connections with iconic figures like John Lennon, Yoko Ono, and Andy Warhol. This documentary brings to light John's lesser-known influence on Lennon's personal life, notably his reconciliation with Yoko Ono following a hiatus.
At 77, Sir Elton John reflects on his vibrant journey through stardom, marked by an eclectic mix of relationships and groundbreaking musical performances. His narrative is captured compellingly in this documentary, which also features segments from his "Farewell Yellow Brick Road" tour from April 2023.
Revealing a Night of Excess and Creativity
One intriguing anecdote shared by John during the film involves a drug-fueled evening in a New York City hotel with Lennon. Amid the chaos of "mountains of coke," a paranoid moment ensued when a knock at the door turned out to be artist Andy Warhol, who was famously always armed with a Polaroid camera.
"It took me about five minutes to walk across to the peephole, and I saw it was Andy Warhol. And I went to John, 'Andy,' and John went, 'No way!'" recounts Elton John. Their decision to not let Warhol in highlights the unpredictability and wildness of their lifestyles during that era.
The evening's events, coupled with their ongoing conversations, catalyzed significant changes in Lennon's life, particularly his return to Yoko Ono, who also attended John's 1974 concert at his request—an event that proved pivotal.
Concert That Changed Lives: A Catalyst for Reunion
Elton John credits himself as instrumental in Lennon and Ono's reunion, suggesting that inviting Lennon to perform in 1974 played a crucial role. "If I hadn't told him to do the show, maybe he had never met Yoko again," John expressed, underlining the significance of that performance.
The reunion of Lennon and Ono not only rekindled their relationship but also led to the birth of their son, Sean. Following this, Lennon transformed, embracing a more stable life away from his previously wild and unpredictable behaviors influenced by fame and substance abuse. "He became in love again, and so his wildness, he kind of stopped the drugs, stopped the craziness. I was happy for him," says John.
Despite the positive changes in Lennon’s life following the reunion, Elton John candidly admits that the reunion did not change his lifestyle, which continued to reflect the excesses typical of the rock star life during those times.
A Glimpse Into Historical Music Relationships
The documentary serves not just as a reflection on Elton John's music career but also as a window into his relationships with other giants of the music and art worlds. It particularly sheds light on the dynamics between John, Lennon, and Ono, adding layers to our understanding of these iconic figures beyond their public personas.
Disney+ will release the film "Elton John: Never Too Late" on December 13, 2024. Fans and historians alike eagerly anticipate this broader release to learn more about the intricate connections and historical moments that shaped the landscape of modern music.
In summary, Elton John's documentary provides an in-depth look at his influence in the music industry and his interactions that have left an indelible mark on music history. It invites viewers to re-examine the legacies of music legends through the lens of their interpersonal relationships, thus offering a richer, more nuanced narrative.
