Rocket Man, released in 1972, is one of Elton John’s most famous songs. More than 50 years after the hit came out, Coldplay covered the Brit’s track during a live set.
On Saturday (July 8th) Elton John gave the very last concert of his Farewell Yellow Brick Road farewell tour. With the words “This is it!” (In German: “That’s it!”), the 76-year-old said goodbye to his audience in the Tele2 Arena in the Swedish capital of Stockholm. Around the same time, Coldplay also performed in Sweden – namely in Gothenburg, a good 500 kilometers away. And so Coldplay singer Chris Martin insisted on sending his compatriot musical greetings to the other corner of Sweden, at least via video link.
Both shows had large video screens showing the other artist. Chris Martin addressed celebratory words to Elton John in the live broadcast – also on behalf of other artists he inspired: “Of all the bands and artists you have helped and inspired: We all love you so much.” And further: “We are so thankful for everything you’ve done for the AIDS Foundation as well and for how kind you’ve always been to everyone.”
Then Martin covered “Rocket Man” with his band. See the live version of it here: