Elton John has worked with Bernie Taupin for over 60 years. Now the “Tiny Dancer” singer was able to honor his partner on November 3rd and announce his induction into the “Rock And Roll Hall of Fame” in an emotional speech. During this speech he also announced the completion of a new, co-written album.
“Our partnership continues to grow”
“Our success story is what it is, as you all know… Over the years we have grown and grown and grown. We have climbed mountains we never thought possible and we have scaled heights we never thought possible. And during that time we never really had a fight,” Elton John explained. He continued: “He was disgusted by my behavior, yes, that’s a given. But to this day our partnership continues to grow.”
The singer also said that he has been working on new music with Taupin in Los Angeles for the past few months and that his new album is already ready. In May, Taupin himself also had hints about new music in an interview Rolling Stones given, but could not yet provide any precise information. He explained at the time: “We have some plans that can’t really be discussed at the moment.” Even now, there is no further information regarding the title or release date of the new record.
Current and past dedications
Elton John had previously used the stage at the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame ceremony to thank Bernie Taupin. In his speech in 1994, when he was inducted, he called Taupin to the stage and presented him with his own award, saying: “Without him the journey would not have been possible. I somehow feel like I’m cheating if I stand here and accept this. Without Bernie Taupin, Elton John wouldn’t have existed at all. And I want him to come to me and give him that.”
But Elton John is not the only one who honors other artists on stage with a dedication or thanks them. Bernie Taupin himself paid tribute to Howlin’ Wolf and Merle Haggard in his acceptance speech on November 3, saying: “Rock And Roll Hall of Fame, are you listening? I appreciate all of these people because they and so many others are the reason I write. I guess you could say it’s paradoxical that I’m being admitted, but either way I’m honored to be in the Class of 2023 alongside such a group of deeply articulate women and outstanding articulate Black artists.”