I recently saw Rocketman, the Elton John biopic. I’m writing this short reflection as someone who is admittedly, not an Elton John fan. It’s not that I don’t like some of his songs or appreciate his musicality, it’s just that he’s not one of my guys. Said differently, this film exposed me to more of his personality, his story, and his music than my accumulated Elton John knowledge up to this point.
There were a few aspects of the film that moved me. First, the importance of love and affection, of human contact, of embrace. That came through loud and clear. We all need to give and receive love. Next, the importance of friendship, especially from a musician’s point of view.
I was unaware that Elton John worked with a lyricist for most of his songs– Bernie Taupin. Throughout the film, with all of Elton John’s ups and downs, Bernie was never far away. Though Elton John shut him out at times, as he did most of his close connections, Bernie was a consistent presence, a brother, someone who loved Elton John because of, in spite of, and regardless of what Elton John brought to their relationship.
Music isn’t meant to be a lonely undertaking. It’s meant to be a source of connection. It’s meant to bring people together. It’s meant to build bridges. While many people achieve this feeling of connection by listening to Elton John, it was most meaningful for me, as a musician, to see the centrality of the relationship between Elton and Bernie in the film. May we all be blessed with a friend like Bernie, who inspires us creatively, helps us find our voice, and loves us like a brother.