Sir Elton John has recently blasted reality talent shows such as 'The X Factor' and 'American Idol', describing them as the "worst thing" that can happen to aspiring musicians. Speaking in an interview with Rolling Stone magazine on March 21, 2025, the 77-year-old music icon firmly advised young artists against seeking instant fame through these shows, instead encouraging them to perform live wherever possible.
"Just keep trying to play live. That’s the way you improve as a musician and songwriter. It doesn’t matter if you’re playing to 40 people. The more experience you get playing to nobody, the better," Elton emphasized. He reminisced about his journey as a budding artist, recounting how he and his band, Musicology, played to small crowds early in their careers. He noted that such experiences were invaluable, saying, "That experience stood me in great stead for when I became Elton John because I had backbone. And backbone is so important, because the worst thing that can happen to you in the industry are things like 'X Factor' and instant fame on television where you have no experience of playing live. You get put on stage, you go, and you can’t do it. That's the worst thing. 'American Idol' - just the worst."
His strong stance against these talent competitions is not new; he has criticized them multiple times in interviews over the years. In fact, back in 2016, he expressed his relief that 'The X Factor' was "on the way out", reiterating his long-standing belief that true musical road work is essential for lasting success.
Despite his disdain for these shows, it's interesting to note that Elton John has actually performed on 'The X Factor' – notably in 2013, where he collaborated with judge Gary Barlow for a duet. This collaboration is a stark contrast to his critiques, showcasing the complexity of his relationship with the show.
As he prepares for the release of his upcoming album, Who Believes In Angels, set to drop on April 4, 2025, Elton's commitment to nurturing new talent remains clear. He believes that real growth in music comes from performing in smaller venues. He shared, "Take risks. Go and play in a pub." This advice speaks to the heart of his philosophy: hard work, resilience, and experience are the keys to music success.
In discussing his upcoming album with American musician Brandi Carlile, Elton John reflected on the necessity of music in his life. He poignantly stated, "I can’t live without music. It nearly killed me, but it also kept me alive, and it keeps me alive today. But not the music of the past so much. Although I do listen to jazz and stuff like that, but it's the music of the future that keeps me alive." This quote encapsulates his enduring love for music and his desire to push forward as an artist.
The album, which features a song reflecting on mortality titled When This Old World Is Done With Me, touches on deeper themes, especially as Elton considers his legacy at 77. "When you're 77 years of age and you have a family and you have two children, there's only a certain amount of time you've got left," he shared, acknowledging the weight of those thoughts while expressing a desire to live fully in this moment.
Elton's candid vulnerability provides a refreshing openness about facing one’s own mortality through art, yet he also communicates a wider message about the importance of struggle and resilience in a creative career. It's this blend of earnestness and experience that makes him a role model for both new and seasoned artists alike.
In a creative landscape that often prioritizes instant notoriety, Elton John’s emphasis on authentic experiences found in local venues serves as a reminder of the foundational aspects of musical development. By advocating for live performance over reality fame, he encourages artists to cultivate their own identities and craft rather than conform to a manufactured image.
As he steps away from touring after concluding his farewell tour in July 2023, Elton continues to remind us that music is not merely about fame but about connection, performance, and resilience. His forward-looking approach, coupled with his adept understanding of the industry, drives his continued relevance and impact in music.
As the release of Who Believes In Angels approaches, both fans and emerging artists alike can look forward to the insights and artistry of a man who has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the musical world while steadfastly championing the craft that shaped his illustrious career.
