Elton John: ‘The Bitch’ Is Coming Back to Verizon
The gay piano man Elton John will perform “All The Hits” on his first stop at the Verizon Center in eight years, in support of his upcoming new album The Diving Board, produced by T Bone Burnett and featuring songs written by John and — duh! — his longtime lyricist Bernie Taupin. A first listen to the new set, due Sept. 24, wasn’t incredibly inspiring, but maybe it’ll prove to be a grower, just as was 2010’s The Union, his collaboration with Leon Russell.
“It’s a record by a 66-year-old man. It’s not a record by a 26-year-old guy who made ‘Rocket Man,’” John told students at a recent concert at the University of Southern California, as reported by Rolling Stone. “It’s full of mature songs and songs that are reflective. There’s no ‘Philadelphia Freedom’ on it. I’ve changed.”
At least the same Rolling Stone article also noted that John “roared” through songs, both old and new — and “shook the room” performing “Philadelphia Freedom.” So sounds like he’s still got some rocket fuel left.
Tickets on sale Friday, Sept. 20, at 10 a.m., for show Thursday, Nov. 14. Verizon Center, 601 F St. NW. Tickets are $39 to $169. Call 202-628-3200 or visit verizoncenter.com.
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